What do you think?
Rate this book
Criminally Scandalous
An MM Sports Romance
Pistol Cage hasn't had it easy - neglectful parents, loss of his football scholarship, and his college career down the drain.
And now, he's spending time behind bars.
Bryce Cutler never knew what happened to him after the fateful day that Pistol was forced to walk off the football field. He searched, but he couldn't ever find him.
Six years later, Pistol finally writes Bryce, letting him know where he's been all these years, finally ready to make things right with at least one person in his life.
But after everything Bryce went out of his way to do for him and then having Pistol ghost him, is Bryce willing to let Pistol back in? Or has Pistol lost the one person that was once always on his side?
Pistol Cage hasn't had it easy - neglectful parents, loss of his football scholarship, and his college career down the drain.
And now, he's spending time behind bars.
Bryce Cutler never knew what happened to him after the fateful day that Pistol was forced to walk off the football field. He searched, but he couldn't ever find him.
Six years later, Pistol finally writes Bryce, letting him know where he's been all these years, finally ready to make things right with at least one person in his life.
But after everything Bryce went out of his way to do for him and then having Pistol ghost him, is Bryce willing to let Pistol back in? Or has Pistol lost the one person that was once always on his side?
75 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2023
18 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
West Greene
98 books328 followersWest Greene is a romance author that specializes in short, steamy books and erotic shorts.
All your instalove needs can be found in one of her books, whether you're looking for possessive men, men with no morals, spicy FF romance, a boy just needing his Daddy, a twink just needing love, or even the other woman to get her HEA.
West Greene refuses to be stuck in one trope or type of romance. She loves variety, and she's definitely going to share that variety with her readers.
All your instalove needs can be found in one of her books, whether you're looking for possessive men, men with no morals, spicy FF romance, a boy just needing his Daddy, a twink just needing love, or even the other woman to get her HEA.
West Greene refuses to be stuck in one trope or type of romance. She loves variety, and she's definitely going to share that variety with her readers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
January 16, 2024
3.9 - 4⭐
I'm on a roll here, I'm just getting to know this author and their stories are really doing it for me. They're shorter, but pretty much everything seems to work for me.
The setting is likeable, the main characters have just the right dynamic and the smut is very good.
I'd only wish they were longer, but not only that, I wish they'd be more developed, more detailed, because at this point I'm getting really invested in these characters and their stories, so of course it's bugging me the stories are not lengthier.
🔵 College Football
🟣 Former teammates - friends - lovers
🟢 Both not out in college, both gay
🟡 Secret crush
🟠 Dual POV
🌶️ Good smut; more of it this time; t/b
This was good. I mean, this was - and I'm surprised, I am, because I don't know this author, they're never recommended anywhere on social media, but the potential is very much there, these stories need to be full-length books.
The guys from this book are giving me the best visuals, they're two college football players - Bryce blonde and lean, a sweetheart, and Pistol a taller, bulkier guy who's dealing with a shittier end of the stick in life .
Bryce and Pistol aren't best friends, but they're teammates and very good friends who are both secretly in love with each other, but they never say anything and don't even get the chance to explore it, because Pistol gets kicked off the team and school for having tested positive for THC. He comes from a very broken family, they live in poverty, Pistol loses his scholarship and his whole future goes down the drain with him being kicked out of school. He eventually ends up in jail.
Years later after complete silence and 6 years in jail already, Pistol reaches out to Bryce, who's been his only friend in life, he's got noone, so Bryce immediately takes care of Pistol's transfer to his town, he brings Pistol to live with him when he's out on parole and even though they never acknowledge it, they have this effortless chemistry between them, where it's clear they care about each other a lot. Their feelings are still going as strong as ever, so it doesn't take long for them to get together.
"He was watching me. Did that mean he wanted me just as badly?
"I know you're there," I rasped, my hips raising off the bed. The door slowly inched open, and then Bryce appeared, his eyes running over my naked body before focusing on my hand around my cock. I slowed my pace, letting him see me. Licking my lips, I beckoned him closer, hoping I wasn't making a mistake. Bryce was all I had in this world, but my need for him was winning over my common sense."
That scene was intense. I loved it.
The story skips to a few days later when the news breaks out about them being together. And it makes sense, it's a short story, so of course not many things are talked about, but I'd liked for them to at least wake up together and talk about the feelings they've had for each other all those years .
Pistol's story gets told three times over literally, so I thought instead of that the author could've included more of their intimate moments at home or outside, just stuff they did together or things they talked about.
They do fall into this intimate, close domesticity at home where they just fit together, they know each other and what the other needs, Pistol likes to cook for his man and Bryce is just the sweetest guy around , he doesn't want anything from Pistol, he just wants to take care of him, give him what he needs, make him comfortable, he buys him some clothes when Pistol didn't have any, I mean damn, their life seems to be so full of love and
"Bryce's sweet, caregiving personality was going to drive me insane in the best possible way. I just fucking knew it."
A bit more smut was included in this story, the epilogue was therefore satisfying and the bonus story thankfully doesn't deal with them fostering or anything. So many m/m stories end up with the guys fostering kids and I just don't like it, it's like there can't be a happy ending without having a family and that's just not the case.
So, I was glad to see Bryce and Pistol having a great time together in the epilogue and bonus short.
Ending this review with a smile on my face. ☺️😚
June 22, 2023
The good
+ Bryce standing up for their relationship
+ Bryce picking Pistol over football
The neutral
o You know that moment you're reading a sex scene and you're certain it's just a dream sequence? Yeah, that happened to me in this book. Except, it wasn't a dream. I was blindsided by the instalove in an instalove book, that's how insta the instalove was
o They got married after just a few weeks. That's the level of insta we're talking here
o Pistol only ever said he didn't mind going public with their relationship because he didn't care what people thought of him, but he never mentioned caring about what people thought of Bryce
o What happened to Pistol's father?
The bad
- There was a severe power imbalance in their relationship, but it was never addressed. If Bryce decided, for whatever reason, to stop supporting Pistol, Pistol would be stuck in a state he didn't know while still on parole. He'd probably have to go back to prison just so he wouldn't starve. Yet neither of them ever acknowledged this or set up a safety net for Pistol
- Pistol was described as someone who hardly ever smiled before he went to prison. I can't imagine that prison would have made him more smiley. Yet he smiled and laughed all the time, and showed none of his brashness or angry attitude. He got a completely new personality
- Pistol's time in prison left no marks whatsoever. He never mentioned anything that happened while he was locked up, and he didn't display any new behaviors like jumpiness or wariness. Bryce gave Pistol the newest smartphone and Pistol set it up by himself with no issues. I don't believe Pistol ever owned a smartphone even before he went to prison as he had no money for that, and a lot changed within six years. He had no issues adapting to life outside of prison in general, like those six years never happened at all
- I understand a certain level of suspension of disbelief is required when reading fiction. However, this book took it too far for me. Bryce and Pistol had to attend a press conference discussing famous football star Bryce's new drug dealer boyfriend Pistol, and after five sentences they kissed very long and inappropriately in front of the cameras and all the journalists clapped and cheered
- Both characters' personalities were very superficial, but Bryce's was so perfect and flawless and amazing that it annoyed me. Bryce was so good at playing football, he personally decided when his team would stop scoring so they wouldn't humiliate the opposing teams too much. Everyone loved and respected him because of that (his team's fans and fans from the other teams). Bryce also gave all his money to charity because he didn't need it himself, while also still being so rich he'd never have to work a day in his life again. So maybe he didn't donate as much as he said he did. He had no flaws. Pistol's character at least pretended to have flaws (no smiling, anger issues), even though those flaws never showed on-page
I think the story is too complicated for a short novella such as this. Reducing a really complicated situation to an instalove short story that was so unrealistic it felt like a fantasy didn't work for me at all. I wouldn't recommend this book. This author has written plenty of other instalove short stories that are much better than this one, so I'd recommend people search out those stories instead.
+ Bryce standing up for their relationship
+ Bryce picking Pistol over football
The neutral
o You know that moment you're reading a sex scene and you're certain it's just a dream sequence? Yeah, that happened to me in this book. Except, it wasn't a dream. I was blindsided by the instalove in an instalove book, that's how insta the instalove was
o They got married after just a few weeks. That's the level of insta we're talking here
o Pistol only ever said he didn't mind going public with their relationship because he didn't care what people thought of him, but he never mentioned caring about what people thought of Bryce
o What happened to Pistol's father?
The bad
- There was a severe power imbalance in their relationship, but it was never addressed. If Bryce decided, for whatever reason, to stop supporting Pistol, Pistol would be stuck in a state he didn't know while still on parole. He'd probably have to go back to prison just so he wouldn't starve. Yet neither of them ever acknowledged this or set up a safety net for Pistol
- Pistol was described as someone who hardly ever smiled before he went to prison. I can't imagine that prison would have made him more smiley. Yet he smiled and laughed all the time, and showed none of his brashness or angry attitude. He got a completely new personality
- Pistol's time in prison left no marks whatsoever. He never mentioned anything that happened while he was locked up, and he didn't display any new behaviors like jumpiness or wariness. Bryce gave Pistol the newest smartphone and Pistol set it up by himself with no issues. I don't believe Pistol ever owned a smartphone even before he went to prison as he had no money for that, and a lot changed within six years. He had no issues adapting to life outside of prison in general, like those six years never happened at all
- I understand a certain level of suspension of disbelief is required when reading fiction. However, this book took it too far for me. Bryce and Pistol had to attend a press conference discussing famous football star Bryce's new drug dealer boyfriend Pistol, and after five sentences they kissed very long and inappropriately in front of the cameras and all the journalists clapped and cheered
- Both characters' personalities were very superficial, but Bryce's was so perfect and flawless and amazing that it annoyed me. Bryce was so good at playing football, he personally decided when his team would stop scoring so they wouldn't humiliate the opposing teams too much. Everyone loved and respected him because of that (his team's fans and fans from the other teams). Bryce also gave all his money to charity because he didn't need it himself, while also still being so rich he'd never have to work a day in his life again. So maybe he didn't donate as much as he said he did. He had no flaws. Pistol's character at least pretended to have flaws (no smiling, anger issues), even though those flaws never showed on-page
I think the story is too complicated for a short novella such as this. Reducing a really complicated situation to an instalove short story that was so unrealistic it felt like a fantasy didn't work for me at all. I wouldn't recommend this book. This author has written plenty of other instalove short stories that are much better than this one, so I'd recommend people search out those stories instead.
August 30, 2025
It was a cute story, but the audiobook had a chapter missed, so Pistol and Bryce's relationship felt a bit awkward going from friends to lovers. Also, this is a novella and it still had some repetitive writing. The narrator weren't my favorite either, but he did a decent job. Didn't hate it, but felt pretty meh about it.
March 12, 2023
This is a well written short story with strong characters in Pistol and Bryce. It's a second chance romance with an interesting storyline. It moves quickly and smoothly with descriptive scenes and is an enjoyable story.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
March 9, 2023
This is a quick but good second chance story. I am very interested in getting to read the rest of the series after this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2023
Pistol and Bryce are perfect for one another
Pistol had a really bad upbringing, his father was a violent man a drug dealer a drug taker and he only ever wanted to use his son and didn’t encourage him in anything. But pistol grew up to be a great young man he was in college and he was on a scholarship playing football and then because of his dad he got thrown out of the football team and the college. Pistol went home and stayed away from all the drug taking but he got hungry he ate something that had edibles in it without knowing so on the next drug test it showed that he had been taking drugs and there was nothing he or the coach could do so he was out!! After two weeks of living in his car trying to apply for as many jobs as possible, he was down to his last few dollars when his father rang offering him a job and he stupidly said yes. He got pulled over by the police and put in prison for six years. He didn’t just lose his future he lost his best friend Bryce, Who he was secretly in love with.
When pistol got called into the coaches office Bryce was worried. Seeing Pistol storm out he knew something was wrong but it seemed like pistol just wanted to get away. Bruce caught up with him ask him what was wrong he explains and then turned his back on him and walked away. And that was the last time Bryce saw him. Bryce never forgot about him, you see he was secretly in love with a pistol but just didn’t have the courage to tell him. So when he gets a letter six years later explaining exactly where he is and what happened Bryce knew he would do anything to bring his friend home and away from his family. But what would happen when these two are together ??
That’s where I stop telling you about the story line because you really need to read this story it blew me away I had so much hurt in my heart for what pistol had been through and then my heart sang because he has Bryce there to be in his corner, to have his back and to give him love. When these to finally get round to explaining their feelings everything makes sense. There is no question it, it just makes sense what they feel for one another no one can get in between them. The passion Bryce and Pistol share is absolutely amazing! I’ll tell you what else I really liked, their community spirit I like how they didn’t care about age, gender or what they’ve been through they were there for people. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and I was gutted when I come to the end of book. I enjoyed the bonus chapter I was cheering for them. this is only the second book that I have read by West Greene and I am super excited for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Pistol had a really bad upbringing, his father was a violent man a drug dealer a drug taker and he only ever wanted to use his son and didn’t encourage him in anything. But pistol grew up to be a great young man he was in college and he was on a scholarship playing football and then because of his dad he got thrown out of the football team and the college. Pistol went home and stayed away from all the drug taking but he got hungry he ate something that had edibles in it without knowing so on the next drug test it showed that he had been taking drugs and there was nothing he or the coach could do so he was out!! After two weeks of living in his car trying to apply for as many jobs as possible, he was down to his last few dollars when his father rang offering him a job and he stupidly said yes. He got pulled over by the police and put in prison for six years. He didn’t just lose his future he lost his best friend Bryce, Who he was secretly in love with.
When pistol got called into the coaches office Bryce was worried. Seeing Pistol storm out he knew something was wrong but it seemed like pistol just wanted to get away. Bruce caught up with him ask him what was wrong he explains and then turned his back on him and walked away. And that was the last time Bryce saw him. Bryce never forgot about him, you see he was secretly in love with a pistol but just didn’t have the courage to tell him. So when he gets a letter six years later explaining exactly where he is and what happened Bryce knew he would do anything to bring his friend home and away from his family. But what would happen when these two are together ??
That’s where I stop telling you about the story line because you really need to read this story it blew me away I had so much hurt in my heart for what pistol had been through and then my heart sang because he has Bryce there to be in his corner, to have his back and to give him love. When these to finally get round to explaining their feelings everything makes sense. There is no question it, it just makes sense what they feel for one another no one can get in between them. The passion Bryce and Pistol share is absolutely amazing! I’ll tell you what else I really liked, their community spirit I like how they didn’t care about age, gender or what they’ve been through they were there for people. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and I was gutted when I come to the end of book. I enjoyed the bonus chapter I was cheering for them. this is only the second book that I have read by West Greene and I am super excited for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 23, 2024
I've been waiting to read this book for so long, and fucking finally, I got the chance.
Pistol, what a name!, had a shitty life and had drug users and dealers as his father. The good things in his life were football and Bryce, his fellow teammates who tried to befriend him, but Pistol always gave him a cold shoulder. Nevertheless, Bryce was always there for Pistol.
When the football team does a random drug test, Pistol's test comes back positive, but never in his life did he do drugs. He remembered staying at his father's house and eating his food, so maybe he accidentally ingested the drug into his body. He was kicked out of the football team as well as from college. With no place to go and no money in his pocket, he was desperate, so when his father called to do a job, he reluctantly agreed to do it. He was caught and arrested by the police, and he was jailed for six years for delivering the drugs.
Six years passed, and near the parole hearing, Pistol sent a letter to Bryce. Bryce was shocked, which was an understatement. Since Pistol got kicked out of college, Bryce has been trying to locate him and find information about him with no success, so he let it go until he got the letter from Pistol.
Bryce exchanged letters with Pistol until the day of the parole hearing, and Bryce was there to support him. Pistol was granted parole, and he was now staying at Bryce's home. Since they first met, Bryce has been crushing on Pistol, and as it turned out, Pistol feels the same way.
Bryce was a fantastic person, a man with a good heart and intention who was very caring towards others. Bryce's kindness became Pistol's undoing; he couldn't hide his feelings any more, and neither could Bryce.
What I liked the most was that Bryce was a virgin, and Pistol had never had sex since college. I am forever thankful for that.
Their love life wasn't smooth sailing since Bryce was live in the spotlight while Pistol was an ex-con, and the press talked sh*t about Pistol, but Bryce stood his ground and got an idea to make some clarification and to tell Pistol's side of the story. They did an interview with the press to clear things up and to solidify their love for each other.
With Bryce's never-ending support and love, Pistol tried to build a new life and became the small business owner of a lawn care business.
This book was not disappointing. I truly enjoyed their story, and I wish it was longer.
Pistol, what a name!, had a shitty life and had drug users and dealers as his father. The good things in his life were football and Bryce, his fellow teammates who tried to befriend him, but Pistol always gave him a cold shoulder. Nevertheless, Bryce was always there for Pistol.
When the football team does a random drug test, Pistol's test comes back positive, but never in his life did he do drugs. He remembered staying at his father's house and eating his food, so maybe he accidentally ingested the drug into his body. He was kicked out of the football team as well as from college. With no place to go and no money in his pocket, he was desperate, so when his father called to do a job, he reluctantly agreed to do it. He was caught and arrested by the police, and he was jailed for six years for delivering the drugs.
Six years passed, and near the parole hearing, Pistol sent a letter to Bryce. Bryce was shocked, which was an understatement. Since Pistol got kicked out of college, Bryce has been trying to locate him and find information about him with no success, so he let it go until he got the letter from Pistol.
Bryce exchanged letters with Pistol until the day of the parole hearing, and Bryce was there to support him. Pistol was granted parole, and he was now staying at Bryce's home. Since they first met, Bryce has been crushing on Pistol, and as it turned out, Pistol feels the same way.
Bryce was a fantastic person, a man with a good heart and intention who was very caring towards others. Bryce's kindness became Pistol's undoing; he couldn't hide his feelings any more, and neither could Bryce.
What I liked the most was that Bryce was a virgin, and Pistol had never had sex since college. I am forever thankful for that.
Their love life wasn't smooth sailing since Bryce was live in the spotlight while Pistol was an ex-con, and the press talked sh*t about Pistol, but Bryce stood his ground and got an idea to make some clarification and to tell Pistol's side of the story. They did an interview with the press to clear things up and to solidify their love for each other.
With Bryce's never-ending support and love, Pistol tried to build a new life and became the small business owner of a lawn care business.
This book was not disappointing. I truly enjoyed their story, and I wish it was longer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2023
Bryce and Pistol lost contact with each other after Pistol loses his place on the football team along with his scholarship for a situation that he was not aware of until it was too late. Pistol ends up going to prison for 6 years for a crime that someone else put him up to, but he was the one who was caught.
After 6 years goes by, Pistol decides to write a letter to Bryce apologizing about losing contact and tells him where he's been. Bryce had all but searched for Pistol with no luck. He's elated to hear from him and wants to do whatever it takes for Pistol to get probation so they can see each other.
You can immediately tell with these two that the love was never lost. The way that Bryce instantly swooped in and supported Pistol with whatever he needed was soooo freaking sweet. Their smexy times were also told really well and were not overpowering for the scene (also suggest that you read the bonus chapter provided at the link at the end of the book!)
Although it was a quick-read, it was very well-written and easy to follow. West has become one of my favorite authors because her stories are told very well with no confusion or situations that don't make sense that you come across in other books. Very realistic storytelling!
5/5 for plot
5/5 for smexy times.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After 6 years goes by, Pistol decides to write a letter to Bryce apologizing about losing contact and tells him where he's been. Bryce had all but searched for Pistol with no luck. He's elated to hear from him and wants to do whatever it takes for Pistol to get probation so they can see each other.
You can immediately tell with these two that the love was never lost. The way that Bryce instantly swooped in and supported Pistol with whatever he needed was soooo freaking sweet. Their smexy times were also told really well and were not overpowering for the scene (also suggest that you read the bonus chapter provided at the link at the end of the book!)
Although it was a quick-read, it was very well-written and easy to follow. West has become one of my favorite authors because her stories are told very well with no confusion or situations that don't make sense that you come across in other books. Very realistic storytelling!
5/5 for plot
5/5 for smexy times.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 9, 2023
TWO SOULS MEANT FOR EACH OTHER!
I always enjoy West Greene as a MM author and the latest story just hits the right spot!
Two college football players crushing on each other but not one makes a move until 6 years later…
Piston Cage ends up in prison as a result of a bad decision now six years later he decides to write to his college friend and crush Bryce Cutler now captain of the Patriots, to explain what happened as he is eligible for parole….
I loved their communication with letter writing as it was so sweet how they couldn’t wait to rip open the envelopes and reply to each other!
I loved how Bryce stood by Piston in his time of need with comfort and protection.
I loved how both Piston and Bryce never indulged in any relationships since college as they both were still pining for each other…
Their journey to love is not easy as Piston needs to get back on his feet and learn to accept Bryce’s generosity, protection, respect and most of all his love!
Sweet and sexy with feels as only West Greene can deliver!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I always enjoy West Greene as a MM author and the latest story just hits the right spot!
Two college football players crushing on each other but not one makes a move until 6 years later…
Piston Cage ends up in prison as a result of a bad decision now six years later he decides to write to his college friend and crush Bryce Cutler now captain of the Patriots, to explain what happened as he is eligible for parole….
I loved their communication with letter writing as it was so sweet how they couldn’t wait to rip open the envelopes and reply to each other!
I loved how Bryce stood by Piston in his time of need with comfort and protection.
I loved how both Piston and Bryce never indulged in any relationships since college as they both were still pining for each other…
Their journey to love is not easy as Piston needs to get back on his feet and learn to accept Bryce’s generosity, protection, respect and most of all his love!
Sweet and sexy with feels as only West Greene can deliver!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2023
The characters of Pistol and Bryce drew me in immediately, pictures of them forming in my mind from the start. Pistol had had a hard life before his football scholarship, and he didn’t trust easily nor socialize much away from the team. Bryce was the golden boy QB, getting along well with everyone. The two were attracted to each other, but never said anything, both believing the other could not possibly be interested in him.
When a visit home over Thanksgiving costs Pistol everything, he life spirals out of control. After 6 years of no word, Bryce hears from Pistol and learns he is in prison, due for parole soon. Thinking of the man he wanted all those years ago, Bryce must now decide if seeing Pistol again could cost him his career. Could Pistol ever want him? A choice must be made, but which one.
Both characters are believable and likable, plot is logical and fast paced as the relationship moves forward, and it ends in a HEA. A quick, satisfying read, left me with a smile on my face.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When a visit home over Thanksgiving costs Pistol everything, he life spirals out of control. After 6 years of no word, Bryce hears from Pistol and learns he is in prison, due for parole soon. Thinking of the man he wanted all those years ago, Bryce must now decide if seeing Pistol again could cost him his career. Could Pistol ever want him? A choice must be made, but which one.
Both characters are believable and likable, plot is logical and fast paced as the relationship moves forward, and it ends in a HEA. A quick, satisfying read, left me with a smile on my face.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2023
I have to say that this book was interssting from the very first page.
Pistol is a guy from the wrong side of the tracks trying to make himself better and eveything is stacked ahainst him. Bryce is an al American boy who is himself. However they are both in love with each other and their paths get separated when life keep giving Pistol lemons. Pistol is not only kicked off the college football team (through no fault of his own) but he is expelled from college, homeless and now he turns to when he knows until he can gt better but he is caught and sent to prison. Bryce become an NFL quarterback who is simply existing until that first letter. And then the connections begins.
Bryce proved that all Pstol needed was a chance and Pistol proved that mistakes are just that mistakes and you can always be better as long as you have someone in your corner.
I love that this story was truly about friendship, unrequited love to reciprocal love, and redemption.
From beginning to end you see growth, healing and sheer admiration.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Pistol is a guy from the wrong side of the tracks trying to make himself better and eveything is stacked ahainst him. Bryce is an al American boy who is himself. However they are both in love with each other and their paths get separated when life keep giving Pistol lemons. Pistol is not only kicked off the college football team (through no fault of his own) but he is expelled from college, homeless and now he turns to when he knows until he can gt better but he is caught and sent to prison. Bryce become an NFL quarterback who is simply existing until that first letter. And then the connections begins.
Bryce proved that all Pstol needed was a chance and Pistol proved that mistakes are just that mistakes and you can always be better as long as you have someone in your corner.
I love that this story was truly about friendship, unrequited love to reciprocal love, and redemption.
From beginning to end you see growth, healing and sheer admiration.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2023
This book is a part of the Criminally Yours series and focuses on Pistol and Bryce. They were on the same football team and were friends until Pistol’s entire life imploded. Bryce had tried reaching out to him to no avail but he never forgot about Pistol and Pistol never forgot about Bryce. They were both in love with each other but the other had no idea they felt that way. Now 6 years later, Pistol finally reached out to Bryce and told him what happened and where he was, not expecting the response he got back from Bryce. I loved how Bryce stood by his side immediately and how he was determined to get Pistol back on his feet and towards the life he always should have had. The fierce way that Bryce loved and protected Pistol at every turn was so refreshing to see. They fought for each other and didn’t care what anyone else had to say about it. What they had built together was nothing short of amazing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2023
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this book.
With a name like Pistol Cage, no wonder he was sent to prison. Okay, all jokes apart, this was a good story. Pistol and Bryce were not that different as characters, but it only made their interactions easier to understand.
I loved that Bryce got a whole new bedroom set for Pistol, that he jumped at the chance to reconnect with him, and that he readily stood up for Pistol when the articles came out about them.
The only problem I had from this story was that I had more expectations from West Greene. I've read a few of her other books and have given them all five star ratings. This book just didn't reach my expectations because of the lack of emotions and feelings mentioned before Bryce and Pistol got together. If the author had mentioned them lusting after each other during their college days, that would have made their present-day situation sweeter and more heartfelt.
With a name like Pistol Cage, no wonder he was sent to prison. Okay, all jokes apart, this was a good story. Pistol and Bryce were not that different as characters, but it only made their interactions easier to understand.
I loved that Bryce got a whole new bedroom set for Pistol, that he jumped at the chance to reconnect with him, and that he readily stood up for Pistol when the articles came out about them.
The only problem I had from this story was that I had more expectations from West Greene. I've read a few of her other books and have given them all five star ratings. This book just didn't reach my expectations because of the lack of emotions and feelings mentioned before Bryce and Pistol got together. If the author had mentioned them lusting after each other during their college days, that would have made their present-day situation sweeter and more heartfelt.
March 16, 2023
"Pistol meant the world to me, and I wasn’t letting him slip through my fingers again. And my first step to doing that was making sure he realized I would be a permanent fixture in his life. Pistol Cage wasn’t getting rid of me. Not this time."
“Your past does not define you, Pistol. The man you are now—that is what defines you."
I absolutely loved this book. It was a quick read, but perfect (and don't miss the bonus epilogue!). I loved Bryce and Pistol. They had such a powerful bond and even though bad stuff happened to Pistol and he spent years in jail, Bryce was always on his side and supported him- first mentally, and than years later, financially and lovingly. I just couldn't get enough of them! I admired Pistol's determination and integrity, and found him inspirational honestly. I also loved Ms. Thomson. A beautiful read! Highly recommended. 5 stars.
“Your past does not define you, Pistol. The man you are now—that is what defines you."
I absolutely loved this book. It was a quick read, but perfect (and don't miss the bonus epilogue!). I loved Bryce and Pistol. They had such a powerful bond and even though bad stuff happened to Pistol and he spent years in jail, Bryce was always on his side and supported him- first mentally, and than years later, financially and lovingly. I just couldn't get enough of them! I admired Pistol's determination and integrity, and found him inspirational honestly. I also loved Ms. Thomson. A beautiful read! Highly recommended. 5 stars.
March 20, 2023
Pistol and Bryce were friends in college when Pistol disappeared. Sent to prison for a crime he was all but forced into and caught for, Pistol spends six years in prison with Bryce searching for him. When he finally decides to write Bryce, can their friendship turn into more or has that door been closed forever?
Pistol and Bryce are a pair of characters you just immediately get attached to. They have a friends to lovers romance, and one that could have happened sooner had certain circumstances and backlash not have been a factor.
I would've loved the story to be a little longer. West Greene has a fantastic sense for jamming a full novel into a few pages. This one needed more detail so that we could get a full understanding of not only why Bryce and Pistol never became more before his disappearance and more set up to the crime.
Overall rating
4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
1.5 🌶
Pistol and Bryce are a pair of characters you just immediately get attached to. They have a friends to lovers romance, and one that could have happened sooner had certain circumstances and backlash not have been a factor.
I would've loved the story to be a little longer. West Greene has a fantastic sense for jamming a full novel into a few pages. This one needed more detail so that we could get a full understanding of not only why Bryce and Pistol never became more before his disappearance and more set up to the crime.
Overall rating
4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
1.5 🌶
March 10, 2023
A really cute and quick read! This story is about Bryce Cutler and Pistol Cage. It is a friends-to-lovers MM romance, with some pen pal moments and some sports romance aspects sprinkled in. This book was a sweet and super cute story that you can read in one sitting, and I adored it! I don't want to say to much as to not spoil it but I'll say this: when they finally see each other face to face it's adorable. Bryce and his blushing self were sooo cute and Pistol with his rare smiles undid me. Criminally Scandalous was my first book from this author and I'm definitely looking into more of her works. 100% recommend!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2023
I loved Criminally Scandalous: Criminally Yours Series. Pistol escaped his childhood with a college scholarship to play football but after failing a drug test he’s kicked out and thanks to his druggie father he ends up in prison. He reaches out to his one friend Bryce and is surprised when he instantly is in his corner and helping. Bryce has loved Pistol since he met him, now given the chance he will risk everything to be with him including his pro football career. This was such a sweet story. I just loved this characters. I loved how Bryce was just in Pistols corner no matter what. I would definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 6, 2023
I loved reading this book. The story was riveting from the beginning. It was a sweet and steamy second chance romance. The characters were well-developed even though this was a relatively short story. I liked the back and forth between the MC’s. They were friends to lovers with a long time span between seeing each other. It was a shame that Pistol was in that situation that he made the decision that put him in prison. It was good to see that he was not only remorseful for doing wrong, but also for all but abandoning his friend. Bryce was a good man and so worthy of love. They made such a good couple. I highly recommend this book.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2023
Pistol Cage knew the football scholarship was a way of getting out of the life he was raised in. When he loses his football scholarship and is later expelled, his prospects are slim. He does a job for his dad that lands him in prison.
Bryce lost track of Pistol when he was cut from the team, he tried to find him but it was like he disappeared. Six years later he receives a letter from Pistol, he learns he has been in prison. Bryce is determined to help him get back on his feet when he gets out.
This is a sweet story, Bryce is there for Pistol in a way that no one ever had been.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bryce lost track of Pistol when he was cut from the team, he tried to find him but it was like he disappeared. Six years later he receives a letter from Pistol, he learns he has been in prison. Bryce is determined to help him get back on his feet when he gets out.
This is a sweet story, Bryce is there for Pistol in a way that no one ever had been.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2023
Bryce and Pistol were torn apart when Pistol lost his place on the football team along with his scholarship for something out of his control. By the time he learns anything about it, it’s too late. Pistol ends up doing jail time in the aftermath.
Six years later, Bryce receives an unexpected letter that reveals what happened that night. Vowing to do whatever it takes to help the man he loves, he sets out to ensure Pistol gets probation. The spark between them is just as fierce as it was the first moment they met. With the danger from the past still lurking in the shadows, can Pistol and Bryce finally get their happily ever after?
Six years later, Bryce receives an unexpected letter that reveals what happened that night. Vowing to do whatever it takes to help the man he loves, he sets out to ensure Pistol gets probation. The spark between them is just as fierce as it was the first moment they met. With the danger from the past still lurking in the shadows, can Pistol and Bryce finally get their happily ever after?
March 14, 2023
I loved this story and how it taught the valuable lesson to keep an open mind about people. Their circumstances don't rule who they are on the inside and what makes up their character. I love that Bryce never once looked down on Pistol for having been in jail and welcomed him back into his life with open arms and an open heart. When they finally get together it's super steamy and you can really feel their love for one another radiating off the page. I also adored the neighbor, Mrs. Thompson, who showed up every morning with cookies. I'd be down with a neighbor like that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2023
Romance at it's best, GO PATS! Bryce and Pistol, were on the college football team together. They got close as teammates and as friends. Then Pistol made a mistake that cost him his position on the team, his college scholarship and his freedom. Bryce, wondered what happened to Pistol, even tried to find him, with no luck. Six yeas later, Pistol writes to Bryce. This is a story about the innate goodness of man and his ability to be generous, compassionate and caring. Does Bryce respond? Can Bryce forgive the ghosting? Will Pistol get parole? What will Bryce's team say? Great story. Sad it's so short. Well done, I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2023
This was a quick but a very good second chance romance with an interesting storyline. I have read a few books by West Greene and have loved every single one. Love the authors writing, the books are easy to read, full of spice and loveable characters.
I loved Pistol and Bryce and I loved how Bryce stood by Piston when he needed comfort and protection. And I loved how they both were still pining for each other even years later of not seeing each other.
Overall I really adored this book and can't wait for more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Pistol and Bryce and I loved how Bryce stood by Piston when he needed comfort and protection. And I loved how they both were still pining for each other even years later of not seeing each other.
Overall I really adored this book and can't wait for more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 14, 2023
Pistol dealt with a lot of bad luck and he suffered for it. He and Bryce had been good friends in college and in fact they felt more but didn't share that with one another. And then Pistol was gone and Bryce didn't have a clue where he went for several years until he returned. This was not just a reunion of friends. It was an opportunity for two men who felt more to finally get a chance to see where that more could go. And their reunion was both sweet and steamy. And no judgement because of bad choices.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2024
For what it was, I could say that this is an okay-ish MM short story from West Greene. Bryce and Pistol aren't actually fleshed-out characters to begin with so I didn't expect to get attached to them. Considering the miniscule length of this book and its plain and simple plot—throw in a bit of one sex scene that seemingly came out of nowhere—, this is still a mindless, enjoyable read.
Genre: MM football romance
Spice Level: 🌶️
Strict Top/Bottom?: No
Recommend?: Yes if you're looking for a quick and easy read
Genre: MM football romance
Spice Level: 🌶️
Strict Top/Bottom?: No
Recommend?: Yes if you're looking for a quick and easy read
January 17, 2026
Short-read with medicore spice.
Not good but not bad at all.
The sweetness between characters is well built.
____________________
POV:Dual (Pistol, Bryce)
Spice:2.5/5
HEA: Yes
Bonus: Yes
Fav quotes:
____________________
Worth reading!! 👍🏻
Not good but not bad at all.
The sweetness between characters is well built.
____________________
POV:Dual (Pistol, Bryce)
Spice:2.5/5
HEA: Yes
Bonus: Yes
Fav quotes:
“He’s having such a hard time, Mrs. Thomson. I just want to wrap him up in my arms and never let go.”
“I kind of like the overprotective side of you,” he said, turning around to face me.
____________________
Worth reading!! 👍🏻
March 2, 2023
Short and Sweet Second Chance
Two friends in college hiding how much they like each other because of their insecurities, then life and bad luck get in the way and they get torn apart. Years pass and they get a second chance that each thought would be about friendship, but it blooms into what could have been. Sweet and steamy with a happy ever after - and a bonus epilogue that I enjoyed as well. I received an arc of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Two friends in college hiding how much they like each other because of their insecurities, then life and bad luck get in the way and they get torn apart. Years pass and they get a second chance that each thought would be about friendship, but it blooms into what could have been. Sweet and steamy with a happy ever after - and a bonus epilogue that I enjoyed as well. I received an arc of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2023
West Greene is a master at giving readers a complete story with all the feels in 100 pages or less. “Criminally Scandalous” isn’t just about a second chance at romance it is also a second chance at life. The story is well written and the characters are strong. I connected immediately with the characters and was pulled right into the story. I look forward to more from West Greene.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 14, 2023
Very good romance with an original theme at first
I really liked the originality of Pistol's relationship and life, the highlighting of the fact that everything in a career is hanging by a thread, both before it really begins, just as it can drop sharply.
The characters of Pistol and Bryce are endearing, their relationship first touching, then hot, while keeping a place for reflection.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
I really liked the originality of Pistol's relationship and life, the highlighting of the fact that everything in a career is hanging by a thread, both before it really begins, just as it can drop sharply.
The characters of Pistol and Bryce are endearing, their relationship first touching, then hot, while keeping a place for reflection.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
October 27, 2023
3.5 stars
West Greene's story are always about instalove and I'm fine with that, they're short and get stright to the point. So, when I need something fast, I pick up one of her books.
This story had a great start and a great plot, but it didn't work for me like the others because, despite the MCs have been in love with each other since college, I didn't feel a strong intimate connection between them.
Still a nice reading, though.
West Greene's story are always about instalove and I'm fine with that, they're short and get stright to the point. So, when I need something fast, I pick up one of her books.
This story had a great start and a great plot, but it didn't work for me like the others because, despite the MCs have been in love with each other since college, I didn't feel a strong intimate connection between them.
Still a nice reading, though.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews