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Benny's my best friend's younger brother and my total opposite. It's not like anything will happen between us. Right?

Benny is vivacious and fun, and I’m known on the team as the quiet and brooding one. When he asks me to watch his new dance routine, I immediately agree.

Sparks fly when Benny surprises me with a kiss, but will he still want me when he finds out what I like in bed?

Benny wants to keep our relationship a secret from his brother. I’ll do anything Benny asks, but how do I tell him that I’m falling in love with him?


Blown Away is the final sweet-and-spicy novella in the Caught Off Guard series. You can expect best friend's brother, hot pole dancing, and a lot of laughs.

66 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 22, 2023

32 people are currently reading
102 people want to read

About the author

Willow Thomas

21 books148 followers
Willow Thomas is a MM romance author who loves to write stories that will leave you smiling. When she isn’t writing, she loves to read, go on walks through the British countryside, and spend time with her family.

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5 stars
94 (29%)
4 stars
111 (34%)
3 stars
87 (27%)
2 stars
18 (5%)
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8 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for ivy.
644 reviews365 followers
Read
March 1, 2023
DNF @ 37% - One of the most rushed, shallow books I’ve ever read. So many weird word and phrasing choices that made it sound like these 20-something guys were old ladies.

Also, I hate the phrase “hot stuff”. It reminds me of a bimbo character in an 80’s movie chewing bubble gum while leaning against a red Corvette.
Profile Image for Hanna W.
30 reviews3 followers
February 8, 2023
4,5 ⭐️
*ARC-Review*

This book is the end of this series. Even tho it was a little more fast paced than the other books it was just as good 🙌🏼
I loved it.
In the previous book we got a little glimps of Benny and Chase. And I thought Chase was just the big, hot, brooding type. But wrong. He actually was an introvert which makes him even cuter. Benny on the other hand was the total opposite of Chase. Small with a big character. He is this fun, sassy and outgoing stripper. Perfect match for Chase.
They really completed each other🥺
I honestly couldn’t get enough of them. I loved their story.

The final words gave me literal goosebumps. And tears lol. Just the thought, that they all are going to stay friends in the future and live happily ever after gave me all the feels. 🥹

I definitely enjoyed reading this book! Just what I needed.

Ugh I hate and love when a good series ends. You probably know what I mean. I will most likely re-read the books soon whoopsie😂

[I received an digital arc and this is my honest opinion]
Profile Image for Kaitlyn.
467 reviews182 followers
February 12, 2023
Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🔥🔥🔥

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review

Overall Opinion
This was a sweet adorably spicy end to a great series! Benny and Chase were absolutely perfect for one another, we got small glimpses of them throughout the last book and I was curious what their story was, and boy did it not disappoint! The author took the stereotypical roles of size differences and threw them out the window. Benny was a small character but with such a massive personality, whereas Chase is a big character who is actually really introverted and shy, and there couldn't be a better person for one another. This was a fast read, being a novella, but was not rushed in the slightest, instead was paced evenly, allowing for character and plot development. I am sad the series is ending but looking forward to what the future holds for this author!

Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Best Friends Brother
❣️ Hockey Player/Stripper
❣️ Hot Pole Dancing
❣️ Novella
❣️ HEA

Trigger and Content Warnings: N/A
2,188 reviews18 followers
February 19, 2023
This is the fourth book of the series. In this novella, Tyler's brother Benny is a dancer who falls for Tyler's best friend, hockey player Chase who reciprocates. Against all stereotypes, Benny gets to take the lead. I enjoy atypical match ups and these guys are all for it, especially during steamy times. I only wished the story was longer. For a shorter book, this one packs a punch of feelings. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for E.L. Ough.
Author 10 books106 followers
March 1, 2023
This was a great funny and spicy novella! A great read to go with the rest in the series! Loved seeing all the crew from the other books! Loving the spice, yes please thank you ma’am!!

I was howling at the “hamster” the “cactus dildo” and the “demon book” 😂😂😂

I have all the questions! Like who’s getting a book next!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Book contents-

⭐️Pole dancing
⭐️Size difference
⭐️Brothers best friend
⭐️Sweet & Spicy
⭐️Hockey player
Profile Image for Jane aka Coughy019 (Safety info included).
747 reviews332 followers
March 8, 2023
Tropes: best friend's brother
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 4/5
Kinks: none
Angst: low
Triggers/potential icks: stripper MC

This was a sweet steamy funny novella. I don't normally love novellas but this one made me laugh so much I had to give it five stars. Benny is a stripper moving to a new town and leaning on his brother's help because he lost his job and his apartment. Chase is huge introverted teddy bear and the best friend of Benny's brother. They develop a thing for each other very quickly. But Benny is a bit afraid of disappointing his brother by messing around with his best friend.

They are hot together but they're also so tender together. I'll list a couple of notable moments below. But also just want to summarize one of them. It was hilarious! Tyler and his boyfriend accidentally interrupt Benny and Chase's date night at a pottery class. Tyler goes on and on about wanting to recreate the Ghost scene and he tries to negotiate him and his boyfriend being able to have sex in the store. Everybody is horrified by Tyler's word vomit. Tyler gives up on his dream and just wants a regular pottery class experience. The shopkeeper says fine but I need you to sign something committing to not try to have sex in my building.


Some notable moments:

When sexy teasing turns into alarmed curiosity about a cactus dildo... "“Tell me, Chase, have you ever played with yourself?” “Yes. I have a cactus dildo.” That stops me in my tracks. “You have a what now?” “A cactus dildo. It’s thick and green. Instead of spikes, it has little nubs, and it’s made out of silicone.” He shrugs as if owning a cactus dildo is normal. “Holy shit. So did somebody tell you to fuck yourself with a cactus and you decided to take it literally?”"

"“Fuck, Marry, Kill.” “Who are the candidates?” I ask because I’m a sucker for this game. “SpongeBob, Peter Griffin, and Homer Simpson.""

"“Yeah, sure, but you’re definitely not having sex in the shop. I’m going to need you to sign something saying you won’t.”"


*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for fishreads (back? from hiatus).
669 reviews20 followers
April 23, 2023
The last installment of the Caught Off Guard series centers around Chase, Tyler's best friend and defenseman for the Lakehaven University hockey team, and Benny, Tyler's younger brother who recently moved to town, after losing his job and a place to live.

All throughout the series, Chase, although quietly observant always stood out as a character to me and I was looking forward to finally getting his story. So the fact that his and Benny's story was shorter and felt even more rushed and underdeveloped than all the previous books in the series made it all the more disappointing.

Almost immediately after meeting in person Chase and Benny are attracted to each other so Benny takes the lead and when they hook up, they both defy certain stereotypes about their preferred sexual positions. (I mean sure it was nice, but I didn't find it that particularly laudable.) At Benny's insistence they keep their budding relationship on the down low although their attraction is pretty obvious to everybody else. And when Tyler finds out

Maybe because this was the end of this particular series and the author was laying some groundwork for some of their upcoming books, unlike with the previous books in the series there was slightly more attention given towards secondary characters outside of their immediate friend group, like Benny's boss and coworkers at the strip club and the pottery store owner where Benny and Chase go on their first date. Still considering how lacking I found this particular series in terms of character development and plot execution I doubt I will be picking up any of the author's books in the near future.

Themes: dual POV, brother's best friend, opposites attract, stripper, college hockey
Profile Image for Abigail Beckwith.
1,717 reviews
June 9, 2024
old post reposted


Trying to cross another author off my to-binge list (which, yes, for those of you who are following along, is my third TBR list in 24 hours--I have at least another three). Caught Off Guard is another one of Willow Thomas's series. The fourth and final book is "Blown Away."
["Benny's my best friend's younger brother and my total opposite. It's not like anything will happen between us. Right?

Benny is vivacious and fun, and I’m known on the team as the quiet and brooding one. When he asks me to watch his new dance routine, I immediately agree.

Sparks fly when Benny surprises me with a kiss, but will he still want me when he finds out what I like in bed?

Benny wants to keep our relationship a secret from his brother. I’ll do anything Benny asks, but how do I tell him that I’m falling in love with him?"]

Another best-friends-brother story. With some pool Dancing. And pining, can't forget the pining. Also, I've noticed that Willow loves the low-angst, which is helping my anxiety at the moment, so thank you.

This is the last one of Willow's books that I have to read, and what a good one to end on. All of the butterfly feelings and and sweetness mixed with all of the hot steam. The trust and the support. The love and protectiveness. Very excellent ending to the series (at least I think it's the end--though there are more characters in this world who need HEAs so, I'm not sure).

#boltfromtheblue #unexpected #knockedforsix #doubletake #blownaway #caughtoffguard #caughtoffguardseries #willowthomas #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Profile Image for Literary Maiden.
85 reviews1 follower
February 21, 2023
Willow Thomas’ Caught Off Guard series has been a short comfort read for me ever since they were released. Not only are they short and sweet, but they also avoid most of the normal pitfalls you find in a lot of romance novels. The couples love each other fully, they communicate and even if there are misunderstandings they are resolved quickly. This continues to be the case with Blown Away.

Who else was just WAITING for Chase’s book? The huge but quiet man who speaks rarely but you listen when they say something? I needed to know more and see him find his Happy Ending. I also love how Willow turned the stereotype of the huge hockey player on its head without taking away any of Chase’s agency or personality. And Benny? My Goodness I need a friend like Benny in my life! Sweet, loving, funny and sassy - he was the perfect partner for Chase. I really love how he doesn’t force Chase to be anyone but himself, even if that is shy and quiet (outside the bedroom 😉), and that Chase had ZERO problem with Benny being his fabulous stripper self. Overall I think Blown Away was a delightful ending to the series and now all I need is to hassle Willow into giving us a book about all the couples adventures at Max’s parents house haha.
Profile Image for Shannon Rugg.
279 reviews26 followers
January 23, 2024
I was really excited for Chase and Benny’s book, but this one seemed to kind of sway from the momentum of books two and three. Blown Away read similar to book one, and had some of the same consistency issues. There were things in the beginning of the book that took me out of it a bit, like character names changing from book three to this book.

I love a good size difference trope and I wish this had been explored a bit more. We don’t quite get to see it often—this book had minimal sex scenes than the former books; we’re told they’re having sex but don’t see much of it, on page. That being said, the few scenes we do get on page are good, and I loved that Chase had a mouth on him during sex when he’s normally such a quiet guy!

I felt like there was a bit more character development in the former books as well. This is a novella, and we know they’re fast paced, but this one just kind of felt like it was rushed through to get the series completed! The former books did well building up the couple to their “I love you’s”, and book four’s big moment felt somewhat lackluster.

There’s energy behind this book, and the characters are extremely likable and even a bit relatable, so I don’t think you should count this book out. Was I hoping for a more climactic end to the series? Yes, but we can’t always get what we want!

All in all this series has been fun to read, and I do absolutely love this friend group/found family! I definitely think they’re worth the read if you want something super quick and a little messy!
Profile Image for Heather Duff.
1,892 reviews40 followers
February 20, 2023
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Star Rating: 4.5/5

This really sweet and adorable final book to this series is probably my favourite.

Benny is a cute guy who really shines doing his thing dancing. And he’s a great match for the introverted Chase who loves his people even if he doesn’t always enjoy peopling. Together they are a perfect balance.

With some sweet mutual pining, before they finally make moves to see where things could go, you have a delightful book.

I also, always enjoy a size role reversal. Along with some great friends who only their friends to be happy. No drama here!

Willow gives us a really terrific ending to this and the series.
512 reviews6 followers
February 28, 2023
I’ve really enjoyed reading this series and sad to see it end but what a fun conclusion with Benny and Chase’s story! We’ve seen glimpses of them in prior stories and this was a fun short novella.

Benny is Tyler’s younger brother who has traveled due to events discussed in the prior book (it’s helpful to read the prior book). He’s finding his way, getting a new job and getting used to new surroundings. Chase and Benny were the perfect compliment to each other and were exactly what the other were looking for and I really enjoyed their dynamic. Benny is outgoing to Chase’s introverted and quiet and they made such a great pair.

Great series with fun characters. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
1,309 reviews51 followers
July 5, 2024
story of Chase and Benny

This is a best friend’s brother to lovers romance, featuring Chase and Benny, and is the fourth book in the Caught Off Guard series. This is a novella sized book.

This book was short but steamy. I wish it was a lot longer because I loved Benny and Chase, they are such interesting characters. There is also a book related to this series, you can obtain when signing up to the author’s newsletter, awesome read about Nico and Jensen.

This series was great, low angst, sweet, full of love and fantastic supportive characters. Highly recommend.

Things to expect in this MM romance are:
College romance
BF brother to lovers
Hockey hottie x pole dancer
Steamy & dirty talk
Falls fast
Found family
HEA
1,091 reviews14 followers
February 23, 2023
This book is about Benny who's a dancer and Chase who plays hockey. Chase is Benny's brother's best friend, he wasn't expecting to like him. Until... He does.

This story was short paced and full of heat and spice. I think events happened way too quickly and was rushed. I wish there was more development between the characters other than them just having spicy moments. Cause there was A LOT of those moments, and that may be something you'll like! And if it is then this book will be for you. I'm just looking for more backstory in my books.

*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
Profile Image for Holly Oliver.
Author 11 books30 followers
February 19, 2023
Short, sweet, and sexy as hell.

Benny is loud, bubbly, and full of life. He starts off his story, having needed to make a fresh start for himself, and lands himself a great job doing what he loves - dancing.
Chase, a quiet introvert, loves his family (mostly) and lives for hockey. But something about Benny draws him in, and Benny, ever the optimist, likes what he sees and goes for it.
Sparks fly, and in a short burst of heat, sex, and honest conversations, the two fall head over heels.

This story was a delightful afternoon snack!
Profile Image for C. Gray.
1,579 reviews16 followers
September 5, 2023
Where do I find me a Benny and Chase, I need these two in my life. I thought Benny was great in Double Take so of course I dove right into his book, how could I not?!?! Lol These two are great. They prove complete opposites can totally work.

After reading all four books I will say this, I wish I got to see them all again a year or two later. I know all four books took place over the same time period but I just need more of them all. 🖤🔥🏒🔥🖤

Favorite quote:
The sexy mud store (aka pottery store) lol
Profile Image for FHR.
1,102 reviews13 followers
February 21, 2023
The final book in this series and we finally get Benny and Chase’s story.
Benny is a more bubbly and outgoing person who dances whilst Chase is the more subdued hockey player.
The attraction between them sizzles and can no longer be ignored. When they finally give their relationship a chance they realise how well they complement each other.

A low angst read filled with witty moments, passionate scenes and a sweet ending.
30 reviews
February 22, 2023
Fast Paced

Let me start off by saying I love the series. With that being said I was really excited about this book. After reading it, I can say that I loved it but I felt like it lacked the depth the others books had. I loved seeing the inside thoughts of Chase and Benny was cool. I also loved the ending where it tied up the series. All in all if you loved the series, I say grab this book to learn about Benny and Chase’s love story.
Profile Image for Heather MMRomanceReviewed.
1,749 reviews92 followers
February 22, 2023
Do you need something sweet, light, steamy and low angst? Look no further than Blown Away! This was a sparks fly, high heat, quick fit novella that gives two sweet characters from the Caught Off Guard series their HEA...

It's a little bit surface depth but, the heat and the connection are strong...and it was a great, quick read!
Profile Image for Traci S.
2,078 reviews15 followers
February 23, 2023
Loved this series, plenty of super endearing characters and an excellent portrayal of found family. Benny and Chase’s story is filled with humor, has virtually zero angst, and these two have a fiery chemistry. Excellent way to end this fun series!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
Profile Image for Erin.
1,037 reviews3 followers
Read
March 2, 2023
What happened to the story here? The first book was a bit sloppy, but it had a note that it had been completely deleted and had to be rewritten, so okay. The next two were fun novellas with pretty solid romantic storylines. This book just skimmed over the entire relationship between the MCs, so it had no depth or drama.
Profile Image for Jenna ✨DNF Queen✨Here, Sometimes....
438 reviews49 followers
April 21, 2023
🙄

Welcome to insta land… where Declarations of love are uttered before the jizz hath dried…

Benny was immature and annoying and a let down unfortunately

Chase was a HOT-TIEEEE ... Glad he got railed at least once the way he wanted it.

Major missed opportunity with the cactus dildo 🌵

Next…
Profile Image for Shawn.
487 reviews7 followers
February 9, 2023
Fun, flirty, sexy addition to the series! This story is a fun read, no angst and lots of sweet sexiness. Benny is so happy even though things lately in life have been tough and Chase is the perfect match for him. This whole series is a great read.
Profile Image for Jozey.
736 reviews8 followers
February 24, 2023
A very nice short story all lovely

Contains: brother best friend, striper, hockey player, breaking down stereotypes, jock who bottom, twink who top.

Sweet short story. All the fluff, sweet characters, nice plot. No angst at all. Everything is going smoothly and hot.
Profile Image for Leigh Gaskill.
848 reviews34 followers
March 5, 2023
Cute

One of my favorite pairings in M/M romance! And quiet Chase was quite a vocal and demanding partner for Benny which was sweet to see! Probably my favorite of them all, and my absolute fave trope is BF-lovers!
Profile Image for Amanda Murch.
449 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2023
brillaint

I really enjoyed all the books in this series, but Benny and Chase just topped it as my favourite. Chase and his quietness messed so well with Benny and his liveliness. I can’t wait to read more books by Willow x
Profile Image for Stephanie Smith.
30 reviews
September 10, 2024
Benny and Chase💚

😭😭😭 I’m so sad it’s over! Erase my memory so I can read this series for the first time again 🥺🥺🥺

These two made my teeth hurt with how sweet they were with each other 🥹🥹

This series needs to be read by anyone who loves MM and/or Hockey 🩵💜
Profile Image for Amanda Reeves.
3,725 reviews39 followers
February 19, 2023
This was a great story to end the series. I loved the characters, it was a sweet, short, sexy read. The only bad thing is now the series is over and I'm going to miss all these guys.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews

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