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The Loyal Boys #1
Cali Boy
Finn
One devastating night. One tragic accident.
I survived, but the boy I used to be didn’t.
And I’ve been on a downward spiral of anger and resentment ever since. That is until my father makes a selfish decision that changes the course of my life and my future.
It brings him into it.
Golden-haired surfer boy, Oliver Chase.
Sunshine personified, and my new stepbrother.
I want to hate him, but his shy smiles and endearing dimples have me questioning everything I thought I knew about myself. I definitely don’t deserve him and I’ll probably hurt him, but the ease with which he breaks down the walls surrounding my battered heart might not leave me with a choice.
Oliver
I don’t look back when Mom moves us from our sleepy California beach town to the wealthy suburbs of Chicago. I need a fresh start, to leave all the negativity and hate behind me, and I’m taking it.
But I wasn’t expecting the grumpy, brooding, hurt boy that bangs on my bedroom door. Nor was I expecting the toxic relationship he has with his dad, my mom’s new husband.
With mounting tensions at school and at home, I’m not sure how to feel about this fresh start anymore, but what I do know is that Finn’s tender touches and growly commands make me want him. And you should never lust after a straight boy… especially your new stepbrother.
Cali Boy is an 88,000 word M/M stepbrother romance. It is a standalone and you can expect grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort, and steamy first times. This novel is intended for 18+ readers and touches on some sensitive subjects.
One devastating night. One tragic accident.
I survived, but the boy I used to be didn’t.
And I’ve been on a downward spiral of anger and resentment ever since. That is until my father makes a selfish decision that changes the course of my life and my future.
It brings him into it.
Golden-haired surfer boy, Oliver Chase.
Sunshine personified, and my new stepbrother.
I want to hate him, but his shy smiles and endearing dimples have me questioning everything I thought I knew about myself. I definitely don’t deserve him and I’ll probably hurt him, but the ease with which he breaks down the walls surrounding my battered heart might not leave me with a choice.
Oliver
I don’t look back when Mom moves us from our sleepy California beach town to the wealthy suburbs of Chicago. I need a fresh start, to leave all the negativity and hate behind me, and I’m taking it.
But I wasn’t expecting the grumpy, brooding, hurt boy that bangs on my bedroom door. Nor was I expecting the toxic relationship he has with his dad, my mom’s new husband.
With mounting tensions at school and at home, I’m not sure how to feel about this fresh start anymore, but what I do know is that Finn’s tender touches and growly commands make me want him. And you should never lust after a straight boy… especially your new stepbrother.
Cali Boy is an 88,000 word M/M stepbrother romance. It is a standalone and you can expect grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort, and steamy first times. This novel is intended for 18+ readers and touches on some sensitive subjects.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2022
About the author
Charli Meadows
7 books358 followersCharli Meadows is an obsessive reader, avid bookstagrammer turned PA, and now an author herself. Lover of all romance, she plans to write a little bit of everything, but make it sweet and spicy.
Living in North Carolina with her husband and young daughter, you can usually find Charli working her boring corporate job or at home playing video games, if she’s not reading, writing or daydreaming about books.
Living in North Carolina with her husband and young daughter, you can usually find Charli working her boring corporate job or at home playing video games, if she’s not reading, writing or daydreaming about books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 373 reviews
June 25, 2024
|| 3.5 stars ||
Aww, this was so sweet. Finn’s protectiveness and the way he always wanted to take care of Ollie was just lovely. I was definitely swooning a lot, and I adored how soft Finn was for his Sunshine.
This book incorporates quite a few tropes, among which: grumpy/sunshine, stepbrothers, and hurt/comfort. None of these played a super big role, but the fact that they were there was nice anyway.
I do have to say that I much preferred the first half of this book over the second. The tension and building connection we saw at the beginning was awesome, and thus, once they actually gave in to their ‘desires’ it became a little more boring and I also thought there was a bit too much sex.
Overall, I thought this book was super cute and Ollie and Finn are honestly adorable together. I truly liked both of them and their relationship was great. Their communication was always rock-solid and there is pretty much no angst between them. They trust each other, support each other and love each other: it’s as simple as that.
'The Loyal Boys' series:
1. Cali Boy - 3.5 stars
2. Bad Boy - 1.0 star
Aww, this was so sweet. Finn’s protectiveness and the way he always wanted to take care of Ollie was just lovely. I was definitely swooning a lot, and I adored how soft Finn was for his Sunshine.
This book incorporates quite a few tropes, among which: grumpy/sunshine, stepbrothers, and hurt/comfort. None of these played a super big role, but the fact that they were there was nice anyway.
I do have to say that I much preferred the first half of this book over the second. The tension and building connection we saw at the beginning was awesome, and thus, once they actually gave in to their ‘desires’ it became a little more boring and I also thought there was a bit too much sex.
Overall, I thought this book was super cute and Ollie and Finn are honestly adorable together. I truly liked both of them and their relationship was great. Their communication was always rock-solid and there is pretty much no angst between them. They trust each other, support each other and love each other: it’s as simple as that.
'The Loyal Boys' series:
1. Cali Boy - 3.5 stars
2. Bad Boy - 1.0 star
August 18, 2022
OUT NOW!!
In all the best ways possible, this was unlike any other stepbrothers-to-lovers MM I've ever read, and it all boils down to this: where I was expecting some animosity between Finn and Oliver, Finn just melts around Oliver 😩
These two found comfort in each other for different reasons and while it was instant, while it was sudden, it didn't diminish the strength of their emotional connection. Finn and Oliver were like kindred spirits, bestfriends in a past life, twin flames 😭
"Oliver is now the sun, and I've been pulled into his orbit, wanting to revolve around him. And it’s completely out of my control. His shine is so bright , and I’m so close, I’m fucking burning."
For me a romance book is fantastic when it does these three things: provides an escape from reality, makes me pseudo squeal at 3am (because I'm not trying to get any police officers knocking on my door for noise complaints 😂), and makes me jealous AF. And oh boy, was I jealous... I would do anything to take Oliver Chase's place. I meannnn who wouldn't be envious of you and want your man when,
_Because you are deathly allergic to peanut he consistently and almost-obsessively makes sure your food is peanut-free 🥺
_You hurt yourself playing football and he waits on you hand and foot to make sure you heal properly 🥺🥺
_He buys you the most expensive art materials without blinking an eye cause you are passionate about art-work 🥺🥺🥺
Fictional boys alwaysss do it better folks that's all I'm saying. And Finn just earned a top seat on my list of best book boyfriends 😩🤌🏾 The fact that he's filthy rich definitely gives him extra points (what? I'm easy 😂)
"All the thoughtful things he’s doing for me make me feel special. Cared for. He tries to act all grumpy and broody, but under all of that is a really sweet, caring, and loyal guy."
Oliver Chase really was the sunshine-est of all sunshine characters that ever did shine. His constant support of Finn, his love for his mom, his quiet ability to pull you in to his space made him irresistibly endearing
And Wyatt Finnegan, the grump who's really a Teddy bear on the inside. Who will go to war for the ones he loves but is not so often fought for. He just made my heart hurt and I'd do anything to give this fictional baby a hug
I loved the mutual possessiveness, Finn's overprotectiveness towards Oliver, the neediness, and THE CUDDLES 🥲🥲 I loved how there were no unnecessary relationship drama, how this didn't adopt the forbidden and taboo themes we're all so well acquainted with from the stepbrother trope (and how well it just worked).
Gahh I wish I could go into detail but I won't say anything else cause I'm prone to spoiling this gem and I don't want to do that to y'all. But the fact that Charli Meadows was able to accomplish the aforementioned three important things and it's her first book?!? I AM BAFFLED! This author knows how to craft a story, to set a scene, and to draw a reader in. This was seriously unputdownable 🤌🏾
I highly recommend if you're in the mood for some low-angst, wholesome, all-the-feels, grumpy/sunshine, stepbrother MM romance 💙💙
In all the best ways possible, this was unlike any other stepbrothers-to-lovers MM I've ever read, and it all boils down to this: where I was expecting some animosity between Finn and Oliver, Finn just melts around Oliver 😩
These two found comfort in each other for different reasons and while it was instant, while it was sudden, it didn't diminish the strength of their emotional connection. Finn and Oliver were like kindred spirits, bestfriends in a past life, twin flames 😭
"Oliver is now the sun, and I've been pulled into his orbit, wanting to revolve around him. And it’s completely out of my control. His shine is so bright , and I’m so close, I’m fucking burning."
For me a romance book is fantastic when it does these three things: provides an escape from reality, makes me pseudo squeal at 3am (because I'm not trying to get any police officers knocking on my door for noise complaints 😂), and makes me jealous AF. And oh boy, was I jealous... I would do anything to take Oliver Chase's place. I meannnn who wouldn't be envious of you and want your man when,
_Because you are deathly allergic to peanut he consistently and almost-obsessively makes sure your food is peanut-free 🥺
_You hurt yourself playing football and he waits on you hand and foot to make sure you heal properly 🥺🥺
_He buys you the most expensive art materials without blinking an eye cause you are passionate about art-work 🥺🥺🥺
Fictional boys alwaysss do it better folks that's all I'm saying. And Finn just earned a top seat on my list of best book boyfriends 😩🤌🏾 The fact that he's filthy rich definitely gives him extra points (what? I'm easy 😂)
"All the thoughtful things he’s doing for me make me feel special. Cared for. He tries to act all grumpy and broody, but under all of that is a really sweet, caring, and loyal guy."
Oliver Chase really was the sunshine-est of all sunshine characters that ever did shine. His constant support of Finn, his love for his mom, his quiet ability to pull you in to his space made him irresistibly endearing
And Wyatt Finnegan, the grump who's really a Teddy bear on the inside. Who will go to war for the ones he loves but is not so often fought for. He just made my heart hurt and I'd do anything to give this fictional baby a hug
I loved the mutual possessiveness, Finn's overprotectiveness towards Oliver, the neediness, and THE CUDDLES 🥲🥲 I loved how there were no unnecessary relationship drama, how this didn't adopt the forbidden and taboo themes we're all so well acquainted with from the stepbrother trope (and how well it just worked).
Gahh I wish I could go into detail but I won't say anything else cause I'm prone to spoiling this gem and I don't want to do that to y'all. But the fact that Charli Meadows was able to accomplish the aforementioned three important things and it's her first book?!? I AM BAFFLED! This author knows how to craft a story, to set a scene, and to draw a reader in. This was seriously unputdownable 🤌🏾
I highly recommend if you're in the mood for some low-angst, wholesome, all-the-feels, grumpy/sunshine, stepbrother MM romance 💙💙
January 6, 2024
It was such a nice change in this stepbrothers romance that Finn doesn’t automatically act like a mean jerk to his new stepbrother Oliver just because Finn is mad at the world and at his dad for getting re-married and moving the new family in.
Finn, as the “big brother” (only in size) was protective of Oliver from the start. I’ve read so many enemies to lovers books lately that I think I just needed two characters that like each other to actually be nice to each other! The transition from strangers to lovers felt natural.
Even without any early animosity, you still get the slow burn, the push/pull, the UST because Oliver very firmly wants to stay in the closet due to experiences in his past and Finn has never been attracted to a guy before so he is a bit surprised with where his thoughts are taking him. Also, the whole “new stepbrothers” thing feels like a pretty decent obstacle.
”His eyes swirl with stars and far away galaxies no one will ever find. An endless night sky to stare into and reflect upon. Dark to my light. And it feels appropriate.”
-dimple appreciation
-stepbrothers
-grumpy golden retriever/sunshine puppy
-no parental supervision shenanigans
-fish out of water
-lite private school drama
-no relationship angst
September 5, 2022
Cali Boy is one of the most pure and sweet slow-burn romances that I have ever read. Also to my shock and surprise it was not an enemies to lovers situation between stepbrothers. I loved this flip on the classic trope because it offered such a different take as you get to watch such a beautiful love story begin in such a sincere and platonic way.
Another one of my favorite aspects of this story is the practically love at first sight Finn has towards Oliver. He doesn't understand why, but he is completely under Oliver's spell. Oliver is reserved, kind, artistic and completely different than anyone Finn has ever met before, making him not only enamored but completely devoted and protective of his new stepbrother.
Cali Boy is such a strong debut from this author. She made a story with so many layers for each main character, making for such a heartwarming and beautiful love story that I couldn't get enough of. Cannot wait to see what this author writes next.
Another one of my favorite aspects of this story is the practically love at first sight Finn has towards Oliver. He doesn't understand why, but he is completely under Oliver's spell. Oliver is reserved, kind, artistic and completely different than anyone Finn has ever met before, making him not only enamored but completely devoted and protective of his new stepbrother.
Cali Boy is such a strong debut from this author. She made a story with so many layers for each main character, making for such a heartwarming and beautiful love story that I couldn't get enough of. Cannot wait to see what this author writes next.
December 30, 2022
Swoon /5 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Angst /5 🥺🥺🥺🥺
Steam /5 ♨️♨️♨️♨️♨️
Plot /5 🧐🧐🧐
LOLs /5 🤭🤭🤭
Wow, what an enjoyable first- ever book from this author! It started heavy on angst, but soon eased into a beautiful dynamic between the unstoppably-joyful Ollie, and his broody & damaged new stepbrother Finn. While you might think “taboo” with stepbrother MM romances, while this was plenty spicy 🥵, it was the least taboo I’ve read. Probably because none of the angst revolved around their relationship, but instead about grief after the loss of a parent, and bullying at school. Ollie & Finn were able to cement their connection while at home alone for weeks, and there were no confected dramatic scenes of being found out & rejected. Which was super refreshing, and had such a good feel to it. Was the plot a little too easy & unrealistic in parts? Yeah, it was, but something about this just worked for me. The MCs were really likeable, and their connection was palpable. Looking forward to seeing what comes next for this author.
Check out my reviews and MM content on Instagram, Facebook, and Bookbub, all under the same name!
Angst /5 🥺🥺🥺🥺
Steam /5 ♨️♨️♨️♨️♨️
Plot /5 🧐🧐🧐
LOLs /5 🤭🤭🤭
Wow, what an enjoyable first- ever book from this author! It started heavy on angst, but soon eased into a beautiful dynamic between the unstoppably-joyful Ollie, and his broody & damaged new stepbrother Finn. While you might think “taboo” with stepbrother MM romances, while this was plenty spicy 🥵, it was the least taboo I’ve read. Probably because none of the angst revolved around their relationship, but instead about grief after the loss of a parent, and bullying at school. Ollie & Finn were able to cement their connection while at home alone for weeks, and there were no confected dramatic scenes of being found out & rejected. Which was super refreshing, and had such a good feel to it. Was the plot a little too easy & unrealistic in parts? Yeah, it was, but something about this just worked for me. The MCs were really likeable, and their connection was palpable. Looking forward to seeing what comes next for this author.
Check out my reviews and MM content on Instagram, Facebook, and Bookbub, all under the same name!
September 13, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I’ve had my fair share of super emotional reads lately and this book is just what the doctor ordered.
It’s sewn together with many of my favorite tropes. Including grumpy/sunshine, GFY, a protective/possessive MC and just enough drama to keep me turning those pages faster and faster.
Sometimes I wondered if things were too easy until we’re introduced to Eric and Hazel. Yeah those two were the evilest partners in crime and I’m not gonna lie that I saw THAT coming a mile away.
Feels a bit like Riverdale, no doubt thanks to evil, soulless gingers.
It’s not the most original but it was well written with good pacing and dynamic characters. Those boys had my heart from their introductions and I ate up every moment they shared. Especially the naughty bits, those were especially yummy.
I’m excited to see where this author goes next because I’m certainly here for it.
I’ve had my fair share of super emotional reads lately and this book is just what the doctor ordered.
It’s sewn together with many of my favorite tropes. Including grumpy/sunshine, GFY, a protective/possessive MC and just enough drama to keep me turning those pages faster and faster.
Sometimes I wondered if things were too easy until we’re introduced to Eric and Hazel. Yeah those two were the evilest partners in crime and I’m not gonna lie that I saw THAT coming a mile away.
Feels a bit like Riverdale, no doubt thanks to evil, soulless gingers.
It’s not the most original but it was well written with good pacing and dynamic characters. Those boys had my heart from their introductions and I ate up every moment they shared. Especially the naughty bits, those were especially yummy.
I’m excited to see where this author goes next because I’m certainly here for it.
September 25, 2022
I enjoyed the first 50% so much that it shocked me how much I hated the second half. What started off super sweet just devolved into mess after mess and so much ridiculousness that it feels like I read two separate stories basically. Eh and it probably didn’t help that I felt like the sex scenes weren’t well written either. It started off with insta lust and possessiveness which normally would bother me but I was so enamored with the characters that I didn’t care. Sigh. There was so much potential here!☹️
August 22, 2022
3.5 ⭐️ The first half was everything I look for in a YA romance. Friends, fun, cute meeting, smiles. Some parental conflict. Angsty backstory. Tentative first touches.
It was A.DO.RA.BLE.
Spoilers ahead:
The second half got a little boring. LOTS of sex (not what I expected from a HS romance). Bullying. A really dumb “attack”. And completely unresolved father-son situation. If Gabe was just lost and grieving, how in the world did he manage to meet and fall in love with Vivian, secretly marry her and move her and her son in, all within a year? DUDE. I was so mad I made my husband promise me he wouldn’t do that.
Oh and the constant use of “brother” really annoyed me. WE GET IT.
It was A.DO.RA.BLE.
Spoilers ahead:
The second half got a little boring. LOTS of sex (not what I expected from a HS romance). Bullying. A really dumb “attack”. And completely unresolved father-son situation. If Gabe was just lost and grieving, how in the world did he manage to meet and fall in love with Vivian, secretly marry her and move her and her son in, all within a year? DUDE. I was so mad I made my husband promise me he wouldn’t do that.
Oh and the constant use of “brother” really annoyed me. WE GET IT.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 19, 2022DNF 40%
This is too sweet for the likes of me, so I'm throwing the towel at 40%.
I am sure it will be a hit for some readers, but I do need some conflict and the one in this story - the bully kind - is doing nothing for me.
This is too sweet for the likes of me, so I'm throwing the towel at 40%.
I am sure it will be a hit for some readers, but I do need some conflict and the one in this story - the bully kind - is doing nothing for me.
![Profile Image for Kati *☆･ﾟ [a bit distracted atm].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1725834613i/144158876._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
Shelved as 'dropped'
January 8, 2023dnf @46%
I guess it’s a sweet story but somehow I feel high school romance is not working for me anymore. I have a lot to say why this particular story wasn’t working for me as well (and it was not only the high school setting) but I just leave it at that.
Totally in love with the cover, tho. ♡
I guess it’s a sweet story but somehow I feel high school romance is not working for me anymore. I have a lot to say why this particular story wasn’t working for me as well (and it was not only the high school setting) but I just leave it at that.
Totally in love with the cover, tho. ♡
August 16, 2022
"The look in my eyes must be saying I dare you, because Oliver doesn't break eye contact as he leans in, takes my thumb into his warm, wet mouth and sucks it clean, releasing it with a pop."
Honestly, I don't really enjoy the whole grumpy/sunshine trope, but Oliver and Finn totally do it for me! Cali Boy is the debut book (yes, you read that right - DEBUT book) by author Charli Meadows and it is beyond cute, beyond hot and beyond amazing.
So whilst grumpy/sunshine isn't usually my thing, Cali Boy also throws in some tropes that definitely are - like possessive/"mine" vibes, a hot AF bi-awakening, soooo many steamy first times, but also an innocence and sweetness that you don't often find in MM stepbrother romances (errr, yep it's a stepbrother trope too *squeals*).
If this genre is your thing too, you are going to ADORE Cali Boy❣️
Fantastic writing Charli Meadows!
5 fabulous ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Honestly, I don't really enjoy the whole grumpy/sunshine trope, but Oliver and Finn totally do it for me! Cali Boy is the debut book (yes, you read that right - DEBUT book) by author Charli Meadows and it is beyond cute, beyond hot and beyond amazing.
So whilst grumpy/sunshine isn't usually my thing, Cali Boy also throws in some tropes that definitely are - like possessive/"mine" vibes, a hot AF bi-awakening, soooo many steamy first times, but also an innocence and sweetness that you don't often find in MM stepbrother romances (errr, yep it's a stepbrother trope too *squeals*).
If this genre is your thing too, you are going to ADORE Cali Boy❣️
Fantastic writing Charli Meadows!
5 fabulous ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 27, 2023Dnf @ 55%
This was really cute and I loved the protectiveness but I found myself feeling bored and getting easily distracted. Normally I’d stick it out since I was past halfway but I don’t want to waste my time with books anymore when I’m already half way through and don’t feel confident about it by then.
This was really cute and I loved the protectiveness but I found myself feeling bored and getting easily distracted. Normally I’d stick it out since I was past halfway but I don’t want to waste my time with books anymore when I’m already half way through and don’t feel confident about it by then.
August 29, 2022
i had very mixed reactions reading this book.
it starts with basically insta-love and insta-possessive (without a reason really) and generally over the top.
if you know me you know that i eat that shit up like i’m paid for it so i was honestly loving this.
but i’m a firm believer that if you want to go in that direction you have to really go for it, you can’t just start big, having your character suddenly decide that the other is his and then retreat.
it became kind of dull after a while.
and i started to loose interest.
i want possession, i want toxicity, i want over the top, this was ott-bait.
then came the misogyny. and i quote “a feminine type of friendship” a feminine what??????
then the one-dimensional characters: bad is very bad good is very good.
then it was almost childish.
then it was really predictable and everybody was dumb as fuck (and it’s concerning if me, the queen of the dumbs, says so).
so yeah, we went down hill.
the writing is quite good and i’m sure that this author can do so much better if she really goes for it.
2.5 because i loved this so much at the beginning.
it starts with basically insta-love and insta-possessive (without a reason really) and generally over the top.
if you know me you know that i eat that shit up like i’m paid for it so i was honestly loving this.
but i’m a firm believer that if you want to go in that direction you have to really go for it, you can’t just start big, having your character suddenly decide that the other is his and then retreat.
it became kind of dull after a while.
and i started to loose interest.
i want possession, i want toxicity, i want over the top, this was ott-bait.
then came the misogyny. and i quote “a feminine type of friendship” a feminine what??????
then the one-dimensional characters: bad is very bad good is very good.
then it was almost childish.
then it was really predictable and everybody was dumb as fuck (and it’s concerning if me, the queen of the dumbs, says so).
so yeah, we went down hill.
the writing is quite good and i’m sure that this author can do so much better if she really goes for it.
2.5 because i loved this so much at the beginning.
August 27, 2022
Really sweet!!
September 3, 2022
An awesome debut!!!
I love the step-brothers' trope, so it's no wonder I was excited about this book! The insta-love and possessiveness were perfect for me. 🤌🤌🤌
You will love this book if you enjoy:
- step-brothers romance
- insta-love
- possessive MC 🤤
- grumpy/sunshine
- sweet and caring moments (excuse me while I go and swoon because Finn checked every food for peanuts since Ollie is allergic)
- hurt-comfort
I admit I enjoyed the first half way more. The second half included a bit too much smut one after the other and it got a bit boring. However, I still enjoyed this book.
I look forward to reading more books by Charlie Meadows. ❤️
I love the step-brothers' trope, so it's no wonder I was excited about this book! The insta-love and possessiveness were perfect for me. 🤌🤌🤌
You will love this book if you enjoy:
- step-brothers romance
- insta-love
- possessive MC 🤤
- grumpy/sunshine
- sweet and caring moments (excuse me while I go and swoon because Finn checked every food for peanuts since Ollie is allergic)
- hurt-comfort
I admit I enjoyed the first half way more. The second half included a bit too much smut one after the other and it got a bit boring. However, I still enjoyed this book.
I look forward to reading more books by Charlie Meadows. ❤️
August 29, 2022
⭐︎
4.5 "Cali Boy" Stars!
⭐︎
A very wonderful debut from this author. I can't wait for more from her.
Cali Boy is about Wyatt "Finn" Finnegan, who at the very start of this loses his mother, who he adored, in a car crash he's in as well. He lives, she doesn't, and Oliver Chase, who needed to get out of his small California hometown where he's faced rampant homophobia and bullying ever since he came out to his supposed best friends.
Finn's father, who is a big asshole, had a whirlwind romance online with Oliver's mother, and have gotten married before Finn even knew she existed, and he's told about her and her son who is the same age as him moving into their house the very next day.
It's been 14 months since he lost his mother, and Finn is not the happy-go-lucky boy he once was. He's grumpier, angrier, and grief-stricken. His asshole of a father hasn't helped matters.
But when his father makes him invite his new stepbrother to his Sunday football with his friends, Finn reluctantly goes to do it - but then he meets Oliver for the first time, and his attitude changes.
In this we don't get treating Oliver badly. Oliver is just too kind and sweet and the sunshine to his grump that he becomes protective over him quick.
It is pretty much insta-lust/love between these two, things do happen quickly between them, but they worked so well together and the chemistry was just so good that I didn't mind. Finn was putty in Oliver's hands from that first meeting and Oliver was just so kind and sweet and good that it made sense.
When their parents go on a 2 week honeymoon, they get the house to theirselves and that really allows them to fall for each other.
I guess my only gripe and the reason for giving this .5 stars off is because again, the step-brother thing is introduced in this story, but nothing really comes of it. I mean, they meet and fall in love real quick, so it's not like they had time to settle into being step-brothers, so that whole aspect felt almost like a non-issue.
I guess I just feel like if books are going to include the step-brother aspect, they should include how taboo it's supposed be, and how other people would react like it's this horrible and shocking thing.
Oliver's mother is amazing and just accepts it right away - which IS in line with her character so I wasn't too surprised - but Finn's father accepted it too easily for me. He was a bit bothered, but after a talk with Oliver's mother, he was able to accept it. Not 100%, but he wasn't raging or freaking out or anything either.
All their friends accept it wonderfully as well. Which is great, but also...where's my drama? Haha.
Instead the drama comes from these two characters, Eric and Hazel, who are just straight up bullies, and have no real reason as to why they hate Oliver and are targeting him - and we never learn why. Guess it's just jealousy, which is the obvious answer, that Oliver is so close to Finn. Hazel had a brief thing with Finn, so it makes sense on her end, but Eric was more of a question mark. I wondered if he was deeply closeted and had a thing for Finn and was jealous of Oliver because of that? Who knows - but they are targeting him.
They even, near the end, conspire to and of course they get off fairly easy because their families are rich as fuck. But they do face some consequences, at least.
I felt no sympathy for Eric. Whether he knew exactly what he was doing or not, he knew something would happen to Oliver and it wouldn't nice or fun or good, so even if he didn't mean to , he still wanted to hurt and humiliate Oliver, so fuck him, and Hazel. Good riddance to them both.
So yeah, there wasn't too much angst about the step-brother thing, which I wanted and wish had been included, so that's my reason for .5 stars off.
Buttt, ignoring that aspect, I just loved these two so much and their chemistry was wonderful. The sex scenes were done really well, too and they were frequent enough that I felt satisfied by what we did get.
We got to see these two fall so deeply in love with each other, and I loved reading it.
This was a very well done first novel, and I highly recommend it! This is definitely a strong start for this new author.
I definitely can't wait for more and will keep my eyes peeled for the next Charli Meadows book! 😁😘
A very wonderful debut from this author. I can't wait for more from her.
Cali Boy is about Wyatt "Finn" Finnegan, who at the very start of this loses his mother, who he adored, in a car crash he's in as well. He lives, she doesn't, and Oliver Chase, who needed to get out of his small California hometown where he's faced rampant homophobia and bullying ever since he came out to his supposed best friends.
Finn's father, who is a big asshole, had a whirlwind romance online with Oliver's mother, and have gotten married before Finn even knew she existed, and he's told about her and her son who is the same age as him moving into their house the very next day.
It's been 14 months since he lost his mother, and Finn is not the happy-go-lucky boy he once was. He's grumpier, angrier, and grief-stricken. His asshole of a father hasn't helped matters.
But when his father makes him invite his new stepbrother to his Sunday football with his friends, Finn reluctantly goes to do it - but then he meets Oliver for the first time, and his attitude changes.
In this we don't get treating Oliver badly. Oliver is just too kind and sweet and the sunshine to his grump that he becomes protective over him quick.
It is pretty much insta-lust/love between these two, things do happen quickly between them, but they worked so well together and the chemistry was just so good that I didn't mind. Finn was putty in Oliver's hands from that first meeting and Oliver was just so kind and sweet and good that it made sense.
When their parents go on a 2 week honeymoon, they get the house to theirselves and that really allows them to fall for each other.
I guess my only gripe and the reason for giving this .5 stars off is because again, the step-brother thing is introduced in this story, but nothing really comes of it. I mean, they meet and fall in love real quick, so it's not like they had time to settle into being step-brothers, so that whole aspect felt almost like a non-issue.
I guess I just feel like if books are going to include the step-brother aspect, they should include how taboo it's supposed be, and how other people would react like it's this horrible and shocking thing.
Oliver's mother is amazing and just accepts it right away - which IS in line with her character so I wasn't too surprised - but Finn's father accepted it too easily for me. He was a bit bothered, but after a talk with Oliver's mother, he was able to accept it. Not 100%, but he wasn't raging or freaking out or anything either.
All their friends accept it wonderfully as well. Which is great, but also...where's my drama? Haha.
Instead the drama comes from these two characters, Eric and Hazel, who are just straight up bullies, and have no real reason as to why they hate Oliver and are targeting him - and we never learn why. Guess it's just jealousy, which is the obvious answer, that Oliver is so close to Finn. Hazel had a brief thing with Finn, so it makes sense on her end, but Eric was more of a question mark. I wondered if he was deeply closeted and had a thing for Finn and was jealous of Oliver because of that? Who knows - but they are targeting him.
They even, near the end, conspire to and of course they get off fairly easy because their families are rich as fuck. But they do face some consequences, at least.
I felt no sympathy for Eric. Whether he knew exactly what he was doing or not, he knew something would happen to Oliver and it wouldn't nice or fun or good, so even if he didn't mean to , he still wanted to hurt and humiliate Oliver, so fuck him, and Hazel. Good riddance to them both.
So yeah, there wasn't too much angst about the step-brother thing, which I wanted and wish had been included, so that's my reason for .5 stars off.
Buttt, ignoring that aspect, I just loved these two so much and their chemistry was wonderful. The sex scenes were done really well, too and they were frequent enough that I felt satisfied by what we did get.
We got to see these two fall so deeply in love with each other, and I loved reading it.
This was a very well done first novel, and I highly recommend it! This is definitely a strong start for this new author.
I definitely can't wait for more and will keep my eyes peeled for the next Charli Meadows book! 😁😘
March 29, 2023
This was okay. It was a sweet story but I already know that I'll forget everything about it in about a month or two. That being said, I still look forward to reading more from this author in the future. 2.5 stars, rounded up.
June 12, 2023
Re-read June 2023
4.5 stars
Sugary sweet perhaps, but it was just what I needed.
4.5 stars
Sugary sweet perhaps, but it was just what I needed.
August 19, 2022
It was so cute! Cute, sweet, adorable and hot. A little emotional. But mostly sweet...infact too sweet for my taste.
"Cali Boy" had an interesting plot line. Step-brothers, fordibben romance. I personally really live this forbidden trope. So, I had high expectations from this book. Sadly enough it didn't live upto them
The writing was good. Really good for a debut novel. The main characters were endearing and loveable. I liked the romance. It was cute. Their connection was instance, the romance progressed too fast. I still enjoyed it.
But love at first sight? I don't believe in it. How do you fall in love with someone you're meeting for the first time ever? You don't even know what kind of person they are! F*ck. Hate it. Our mcs fell too fast, too suddenly. It was so unrealistic and underwhelming. It felt forced. Not fake but definitely forced.
I came here to read a forbidden romance. But "Cali Boy" wasn't forbidden enough. Okay..it wasn't forbidden at all. Finn and Oliver didn't need to face any obstacles. When they came out to everyone as a couple, all immediately accepted them. Even was extremely happy for them. Anyone was hardly surprised. I get it. I know it's a good thing. But it definitely wasn't realistic or related. We, the queer poeple, don't have it so easy. This world is progressing but you can't tell me that nobody would raise an eyebrow if you suddenly say you're dating your stepbrother. Specially when your boyfriend's mom is pregnant with your father's child. The f*ck! This book just gave such a false sense of security, which made me very upset.
Oliver's mom's reaction was like this..“Oh my goodness, boyfriends? I’m. . . I’m so happy for both of you! I knew you had chemistry."
Finn dad didn't take the news so well. But he still accepted them gladly.
Again Finn was always criticising rich kids. Calling them names, most of them being directed to the rich girls. He overdid it. He himself was a rich privileged boy. He never needed to do any work but was still living his dream. Building up a car museum with the money his mother left him. His character should have had more depth. I'm sorta disappointed. Yes, he had to struggle a lot after experiencing something traumatic. But that doesn't excuse his rude behaviour.
"Cali Boy" had an interesting plot line. Step-brothers, fordibben romance. I personally really live this forbidden trope. So, I had high expectations from this book. Sadly enough it didn't live upto them
The writing was good. Really good for a debut novel. The main characters were endearing and loveable. I liked the romance. It was cute. Their connection was instance, the romance progressed too fast. I still enjoyed it.
But love at first sight? I don't believe in it. How do you fall in love with someone you're meeting for the first time ever? You don't even know what kind of person they are! F*ck. Hate it. Our mcs fell too fast, too suddenly. It was so unrealistic and underwhelming. It felt forced. Not fake but definitely forced.
I came here to read a forbidden romance. But "Cali Boy" wasn't forbidden enough. Okay..it wasn't forbidden at all. Finn and Oliver didn't need to face any obstacles. When they came out to everyone as a couple, all immediately accepted them. Even was extremely happy for them. Anyone was hardly surprised. I get it. I know it's a good thing. But it definitely wasn't realistic or related. We, the queer poeple, don't have it so easy. This world is progressing but you can't tell me that nobody would raise an eyebrow if you suddenly say you're dating your stepbrother. Specially when your boyfriend's mom is pregnant with your father's child. The f*ck! This book just gave such a false sense of security, which made me very upset.
Oliver's mom's reaction was like this..“Oh my goodness, boyfriends? I’m. . . I’m so happy for both of you! I knew you had chemistry."
Finn dad didn't take the news so well. But he still accepted them gladly.
Again Finn was always criticising rich kids. Calling them names, most of them being directed to the rich girls. He overdid it. He himself was a rich privileged boy. He never needed to do any work but was still living his dream. Building up a car museum with the money his mother left him. His character should have had more depth. I'm sorta disappointed. Yes, he had to struggle a lot after experiencing something traumatic. But that doesn't excuse his rude behaviour.
June 20, 2023
This was the first book I have read by Charli Meadows and it was great! I am now a HUGE Charli fan. I devoured the rest of the series and I cannot wait to read more books from her.
I didn’t mean for things to get so intense. But it’s like he’s lit a spark in me, making me feel things I haven’t felt in such a long time.
Finn lost his mom in a terrible accident about a year ago and then all of a sudden Finn's dad drops a bomb that he met someone and got married and she and her son are moving in tomorrow. Talk about a shock to the system. Finn is understandably pissed and wants nothing to do with his new "family".
Finn wants to go play flag football with his bros, but his dad makes him take his new stepbrother Oliver with him or says he can forget about going. So Finn grudgingly agrees and literally meets his new stepbrother for the first time when asking him to go play football with him. Oliver is so happy to meet Finn and readily agrees to go along with him.
I adored how protective Finn was of Ollie right away and that there wasn't any animosity between them, they just became a team. Them against the world. They just supported each other so fully and I was here for it!
Nervous about all the asses I’m going to have to kick to protect Oliver. Because I’ve already decided I will. Protect him that is. No one’s gonna fuck with my stepbrother.
Finn has never been attracted to a guy before, but he is instantly intrigued by Oliver. Finn tries to fight his feelings for Ollie, but he just cannot do it. The pull is too strong. I loved how they experimented together and were each other’s firsts for so many things.
I’ve never checked out a guy before, but for some reason, Oliver is now the sun, and I've been pulled into his orbit, wanting to revolve around him. And it’s completely out of my control. His shine is so bright, and I’m so close, I’m fucking burning.
So many sweet and steamy moments in this book! Loved them.
“Fuck, Cali Boy. I love you so fucking much.” I kiss him deeply, caressing his mouth with my tongue. I slip my hand under the waistband of his boxers and grasp onto his hard length. “Let’s go to my room. I need you again. Need to show you how much I love you.”
Ollie has a serious food allergy and the way that Finn takes it upon himself to make sure that Ollie can eat safely when they are together is so effing sweet. Also, Ollie's mom is a gift to the world. And the way she helps Finn's dad be a better human and father is amazing. Finn also arranged some of the sweetest birthday surprises for Ollie! So swoony.
I’m so proud of Ollie for stepping out of his comfort zone for me, just like I’ve stepped out of mine for him. It’s helping us both grow and is another reason why this relationship is just so fucking right.
If you haven't read this series, please go do so! It's awesome. I love a protective and caring MC and each of the Loyal Boys books delivers that in spades.
I didn’t mean for things to get so intense. But it’s like he’s lit a spark in me, making me feel things I haven’t felt in such a long time.
Finn lost his mom in a terrible accident about a year ago and then all of a sudden Finn's dad drops a bomb that he met someone and got married and she and her son are moving in tomorrow. Talk about a shock to the system. Finn is understandably pissed and wants nothing to do with his new "family".
Finn wants to go play flag football with his bros, but his dad makes him take his new stepbrother Oliver with him or says he can forget about going. So Finn grudgingly agrees and literally meets his new stepbrother for the first time when asking him to go play football with him. Oliver is so happy to meet Finn and readily agrees to go along with him.
I adored how protective Finn was of Ollie right away and that there wasn't any animosity between them, they just became a team. Them against the world. They just supported each other so fully and I was here for it!
Nervous about all the asses I’m going to have to kick to protect Oliver. Because I’ve already decided I will. Protect him that is. No one’s gonna fuck with my stepbrother.
Finn has never been attracted to a guy before, but he is instantly intrigued by Oliver. Finn tries to fight his feelings for Ollie, but he just cannot do it. The pull is too strong. I loved how they experimented together and were each other’s firsts for so many things.
I’ve never checked out a guy before, but for some reason, Oliver is now the sun, and I've been pulled into his orbit, wanting to revolve around him. And it’s completely out of my control. His shine is so bright, and I’m so close, I’m fucking burning.
So many sweet and steamy moments in this book! Loved them.
“Fuck, Cali Boy. I love you so fucking much.” I kiss him deeply, caressing his mouth with my tongue. I slip my hand under the waistband of his boxers and grasp onto his hard length. “Let’s go to my room. I need you again. Need to show you how much I love you.”
Ollie has a serious food allergy and the way that Finn takes it upon himself to make sure that Ollie can eat safely when they are together is so effing sweet. Also, Ollie's mom is a gift to the world. And the way she helps Finn's dad be a better human and father is amazing. Finn also arranged some of the sweetest birthday surprises for Ollie! So swoony.
I’m so proud of Ollie for stepping out of his comfort zone for me, just like I’ve stepped out of mine for him. It’s helping us both grow and is another reason why this relationship is just so fucking right.
If you haven't read this series, please go do so! It's awesome. I love a protective and caring MC and each of the Loyal Boys books delivers that in spades.
August 21, 2022
The cover is what happens to catch my attention in this book. Just a bonus, it's MM romance. Oliver and Finn are not at all what I expect. So happy they’re not. They are so much more.
Here is what to expect
Grumpy & Sunshine
Hurt & Comfort
Sweet With Steam
Darkness & Light
Forbidden love/ Stepbrothers
Overprotective MC
Oliver is light to Finn’s Darkness. Finn is Overprotective and borderline possessive of Oliver. He has never felt his way about a man. Oliver has so many layers. I loved his character development and how thought he is.
Finn is the biggest sweetheart with a heart is gold. Seriously, no one should ever hurt or be mean to him. But you always have the mean people of high school and the narrow-minded people.
These two are the perfect puzzle pieces that fit together. The book is well written and kept my attention. I found Cali Boy to be refreshing with an original plot line.
I look forward to future books from the author.
August 8, 2022
I loved it! When I heard MM Stepbrothers I was like sign me up! ! And then I saw the cover and the vibrant teasers and I was even more excited!
And I wasn't disappointed in the slightest! Cali Boy is so cute and swoony! It was just the right pace and I honestly couldn't put it down!
It was everything I was hopeful for and more! I 💯 loved it!
And I wasn't disappointed in the slightest! Cali Boy is so cute and swoony! It was just the right pace and I honestly couldn't put it down!
It was everything I was hopeful for and more! I 💯 loved it!
October 7, 2022
I have to review this one in two parts.
4 stars: I really enjoyed the beginning, probably around the whole first half. The growly protective Finn parts, the very excellent grumpy-sunshine dynamic, the instalust obsession that hit just right…it was so lovely! I definitely liked that Finn was trying to be grumpy and a jerk to Oliver in the beginning and managed it for like 3 sentences before caving. That was super cute.
I also was here for the Gossip Girl style rich kid prep school, dramatic high schoolers doing things that aren’t normal etc. Who cares that’s entertaining. I can roll with it.
Unfortunately the fun times didn’t carry through.
2 stars: The growly protectiveness kind of got lost some. It was still there, but I guess it wasn’t …enough? Am I too demanding? maybe. whatever i wanted more possessiveness to continue through
There wasn’t a coherent plot thread through this whole book. In the beginning, it didn’t matter to me much, but since I wasn’t feeling the intensity/all consuming relationship in the second half, that couldn’t carry the book by itself either.
The two present plot threads - Evil Bullies and Family Problems - were both fairly large issues, but didn’t see a lot of development.
Evil Eric and Hazel didn’t make much sense anyway. Hazel is being jealous, I guess. What was Eric’s deal? Did I miss that in my skimming? I mean they went bonkers over it and I do not know what was driving that. This was bizarre and OTT and yet underdeveloped.
The family problems thread was not really much of a thread. Finn struggled, and his father was a jerk, but it was kind of just solved in a single conversation at the end. His father wasn’t even around for most of the book, so it felt tacked on, and not a cohesive arc.
Evil Eric was more present as a plot thread, but he didn’t make sense so it didn’t serve to tie anything together. He was just chaotic mean. There’s gotta be some grains of reasoning, even in OTT plots! Otherwise they’re just ??? and not fun to read.
Overall, I liked the beginning, there is potential here. It lost its forward momentum when it went all in with the bonkers nonsensical plot. It's skewing more towards 2.5 stars, but the beginning was sweet so I'll call it 3 stars.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
4 stars: I really enjoyed the beginning, probably around the whole first half. The growly protective Finn parts, the very excellent grumpy-sunshine dynamic, the instalust obsession that hit just right…it was so lovely! I definitely liked that Finn was trying to be grumpy and a jerk to Oliver in the beginning and managed it for like 3 sentences before caving. That was super cute.
I also was here for the Gossip Girl style rich kid prep school, dramatic high schoolers doing things that aren’t normal etc. Who cares that’s entertaining. I can roll with it.
Unfortunately the fun times didn’t carry through.
2 stars: The growly protectiveness kind of got lost some. It was still there, but I guess it wasn’t …enough? Am I too demanding? maybe. whatever i wanted more possessiveness to continue through
There wasn’t a coherent plot thread through this whole book. In the beginning, it didn’t matter to me much, but since I wasn’t feeling the intensity/all consuming relationship in the second half, that couldn’t carry the book by itself either.
The two present plot threads - Evil Bullies and Family Problems - were both fairly large issues, but didn’t see a lot of development.
Evil Eric and Hazel didn’t make much sense anyway. Hazel is being jealous, I guess. What was Eric’s deal? Did I miss that in my skimming? I mean they went bonkers over it and I do not know what was driving that. This was bizarre and OTT and yet underdeveloped.
The family problems thread was not really much of a thread. Finn struggled, and his father was a jerk, but it was kind of just solved in a single conversation at the end. His father wasn’t even around for most of the book, so it felt tacked on, and not a cohesive arc.
Evil Eric was more present as a plot thread, but he didn’t make sense so it didn’t serve to tie anything together. He was just chaotic mean. There’s gotta be some grains of reasoning, even in OTT plots! Otherwise they’re just ??? and not fun to read.
Overall, I liked the beginning, there is potential here. It lost its forward momentum when it went all in with the bonkers nonsensical plot. It's skewing more towards 2.5 stars, but the beginning was sweet so I'll call it 3 stars.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
December 22, 2023
5 / 5 Stars
3.5 / 5 Steam
I just knew I was going to love this series. I had this feeling...no idea why it took me so long to actually read the books. I have 4 editions of this book physically - that's how much I KNEW I was going to love it.
Anyway, it follows Finn and Oliver. Finn loses his mom in a terrible car accident, and it changes him completely. He's never had a great relationship with is dad, but the accident makes it much worse. They have so little communication that Finn doesn't know his dad is remarried until he moves the new wife and her son into their home.
Oliver is Finn's new stepbrother. He's happy for the move and a fresh start after coming out to his friends at his previous school and them reacting terribly.
That's as much as I'll say to avoid spoilers.
This relationship is so sweet! It's a bit of a slow burn. Oliver knows he's gay, but Finn has never been attracted to guys before. I loved that him realizing his attraction and following through with it wasn't overly dramatic. He took it with stride and handled it well, in my opinion. The biggest issue for these two is that they are newly stepbrothers and what it could mean if they act on it. Obviously, they can't deny their attraction to each other and eventually give in. And when I say they give in... they really do. The steam, just so hot. This book gives off the innocent and sweet vibes until around the halfway mark and then BAM! Trust me.
I absolutely loved how attentive Finn was right from the very start. There was no animosity, hatred, or misplaced aggression between Finn and Oliver. Finn immediately became protective of Oliver and Oliver was smitten with Finn right away. I loved it.
There is some definite bullying in the book from other characters directed towards Oliver and it's heartbreaking to see it play out. But it's handled well, in my opinion.
The dad never quite warmed up enough for me. I'm glad it worked out and they got their moment to really talk things out, but it didn't satisfy me enough to bring me around to him.
This is a really beautiful story, an incredibly strong debut from Charli, and a story I'll definitely come back to and read again for comfort.
3.5 / 5 Steam
I just knew I was going to love this series. I had this feeling...no idea why it took me so long to actually read the books. I have 4 editions of this book physically - that's how much I KNEW I was going to love it.
Anyway, it follows Finn and Oliver. Finn loses his mom in a terrible car accident, and it changes him completely. He's never had a great relationship with is dad, but the accident makes it much worse. They have so little communication that Finn doesn't know his dad is remarried until he moves the new wife and her son into their home.
Oliver is Finn's new stepbrother. He's happy for the move and a fresh start after coming out to his friends at his previous school and them reacting terribly.
That's as much as I'll say to avoid spoilers.
This relationship is so sweet! It's a bit of a slow burn. Oliver knows he's gay, but Finn has never been attracted to guys before. I loved that him realizing his attraction and following through with it wasn't overly dramatic. He took it with stride and handled it well, in my opinion. The biggest issue for these two is that they are newly stepbrothers and what it could mean if they act on it. Obviously, they can't deny their attraction to each other and eventually give in. And when I say they give in... they really do. The steam, just so hot. This book gives off the innocent and sweet vibes until around the halfway mark and then BAM! Trust me.
I absolutely loved how attentive Finn was right from the very start. There was no animosity, hatred, or misplaced aggression between Finn and Oliver. Finn immediately became protective of Oliver and Oliver was smitten with Finn right away. I loved it.
There is some definite bullying in the book from other characters directed towards Oliver and it's heartbreaking to see it play out. But it's handled well, in my opinion.
The dad never quite warmed up enough for me. I'm glad it worked out and they got their moment to really talk things out, but it didn't satisfy me enough to bring me around to him.
This is a really beautiful story, an incredibly strong debut from Charli, and a story I'll definitely come back to and read again for comfort.
June 5, 2023
✰ 2.75 stars ✰
“I want that too,” I whisper back. He looks up at me and smiles, dimples popping.
What is this boy doing to me?
I feel like the Tin Man who finally gets a heart.”
I know I have my own self-imposed rule not to DNF any book once I've started it, but boy, did Cali Boy really test my own limits. I just could not connect with the characters' chemistry or the story or the writing - oh dear, the writing. I know it's a debut novel by the author, but at times, it was so cringe-y; maybe, it was intentional, to show real-life behavior by teenagers, but I just couldn't. 😔 I really tried, believe me, but everything about it just rubbed me the wrong way.
I liked that Charli Meadows gave both the characters some tragic history that did give some weight to their personalities. I didn't very much like any of Finn's friends - nothing about them really stood out, unless the author intends to revisit them in the past - they were just very much there - being loud and supportive. The story just didn't show any originality - the story line, the relationships, the expected climax, the eventual fall-out - it was all very much a recycled plot that I had ready already - in a much more appealing writing style. 😩 That probably upset me the most - that a book I had been holding off from reading for so long failed to meet my expectations.
“It’s okay to let people in, Finn. It’s okay to let me in.”
And I did not understand how it progressed so quickly to insta-love and this immediate 'Gay for You' reaction! Finn and Oliver barely had time to connect with one another and Finn was already lusting after him; true, he granted himself a reprieve of exactly one chapter to state that this is a bad idea and whatnot, but after that, it was just sex and sex and more unprotected sex! 🤨
Even before they even had a chance for their relationship to progress, for them really to get to know another, Finn had shifted from overprotective stepbrother, to wanting to kiss his brother! And vice versa! Two boys, too obsessed with getting each other off and very much nothing else that I couldn't take even the thrown-in cliché drama very seriously. 😫
“There was a time not too long ago that I would have freaked out about how this might look to outsiders. But now, I don’t give a fuck because it’s exactly how it looks.
This is my boyfriend, and we’re in love.”
And even if it all worked out a little too conveniently - very much a happy-go-lucky ending, I will have to admit that the epilogue was very cute. It was nice to see that Finn and Oliver had their happily ever afters and for Finn to find some common footing with his father. But, other than that, I really don't have much to say about this. It was a disappointment, six months in the waiting, but I'm still holding out that the second book in the series might be able to redeem itself. Maybe - let's see. 🙄
“I want that too,” I whisper back. He looks up at me and smiles, dimples popping.
What is this boy doing to me?
I feel like the Tin Man who finally gets a heart.”
I know I have my own self-imposed rule not to DNF any book once I've started it, but boy, did Cali Boy really test my own limits. I just could not connect with the characters' chemistry or the story or the writing - oh dear, the writing. I know it's a debut novel by the author, but at times, it was so cringe-y; maybe, it was intentional, to show real-life behavior by teenagers, but I just couldn't. 😔 I really tried, believe me, but everything about it just rubbed me the wrong way.
I liked that Charli Meadows gave both the characters some tragic history that did give some weight to their personalities. I didn't very much like any of Finn's friends - nothing about them really stood out, unless the author intends to revisit them in the past - they were just very much there - being loud and supportive. The story just didn't show any originality - the story line, the relationships, the expected climax, the eventual fall-out - it was all very much a recycled plot that I had ready already - in a much more appealing writing style. 😩 That probably upset me the most - that a book I had been holding off from reading for so long failed to meet my expectations.
“It’s okay to let people in, Finn. It’s okay to let me in.”
And I did not understand how it progressed so quickly to insta-love and this immediate 'Gay for You' reaction! Finn and Oliver barely had time to connect with one another and Finn was already lusting after him; true, he granted himself a reprieve of exactly one chapter to state that this is a bad idea and whatnot, but after that, it was just sex and sex and more unprotected sex! 🤨
Even before they even had a chance for their relationship to progress, for them really to get to know another, Finn had shifted from overprotective stepbrother, to wanting to kiss his brother! And vice versa! Two boys, too obsessed with getting each other off and very much nothing else that I couldn't take even the thrown-in cliché drama very seriously. 😫
“There was a time not too long ago that I would have freaked out about how this might look to outsiders. But now, I don’t give a fuck because it’s exactly how it looks.
This is my boyfriend, and we’re in love.”
And even if it all worked out a little too conveniently - very much a happy-go-lucky ending, I will have to admit that the epilogue was very cute. It was nice to see that Finn and Oliver had their happily ever afters and for Finn to find some common footing with his father. But, other than that, I really don't have much to say about this. It was a disappointment, six months in the waiting, but I'm still holding out that the second book in the series might be able to redeem itself. Maybe - let's see. 🙄
August 7, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. 4.5 stars rounded up
He rolls his eyes and smiles, showing off his deep dimples that I’m sure have helped him get away with murder his entire life.
I read the third book in this series first (thankfully they’re standalones), and even though I loved it and was planning on reading Cali Boy sometime, I wasn’t actually planning on reading it so soon. Alas, Charli Meadow’s writing is just so good and I love the tropes, the possessiveness and protectiveness the MCs show, and just the overall vibe. I think it’s very easy to get hooked on this author’s writing. I am now gleefully looking forward to reading the second book.
I gulp so loud I almost choke on my own tongue. I’m positive he heard it echoing like a fucking foghorn in this otherwise silent room. Ass dimples. He has ass dimples.
There’s some dark stuff that happens in the book, and the characters have had some trauma previously, but it doesn’t read dark. I found it uplifting and made me optimistic for the boys’ future. I generally avoid books with very young MCs because I have a hard time picturing them actually staying together, but I think Charli did a fantastic job with making me believe in their future. An adorable epilogue certainly helped. There’s just something about the hurt/comfort trope that really hits the spot for me every time, and I love seeing sad boys get their HEA. Charli Meadows has expertly nailed those two things (and loads of other things), and has a direct line to my hurt/comfort-loving heart.
“Thanks, Gabe,” Ollie says politely, and I swear to God he better call me Daddy before he ever calls my father Dad.
I would have loved to see a bit more of the relationship development between Finn and his dad, as that dynamic was quite important to the characters, but I’m glad we got a glimpse at how it all turns out, atleast.
Oliver truly was a ray of sunshine to Finn’s grumpy, but Finn was complete putty in his Ollie’s hands. 🎨🛞
I whisper into his ear that the code is his birth year backward. Ollie reaches out and presses four-zero-zero-two […]
Reading that was like a kick to my metaphorical nutsack. What do you mean 2004? *gag*
I’m not even old, and now I feel ancient, dammit.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Stepbrothers, virgin MC, sexual awakening, hurt/comfort, grumpy/sunshine, high school, bullies, artist
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Bullying
Parental death
Medical emergency
Grief
Homophobia
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
He rolls his eyes and smiles, showing off his deep dimples that I’m sure have helped him get away with murder his entire life.
I read the third book in this series first (thankfully they’re standalones), and even though I loved it and was planning on reading Cali Boy sometime, I wasn’t actually planning on reading it so soon. Alas, Charli Meadow’s writing is just so good and I love the tropes, the possessiveness and protectiveness the MCs show, and just the overall vibe. I think it’s very easy to get hooked on this author’s writing. I am now gleefully looking forward to reading the second book.
I gulp so loud I almost choke on my own tongue. I’m positive he heard it echoing like a fucking foghorn in this otherwise silent room. Ass dimples. He has ass dimples.
There’s some dark stuff that happens in the book, and the characters have had some trauma previously, but it doesn’t read dark. I found it uplifting and made me optimistic for the boys’ future. I generally avoid books with very young MCs because I have a hard time picturing them actually staying together, but I think Charli did a fantastic job with making me believe in their future. An adorable epilogue certainly helped. There’s just something about the hurt/comfort trope that really hits the spot for me every time, and I love seeing sad boys get their HEA. Charli Meadows has expertly nailed those two things (and loads of other things), and has a direct line to my hurt/comfort-loving heart.
“Thanks, Gabe,” Ollie says politely, and I swear to God he better call me Daddy before he ever calls my father Dad.
I would have loved to see a bit more of the relationship development between Finn and his dad, as that dynamic was quite important to the characters, but I’m glad we got a glimpse at how it all turns out, atleast.
Oliver truly was a ray of sunshine to Finn’s grumpy, but Finn was complete putty in his Ollie’s hands. 🎨🛞
I whisper into his ear that the code is his birth year backward. Ollie reaches out and presses four-zero-zero-two […]
Reading that was like a kick to my metaphorical nutsack. What do you mean 2004? *gag*
I’m not even old, and now I feel ancient, dammit.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Stepbrothers, virgin MC, sexual awakening, hurt/comfort, grumpy/sunshine, high school, bullies, artist
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Bullying
Parental death
Medical emergency
Grief
Homophobia
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
August 28, 2022
Well, this was a pleasant surprise. It was just what I needed at the moment..sweet and low-angst.
Finn and Oliver were great characters. I loved them both separately and together. But one complaint would be, at times, I found it difficult to distinguish between them. They sometimes read the same...talked, acted etc. I'd forget whose POV I was reading.
The other thing was, since it was sweet and not a lot angst-wise, I think it could have been a few pages shorter..maybe cut out a few sex scenes. But other than those two niggles, I loved it.
Finn and Oliver were great characters. I loved them both separately and together. But one complaint would be, at times, I found it difficult to distinguish between them. They sometimes read the same...talked, acted etc. I'd forget whose POV I was reading.
The other thing was, since it was sweet and not a lot angst-wise, I think it could have been a few pages shorter..maybe cut out a few sex scenes. But other than those two niggles, I loved it.
August 10, 2022
What an amazing debut from this author!
Fans of new adult (both MCs are 18 in this book once any steamy parts happen), stepbrothers, and grumpy/sunshine need to get this one on your radar!
I adored Finn and Ollie together. For being the grump, Finn absolutely MELTS when he starts falling for Ollie and I adored that. I also loved the slow burn through this (I say slow burn - it was a couple weeks, but the pace of the writing gave it a slow burn feel) as they got to know each other while their parents were away on their honeymoon.
The main conflict also comes from school kids at their school, not the angst and drama of them being stepbrothers, which I also really enjoyed. I really loved some of the group interactions and friendships here.
The writing was very solid, the steam fun and full of steamy first times. I really loved these two falling for each other and how sweet they were together.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book from this author!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Fans of new adult (both MCs are 18 in this book once any steamy parts happen), stepbrothers, and grumpy/sunshine need to get this one on your radar!
I adored Finn and Ollie together. For being the grump, Finn absolutely MELTS when he starts falling for Ollie and I adored that. I also loved the slow burn through this (I say slow burn - it was a couple weeks, but the pace of the writing gave it a slow burn feel) as they got to know each other while their parents were away on their honeymoon.
The main conflict also comes from school kids at their school, not the angst and drama of them being stepbrothers, which I also really enjoyed. I really loved some of the group interactions and friendships here.
The writing was very solid, the steam fun and full of steamy first times. I really loved these two falling for each other and how sweet they were together.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book from this author!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Read
January 16, 2023Dnf @15%
It's me, not the book, too insta love for my taste.
It's me, not the book, too insta love for my taste.
May 16, 2023
Damn I loved this one and I was surprised that it was the authors first book. I was here for Finn's possessiveness and Ollie was adorable and deserved to be protected at all costs. It had just the right amount of drama and copious amounts of steamy scenes.
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