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Lionheart Academy #2
Omitting You
Rhys:
I’ve loved him since before I understood what love meant.
My best friend, my secret keeper, my defender.
The boy with the glasses and quiet temperament.
The guy with the sweetest smile, who has the dirtiest mouth.
The man who owns me. Mind, body, and soul.
I’m ready for the world to know that he’s mine. To love him out loud.
The problem? Winston isn’t ready. And I’m not sure he ever will be.
Loving Winston was never optional for me.
I want to be his everything, instead, I feel as though I’m disposable to him.
After all, how could I not be when I’m his dirty little secret?
Winston:
Being a Connley comes with certain expectations.
Go to school, take over the family business, marry a woman, and have two point five kids.
So, imagine how life would be if the prodigal son turned out gay?
I don’t want to cause a rift in my family. So instead, I grit my teeth and plaster on a fake smile to avoid dealing with the bullshit.
The problem? I’m completely, unbelievably, devastatingly in love with Rhys Evander.
I know I need to stop hiding. I need to own who I am.
It’s not fair to Rhys for me to keep him on the sidelines, yet fear keeps me paralyzed.
I just hope I have the guts to follow my heart before it’s too late.
Because losing Rhys is never going to be an option for me.
*Omitting You is the second book in The Lionheart Academy interconnecting series. It can be read as a standalone. It's a full length, new adult high school novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. It’s recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations. Please read trigger warnings before proceeding.*
I’ve loved him since before I understood what love meant.
My best friend, my secret keeper, my defender.
The boy with the glasses and quiet temperament.
The guy with the sweetest smile, who has the dirtiest mouth.
The man who owns me. Mind, body, and soul.
I’m ready for the world to know that he’s mine. To love him out loud.
The problem? Winston isn’t ready. And I’m not sure he ever will be.
Loving Winston was never optional for me.
I want to be his everything, instead, I feel as though I’m disposable to him.
After all, how could I not be when I’m his dirty little secret?
Winston:
Being a Connley comes with certain expectations.
Go to school, take over the family business, marry a woman, and have two point five kids.
So, imagine how life would be if the prodigal son turned out gay?
I don’t want to cause a rift in my family. So instead, I grit my teeth and plaster on a fake smile to avoid dealing with the bullshit.
The problem? I’m completely, unbelievably, devastatingly in love with Rhys Evander.
I know I need to stop hiding. I need to own who I am.
It’s not fair to Rhys for me to keep him on the sidelines, yet fear keeps me paralyzed.
I just hope I have the guts to follow my heart before it’s too late.
Because losing Rhys is never going to be an option for me.
*Omitting You is the second book in The Lionheart Academy interconnecting series. It can be read as a standalone. It's a full length, new adult high school novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. It’s recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations. Please read trigger warnings before proceeding.*
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
November 14, 2022
Now tell me why the song lyric, "All I do is Win Win Win no matter what" was ringing in my ear during one of their smut scenes 🤣🤣 get it?? causee one of the characters is named Winston and Rhys, the other character, calls him Win... sighhhhh I'm a child, we know this 😝 Also I guess if you have to explain the joke...
Anywayssssss
Have you ever just fallen in love with someone as easily as falling through thin ice, that it leaves you disoriented cause it's water and it's cold, so you do everything possible to appear unfazed and push down that feeling of exhilaration you definitely felt amidst your disorientation, but you realize you can't actually hide something so monumental so you decide to forever accept the shift in your world's axis because regardless of the mess, you cannot and will not live without them?
*inhale*
Yeah, me neither 🥲🥲
"He’s so deeply engraved in my soul, I doubt I’ll ever be able to shake him."
This is the kind of book I imagine when I say I am obsessed with this trope, because it is entirely character driven. In my humble opinion, this trope demands to be character driven. It doesn't need plot because the plot is watching two people who are so already intrinsically linked, form an even deeper connection. Also ffs, I usually don't pick up a bestfriends-to-lovers book because I'm fixing to watch both of them solve a mystery that has plagued their community for generations blah blah blah, you feel me? (Ngl, I'd still tap that 🤭) Give me all the soft domestic sh*t. Give me all the cuddles. Give me mutual pining. Give me possessiveness. Give me Winston constantly carrying Rhys because duhhh, size difference. Give me secret rendezvous because they're both from affluent families and are scared of the backlash. Give me a smidgen of angst but also not really cause they're BFFs double duhhh, they're unshakeable.
"My heart aches for him. My soul cries for him. My body yearns for him. He’s mine. He’s always been mine."
If a squishmallow stuffie could become a book, I think it'd be this one. It was just so SOFT 😍
Initial reaction:
Childhood bestfriends-to-lovers is really a god-level trope 🤤
Anywayssssss
Have you ever just fallen in love with someone as easily as falling through thin ice, that it leaves you disoriented cause it's water and it's cold, so you do everything possible to appear unfazed and push down that feeling of exhilaration you definitely felt amidst your disorientation, but you realize you can't actually hide something so monumental so you decide to forever accept the shift in your world's axis because regardless of the mess, you cannot and will not live without them?
*inhale*
Yeah, me neither 🥲🥲
"He’s so deeply engraved in my soul, I doubt I’ll ever be able to shake him."
This is the kind of book I imagine when I say I am obsessed with this trope, because it is entirely character driven. In my humble opinion, this trope demands to be character driven. It doesn't need plot because the plot is watching two people who are so already intrinsically linked, form an even deeper connection. Also ffs, I usually don't pick up a bestfriends-to-lovers book because I'm fixing to watch both of them solve a mystery that has plagued their community for generations blah blah blah, you feel me? (Ngl, I'd still tap that 🤭) Give me all the soft domestic sh*t. Give me all the cuddles. Give me mutual pining. Give me possessiveness. Give me Winston constantly carrying Rhys because duhhh, size difference. Give me secret rendezvous because they're both from affluent families and are scared of the backlash. Give me a smidgen of angst but also not really cause they're BFFs double duhhh, they're unshakeable.
"My heart aches for him. My soul cries for him. My body yearns for him. He’s mine. He’s always been mine."
If a squishmallow stuffie could become a book, I think it'd be this one. It was just so SOFT 😍
Initial reaction:
Childhood bestfriends-to-lovers is really a god-level trope 🤤
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January 6, 2023
Omitting You is the story of two childhood best friends, Rhys and Winston. Rhys grow up with an abusive father and an absent mother. However, one day when he is eight, he meets the son of his father’s business partner, Winston and his life changes.
In Winston and his family, Rhys finds protection, comfort, friendship, and love. In their final summer in high school, they realize they both have feelings for one another, but their path to their happy ever after isn’t so smooth.
I adored how loving and sweet they were with one another. Seeing their relationship develop and blossom into love was honestly so adorable. I enjoyed it so much. They are indeed soul mates. However, it was not without problems. While there is miscommunication and misunderstandings, the story is low angst. I loved how Rhys stood up for himself and did not let himself become a secret. Winston needed to be shaken to realize how foolish he had been. Coming out is never easy, and no one should be forced to, but there needs to be open communication and understanding; without it, someone you love will be hurt and feel worthless.
I also loved the size difference between Rhys and Winston (I’m sorry, my heart when crazy every time he lifted him).
This was a cute best friends-to-lovers story. Honestly, I absolutely enjoyed it and ended up reading it in one sitting. The spice is medium level, but the tenderness, sweetness, and just the love between them made my heart melt over and over again.
I am hoping for Greg’s story next! While this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I now NEED to read the first book, Betting You, because of Hudson and Ryan!!
T. Ashleigh is a new to me author, and I can’t wait to read more of their works! If you enjoy NA/MM, Highschool (Final year), best friends to lovers, low angst, size difference sweet romance, this is it!
**I was provided with a copy by the author, and this is my honest thoughts**
In Winston and his family, Rhys finds protection, comfort, friendship, and love. In their final summer in high school, they realize they both have feelings for one another, but their path to their happy ever after isn’t so smooth.
I adored how loving and sweet they were with one another. Seeing their relationship develop and blossom into love was honestly so adorable. I enjoyed it so much. They are indeed soul mates. However, it was not without problems. While there is miscommunication and misunderstandings, the story is low angst. I loved how Rhys stood up for himself and did not let himself become a secret. Winston needed to be shaken to realize how foolish he had been. Coming out is never easy, and no one should be forced to, but there needs to be open communication and understanding; without it, someone you love will be hurt and feel worthless.
I also loved the size difference between Rhys and Winston (I’m sorry, my heart when crazy every time he lifted him).
This was a cute best friends-to-lovers story. Honestly, I absolutely enjoyed it and ended up reading it in one sitting. The spice is medium level, but the tenderness, sweetness, and just the love between them made my heart melt over and over again.
I am hoping for Greg’s story next! While this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I now NEED to read the first book, Betting You, because of Hudson and Ryan!!
T. Ashleigh is a new to me author, and I can’t wait to read more of their works! If you enjoy NA/MM, Highschool (Final year), best friends to lovers, low angst, size difference sweet romance, this is it!
**I was provided with a copy by the author, and this is my honest thoughts**
November 6, 2022
The way Winston and Rhys are a team and have each others back is so evident. You really feel their connection, their shared history and love for each other as best friends and then more. I think that can be a real challenge to execute for authors but Ashleigh nailed it. They definitely have an “it’s us against the world” vibe. #youandme4life
Winston is the caretaker
Rhys is the hurt boy
”Listen, there’s not a whole lot that I care about. I’m pretty calm, cool, and understanding for the most part, but don’t… And I mean don’t fuck with my sister or my best friend.”
Both quietly pining for the other and not saying anything for fear of losing their friendship, which is such a deep love in itself.
The butterflies in my stomach were very active with this book.
”He snorts softly, rolling his eyes, but it causes the reaction I wanted. His brows are no longer pinched, his eyes lighten, and his pearly-white teeth show as he gives me a wide smile. My favorite smile. The one that hits me in the gut and causes my heart to pick up a little. Beautiful.”
Winston is the caretaker
Rhys is the hurt boy
”Listen, there’s not a whole lot that I care about. I’m pretty calm, cool, and understanding for the most part, but don’t… And I mean don’t fuck with my sister or my best friend.”
Both quietly pining for the other and not saying anything for fear of losing their friendship, which is such a deep love in itself.
The butterflies in my stomach were very active with this book.
”He snorts softly, rolling his eyes, but it causes the reaction I wanted. His brows are no longer pinched, his eyes lighten, and his pearly-white teeth show as he gives me a wide smile. My favorite smile. The one that hits me in the gut and causes my heart to pick up a little. Beautiful.”
November 15, 2022
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book***
Omitting You is the second entry in the Lionheart Academy series. This story focuses on the friendship and eventual relationship between Rhys and Winston. What I enjoyed so much about this story is the mutual pining both guys have for one another while the other has no idea.
There is a bit of miscommunication and misunderstanding, but eventually when their feelings are revealed, the relationship is so utterly sweet and swoony. Another aspect of this story that I loved was the protective nature of Rhys and Winston's relationship. They are completely devoted to one another and willing to defend the other against anyone.
Overall Omitting You is a wonderful character driven story where the friendship takes center stage and the natural evolving feelings are so pure and magical to see. Cannot wait for the next story, I love getting to see these characters interact and get into all kinds of mischief.
Omitting You is the second entry in the Lionheart Academy series. This story focuses on the friendship and eventual relationship between Rhys and Winston. What I enjoyed so much about this story is the mutual pining both guys have for one another while the other has no idea.
There is a bit of miscommunication and misunderstanding, but eventually when their feelings are revealed, the relationship is so utterly sweet and swoony. Another aspect of this story that I loved was the protective nature of Rhys and Winston's relationship. They are completely devoted to one another and willing to defend the other against anyone.
Overall Omitting You is a wonderful character driven story where the friendship takes center stage and the natural evolving feelings are so pure and magical to see. Cannot wait for the next story, I love getting to see these characters interact and get into all kinds of mischief.
June 26, 2024
|| 2.0 stars ||
I’m sorry, but this was super bland and honestly just plain boring.
I especially got very annoyed at Winston’s reluctance to come out. It didn’t really make any kind of sense, and worst of all, it seemed like Winston didn’t even care about how much them hiding their relationship was hurting Rhys.
But honestly, not only was Winston a bit of a selfish prick, their relationship also lacked any chemistry or depth in general.
This just wasn’t it for me.
'Lionheart Academy' series:
1. Betting You - 3.0 stars
2. Omitting You - 2.0 stars
I’m sorry, but this was super bland and honestly just plain boring.
I especially got very annoyed at Winston’s reluctance to come out. It didn’t really make any kind of sense, and worst of all, it seemed like Winston didn’t even care about how much them hiding their relationship was hurting Rhys.
But honestly, not only was Winston a bit of a selfish prick, their relationship also lacked any chemistry or depth in general.
This just wasn’t it for me.
'Lionheart Academy' series:
1. Betting You - 3.0 stars
2. Omitting You - 2.0 stars
March 20, 2023
"He's going to leave a mark, but I don't care. I want him to mark me and want everyone to know I'm his."
Omitting You by T. Ashleigh is the second book in the author's Lionheart Academy series and this is Rhys and Winston's story. Set in the Lionheart Academy boys' school, this follows the best friends-to-lovers story of finding your person when you're both very young, and never letting go. It can be read as a standalone, but I think following the books in order adds something to the read.
Add some steamy (first) times, low angst, great side-characters and a HEA and you can't go wrong.
Such a cute, romantic, fun read!
"You guys move like you're on the same wavelength. You just gravitate to one another."
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Omitting You by T. Ashleigh is the second book in the author's Lionheart Academy series and this is Rhys and Winston's story. Set in the Lionheart Academy boys' school, this follows the best friends-to-lovers story of finding your person when you're both very young, and never letting go. It can be read as a standalone, but I think following the books in order adds something to the read.
Add some steamy (first) times, low angst, great side-characters and a HEA and you can't go wrong.
Such a cute, romantic, fun read!
"You guys move like you're on the same wavelength. You just gravitate to one another."
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 8, 2022
"What can you say when you're breaking your own heart?"
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
Ever since I read the first book and met Rhys and Winston, I knew I had to have their book ASAP, and when I got my hands on it, it went beyond my expectations! It was everything I wanted out of those two and more. The author did a wonderful job at weaving a story of soulmates that wasn't cheesy or too sweet but still hit all the emotions hard. Winston and Rhys have been best friends since forever, with Winston being the quiet protector and Rhys being cookie-loving ray of sunshine. Seeing the relationship blossom and develop grow was truly wonderful, and whilst it wasn't all happy-go-lucky, it was low angst and perfectly balanced. The possessiveness was passionate and not toxic, and the mutual pining was beautifully developed in a way I could feel everything. Overall this was a adorably sweet and spicy read that encapsulated the best friends to lovers trope perfectly!
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Best Friends-To-Lovers
❣️ Mutual Pining
❣️ Co-Dependency
❣️ Cookie Addiction
❣️ HEA
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
Ever since I read the first book and met Rhys and Winston, I knew I had to have their book ASAP, and when I got my hands on it, it went beyond my expectations! It was everything I wanted out of those two and more. The author did a wonderful job at weaving a story of soulmates that wasn't cheesy or too sweet but still hit all the emotions hard. Winston and Rhys have been best friends since forever, with Winston being the quiet protector and Rhys being cookie-loving ray of sunshine. Seeing the relationship blossom and develop grow was truly wonderful, and whilst it wasn't all happy-go-lucky, it was low angst and perfectly balanced. The possessiveness was passionate and not toxic, and the mutual pining was beautifully developed in a way I could feel everything. Overall this was a adorably sweet and spicy read that encapsulated the best friends to lovers trope perfectly!
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Best Friends-To-Lovers
❣️ Mutual Pining
❣️ Co-Dependency
❣️ Cookie Addiction
❣️ HEA
November 4, 2022
Literally just inhaled this damn book.
I loved every single page. To the point where I didn't want it to end. While I loved Betting You, I really loved the friends to lovers world building that T did with Win and Rhys!
Maybe I'm biased because I love cookies and Lion King, but this was another hit for me.
So excited for the next installment!
I loved every single page. To the point where I didn't want it to end. While I loved Betting You, I really loved the friends to lovers world building that T did with Win and Rhys!
Maybe I'm biased because I love cookies and Lion King, but this was another hit for me.
So excited for the next installment!
November 4, 2022
oh, this was chocolate cookie sweet, and I loved every second of it!
-Pinning
-Best Friends to Lovers
-Some angst
-First love
-Virgin Mcs
I loved every second. I adore Ashleigh's words! I love her writing style and how she connects me to each character.
I can't wait for the next book!
-Pinning
-Best Friends to Lovers
-Some angst
-First love
-Virgin Mcs
I loved every second. I adore Ashleigh's words! I love her writing style and how she connects me to each character.
I can't wait for the next book!
November 18, 2022
Overall, an enjoyable second installment in this series.
We get the story of Rhys and Winston in this book. Two best friends who, the summer before their senior year at Lionheart Academy, become something more.
We find out in this that they met when Rhys was 8 and Win 7, and have been inseparable ever since. Literally, they have't even gone a week without seeing each other since they met. They are the bestest of friends, and are head over heels in love with each other, and totally co-dependent, let's be real.
What is Rhys without Win, and Win without Rhys? It's unfathomable.
I greatly enjoyed these two together, especially near the beginning.
It was a little dampened by Winston being so adamant that they keep their relationship a secret as time went on. Like Rhys, after a bit, I got tired of it.
And honestly a big reason for my star off of this is...I don't really get the motivation behind Winston's extreme closeted-ness.
Like yeah, Winston gives lame excuses as this goes on, but even his "real reason" didn't exactly ring true to me. I just didn't get why Winston was so afraid to come out when their two other besties, Hudson and Greg, are openly gay or bi (don't know Greg's sexuality, so he could be bi) and with guys all the time.
And yeah, his dad has expectations of him, but nothing too extreme, and we learn that Winston actually loves his parents and while a bit absent, they're pretty good parents overall.
Idk, it feels like Winston shouldn't have a "good" reason to fear coming out, and maybe if his internal thoughts were written differently, or his reasoning, what have you, was written differently, I'd feel more understanding.
But as it is, Rhys is the one with the super shitty, abusive father who would legit freak out if he knew Rhys was gay, and yet Rhys is way more willing to come out.
I guess it all just didn't quite add up in my head. Why was Winston holding out so long? And when he finally does come out, nothing bad happens, at all, with anyone, so...it felt like it was all for nothing. Even Winston says that out loud a few times and I was just sitting there like "yeah, exactly."
Another reason for my star off is that it all felt too easy for Rhys and Winston. What I mean by that is, they come to a breaking point where Rhys is all "we need to take a break" a la Rachel Green from Friends lol and it only last about a week and some change, and all Winston has to do is show up where Rhys is and apologize real quick and say that he came out and voila! all is well in the world.
I guess i just wanted a tad more drama, a tad more work needing to be done in fixing their relationship, kind of like Hudson and Ryan from the first book, where Hudson had to genuinely work for it.
I mean, I loved these two and their co-dependency, I was living for it, but I guess I was kinda hoping for some more time of Rhys and Winston figuring out who they are without each other, before they can come back together a little healthier for it.
But, despite those problems i had with this, I still enjoyed it overall. This was a solid friends-to-lovers story overall. It was getting a little close to dragging near the end there, with how long they were hiding their relationship for, but thankfully soon after it started to kind of drag, Rhys made a move in getting Winston to get his head out of his ass and the story picked up again from there.
So overall, I definitely recommend this. It's definitely enjoyable overall. I also can't wait for Greg and Tyler's book. Give me that delicious love-hate relationship goodness. With a side of friends-to-enemies-to-lovers (int his we learn they used to be friends years ago, sooo...)
Also, Greg was totally the guy Tyler was having sex with in the first book, when Ryan walked into their dorm and saw them - although Ryan never saw the face of the guy Tyler was screwing....well, we all know it was Greg ;)
I'm so excited for their book! It'll also be really nice to learn more about Greg and get into his head about why he acted the way he did with Ryan, because he doesn't come across sympathetically at all in that situation, and was very unlikable in the first book, so.
Onto the next!😁
My Ratings for the Lionheart Academy Series:
🔆 Betting You: 4.75 Stars (my review)
🔆 Omitting You: 4 Stars
We get the story of Rhys and Winston in this book. Two best friends who, the summer before their senior year at Lionheart Academy, become something more.
We find out in this that they met when Rhys was 8 and Win 7, and have been inseparable ever since. Literally, they have't even gone a week without seeing each other since they met. They are the bestest of friends, and are head over heels in love with each other, and totally co-dependent, let's be real.
What is Rhys without Win, and Win without Rhys? It's unfathomable.
I greatly enjoyed these two together, especially near the beginning.
It was a little dampened by Winston being so adamant that they keep their relationship a secret as time went on. Like Rhys, after a bit, I got tired of it.
And honestly a big reason for my star off of this is...I don't really get the motivation behind Winston's extreme closeted-ness.
Like yeah, Winston gives lame excuses as this goes on, but even his "real reason" didn't exactly ring true to me. I just didn't get why Winston was so afraid to come out when their two other besties, Hudson and Greg, are openly gay or bi (don't know Greg's sexuality, so he could be bi) and with guys all the time.
And yeah, his dad has expectations of him, but nothing too extreme, and we learn that Winston actually loves his parents and while a bit absent, they're pretty good parents overall.
Idk, it feels like Winston shouldn't have a "good" reason to fear coming out, and maybe if his internal thoughts were written differently, or his reasoning, what have you, was written differently, I'd feel more understanding.
But as it is, Rhys is the one with the super shitty, abusive father who would legit freak out if he knew Rhys was gay, and yet Rhys is way more willing to come out.
I guess it all just didn't quite add up in my head. Why was Winston holding out so long? And when he finally does come out, nothing bad happens, at all, with anyone, so...it felt like it was all for nothing. Even Winston says that out loud a few times and I was just sitting there like "yeah, exactly."
Another reason for my star off is that it all felt too easy for Rhys and Winston. What I mean by that is, they come to a breaking point where Rhys is all "we need to take a break" a la Rachel Green from Friends lol and it only last about a week and some change, and all Winston has to do is show up where Rhys is and apologize real quick and say that he came out and voila! all is well in the world.
I guess i just wanted a tad more drama, a tad more work needing to be done in fixing their relationship, kind of like Hudson and Ryan from the first book, where Hudson had to genuinely work for it.
I mean, I loved these two and their co-dependency, I was living for it, but I guess I was kinda hoping for some more time of Rhys and Winston figuring out who they are without each other, before they can come back together a little healthier for it.
But, despite those problems i had with this, I still enjoyed it overall. This was a solid friends-to-lovers story overall. It was getting a little close to dragging near the end there, with how long they were hiding their relationship for, but thankfully soon after it started to kind of drag, Rhys made a move in getting Winston to get his head out of his ass and the story picked up again from there.
So overall, I definitely recommend this. It's definitely enjoyable overall. I also can't wait for Greg and Tyler's book. Give me that delicious love-hate relationship goodness. With a side of friends-to-enemies-to-lovers (int his we learn they used to be friends years ago, sooo...)
Also, Greg was totally the guy Tyler was having sex with in the first book, when Ryan walked into their dorm and saw them - although Ryan never saw the face of the guy Tyler was screwing....well, we all know it was Greg ;)
I'm so excited for their book! It'll also be really nice to learn more about Greg and get into his head about why he acted the way he did with Ryan, because he doesn't come across sympathetically at all in that situation, and was very unlikable in the first book, so.
Onto the next!😁
My Ratings for the Lionheart Academy Series:
🔆 Betting You: 4.75 Stars (my review)
🔆 Omitting You: 4 Stars
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 24, 2023DNF @ 30%
November 9, 2023
Rhys and Winston were a couple of sweethearts. Loved their story. I thought they had great chemistry from the beginning, and I really felt for Winston and his anguish at coming out. Completely get that and understand.
Read
January 20, 2023I loved the first book. Sadly, the second book wasn't for me. That's also why I'm choosing not to rate it.
My main reason is that this book simply didn't work for me. I don't enjoy being told what happened instead to see it myself. This happened a lot of times in this book. Which was normal with the memories of them as children, but still it didn't work for me. Also, I would have loved to see Win's reaction to the art project Rhys did.
As for the parts I enjoyed:
- I loved how Win and Rhys were together
- I adored Rhys's personality
- how protective Win was
- how obsessed they were with each other
- first times
- the writing style
- I can't wait for Greg and Tylor's book
My main reason is that this book simply didn't work for me. I don't enjoy being told what happened instead to see it myself. This happened a lot of times in this book. Which was normal with the memories of them as children, but still it didn't work for me. Also, I would have loved to see Win's reaction to the art project Rhys did.
As for the parts I enjoyed:
- I loved how Win and Rhys were together
- I adored Rhys's personality
- how protective Win was
- how obsessed they were with each other
- first times
- the writing style
- I can't wait for Greg and Tylor's book
April 20, 2024
3.5
This was cute but something just felt a bit off and I can't quite figure out what 🤔
I would have liked to see Win's reaction to Rhys' art project, and also would have liked to see them as a couple in front of their friends for more than two small scenes.
Maybe it was the pacing and the fact so much of the book the relationship was a secret, I just kept waiting for them to reach the point of telling people but it didn't come until the end and then the book was basically over, so a ton of build up and no real aftermath!?!
This was cute but something just felt a bit off and I can't quite figure out what 🤔
I would have liked to see Win's reaction to Rhys' art project, and also would have liked to see them as a couple in front of their friends for more than two small scenes.
Maybe it was the pacing and the fact so much of the book the relationship was a secret, I just kept waiting for them to reach the point of telling people but it didn't come until the end and then the book was basically over, so a ton of build up and no real aftermath!?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2023
3.5⭐️
I’ve been waiting for this book since the moment I met Rhys and Win in Betting you. And while I adored them, I have to admit I think Hudson and Ryan are still my favorite.
This was a well-written novel, but it was much slower paced than I was expecting. It was heavy on the steam and light on the emotional connection. I knew they were friends since childhood but I didn’t really feel much else in their relationship besides lust and fondness.
In book 1, there was a lot of tension, little snippets here and there about the mystery behind these two, but when we actually got to them, it wasn’t all that mysterious. They were just hiding their relationship. This starts months before and continue through the events in book 1.
I did love the respect they had for each other and their families. Maddie, Win’s sister was such a great person and she was always there for him.
I can see this being a comfort read. They were cute and hot together. And I can’t wait to see what’s next for T. Ashleigh!
I’ve been waiting for this book since the moment I met Rhys and Win in Betting you. And while I adored them, I have to admit I think Hudson and Ryan are still my favorite.
This was a well-written novel, but it was much slower paced than I was expecting. It was heavy on the steam and light on the emotional connection. I knew they were friends since childhood but I didn’t really feel much else in their relationship besides lust and fondness.
In book 1, there was a lot of tension, little snippets here and there about the mystery behind these two, but when we actually got to them, it wasn’t all that mysterious. They were just hiding their relationship. This starts months before and continue through the events in book 1.
I did love the respect they had for each other and their families. Maddie, Win’s sister was such a great person and she was always there for him.
I can see this being a comfort read. They were cute and hot together. And I can’t wait to see what’s next for T. Ashleigh!
May 1, 2023
"They say the best things in life come from the memories you make. I have to agree because all my favorite memories start and end with him. My best friend. My secret keeper. My defender. Winston."
I honestly adored this book. From their first meeting at 8 years old Winston and Rhys became inseparable. Bonded. The bestest friend to each other that anyone could ask for. They were a team. And there was nothing one wouldn't do for the other... until things changed. Until their friendship morphed from friendly love to the kind of love many people dream about. One built on a solid foundation of years of friendship, of knowing everything about the other person, even their flaws, yet loving them more because of it. Like I said, there was nothing one wouldn't do for the other...except in Winston's case come out.
“I don’t want to hurt you… but being your secret is killing me.”
Talk about heartbreaking. It hurt so bad seeing these two get to that point, but something had to give. You knew it was building up to it. You could feel their inevitable explosion because while one was terrified of coming out, the other was suffocating under the weight of the their secret. But I knew these two were end game because they were just too perfect for each other. They loved each other too much for it not to be anything but happy in the end. And I was right. Honorary mention to Wilson's parents because they might be the only pair in the entire series that deserve the title. They were even more a parent to Rhys than his own and I really loved how it all turned out in the end.
“And I met my person when I was eight. He’s been with me through everything and it didn’t feel right to show a reflection of myself without showing him, because if I’m honest... He’s the best part of me.”
I honestly adored this book. From their first meeting at 8 years old Winston and Rhys became inseparable. Bonded. The bestest friend to each other that anyone could ask for. They were a team. And there was nothing one wouldn't do for the other... until things changed. Until their friendship morphed from friendly love to the kind of love many people dream about. One built on a solid foundation of years of friendship, of knowing everything about the other person, even their flaws, yet loving them more because of it. Like I said, there was nothing one wouldn't do for the other...except in Winston's case come out.
“I don’t want to hurt you… but being your secret is killing me.”
Talk about heartbreaking. It hurt so bad seeing these two get to that point, but something had to give. You knew it was building up to it. You could feel their inevitable explosion because while one was terrified of coming out, the other was suffocating under the weight of the their secret. But I knew these two were end game because they were just too perfect for each other. They loved each other too much for it not to be anything but happy in the end. And I was right. Honorary mention to Wilson's parents because they might be the only pair in the entire series that deserve the title. They were even more a parent to Rhys than his own and I really loved how it all turned out in the end.
“And I met my person when I was eight. He’s been with me through everything and it didn’t feel right to show a reflection of myself without showing him, because if I’m honest... He’s the best part of me.”
November 10, 2022
Book given in exchange for review.
Ahhh I have been waiting for this book since I finished the 1st one with Hudson and Ryan!!
T did not disappoint!!!
Even tho these boys are young they are not Immature, they are both dealing with lots of feelings and emotions, not just towards each other but with family and friends.
I love how these 2 have grown up loving each other as best friends, but learning about love and how to love each other and be there for each other was so heartfelt.
Rhys has a lot to deal with, his asshole father and non existing mother, being forced into a future he don’t want. Loving his best friend but not being able to do anything about it, this boy is an emotional mess.
Winston is so over protective of Rhys, he sees what a shit head Rhys’s dad is to him and hates the way he’s treated, so he try’s to make up for it and make sure Rhys knows he’s loved by him and his family.
These boys have grown up together and the bond they have is amazing, it gets you right in the feels, don’t get me wrong it comes at a cost and it’s not all plain sailing, but the connection they have is perfection. Win is Rhys’s safe space, his home 🥺
This book is pining, friends to lovers, hurt/comfort, height difference, lots of cuddles and carrying, lots of emotions and love.
Secretly hoping we get Greg’s back story 🤞🏻book 3 maybe? Please and thank you!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Edit on insta emmareads40
Ahhh I have been waiting for this book since I finished the 1st one with Hudson and Ryan!!
T did not disappoint!!!
Even tho these boys are young they are not Immature, they are both dealing with lots of feelings and emotions, not just towards each other but with family and friends.
I love how these 2 have grown up loving each other as best friends, but learning about love and how to love each other and be there for each other was so heartfelt.
Rhys has a lot to deal with, his asshole father and non existing mother, being forced into a future he don’t want. Loving his best friend but not being able to do anything about it, this boy is an emotional mess.
Winston is so over protective of Rhys, he sees what a shit head Rhys’s dad is to him and hates the way he’s treated, so he try’s to make up for it and make sure Rhys knows he’s loved by him and his family.
These boys have grown up together and the bond they have is amazing, it gets you right in the feels, don’t get me wrong it comes at a cost and it’s not all plain sailing, but the connection they have is perfection. Win is Rhys’s safe space, his home 🥺
This book is pining, friends to lovers, hurt/comfort, height difference, lots of cuddles and carrying, lots of emotions and love.
Secretly hoping we get Greg’s back story 🤞🏻book 3 maybe? Please and thank you!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Edit on insta emmareads40
November 15, 2022
Omitting You is the second book in the Lionheart Academy series. This is Rhys and Winston’s story. We met them in the first book Betting You. This can be a standalone but I highly recommend book 1 because it was so good. 🥰
This was a wonderful best friends to lovers, lower angst, duel POV story.
Rhys and Winston have been friends since they were 8 years old. They met when their dads become business partners. They have been best friends ever since. They do everything together and have always had each other’s backs. Rhys does not have a loving family (especially his dad). Winston has always been there to support Rhys through all the stuff Rhys has gone through with his father.
Their has been mutual secret pinning for years.
This book begins the summer before their senior year. Rhys and Winston are interning at one of their dads’ resorts. This summer becomes the beginning of something new for them when Rhys finally shows Winston how he feels. 🔥 They soon though have to return to school. Winston is not ready to tell anyone that Rhys and he are together. Rhys is fine with it at first but as time goes on he is tired of being Winston’s secret. The writing makes you really feel for the characters and pulls you into their story, their struggles, and their love.
The middle of this book overlaps (it’s in the same time frame) with Betting You. We get to revisit parts of Hudson and Ryan’s story from Rhys or Winston’s POV but the focus still stays on Rhys and Winston. I enjoyed seeing the parts with Hudson and Ryan again.
Rhys and Winston were so sweet and 🔥 together! They had such a good connection with their strong friendship and then their relationship. They are truly soulmates. I loved Rhys’ cookie obsession 😂 and the jealousy we got to see glimpses of from Winston. 🥰 And I can’t forget “Pinned ya!” ❤️
The ending was a very sweet HEA. I am really looking forward to the next book which I am thinking/hoping will be Tyler and Greg!
I received an ARC of this book and happily give this honest review.
This was a wonderful best friends to lovers, lower angst, duel POV story.
Rhys and Winston have been friends since they were 8 years old. They met when their dads become business partners. They have been best friends ever since. They do everything together and have always had each other’s backs. Rhys does not have a loving family (especially his dad). Winston has always been there to support Rhys through all the stuff Rhys has gone through with his father.
Their has been mutual secret pinning for years.
This book begins the summer before their senior year. Rhys and Winston are interning at one of their dads’ resorts. This summer becomes the beginning of something new for them when Rhys finally shows Winston how he feels. 🔥 They soon though have to return to school. Winston is not ready to tell anyone that Rhys and he are together. Rhys is fine with it at first but as time goes on he is tired of being Winston’s secret. The writing makes you really feel for the characters and pulls you into their story, their struggles, and their love.
The middle of this book overlaps (it’s in the same time frame) with Betting You. We get to revisit parts of Hudson and Ryan’s story from Rhys or Winston’s POV but the focus still stays on Rhys and Winston. I enjoyed seeing the parts with Hudson and Ryan again.
Rhys and Winston were so sweet and 🔥 together! They had such a good connection with their strong friendship and then their relationship. They are truly soulmates. I loved Rhys’ cookie obsession 😂 and the jealousy we got to see glimpses of from Winston. 🥰 And I can’t forget “Pinned ya!” ❤️
The ending was a very sweet HEA. I am really looking forward to the next book which I am thinking/hoping will be Tyler and Greg!
I received an ARC of this book and happily give this honest review.
November 7, 2022
Ah these sweet little cinnamon-roll guys stole my heart!
“Do you think that little Simba has a Nala running around somewhere?” I ask, glancing around the enclosure to see if there are any more lions in there. Winston slides his hands on top of mine, lacing our fingers together. “I hope he does. How lonely would life be without having a best friend to go through it with?”
Rhys and Winston were so adorably sweet. Their connection was unlike any other. From best friends to lovers, they knew each other inside and out. I absolutely adored how their relationship slowly progressed. How comfortable they were with one another and with just a look they knew what the other was thinking or feeling. Their relationship gave such a serotonin rush 🥰
And Rhys was such the perfect short king. I loved how Winston could just pick him up and koala him around!
"He’s everything."
Their relationship wasn't all hearts and rainbows though. Even though there was so much love between them they had struggles of their own they had to overcome.
Rhys relationship with his parents was so sad, especially with how lovable his character was. You could totally understand where his insecurities and self-doubt stemmed from. Luckily he had Winston and his family to rely on.
And Winston put so much pressure on himself to be everything he thought his parents would want him to be. But the love and support he had from his family was truly touching to see.
And we cannot forget the friendships these two had. Their friends were like family. The dynamic between all of them is something I think everyone wishes they had. And I’m just going to say it again, I really hope we get more books out of these guys and are able to experience more from the Lionheart Academy world!
“Do you think that little Simba has a Nala running around somewhere?” I ask, glancing around the enclosure to see if there are any more lions in there. Winston slides his hands on top of mine, lacing our fingers together. “I hope he does. How lonely would life be without having a best friend to go through it with?”
Rhys and Winston were so adorably sweet. Their connection was unlike any other. From best friends to lovers, they knew each other inside and out. I absolutely adored how their relationship slowly progressed. How comfortable they were with one another and with just a look they knew what the other was thinking or feeling. Their relationship gave such a serotonin rush 🥰
And Rhys was such the perfect short king. I loved how Winston could just pick him up and koala him around!
"He’s everything."
Their relationship wasn't all hearts and rainbows though. Even though there was so much love between them they had struggles of their own they had to overcome.
Rhys relationship with his parents was so sad, especially with how lovable his character was. You could totally understand where his insecurities and self-doubt stemmed from. Luckily he had Winston and his family to rely on.
And Winston put so much pressure on himself to be everything he thought his parents would want him to be. But the love and support he had from his family was truly touching to see.
And we cannot forget the friendships these two had. Their friends were like family. The dynamic between all of them is something I think everyone wishes they had. And I’m just going to say it again, I really hope we get more books out of these guys and are able to experience more from the Lionheart Academy world!
November 6, 2022
This book had me in my feels! Rhys and Winston’s relationship is everything! From growing up together and even sharing the same nanny at one point and spending every waking moment together to falling in love and getting everything they both always wanted! It sucked me and and literally wouldn’t let me go till the words The End forced me to put it down. Let me tell you the book hangover was real!
Rhys my poor baby wanted nothing more than to love Winston proudly and out loud. His dad is a grade A jerk who doesn’t even deserve to have a kid! I really don’t know what woulda happened if Rhys didn’t have Winston! Rhys and his adorable chocolate chip cookie obsession hit to close home because who doesn’t love a ooey gooey chocolate chip cookie!?
Winston always the strong and protective type! He has loved Rhys for long as he can remember but living his life believing that he couldn’t be himself, be accepted, and live the life he always wanted! It sounds scary! But he soon realizes that living his life with a secret relationship isn’t as easy as it seems and only seems to be hurting himself and Rhys in the process!
All in all it was perfect and T Ashleigh hit this book out of the park it’s definitely a book that I’ll be rereading because I’m gonna miss these goofballs kiddos!
Rhys my poor baby wanted nothing more than to love Winston proudly and out loud. His dad is a grade A jerk who doesn’t even deserve to have a kid! I really don’t know what woulda happened if Rhys didn’t have Winston! Rhys and his adorable chocolate chip cookie obsession hit to close home because who doesn’t love a ooey gooey chocolate chip cookie!?
Winston always the strong and protective type! He has loved Rhys for long as he can remember but living his life believing that he couldn’t be himself, be accepted, and live the life he always wanted! It sounds scary! But he soon realizes that living his life with a secret relationship isn’t as easy as it seems and only seems to be hurting himself and Rhys in the process!
All in all it was perfect and T Ashleigh hit this book out of the park it’s definitely a book that I’ll be rereading because I’m gonna miss these goofballs kiddos!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2022
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the 2nd book in the Lionheart Academy series. These books are MM and each book in the series can be read as a standalone.
Rhys and Winston have been best friends since the moment they met when they were 8 years old and their fathers became business partners. It’s their last summer before senior year and they are spending it together interning at one of the hotels their fathers own.
Rhys doesn’t come from a great family and has always thought of Winston’s family as his own. So when his feelings grow stronger for Win he can’t act on them without risking losing the only family he has.
Winston is very close to his family and just wants his father to be proud of him. He has done everything his dad ask of him and is following the path laid out for him. To him nothing is worth risking his family.
I really enjoyed Rhys and Winston’s story and cant’ wait for the next book. However, Hudson and Ryan from first book are still my favorites.
Rhys and Winston have been best friends since the moment they met when they were 8 years old and their fathers became business partners. It’s their last summer before senior year and they are spending it together interning at one of the hotels their fathers own.
Rhys doesn’t come from a great family and has always thought of Winston’s family as his own. So when his feelings grow stronger for Win he can’t act on them without risking losing the only family he has.
Winston is very close to his family and just wants his father to be proud of him. He has done everything his dad ask of him and is following the path laid out for him. To him nothing is worth risking his family.
I really enjoyed Rhys and Winston’s story and cant’ wait for the next book. However, Hudson and Ryan from first book are still my favorites.
November 7, 2022
I couldn’t wait for Rhys and Winston’s story. I mean we got snippets in Betting you, but this book was everything. We got to see how they met and the relationship they built from the time they were right til now. Neither one of them were able to admit their feelings to each other. I think it made the moment they did that much sweeter. You could see and feel the emotional connection they had with each other. I loved Winston’s relationship with Maddie and how she’s always there for him.
Winston was fighting so hard to not disappoint the ones he loved that he almost lost the love of his life. I’m glad they were able to work it out and be together without having to hide. I really can’t wait for the next book in this series
Winston was fighting so hard to not disappoint the ones he loved that he almost lost the love of his life. I’m glad they were able to work it out and be together without having to hide. I really can’t wait for the next book in this series
November 8, 2022
I adored Rhys and Winston's relationship from the very first page. Do you ever read a couple and fall in love with them immediately? That was me with the guys in this book.
I knew at some point their issues would catch up with them, but I still found myself hoping we could skip that whole part. Sadly, there were rough patches, but they made the ending that much sweeter.
The way Winston and Rhys were each one half of a pretty amazing whole was written so beautifully. I can't wait for more (*ahem* Greg and Tyler anyone?).
I knew at some point their issues would catch up with them, but I still found myself hoping we could skip that whole part. Sadly, there were rough patches, but they made the ending that much sweeter.
The way Winston and Rhys were each one half of a pretty amazing whole was written so beautifully. I can't wait for more (*ahem* Greg and Tyler anyone?).
November 7, 2022
Omg, I loved this book!! I love love love Ryhs sweet sweet Ryhs. As much as I loved the first book (Ryan and Hudson) I have to say this couple is now my favorite. The writing was phenomenal and it flowed so good I had a hard time putting it down once I started . I wanted to hug Winston so bad. This series is a must read and fingers crossed for Greg and Tyler!!!
October 8, 2023
⦅dual POV💬 - 1st person perspective⦆
⭐ 5*/5
🌶 3.9/5
💦 8/10 [cliterature wetometer]
🍪 high school/academy
🍪 (childhood) best friends to lovers
🍪 mutual secret pinning
🍪 hurt/comfort elements
🍪 secret relationship
🍪 soccer
🍪 soulmates
🍪 fast burn
⚠️ TW: underage drinking & drug use, child neglect & abuse (physically & mentally)
👤 Rhys: blond hair, blue eyes
👤 Winstron: a head taller, brown hair, blue eyes, glasses
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!🥰🤧👏🍪🏝🦁💘
little rant notes i took while reading:
omg. NOT the prologue making me tear up right away STOP😭💘 & Rhys' love for cookies i died pls give him all the cookies he deserves them!!🍪
❝ There’s just something so satisfying about a cookie. I can’t describe it. Ever since Win and I made them when we were kids, cookies for me have just always meant safety. ❞
aw little childhood flashbacks - so cute to see how they bonded
aww their inside jokes - made them feel like real besties who know/read each other so well & share memories/jokes only they understand that make those so special
STOP. Simba & Nala refs i can't-
❝ “Pinned ya.” ❞
ALSO T ASHLEIGH I SEE YOU WITH ALL THE LION REFERENCES - book#1: LION plushie, book#2: LION King, series: LIONHEART Academy - I LOVEE IT AAAA 🦁
& the Zoo!! omg my heart can't pls stop i love them
the secret hookups.. omg. what they did in the water!! while their friends were up at the cliff!! aaa🔥️🔥🔥
honestly all the smut scenes..🥵🥵🥵
so at around halfway they went back to the academy & i was like well hello old friends~
so fun to see how things unraveled in book 1 from their perspective! & T Ashleigh did such an awesome job making these books work together 👏
aaaand *that* kiss in the water that surprised Hudson in book 1 hihihi 💦
honestly this book just gave me all the feels. no words. 👏💘
❝ Life’s funny that way. It throws you curveballs and left hooks but always brings you back to where you're supposed to go.
It did that with us and I’m so thankful because my story wouldn’t make sense if it didn’t begin and end with him.
My Best friend. My person. My entire fucking world.
Rhys. ❞
· · ───────── ·𖥸· ───────── · ·
also i stalked the author & found these:
𓄂 Pinterest page for this book (#2)
https://pin.it/2qa0TjJ
𓄂 Pinterest page for previous book (#1)
https://pin.it/5rdFUCM
𓄂 Pinterest page for next book (#3)
https://pin.it/66KCCvC
-- they go so well with the books & give such aesthetics✨ also i can't wait for Greg x Tyler🖤
· · ───────── ·𖥸· ───────── · ·
yep this "review" is just me fangirling 💫
⭐ 5*/5
🌶 3.9/5
💦 8/10 [cliterature wetometer]
🍪 high school/academy
🍪 (childhood) best friends to lovers
🍪 mutual secret pinning
🍪 hurt/comfort elements
🍪 secret relationship
🍪 soccer
🍪 soulmates
🍪 fast burn
⚠️ TW: underage drinking & drug use, child neglect & abuse (physically & mentally)
👤 Rhys: blond hair, blue eyes
👤 Winstron: a head taller, brown hair, blue eyes, glasses
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!🥰🤧👏🍪🏝🦁💘
little rant notes i took while reading:
omg. NOT the prologue making me tear up right away STOP😭💘 & Rhys' love for cookies i died pls give him all the cookies he deserves them!!🍪
❝ There’s just something so satisfying about a cookie. I can’t describe it. Ever since Win and I made them when we were kids, cookies for me have just always meant safety. ❞
aw little childhood flashbacks - so cute to see how they bonded
aww their inside jokes - made them feel like real besties who know/read each other so well & share memories/jokes only they understand that make those so special
STOP. Simba & Nala refs i can't-
❝ “Pinned ya.” ❞
ALSO T ASHLEIGH I SEE YOU WITH ALL THE LION REFERENCES - book#1: LION plushie, book#2: LION King, series: LIONHEART Academy - I LOVEE IT AAAA 🦁
& the Zoo!! omg my heart can't pls stop i love them
the secret hookups.. omg. what they did in the water!! while their friends were up at the cliff!! aaa🔥️🔥🔥
honestly all the smut scenes..🥵🥵🥵
so at around halfway they went back to the academy & i was like well hello old friends~
so fun to see how things unraveled in book 1 from their perspective! & T Ashleigh did such an awesome job making these books work together 👏
aaaand *that* kiss in the water that surprised Hudson in book 1 hihihi 💦
honestly this book just gave me all the feels. no words. 👏💘
❝ Life’s funny that way. It throws you curveballs and left hooks but always brings you back to where you're supposed to go.
It did that with us and I’m so thankful because my story wouldn’t make sense if it didn’t begin and end with him.
My Best friend. My person. My entire fucking world.
Rhys. ❞
· · ───────── ·𖥸· ───────── · ·
also i stalked the author & found these:
𓄂 Pinterest page for this book (#2)
https://pin.it/2qa0TjJ
𓄂 Pinterest page for previous book (#1)
https://pin.it/5rdFUCM
𓄂 Pinterest page for next book (#3)
https://pin.it/66KCCvC
-- they go so well with the books & give such aesthetics✨ also i can't wait for Greg x Tyler🖤
· · ───────── ·𖥸· ───────── · ·
yep this "review" is just me fangirling 💫
November 8, 2022
Wow, this book has all the feels!! Half of this book actually takes place in time before Betting You (the first book in this series). However, I still recommend reading Betting You first to understand the second half of Omitting You better.
I was hooked right from the prologue and my heart hurt for a little eight-year-old who was given a shit lot in life. Most of this group of friends families aren’t the greatest, however, Rhys’ family takes the cake for being crappy. To realize that Rhys is going through life without feeling like he is loved by his family and never good enough for them is heartbreaking. There were two things that stood out to me in this book that Rhys was so excited to do (things that little boys would be excited for, not necessarily teenagers) that really stressed to me how much he really missed out on growing up.
Thankfully, Winston’s family steps up! Winston and Rhys have been best friends forever and you can absolutely see that with their relationship. It was one-hundred percent believable and I was thrilled when they both finally confessed their feelings for the other. Watching their relationship grow, and seeing them get over their struggles was a crazy, bumpy journey but one with a HEA! I was so happy for Rhys to finally be happy!
From book one I had a feeling about Greg and Tyler so I was not the least bit surprised by this little gem in the epilogue!
“Yeah, Greg and Tyler, that’s a story for a different day.”
I am all here for a Greg and Tyler story, nothing will stop me from reading their story if we are blessed with it!!
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was hooked right from the prologue and my heart hurt for a little eight-year-old who was given a shit lot in life. Most of this group of friends families aren’t the greatest, however, Rhys’ family takes the cake for being crappy. To realize that Rhys is going through life without feeling like he is loved by his family and never good enough for them is heartbreaking. There were two things that stood out to me in this book that Rhys was so excited to do (things that little boys would be excited for, not necessarily teenagers) that really stressed to me how much he really missed out on growing up.
Thankfully, Winston’s family steps up! Winston and Rhys have been best friends forever and you can absolutely see that with their relationship. It was one-hundred percent believable and I was thrilled when they both finally confessed their feelings for the other. Watching their relationship grow, and seeing them get over their struggles was a crazy, bumpy journey but one with a HEA! I was so happy for Rhys to finally be happy!
From book one I had a feeling about Greg and Tyler so I was not the least bit surprised by this little gem in the epilogue!
“Yeah, Greg and Tyler, that’s a story for a different day.”
I am all here for a Greg and Tyler story, nothing will stop me from reading their story if we are blessed with it!!
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2023
I loved Winston and Rhys’s story! I had been looking forward to their story after having met them in the first book. I’m a huge fan of friends to lovers and I loved that these two had been secretly pining for each other for years. These two met at the age of 8 had been inseparable since! Their friendship took that next step as they worked for their fathers over the summer and Rhys couldn’t hold back anymore. I loved seeing their friendship then to more and all the firsts these two shared together! These two were truly each other’s person. I could feel that connection coming off the page between them, and their chemistry together was fantastic! In their return to school for their final year, their relationship hit some bumps as Win struggled with coming out. He felt it would change everything with him family. Rhys tried to be as supportive as he could, but it was weighing so heavily on Rhys. He couldn’t understand why he thought Winston’s family would no longer love him, as they had never given any indication of acting that way. It was heartbreaking for Rhys. The support of their friends, which we have met in the first book, really became so important for them both in overcoming their hurdles. I loved seeing them move past their difficulties. Their story ran concurrently with Ryan and Hudson, and it was great to see different perspectives of that story through Win and Rhys’s eyes. I enjoyed being able to catch up with the friends we’ve met, and I’m looking forward to more from this group!
November 18, 2023
Rhys and Win!
I was so eager to read Rhys and Win's story after we got a glimpse of them in book 1. I really enjoyed it. Their connection was so strong, even before they took their friendship to the next level, you could just feel their bond and love for each other. Their time working together over the summer was filled with all the exploration in the bedroom and it was so hot and so sweet too since they cared for each other so much. Once they got back to school they kept everything on the down low as Win battled with coming out. That plot point dragged on a bit too long for me for me, but the payoff at the end was fabulous and brought a huge smile to my face!
It was wonderful getting to see all the friends again too. This story happened in parallel with Hudson and Ryan's story so we got to revisit snippets of that through Rhys and Win's eyes, which was cool. I am really looking for the Greg and Tyler's story!
I was so eager to read Rhys and Win's story after we got a glimpse of them in book 1. I really enjoyed it. Their connection was so strong, even before they took their friendship to the next level, you could just feel their bond and love for each other. Their time working together over the summer was filled with all the exploration in the bedroom and it was so hot and so sweet too since they cared for each other so much. Once they got back to school they kept everything on the down low as Win battled with coming out. That plot point dragged on a bit too long for me for me, but the payoff at the end was fabulous and brought a huge smile to my face!
It was wonderful getting to see all the friends again too. This story happened in parallel with Hudson and Ryan's story so we got to revisit snippets of that through Rhys and Win's eyes, which was cool. I am really looking for the Greg and Tyler's story!
November 6, 2022
Best Friends to lovers is my absolute favorite type of books.
Rhys was a sweet little cinna roll that I wanted to keep in my pocket to protect him. He was too sweet but needed love in a big way. And the only person he was getting it from was his best friend Winston. Sigh. Winston loved him so much but was so scared to come out to his family.
I loved learning about their past and all the little details that tied them together. They truly were the definition of soulmates.
So ready for Greg.
Rhys was a sweet little cinna roll that I wanted to keep in my pocket to protect him. He was too sweet but needed love in a big way. And the only person he was getting it from was his best friend Winston. Sigh. Winston loved him so much but was so scared to come out to his family.
I loved learning about their past and all the little details that tied them together. They truly were the definition of soulmates.
So ready for Greg.
November 16, 2022
This was such a good read... 🥰
A sweet, low-angst, best-friends-to-lovers story.
Characters were so adorable that you can’t help but root for their HEA.
I really enjoyed their friendship and I loved how much they meant to each other.
This was perfect for a relaxing weekend read and I will definitely be reading more from this series.
A sweet, low-angst, best-friends-to-lovers story.
Characters were so adorable that you can’t help but root for their HEA.
I really enjoyed their friendship and I loved how much they meant to each other.
This was perfect for a relaxing weekend read and I will definitely be reading more from this series.
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