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Love Is Love #1
My Only Reason
Ryder
It's a cliche' really, falling in love with my best friend, my very straight best friend. And to add more complications, I'm a football player, about to be drafted. We're manly men. We aren't supposed to be gay. But I am and I love the one person I'll never have. Until fate forces us together six years later. It'll be both a fantasy and hell on earth, playing along Crush—the only man who will ever truly own my heart.
Crush
He dropped a bomb on me. Then he left, never looking back. Our friendship—ruined until he lands back in my life. His presence is just as big as ever. I never forgot him, or what that one kiss so many years ago still does to my body. He's here, but is he willing to stay.
It's a cliche' really, falling in love with my best friend, my very straight best friend. And to add more complications, I'm a football player, about to be drafted. We're manly men. We aren't supposed to be gay. But I am and I love the one person I'll never have. Until fate forces us together six years later. It'll be both a fantasy and hell on earth, playing along Crush—the only man who will ever truly own my heart.
Crush
He dropped a bomb on me. Then he left, never looking back. Our friendship—ruined until he lands back in my life. His presence is just as big as ever. I never forgot him, or what that one kiss so many years ago still does to my body. He's here, but is he willing to stay.
Audible Audio
First published October 15, 2020
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About the author
Leigh Lennon
65 books1,832 followersLeigh Lennon is mother, veteran and a wife of a cancer survivor. Originally with a degree in education, she started writing as an outlet that has led to a deep passion. She lugs her computer with her as she crafts her next story. One could say she loves pretty nails, big earrings and spiky hair. She can be found drinking coffee or wine, depending on the time of the day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
October 21, 2020
This was a cute and sexy story, that kept me entertained for the day.
That being said, so many things didn’t work for me:
- the big friendship breakup. I know it was explained later in the book, but it still made no sense to me. Why would Ryder kiss Crush, declare his love and disappear? Forever? Why would they never try to fix it?
- the feelings development on Crush’s side. Again it was explained, but it’s just too ridiculous and insta-lovey.
- the nicknames: Big country and Pretty boy? No. Just no.
- it was also super cheesy. And I don’t know if it makes sense, but it felt like it was written like an MF romance and not an MM one. I think it’s the cheesiness and drama.
- the little girl who doesn’t speak clearly but is wise way beyond her years? I hate that so much. Kids don’t talk like that. Especially not at 5.
- and finally: the horrible ex wife. I am so sick of the horrible terrible witch ex wife trope. So so sick of it.
So I guess 2.5 stars. Rounded up because it was still cute. Oh and it also dragged a lot in the last few chapters. Ok I’m rounding down.
That being said, so many things didn’t work for me:
- the big friendship breakup. I know it was explained later in the book, but it still made no sense to me. Why would Ryder kiss Crush, declare his love and disappear? Forever? Why would they never try to fix it?
- the feelings development on Crush’s side. Again it was explained, but it’s just too ridiculous and insta-lovey.
- the nicknames: Big country and Pretty boy? No. Just no.
- it was also super cheesy. And I don’t know if it makes sense, but it felt like it was written like an MF romance and not an MM one. I think it’s the cheesiness and drama.
- the little girl who doesn’t speak clearly but is wise way beyond her years? I hate that so much. Kids don’t talk like that. Especially not at 5.
- and finally: the horrible ex wife. I am so sick of the horrible terrible witch ex wife trope. So so sick of it.
So I guess 2.5 stars. Rounded up because it was still cute. Oh and it also dragged a lot in the last few chapters. Ok I’m rounding down.
dnf
June 5, 2021dnf @ 7%
August 21, 2021
No.
Nah.
Nope.
Nah.
Nope.
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September 22, 2023
MM Romance
In Love With My Straight Best Friend/6 year separation
*Included for free with my Audible subscription (thankfully)
Audiobook Narrators: Chris Chambers & John Solo
*Note: Love Chris, new to John Solo and could have lived without the country accent but I’d give him another try on a better book.
DNF @ Chapter 15
I used to be jealous that my friends with Audible subscriptions outside the US had access to more free mm books than I did through the plus catalog but the grass is not always greener on the other side because they’ve included more and this is now the 3rd one in just a few days I’ve had to get rid of. The narrators did a good job but not even Chris Chambers’ sexy voice could make me want to listen to another second of this book even though it’s one of my favorite tropes! It has way too many things I hate and my husband said I’ve said the word “ew” too many times in the past 2 hours. But EW! So I’m rating this even though I’m not at 50% and shelving this author.
Things I HATE:
💀The awful ex-wife who is a total bitch and referred to constantly as Satan and The Anti-Christ. Can we get rid of this character already? 🤦🏻♀️ The number of times she’s been brought up and talked shit about is insane.
💀The toxic masculinity & misogyny is killingggg me. “I’m a man therefore I can’t act soft”, “He’s crying like a girl on her period”, “I can’t show any emotion because we’re supposed to be manly men” & more
💀The nicknames they have for each other. Pretty Boy and Big Country and they use it every time they greet each other and during the one sex scene I read. No!
💀What happened 6 years ago. Ridiculous plot line.
💀The jealousy. No it’s not the “touch him and die” we all love. This is just immature for two guys who almost 30. (28? I think?)
💀Crush’s 5 year old daughter talking like she’s 20. The voice used for her was fucking awful too from both narrators. Using her as a plot device to interrupt anytime these two were about to cross the line.
💀AND even worse Crush getting an erection with his daughter seated right next to him because of the way Ryder pronounced the word “meat”. Gross 🤢
💀The entire thing feels like I’m reading M/F
In Love With My Straight Best Friend/6 year separation
*Included for free with my Audible subscription (thankfully)
Audiobook Narrators: Chris Chambers & John Solo
*Note: Love Chris, new to John Solo and could have lived without the country accent but I’d give him another try on a better book.
DNF @ Chapter 15
I used to be jealous that my friends with Audible subscriptions outside the US had access to more free mm books than I did through the plus catalog but the grass is not always greener on the other side because they’ve included more and this is now the 3rd one in just a few days I’ve had to get rid of. The narrators did a good job but not even Chris Chambers’ sexy voice could make me want to listen to another second of this book even though it’s one of my favorite tropes! It has way too many things I hate and my husband said I’ve said the word “ew” too many times in the past 2 hours. But EW! So I’m rating this even though I’m not at 50% and shelving this author.
Things I HATE:
💀The awful ex-wife who is a total bitch and referred to constantly as Satan and The Anti-Christ. Can we get rid of this character already? 🤦🏻♀️ The number of times she’s been brought up and talked shit about is insane.
💀The toxic masculinity & misogyny is killingggg me. “I’m a man therefore I can’t act soft”, “He’s crying like a girl on her period”, “I can’t show any emotion because we’re supposed to be manly men” & more
💀The nicknames they have for each other. Pretty Boy and Big Country and they use it every time they greet each other and during the one sex scene I read. No!
💀What happened 6 years ago. Ridiculous plot line.
💀The jealousy. No it’s not the “touch him and die” we all love. This is just immature for two guys who almost 30. (28? I think?)
💀Crush’s 5 year old daughter talking like she’s 20. The voice used for her was fucking awful too from both narrators. Using her as a plot device to interrupt anytime these two were about to cross the line.
💀AND even worse Crush getting an erection with his daughter seated right next to him because of the way Ryder pronounced the word “meat”. Gross 🤢
💀The entire thing feels like I’m reading M/F
October 17, 2020
When I read the blurb for this one I thought it sounded like something I'd love and instantly pre-ordered it. An M/M sports romance with best friends, one of whom is 'straight', but is going to fall for his friend? Yes please, sign me up.
Sadly, the execution left a lot to be desired and I almost dnf. As it was, I skim read from around 30% - and it was lucky I got so far, I almost gave up completely at 13% when I read the phrase 'I feel my manhood coming to half-mast'. Yikes!
The characters weren't well developed. I never got a real sense of who they were. One friend came out and then kissed the other, before ignoring him for the next six years. Even though the 'straight' friend called and tried to get in touch etc. That makes no sense. Perhaps if it had been the other way around, it may have been more believable.
There was something quite naive about the writing. It was almost a colour by numbers way of telling a story. No depth, no emotion. An apparently straight man entering a gay relationship who is suddenly so sexually confident with another man, having had no experience of a gay relationship whatsoever. Not to mention the quite annoying phrases, tense and grammar used by the author, such as 'I've not', 'I'd not thought this out properly' or 'he's not slept over'. It was very off-putting.
This book seems to be highly rated, so maybe it was just me. And whilst I hate to speak badly about someone's work, this was a first, and most definitely last, for me from this author.
Sadly, the execution left a lot to be desired and I almost dnf. As it was, I skim read from around 30% - and it was lucky I got so far, I almost gave up completely at 13% when I read the phrase 'I feel my manhood coming to half-mast'. Yikes!
The characters weren't well developed. I never got a real sense of who they were. One friend came out and then kissed the other, before ignoring him for the next six years. Even though the 'straight' friend called and tried to get in touch etc. That makes no sense. Perhaps if it had been the other way around, it may have been more believable.
There was something quite naive about the writing. It was almost a colour by numbers way of telling a story. No depth, no emotion. An apparently straight man entering a gay relationship who is suddenly so sexually confident with another man, having had no experience of a gay relationship whatsoever. Not to mention the quite annoying phrases, tense and grammar used by the author, such as 'I've not', 'I'd not thought this out properly' or 'he's not slept over'. It was very off-putting.
This book seems to be highly rated, so maybe it was just me. And whilst I hate to speak badly about someone's work, this was a first, and most definitely last, for me from this author.
February 3, 2021
I didn't really like this one. Ryder kissed Crush, who is straight, and disappears for 6 years. They reconnect when they start playing for the same team. Crush confesses his feelings for Ryder and all's well in the world.
First off, why did Ryder disappear like that, at least wait for the person to tell you he's not into you, don't kiss and dash, tf. Then Crush whos been straight is so certain of his feelings immediately Ryder comes into his life. He's loved Ryder but never once tried to reach out to him and vice versa.
The ex wife from hell who is there to add the unnecessary drama. The little kid that's a sage, with all the little words of wisdom.
It was too insta-lovey and did not seem like MM. Like another reviewer said, this would definitely read like a MF, change the pronouns and you have yourself a story.
First off, why did Ryder disappear like that, at least wait for the person to tell you he's not into you, don't kiss and dash, tf. Then Crush whos been straight is so certain of his feelings immediately Ryder comes into his life. He's loved Ryder but never once tried to reach out to him and vice versa.
The ex wife from hell who is there to add the unnecessary drama. The little kid that's a sage, with all the little words of wisdom.
It was too insta-lovey and did not seem like MM. Like another reviewer said, this would definitely read like a MF, change the pronouns and you have yourself a story.
January 30, 2022
DNF at 60%
Reasons:
1. The reason they didn't talk for six years
This felt really weird - Ryder kisses Crush and then runs away for six years? And neither of them contact the other? It doesn't feel like a good enough reason for such a dramatic breakup.
2. Evil Ex-Wife
Alison is set up as the Villain. But she's like all out evil ex-wife, and they call her Satan and anti-Christ and stuff, it gets really old. Sure, women can be shitty people and shitty parents, but she reads as so dramatic as to be comical. I also tire of this characterization for women.
I didn't finish (obviously) but I'm willing to bet that Alison is going to out them or something dramatic in a bid to be a dick, but then they'll be supported and win custody of Plot Child and she'll be evil disney villain fuming in the shadows or something. Maybe not, but I wouldn't be surprised if it happens that way.
3. Icky plot child with unrealistic speech for a five year old
Seriously, this kid was super annoying. A dreadful child-lisp that's unrealistic, and then volunteers weird information. Plot Child. She also fuels most of the plot it seems, which got old quick.
4. wooden cheese and pet names
Their pet names were painful - Big Country and Pretty Boy? Yikes. The conversations were pretty stilted and cheesy, the sex scene was also wooden, etc.
5. instalove
Crush came around at light speed to falling in love with Ryder, and fell totally fine into the physical side. No hesitation on either. He actually falls immediately into the jealous boyfriend role, though we suffer through some childish jealousy before they reveal feelings.
6. Full Naming of Crush
This one was super weird - Ryder kept calling him by his full name all the time, and it was just so awkward. Possibly more so than the dreadful pet names. Check out this quote:
It reads like Crush is some super secret spy who's going to have a reveal that he's been undercover because Ryder only knew him as Christopher Colton but he's in fact not. It's so misplaced, and happens all the time.
Overall, fell flat on characters, dialogue, and development. Characters read a bit like teenagers with their behavior, rather than late 20's professional athletes (who can still be manchildren, but this felt extra baby)
Reasons:
1. The reason they didn't talk for six years
This felt really weird - Ryder kisses Crush and then runs away for six years? And neither of them contact the other? It doesn't feel like a good enough reason for such a dramatic breakup.
2. Evil Ex-Wife
Alison is set up as the Villain. But she's like all out evil ex-wife, and they call her Satan and anti-Christ and stuff, it gets really old. Sure, women can be shitty people and shitty parents, but she reads as so dramatic as to be comical. I also tire of this characterization for women.
I didn't finish (obviously) but I'm willing to bet that Alison is going to out them or something dramatic in a bid to be a dick, but then they'll be supported and win custody of Plot Child and she'll be evil disney villain fuming in the shadows or something. Maybe not, but I wouldn't be surprised if it happens that way.
3. Icky plot child with unrealistic speech for a five year old
Seriously, this kid was super annoying. A dreadful child-lisp that's unrealistic, and then volunteers weird information. Plot Child. She also fuels most of the plot it seems, which got old quick.
4. wooden cheese and pet names
Their pet names were painful - Big Country and Pretty Boy? Yikes. The conversations were pretty stilted and cheesy, the sex scene was also wooden, etc.
5. instalove
Crush came around at light speed to falling in love with Ryder, and fell totally fine into the physical side. No hesitation on either. He actually falls immediately into the jealous boyfriend role, though we suffer through some childish jealousy before they reveal feelings.
6. Full Naming of Crush
This one was super weird - Ryder kept calling him by his full name all the time, and it was just so awkward. Possibly more so than the dreadful pet names. Check out this quote:
It’s what always has worked best for the man I know as Christopher Colton.
It reads like Crush is some super secret spy who's going to have a reveal that he's been undercover because Ryder only knew him as Christopher Colton but he's in fact not. It's so misplaced, and happens all the time.
Overall, fell flat on characters, dialogue, and development. Characters read a bit like teenagers with their behavior, rather than late 20's professional athletes (who can still be manchildren, but this felt extra baby)
November 18, 2020
**DNF at 44%
Soo....I am very much in the minority here, but this just didn't work for me. I'm almost a little shocked I made it as far as I had, but I decided I just couldn't anymore. This felt very generic in its execution and both characters had no depth. I have no sense of who they are except for what they have said about each other. Ryder is supposed to be this fun, pretty boy and Crush this down to earth serious guy, but nothing that I was shown supports that. I feel like the author made a list of all the things they wanted to have in the story and then pieced them together.
I found the whole situation incredibly unrealistic. I get that they were "young" at 22 when Ryder kissed Crush and made his big statement, but for Ryder to not contact Crush in 6 years, especially when Crush reached out and tried, it makes no sense if they were as close as they claimed. Then Crush acting like some jealous ass over a friend he claimed to be mad at and hadn't seen in 6 years? yeah, no, not cool and definitely not attractive. And the sudden, but explained, feelings and coming to terms with his sexuality with no real dialogue felt flat.
There were also so many little things that bugged me. The use of word "manhood"--cringe, the references to "girly" and "manly", the bitchy ex, and the convoluted story that I could see unfolding in front of me that I had no desire to experience. I honestly just couldn't anymore so I am letting it float back into the interwebs.
Soo....I am very much in the minority here, but this just didn't work for me. I'm almost a little shocked I made it as far as I had, but I decided I just couldn't anymore. This felt very generic in its execution and both characters had no depth. I have no sense of who they are except for what they have said about each other. Ryder is supposed to be this fun, pretty boy and Crush this down to earth serious guy, but nothing that I was shown supports that. I feel like the author made a list of all the things they wanted to have in the story and then pieced them together.
I found the whole situation incredibly unrealistic. I get that they were "young" at 22 when Ryder kissed Crush and made his big statement, but for Ryder to not contact Crush in 6 years, especially when Crush reached out and tried, it makes no sense if they were as close as they claimed. Then Crush acting like some jealous ass over a friend he claimed to be mad at and hadn't seen in 6 years? yeah, no, not cool and definitely not attractive. And the sudden, but explained, feelings and coming to terms with his sexuality with no real dialogue felt flat.
There were also so many little things that bugged me. The use of word "manhood"--cringe, the references to "girly" and "manly", the bitchy ex, and the convoluted story that I could see unfolding in front of me that I had no desire to experience. I honestly just couldn't anymore so I am letting it float back into the interwebs.
November 11, 2020
Oh. My. Word!! This was soooooo good!! I loved Big Country and Pretty Boy, LOVED!!! It’s been a while since I get this emotionally involved with 2 book characters, they relationship was #couplegoals. Once, Crush came to terms of his love for Ryder, he was ALL in. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
October 15, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Ryder
It's a cliche really, falling in love with my best friend, my very stright best friend. And to add more complications, I"M a footbabll player, about to be drafted. We're manly men. We aren't supposed to be gay. But I am and I love the one person I'll never have. Until fate forces us together six years later. It'll be both a fantasy and hell on earth, playing along Crush-the only man who will ever truly own my heart.
Crush
He dropped the bomb on me. THen he left, never looking back. Our friendship-ruined unitl he lands back in my life. His presence is just as big as ever. I never forgot him, or what that one kiss so many year ago still does to my doby. He's here, but is he willing to stay.
This is the story of Ryder and Crush. Ryder has been playing ball away from football but is now on his way back to Tennessee and his best friend Crush. These two met in college playing football. Ryder is gay and while he wasn't ashamed of it he didn't exactly advertise it either and Crush is stright. They are best friends by Ryder is in love with Crush. However after a particularly bad game in college the cat is let out of the bag with a surprise kiss thte ended witht hem being seperated for six years. Crush has never ever forgot that kiss though. Now tht they are playing on the same team again, neither of them are sure how to react to the other. This is a mess because they don't understand how to be teammates again. Can these two get it together? You have to read to find out. I loved this book and didn't put it down until I was finished.
Ryder
It's a cliche really, falling in love with my best friend, my very stright best friend. And to add more complications, I"M a footbabll player, about to be drafted. We're manly men. We aren't supposed to be gay. But I am and I love the one person I'll never have. Until fate forces us together six years later. It'll be both a fantasy and hell on earth, playing along Crush-the only man who will ever truly own my heart.
Crush
He dropped the bomb on me. THen he left, never looking back. Our friendship-ruined unitl he lands back in my life. His presence is just as big as ever. I never forgot him, or what that one kiss so many year ago still does to my doby. He's here, but is he willing to stay.
This is the story of Ryder and Crush. Ryder has been playing ball away from football but is now on his way back to Tennessee and his best friend Crush. These two met in college playing football. Ryder is gay and while he wasn't ashamed of it he didn't exactly advertise it either and Crush is stright. They are best friends by Ryder is in love with Crush. However after a particularly bad game in college the cat is let out of the bag with a surprise kiss thte ended witht hem being seperated for six years. Crush has never ever forgot that kiss though. Now tht they are playing on the same team again, neither of them are sure how to react to the other. This is a mess because they don't understand how to be teammates again. Can these two get it together? You have to read to find out. I loved this book and didn't put it down until I was finished.
September 24, 2023
Besides a frew phrases that sounded off. This was an interesting sports novel.
But how was it. Old boys ex-wife getting a press conference to air out dirty laundry of her ex husband's. What was her evidence? That was so compelling that she got the green light. Do reporters want that got ya moment of information so badly. They would report on rumors as if its fact scientifically proven. That's more than yellow journalism. Where sensationalized headlines catch readers attention. More and more news influences aka host ate putting themselves in the story. Instead of being an observer giving their opinion.
But how was it. Old boys ex-wife getting a press conference to air out dirty laundry of her ex husband's. What was her evidence? That was so compelling that she got the green light. Do reporters want that got ya moment of information so badly. They would report on rumors as if its fact scientifically proven. That's more than yellow journalism. Where sensationalized headlines catch readers attention. More and more news influences aka host ate putting themselves in the story. Instead of being an observer giving their opinion.
October 12, 2020
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
NFL player, Ryder Hanley, is moving back home to Tennessee to play for the team there. It gets him closer to home, but also gets him on the same team as his best friend, the one he hasn't spoken to in six years. Ryder left six years ago after an ill fated kiss, afraid that he disgusted his best friend and ashamed he even put Crush in that position. Now he is back and in Crush's face, will Crush accept that he is back? Are they even still friends or is this the worst move that Ryder could have made? Ryder's feelings for Crush are not in the past, but very much still in the present but he knows that Crush is just his best friend and nothing more can come from this. But what Ryder doesn't know is that Crush missed him just as much, and that a lot has changed in six years.
I really enjoyed this story; I'm a sucker for the best friend, gay for you tropes and this was that all the way! The chemistry the two had, from the banter to the extra drama with the she-devil, everything about this story made it a great read. I give this 5 stars.
(5 stars)
NFL player, Ryder Hanley, is moving back home to Tennessee to play for the team there. It gets him closer to home, but also gets him on the same team as his best friend, the one he hasn't spoken to in six years. Ryder left six years ago after an ill fated kiss, afraid that he disgusted his best friend and ashamed he even put Crush in that position. Now he is back and in Crush's face, will Crush accept that he is back? Are they even still friends or is this the worst move that Ryder could have made? Ryder's feelings for Crush are not in the past, but very much still in the present but he knows that Crush is just his best friend and nothing more can come from this. But what Ryder doesn't know is that Crush missed him just as much, and that a lot has changed in six years.
I really enjoyed this story; I'm a sucker for the best friend, gay for you tropes and this was that all the way! The chemistry the two had, from the banter to the extra drama with the she-devil, everything about this story made it a great read. I give this 5 stars.
October 7, 2020
I haven't read too many MM books - but I quite enjoyed this one. Leigh wrote a story that could be about any two men, but it was about two famous football players.
Ryder and Colton (Crush) played college ball together - and Ryder was gay, but Crush wasn't aware, Ryder didn't make it common knowledge; after a particularly tough game, and Ryder was tired of hiding his feelings for Crush - he did the unthinkable, and kissed him - Crush was livid, and so surprised - What the hell! Seeing as there were no feeling reciprocated, Ryder leaves, and they lose touch.
Fast forward six years - Ryder is up for a change, and gets one, he is traded to Crush's team in Nashville; but Crush's life has been tough, an awful ex-wife he has to share his lovely precocious daughter, Brooklyn, with; Crush isn't ready for this instrusion from Ryder. He kind of makes his life uneasy and unneccessarily harsh, but as you read on in the story - you see they find their friendship and the need for closeness from their families - that is so sweet - I loved that!
An amazing read, everyone would enjoy!
Ryder and Colton (Crush) played college ball together - and Ryder was gay, but Crush wasn't aware, Ryder didn't make it common knowledge; after a particularly tough game, and Ryder was tired of hiding his feelings for Crush - he did the unthinkable, and kissed him - Crush was livid, and so surprised - What the hell! Seeing as there were no feeling reciprocated, Ryder leaves, and they lose touch.
Fast forward six years - Ryder is up for a change, and gets one, he is traded to Crush's team in Nashville; but Crush's life has been tough, an awful ex-wife he has to share his lovely precocious daughter, Brooklyn, with; Crush isn't ready for this instrusion from Ryder. He kind of makes his life uneasy and unneccessarily harsh, but as you read on in the story - you see they find their friendship and the need for closeness from their families - that is so sweet - I loved that!
An amazing read, everyone would enjoy!
October 15, 2020
My Only Reason by Leigh Lennon is about Ryder and Crush. They were best friends six years ago but haven't spoken to each other in six years. Now they are forced together because Ryder is the new member of Crush' team.
I really loved Ryder and Crush. They are amazing together. Their story was sweet, sexy and very well written.
I really loved Ryder and Crush. They are amazing together. Their story was sweet, sexy and very well written.
February 3, 2021
I obviously read a different book than most people, while the set-up of this story was good the execution was bad. The language (tense/grammer) was stitled, example; 'I've not', 'I'd not thought this out properly' or 'he's not slept over' was distracting and took me out of the story. A guy calling his penis his "manhood" - sorry not something a guy would use or anyone in a contemporary romance. The speech patterns almost baby talk of the 5 year old children (I teach 5 year old children and maybe once in 25 years have heard one speak similarly but even that changed once she was around other kids) was ridiculous.
What I liked was the set up -- and I did like the characters and can't hold their ridiculous thoughts and speech against them. Did I think that it was a bit unrealistic they'd never once tried to reach out especially playing against each other over the years, yes, but in some ways I could also understand it. Ryder was hurt and Crush was married and trying to make his marriage work, they moved on. Not everyone wants to reconcile.
I felt the fact Crush had never had any experience with a man was way too overconfident in his abilities for the first few times. I also thought Ryder was a bit too passive during their first sexual encounters but those kind of go hand and hand.
Crush's ex was an almost cartoonish villian and because of that the big blow up was expected and a bit anti-climatic.
I will most likely try the next book in this series, I'm curious about Dallas and the Country Western star, but if it's more of the same as this, it will be he last I read.
What I liked was the set up -- and I did like the characters and can't hold their ridiculous thoughts and speech against them. Did I think that it was a bit unrealistic they'd never once tried to reach out especially playing against each other over the years, yes, but in some ways I could also understand it. Ryder was hurt and Crush was married and trying to make his marriage work, they moved on. Not everyone wants to reconcile.
I felt the fact Crush had never had any experience with a man was way too overconfident in his abilities for the first few times. I also thought Ryder was a bit too passive during their first sexual encounters but those kind of go hand and hand.
Crush's ex was an almost cartoonish villian and because of that the big blow up was expected and a bit anti-climatic.
I will most likely try the next book in this series, I'm curious about Dallas and the Country Western star, but if it's more of the same as this, it will be he last I read.
October 15, 2020
I’m always game for a good M/M sports romance (see what I did there?), and if both main characters are in the sport even better. Here in My Only Reason we have football—one of my favorites—and Crush and Ryder are former best friends getting a second chance. Well, if you count a single kiss as a first chance.
I did like the two of them together, even if Crush’s attitude is a bit more brash than what I normally warm up to. With Ryder being out of the closet—in professional football no less—by the time he lands a spot on the same team as Crush, it does seem to take the pressure off of them, even though they do not go public with their relationship. Things so go along very smoothly for them, the entire story is relatively angst-free with the only real bits of drama occurring when Crush’s ex-wife is around.
And speaking of that ex-wife…she is the clear antagonist here, and the author is spot on in her portrayal as a real she-devil…almost to the point of it being too much before things get reeled in. The other supporting characters though, which consist of Crush and Ryder’s families and teammates, are all positive and supportive; my only nit-pick would be the speech of the little girls, which comes across as too young and choppy, even for as young as they are.
If you’re looking for a good M/M sports romance with not too much drama, My Only Reason will fit the bill. It was a 3.5-star read for me, and I think most fans of the genre will enjoy this story. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
I did like the two of them together, even if Crush’s attitude is a bit more brash than what I normally warm up to. With Ryder being out of the closet—in professional football no less—by the time he lands a spot on the same team as Crush, it does seem to take the pressure off of them, even though they do not go public with their relationship. Things so go along very smoothly for them, the entire story is relatively angst-free with the only real bits of drama occurring when Crush’s ex-wife is around.
And speaking of that ex-wife…she is the clear antagonist here, and the author is spot on in her portrayal as a real she-devil…almost to the point of it being too much before things get reeled in. The other supporting characters though, which consist of Crush and Ryder’s families and teammates, are all positive and supportive; my only nit-pick would be the speech of the little girls, which comes across as too young and choppy, even for as young as they are.
If you’re looking for a good M/M sports romance with not too much drama, My Only Reason will fit the bill. It was a 3.5-star read for me, and I think most fans of the genre will enjoy this story. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
October 15, 2020
When the one that got away comes back.
Second chances to change the outcome don’t always come around, but when Ryder joins Crush’s NFL team, it appears that they may just get theirs.
This book had my attention before the prologue even ended. Leigh Lennon’s storytelling abilities are endless. This was my first book — of hers — to read, and it will not be the last. The fact that this book is book one of a series excites me. I can see so much potential for follow-ups, and I cannot wait to read the next one.
I loved Ry and Crush. Once they worked through their baggage, they were the dynamic duo, on and off the field. I absolutely adored Brooklyn. It’s a shame about her mom, though. Pffft. Karma came calling, and she had Al’s number. I disliked her so much that I didn’t even bother remembering her full name. Like Ryder, I wish I could've witnessed the showdown between Crush's mom and the She-Devil, but I, too, am just happy it happened.
I always enjoy a book that not only captures my attention, but also my emotions. No, it did not make me cry, thank goodness, but I felt as involved with the storyline as the characters were. I may have grinned a few times, felt anguished alongside them, and cheered them on as if they were real. If a book draws my emotions into it, it gets 5 stars, hands down. I’m invested, and I really, really hope we get to see this beautiful couple in the next book/books. I’m not ready to say goodbye...
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
Second chances to change the outcome don’t always come around, but when Ryder joins Crush’s NFL team, it appears that they may just get theirs.
This book had my attention before the prologue even ended. Leigh Lennon’s storytelling abilities are endless. This was my first book — of hers — to read, and it will not be the last. The fact that this book is book one of a series excites me. I can see so much potential for follow-ups, and I cannot wait to read the next one.
I loved Ry and Crush. Once they worked through their baggage, they were the dynamic duo, on and off the field. I absolutely adored Brooklyn. It’s a shame about her mom, though. Pffft. Karma came calling, and she had Al’s number. I disliked her so much that I didn’t even bother remembering her full name. Like Ryder, I wish I could've witnessed the showdown between Crush's mom and the She-Devil, but I, too, am just happy it happened.
I always enjoy a book that not only captures my attention, but also my emotions. No, it did not make me cry, thank goodness, but I felt as involved with the storyline as the characters were. I may have grinned a few times, felt anguished alongside them, and cheered them on as if they were real. If a book draws my emotions into it, it gets 5 stars, hands down. I’m invested, and I really, really hope we get to see this beautiful couple in the next book/books. I’m not ready to say goodbye...
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
October 16, 2020
•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´In all seriousness, love IS love.
There is nothing I like more than discovering a new author. Then discovering that said author can pull me into a world that I never want to leave. Or to find the writing style that calls to me. Or finding myself searching backlogs and realising that this one author has me maybe, thinking about reading books in other genres that I have not done in years!!!
Many will pick up this book and say, ugh, another football book. Another coming out of an athlete. I have read this book before. Yada, yada, yada. Think again. Yes, it has that; but it has so much more. For me, this was a coming home story. This was an awakening of the mind and spirit. This was the opening act of so much more to come.
I adored Crush and Ry. They were well suited for each other and their forgiveness goes a long way. Their journey was on their terms, even if it got thawed at one point. I found Crush's ex-wife to be a brute and she got her comeuppance in the end. I just want one book where the exes relationship does not hinder on damage control. And those little girls, Brooklyn and Loretta were sassy darlings. Once you meet them you will not forget them.
And finally...2021 seems so far away for side character, Dallas's book,
My Only Regret (A Love is Love Book Book 2). And personally, I want to be there for the reveal. And I am keeping my fingers crossed that Garrison gets his story one day.
✮ (¸.•´In all seriousness, love IS love.
There is nothing I like more than discovering a new author. Then discovering that said author can pull me into a world that I never want to leave. Or to find the writing style that calls to me. Or finding myself searching backlogs and realising that this one author has me maybe, thinking about reading books in other genres that I have not done in years!!!
Many will pick up this book and say, ugh, another football book. Another coming out of an athlete. I have read this book before. Yada, yada, yada. Think again. Yes, it has that; but it has so much more. For me, this was a coming home story. This was an awakening of the mind and spirit. This was the opening act of so much more to come.
I adored Crush and Ry. They were well suited for each other and their forgiveness goes a long way. Their journey was on their terms, even if it got thawed at one point. I found Crush's ex-wife to be a brute and she got her comeuppance in the end. I just want one book where the exes relationship does not hinder on damage control. And those little girls, Brooklyn and Loretta were sassy darlings. Once you meet them you will not forget them.
And finally...2021 seems so far away for side character, Dallas's book,
My Only Regret (A Love is Love Book Book 2). And personally, I want to be there for the reveal. And I am keeping my fingers crossed that Garrison gets his story one day.
October 15, 2020
Amazon
To say Crush is not happy Ryder's now on HIS football team is a major understatement. And Ryder gets it, he really does. After all, he's the one who dropped a kiss on his at the time best friend, then left for fear Crush (Christopher) would reject him. But they have to be professionals, and as their coach said, get their heads on straight, if they want to remain on the team. So for both their sakes, they need a serious talk to happen.
Crush was devastated when Ryder left after dropping a huge revelation on him. But he himself could have reached out in the years since, and didn't. He knew where Ryder was, as they were both in the league, but he didn't reach out, so the severed relationship is his fault, too. And now his once best friend is back, playing on his team, and his feelings for him are more confused than ever. Could he, a straight, divorced single dad actually be attracted to his out former best friend? Being on the same team, that question is liable to get answered pretty damn quickly.
This is a great gfy, coming out, former friends to lovers story. I loved Ryder and how accepting he was, how he gave Crush the space he needed, and didn't push or judge, and I loved Crush's adorable little girl, Brooklyn. The team is wonderful, too, mostly accepting, and it gave the story a non-angsty feel, which is appreciated. Really the only thing I was less than impressed with was Crush himself, he's a jerk for the most part, and Crush's hideous ex. Aside from those two things (characters), I liked this start to a new series, and I cannot wait for Dallas' story next.
ARC via Buoni Amici Press for an honest review.
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October 15, 2020
Absolutely stunning. I loved this slow build, slow burn MM romance. Maybe the time frame of the “actual” connection between Ryder and Crush was a short time after they reconnected (3 weeks) but the way the author beautifully portrayed their story felt like a fire slowly growing into a towering inferno as I read along.
It seemed to Ryder that he has loved Crush since they first met. Besties through all their college /football years. When Ryder was in a low place after learning about his grandfather’s death, while leaning on his friend for comfort, he kissed Crush and then literally ran out of his life. Fast forward to the present. Both their football careers have taken off and their private lives have moved on. But now, due to Ryder’s football trade they are both playing on the same team.
Things are anything but smooth sailing when they reconnect. Watching their story come to life as truths coming to the surface is absolutely breathtaking.
Kudos Ms. Lennon for a fantastic read that I Highly recommend to all romance readers. Not only that but this reader is anxiously waiting for book 2 in the A Love is Love series.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
It seemed to Ryder that he has loved Crush since they first met. Besties through all their college /football years. When Ryder was in a low place after learning about his grandfather’s death, while leaning on his friend for comfort, he kissed Crush and then literally ran out of his life. Fast forward to the present. Both their football careers have taken off and their private lives have moved on. But now, due to Ryder’s football trade they are both playing on the same team.
Things are anything but smooth sailing when they reconnect. Watching their story come to life as truths coming to the surface is absolutely breathtaking.
Kudos Ms. Lennon for a fantastic read that I Highly recommend to all romance readers. Not only that but this reader is anxiously waiting for book 2 in the A Love is Love series.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
January 4, 2024
Voto libro: 2.5
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
October 8, 2020
“You know, you’re only given so many chances. Don’t let this one slip away...”
Oh holy sweetness I’m still trying to wrap my mind around this book. This book is by far one of Leigh’s best books and I’ve read EVERYTHING she’s published!
This book shows and tells of a love story that has been hard fought for. It shows us what it truly is like for a gay man to “come out” in a world that isn’t designed to handle that lifestyle. It shows us what true love is and just how much these two men were willing to sacrifice to finally be themselves and to just to love each other. My heart was breaking for Ryder and Crush for everything that they had to overcome to finally be together. And in the end they simply show us that love conquers all....
Leigh has definitely outdone herself with this book and gives us a hint at her next book in the series...the characters in this book are wonderful and the supporting characters are just that truly supporting. I can’t wait for her next in this series, but i also hope that she gives us a book on Kelsey and Jesse!
Oh holy sweetness I’m still trying to wrap my mind around this book. This book is by far one of Leigh’s best books and I’ve read EVERYTHING she’s published!
This book shows and tells of a love story that has been hard fought for. It shows us what it truly is like for a gay man to “come out” in a world that isn’t designed to handle that lifestyle. It shows us what true love is and just how much these two men were willing to sacrifice to finally be themselves and to just to love each other. My heart was breaking for Ryder and Crush for everything that they had to overcome to finally be together. And in the end they simply show us that love conquers all....
Leigh has definitely outdone herself with this book and gives us a hint at her next book in the series...the characters in this book are wonderful and the supporting characters are just that truly supporting. I can’t wait for her next in this series, but i also hope that she gives us a book on Kelsey and Jesse!
October 15, 2020
Ryder and Crush were best friends until a kiss changed everything. Now it is six years later, the two meet up again and the sparks between the men are hotter than ever. Will the past stand in the way of their happiness? Can Ryder stay around this time? Will Crush be able to trust him? A good read.
January 27, 2021
Okay so 1st things 1st... F@CK YEAH!!! I loved this... I want more of this... NEW'ish author to me, but you have proven that you belong on my favorite list as well as my always list... I LOVE Brooklyn's Sassy ass!!! We'll done lady...
dnf
January 4, 2021DNF @ 18%
Nope, not for me. This book held my attention at the beginning but quickly flopped after the time skip. Things didn't add up. Why did it take soooo long for Ryder and Cash to reconnect? I mean, Cash ends up You'd think if they were as close as they claimed, one of them would have contacted the other by now. And it's sad to say, but I found the characters lacking in depth. Cash and Ryder, I didn't get their attraction. At the least, the interest Cash showed in Ryder after six years apart came right out of the blue. All of a sudden, Cash realizes how hot his friend is? Yeah, no. There was also something about how Ryder couldn't tell his friend he missed him because he was a guy and guys didn't say that to each other? Umm, excussse me? Too much cheesy inner dialogue for my liking. This read more like an MF romance than a true MM romance. No rating.
Nope, not for me. This book held my attention at the beginning but quickly flopped after the time skip. Things didn't add up. Why did it take soooo long for Ryder and Cash to reconnect? I mean, Cash ends up You'd think if they were as close as they claimed, one of them would have contacted the other by now. And it's sad to say, but I found the characters lacking in depth. Cash and Ryder, I didn't get their attraction. At the least, the interest Cash showed in Ryder after six years apart came right out of the blue. All of a sudden, Cash realizes how hot his friend is? Yeah, no. There was also something about how Ryder couldn't tell his friend he missed him because he was a guy and guys didn't say that to each other? Umm, excussse me? Too much cheesy inner dialogue for my liking. This read more like an MF romance than a true MM romance. No rating.
February 7, 2021
I gave myself a couple of days after finishing this book, so that I wouldn't leave a rant of a review.
This story had such great potential, especially with the mix of a sports romance and the friends-to-lovers trope. Unfortunately, as soon as I started reading, I knew this was not a story for me.
Maybe because I've been a MM romance reader for 10+ years and I've been spoiled by the great authors of that time and the few outstanding authors of late, but now that MM romance has garnered more recognition, the more subpar stories that have come along. This one being one of them.
No character development, unrealistic dialogue, constant use of annoying pet names and a chatty, annoying child character that expressed herself as an adult. Add to that an overconfident once-straight MC and the disrespectful way the MCs "bantered" with each other and I was over this pairing well before the ex-wife tried to tear them apart. The only saving grace here was Dallas and Garrison, their stories intrigue me. We'll see how those go about.
This story had such great potential, especially with the mix of a sports romance and the friends-to-lovers trope. Unfortunately, as soon as I started reading, I knew this was not a story for me.
Maybe because I've been a MM romance reader for 10+ years and I've been spoiled by the great authors of that time and the few outstanding authors of late, but now that MM romance has garnered more recognition, the more subpar stories that have come along. This one being one of them.
No character development, unrealistic dialogue, constant use of annoying pet names and a chatty, annoying child character that expressed herself as an adult. Add to that an overconfident once-straight MC and the disrespectful way the MCs "bantered" with each other and I was over this pairing well before the ex-wife tried to tear them apart. The only saving grace here was Dallas and Garrison, their stories intrigue me. We'll see how those go about.
February 5, 2024
Romance Reader - per RFS
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La recensione di oggi è per il primo volume autoconclusivo della serie sport romance MM dell’autrice Leigh Lennon, edita Triskell Edizioni.
Ryder Hanley torna a Nashville dopo essere fuggito sei anni prima, a un passo dall’entrare nel football professionistico e, soprattutto, dopo un bacio rivelatore al suo migliore amico, l’etero quarterback Christopher “Crush” Colton. Quando però Ryder torna in città, non c’è modo di evitare il capitano della sua nuova squadra e dovrà chiarire le cose con lui se vorranno ritrovare l’intesa che li ha sempre caratterizzati dentro e fuori dal campo.
Ci riusciranno o il loro gioco si trasformerà in un disastro?
Non avevo mai letto nulla dell’autrice Leigh Lennon e sono rimasta piacevolmente colpita dal suo stile leggero, frizzante e divertente, ma che non le impedisce di trattare con delicatezza temi molto importanti come l’essere se stessi, fare coming out in un ambiente particolare come il football professionistico e ciò che ne consegue.
È un romanzo dolce e romantico, con la giusta quantità di spicy, eppure ho avuto la sensazione che la storia non scavasse troppo a fondo nei protagonisti, nelle loro motivazioni, nelle loro personalità.
In effetti, dopo sei anni di silenzio radio tra i due, le cose si risolvono con una fretta impressionante e il rapporto fra loro non sembra affatto risentire della lontananza o dell’assenza prolungata nella vita dell’altro. Anche il modo in cui il ragazzone country affronta la nuova relazione, dopo aver vissuto una vita da etero, appare quasi troppo semplice.
Tuttavia non mi sento di bocciare questa storia perché trasmette un bel messaggio e sprona a essere se stessi anche in ambienti che possono sembrare ostili, e non vedo l’ora di leggere la storia di Dallas.
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La recensione di oggi è per il primo volume autoconclusivo della serie sport romance MM dell’autrice Leigh Lennon, edita Triskell Edizioni.
Ryder Hanley torna a Nashville dopo essere fuggito sei anni prima, a un passo dall’entrare nel football professionistico e, soprattutto, dopo un bacio rivelatore al suo migliore amico, l’etero quarterback Christopher “Crush” Colton. Quando però Ryder torna in città, non c’è modo di evitare il capitano della sua nuova squadra e dovrà chiarire le cose con lui se vorranno ritrovare l’intesa che li ha sempre caratterizzati dentro e fuori dal campo.
Ci riusciranno o il loro gioco si trasformerà in un disastro?
Non avevo mai letto nulla dell’autrice Leigh Lennon e sono rimasta piacevolmente colpita dal suo stile leggero, frizzante e divertente, ma che non le impedisce di trattare con delicatezza temi molto importanti come l’essere se stessi, fare coming out in un ambiente particolare come il football professionistico e ciò che ne consegue.
È un romanzo dolce e romantico, con la giusta quantità di spicy, eppure ho avuto la sensazione che la storia non scavasse troppo a fondo nei protagonisti, nelle loro motivazioni, nelle loro personalità.
In effetti, dopo sei anni di silenzio radio tra i due, le cose si risolvono con una fretta impressionante e il rapporto fra loro non sembra affatto risentire della lontananza o dell’assenza prolungata nella vita dell’altro. Anche il modo in cui il ragazzone country affronta la nuova relazione, dopo aver vissuto una vita da etero, appare quasi troppo semplice.
Tuttavia non mi sento di bocciare questa storia perché trasmette un bel messaggio e sprona a essere se stessi anche in ambienti che possono sembrare ostili, e non vedo l’ora di leggere la storia di Dallas.
June 19, 2025
3,5⭐️
Carino.
Si tratta di un romance sportivo con la classica dinamica friends to lovers: i protagonisti sono due giocatori di football, migliori amici sin dall’infanzia, che si ritrovano a fare i conti con i propri sentimenti dopo essersi allontanati in seguito a un bacio. Anni dopo, finiscono per giocare nella stessa squadra, costretti quindi a confrontarsi con tutto ciò che avevano lasciato in sospeso.
La trama, purtroppo, non brilla per originalità. Storie di questo tipo ce ne sono davvero tante, e questa non aggiunge nulla di particolarmente nuovo o memorabile al genere.
Ma ciò che mi ha convinta meno, più della trama in sé, è stato lo stile dei dialoghi: troppo forzatamente “bro”, pieno di appellativi come “ragazzone country”, “bello mio”, “ehi amico” anche nei momenti più intimi o emotivi. Questo linguaggio finisce per smorzare qualsiasi tensione romantica o dolcezza, rendendo difficile prendere sul serio i sentimenti dei protagonisti.
Un libro tutto sommato leggero, ma che non lascia molto.
Carino.
Si tratta di un romance sportivo con la classica dinamica friends to lovers: i protagonisti sono due giocatori di football, migliori amici sin dall’infanzia, che si ritrovano a fare i conti con i propri sentimenti dopo essersi allontanati in seguito a un bacio. Anni dopo, finiscono per giocare nella stessa squadra, costretti quindi a confrontarsi con tutto ciò che avevano lasciato in sospeso.
La trama, purtroppo, non brilla per originalità. Storie di questo tipo ce ne sono davvero tante, e questa non aggiunge nulla di particolarmente nuovo o memorabile al genere.
Ma ciò che mi ha convinta meno, più della trama in sé, è stato lo stile dei dialoghi: troppo forzatamente “bro”, pieno di appellativi come “ragazzone country”, “bello mio”, “ehi amico” anche nei momenti più intimi o emotivi. Questo linguaggio finisce per smorzare qualsiasi tensione romantica o dolcezza, rendendo difficile prendere sul serio i sentimenti dei protagonisti.
Un libro tutto sommato leggero, ma che non lascia molto.
January 12, 2024
Voto: 3.5
RECENSIONE A CURA DI SLANIF
Christopher “Crush” Colton e Ryder Hanley sono amici dal primo momento in cui si sono ritrovati come compagni di squadra al college. La loro intesa dentro il campo da football è incredibile e non ha niente da invidiare a quella che hanno fuori dallo stadio. Ecco perché, in brevissimo tempo, diventano migliori amici.
Lo sono per tutto il tempo che passeranno al college, fino a quando non disputeranno la finale e… Ryder bacerà Crush negli spogliatoi, mettendo fine al loro rapporto.
Quando, sei anni dopo, si ritrovano di nuovo faccia a faccia e per di più compagni di squadra nel Nashville… Riusciranno a mettere da parte le incomprensioni del passato e a trovare uno nuovo equilibrio?
Continua sul nostro blog!
RECENSIONE A CURA DI SLANIF
Christopher “Crush” Colton e Ryder Hanley sono amici dal primo momento in cui si sono ritrovati come compagni di squadra al college. La loro intesa dentro il campo da football è incredibile e non ha niente da invidiare a quella che hanno fuori dallo stadio. Ecco perché, in brevissimo tempo, diventano migliori amici.
Lo sono per tutto il tempo che passeranno al college, fino a quando non disputeranno la finale e… Ryder bacerà Crush negli spogliatoi, mettendo fine al loro rapporto.
Quando, sei anni dopo, si ritrovano di nuovo faccia a faccia e per di più compagni di squadra nel Nashville… Riusciranno a mettere da parte le incomprensioni del passato e a trovare uno nuovo equilibrio?
Continua sul nostro blog!
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