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Chasing Rings #1
Loving the Legend
Since Pro basketball player Ty “Pretty Boy� Washington picked up a basketball, he’s only ever wanted one to make it to the pro league and win championships. As the number one pick in the draft, he defies the odds in his rookie year by beating the record of one of the greatest players in the league, Sid “The Wonder Kid� King.
For years, Ty has looked forward to playing in the same league as Sid, the epitome of success. What he doesn’t expect is their intense chemistry or how Sid is the only person who can see that he’s barely hanging on.
At the top of his game, Sid is well on his way to becoming a legend. Voted the Sexiest Man Alive with a reputation as a ladies� man, he seems to have it all. When he sees for the first time the undeniably talented rookie with soulful yet sad eyes, long-buried feelings surface.
Loving the Legend is book 1 in the MM sports romance Chasing Rings series. Each book ends with a HEA, can be read as a stand-alone, and features a new couple. Themes include two MCs from rival teams turned lovers, grief/trauma, hurt/comfort, hidden relationships, possessiveness, found family, and more. Both MCs are consenting adults.
For years, Ty has looked forward to playing in the same league as Sid, the epitome of success. What he doesn’t expect is their intense chemistry or how Sid is the only person who can see that he’s barely hanging on.
At the top of his game, Sid is well on his way to becoming a legend. Voted the Sexiest Man Alive with a reputation as a ladies� man, he seems to have it all. When he sees for the first time the undeniably talented rookie with soulful yet sad eyes, long-buried feelings surface.
Loving the Legend is book 1 in the MM sports romance Chasing Rings series. Each book ends with a HEA, can be read as a stand-alone, and features a new couple. Themes include two MCs from rival teams turned lovers, grief/trauma, hurt/comfort, hidden relationships, possessiveness, found family, and more. Both MCs are consenting adults.
488 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2024
403 people are currently reading
2335 people want to read
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May 3, 2025
Realistically, the MC got his armpit sucked, licked and fucked�. And I should have quit at that.
🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄- I should have dnf-d.
The back to back to back to back to back cum sessions are HIGHLY unbelievable.
To the point it’s a joke? I LOVE ME SOME CUM 💦💦💦
Don’t get me wrong, but the amount of times on repeat, went against the laws of even girl math.
AND the�
“Oh no I don’t want to come yet� LOSES ALL FUCKING MEANING WHEN APPARENTLY YOUR MC’S HAVE AN UNLIMITED SUPPLY OF CUM AND ARE READY TO GO STRAIGHT TO ROUND 2 THE SECOND THEY POP OFF THE FIRST TIME???
Also,
NO ONE NEEDS 8 pages of a random side character coming out story.
NO ONE NEEDS detailed pages of a rooms appearance.
NO ONE NEEDS 8 pages of non-stop dialogue explaining your character lore instead of showing it to us.
NO ONE NEEDS long winded explanations of what a random dude in a room is wearing??
NO ONE NEEDS vividly descriptive explanations of the rules of basketball or any sport related things.
Example:
In early April, I won the NBA rookie of the year award, an annual award given to the top rookie of the regular season. The winner is selected by a panel of American and Canadian broadcasters and sports writers who cast first, second and third place votes. The votes are worth different points, and the player with the highest total points wins the award�
🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄- I should have dnf-d.
The back to back to back to back to back cum sessions are HIGHLY unbelievable.
To the point it’s a joke? I LOVE ME SOME CUM 💦💦💦
Don’t get me wrong, but the amount of times on repeat, went against the laws of even girl math.
AND the�
“Oh no I don’t want to come yet� LOSES ALL FUCKING MEANING WHEN APPARENTLY YOUR MC’S HAVE AN UNLIMITED SUPPLY OF CUM AND ARE READY TO GO STRAIGHT TO ROUND 2 THE SECOND THEY POP OFF THE FIRST TIME???
Also,
NO ONE NEEDS 8 pages of a random side character coming out story.
NO ONE NEEDS detailed pages of a rooms appearance.
NO ONE NEEDS 8 pages of non-stop dialogue explaining your character lore instead of showing it to us.
NO ONE NEEDS long winded explanations of what a random dude in a room is wearing??
NO ONE NEEDS vividly descriptive explanations of the rules of basketball or any sport related things.
Example:
In early April, I won the NBA rookie of the year award, an annual award given to the top rookie of the regular season. The winner is selected by a panel of American and Canadian broadcasters and sports writers who cast first, second and third place votes. The votes are worth different points, and the player with the highest total points wins the award�
January 30, 2024
❝Put the phone on the nightstand with the camera facing you. Let’s go to bed.�
I nod. I love waking up to his face.
We both make the necessary phone adjustments and then settle in. For a few moments, we just gaze at each other.
Sid breaks the silence. ❝I’m convinced the Creator used a miniature paintbrush and centuries of painstaking detail to create you.�
❝W-ɳ?�
❝How else to make sense of your beauty?�
please, tell me how to move on from them? 😭🦋🫠💔😩🥰
i don't know what to do with myself after reading this. i finished this book, but it truly finished me. i randomly found this on instagram on its release day and who would have thought it would change my life. i was put through the wringer like i could never imagine. i searched up how many emotions humans can feel - the answer is 27 - and i'm not exaggerating when i say i remember myself feeling each and every single one vividly. this is one of those once in a lifetime stories for me. the emotional grip this story had on me was insane, my chest actually felt tight. this could be because normally i'm a low-medium angst reader - because i cry easily and i'm sensitive - and this story is angst filled, but still. the impact it had on me was tremendous. i'm really grateful i read this story and i will never forget Ty and Sid's journey. the themes in this are heartbreaking, we have grief, loss, trauma, mental health, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, suicide and suicidal ideation and more. it was very heavy for me and i urge you to check your trigger warnings going into this. as soon as i read the prologue, i was balling my eyes out.
ever since i got back into reading in april of 2022, no book has ever made me feel the way this one has. it had so many heart wrenching moments i needed to pause reading, but i was glued to the story. so therefore, i was reading through my tears the whole time. both sad and happy tears. i'm making this sound really sad, but the story is beautiful, soft, intimate, swoony, sexy, and makes me believe love actually exists. this is epitome of soulmates. this is the type of love that is hard fought, all-consuming, and absolutely soul bending. Sid and Ty get together around within the first half of the book, which of course, had me nervous as fuck because this is a 500 page book. Sid and Ty show that no relationship is perfect. once you're finally together, growing both relationship wise and individually doesn't ever stop. and well, you need to love yourself before you can fully give yourself to someone else. Kit Grey portrayed this is a very realistic way to me.
now for the moment that changed this all for me, as in, how i knew this book was going to have a huge impact on me - was Ty and Sid's first meeting at their interview (this was like only at 9% yall 😭). from this moment on, i knew Ty and Sid had the power to destroy me (and they did thoroughly, but they put me back together) because my love for them was already skyrocket high. this is going to sound cheesy as fuck, and i don't even care. but you know in the movies when they're like, it was like "fireworks". that's exactly how it felt during their first interaction. i don't believe in love at first sight or first meeting, or any of that stuff in general. but goddamn, if Sid and Ty didn't completely change my mind. the book is not instalove, but if it was i'd fucking understand it. just the fluidity of that scene, the ease of their conversation and how they were just bouncing off each others vibes like they knew each other for an eternity. if i were to see that scene on live tv, i would immediately think they're in love.
we have hurt/comfort found family to the max. Lily, Uncle Adam, Kieran, Tommy, Ishan, Idris, Kaleb, Malik, they're beautiful souls i cherish. there was hella possessiveness, rivals teams NOT enemies to lovers (bc how in hell could they be enemies when they're the most genuine, humble, kind characters to ever be created??), there is plenty of spice, cock warming, fletching, flip fucking, somnophelia, sexting, and more..... but this has the type of sex scenes that made me want to cry because of their intimacy, the tenderness, and just because of how much they loved each other. for their first time, there was crying and you bet my ass i was crying along with them.
now for the basketball. this one is for all those basketball fans because it's actually a part of the plot. and basketball being my favorite sport, i was in heaven. i'm not a fan of where books are labelled as "sports romance" just because the MC plays it in the background of the story and it's barely in the book. but this? when i was reading those scenes, i felt like i was seeing them in real life. i was rooting for Ty like i was there in the audience. when he was scoring, i was cheering loud as fuck. when Ty and Sid faced each other? GOD. FUCKING. DAMN. 🔥
I’d recognize that block from anywhere. Sid, mayor of Block City. Arnaz takes possession of the ball and wings it to Sid.🦋🦋🦋
❝What’s wrong?� Sid asks, his lip turned slightly upward.
❝Who said anything’s wrong?� I reply flatly, not taking the bait. I attempt a steal, but he crosses the ball between his legs, moving it to his left hand out of reach.
❝You’re gnawing on the inside of your cheek, and your eyes are squinty, hiding the gold.�
Arnaz passes the ball to Sid, who scans the floor to see if anyone is open for a pass. Our team’s defense is too strong. Sid maintains possession, using the side of his body to push forward. I charge from behind and smack the ball out of his hand to complete a breakaway dunk. I grin as he barks, ❝For fuck’s sake!�😂
like isn't this amazing!? i fucking love them.
spoilers start here.
now, this book is not perfect. but no book really is. i had a couple of niggles like how this was single pov (just Ty's). there was so many moments that i wished we got from Sid's pov. it would have elevated the story even more. both characters had so much depth and i wish we got to explore that soley from Sid's pov. it's not to say we couldn't understand him from Ty's, because we definitely could. it was really clear what Sid's feeling and emotions were throughout the book. and especially with how clear his unwavering love was for Ty. but UGH, it would have been so nice to be in his head.
my next niggle is Arnaz. his character pissed me off more than anyone. which is funny because he didn't do anything wrong and he's a nice person. but i don't care, i wanted to hurl a building at him just like Ty did. it was because he made my Ty feel insecure, which Ty has no business feeling because Sid loves him and only him! Ty deserves all the fucking love in the world and if someone hurts him directly or indirectly, they are on my immediate shit list. but how Sid didn't see how Arnaz was into him, and was so up in his face all the time?? i do not know. then again Sid is THAT in love with Ty, he's oblivious to everyone else. Sid is a very intelligent man and should have put that man in his place. even when he knew about Ty insecurities, he still didn’t shut it down (at first!). i would have killed to be in Sid's pov when he talked to Arnaz about him and Ty. keep in mind though, it is really one sided and Arnaz didn't know they were dating, so it wasn't his fault. and Sid is a really giving and kind person, so Arnaz easily misunderstood that for more than just friends. plus Arnaz apologized to Ty in the end. so i was happy and therefore, didn't take any rating off for it.
*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�
this review is really different from what i normally do. this has a lot of typing and not enough of me going on about my fav moments/quotes. so i'll do that now. major spoilers! 🥰
� “Hold on!� Sid says, turning back to the camera. “To my family at home watching”�he places his hand on his heart, his signal to me—“god, I wish you were here. I love you, and I can’t wait to celebrate with you. I’m bringing this trophy home to you.� He sniffs as a fresh set of tears tumble down his gorgeous face.
~ Sid always finding a way to show his love subtly for Ty because they're in a secret relationship
� Having forgotten to close the blinds, the bright sun wakes me in the morning. I reach my arms over my head and stretch. So this is what a nightmare-less night of uninterrupted sleep feels like. I notice the laptop screen is dark. I click the mouse pad, and my heart jigs when Sid appears partially off-camera getting dressed.
“You didn’t hang up,� I say, my voice raspy as I wipe the sleep from my eyes and mouth. I reach for the glass of water next to my bed and take a sip.
“Why would I?� he replies.
~ them always facetiming and falling asleep together
� “That’s your dick inside of you. Feel it?� Fuuuuck. “Do you feel it?� he asks, dropping his hand from my neck to my dick and pumping me hard.
“Yesss,� I pant, my eyes rolling closed.
“Mmm. No one touches it but you.�
“It’s fucking mine,� I grit out.
~ okay so there is possessiveness here, but also like reverse possessiveness. as in, Sid was possessive over his own dick making sure Ty knew that it was his. and i fucking loved that.
� “Yeah, okay. I’m not number three in the league averaging thirty points per game,� Arnaz fires back.
�31.4,� I grit out.
“What?� Arnaz asks.
“He’s averaged 31.4 points per game, not 30.�
“My bad,� he says, bunching his brows.
~ now this is the pettiness i approve of. you tell em baby 🥰
� "Say I’ll be your husband and a father to our kids.�
~ AHHHHHHHHHFHFHJSSJHSJHFSJSFHSHAFHAL
� I whisper, “I love you,� as he thrusts deeper and deeper inside of me.
He kisses my tear-stained face and whispers, “I love you too. Always.� Pulling me closer, he reaches his arm around to stroke me. Whenever I sob when we make love, he never lasts long. We fall apart when we reach the impossibly tender place that only our lovemaking can traverse. The tether that’s forged through every stroke, every teardrop, every orgasm feels sacred and everlasting. I know we cannot possess another person, but Sid is mine, and I am his forever. I feel it in the marrow of my bones, the tendons of my heart, the core of my soul.
~ brb crying again
� I tiptoe to the bathroom to get ready. I moved back into our house the day after we reconciled. I noticed our bedroom looked barely slept in but didn’t think anything of it. Then I passed one of our guest rooms and noticed the bed unmade. I asked Sid if we had a guest, and he sheepishly admitted to being unable to sleep in our bed without me. I dragged him to our bed and made love to him all over again.
~ how Sid couldn't sleep in their bed because Ty wasn't there 😭😭😭😭😭
� “Here’s the thing—I started falling for you the first time I saw you, and I’ve been utterly in love with you ever since. Even though that day on TV was the first time my eyes laid upon you, my soul recognized you. Its grace and wisdom led me straight to you.�
~ other than their interview together, my favorite scene is the proposal scene. which i feel like it will be people's most favorite. rightfully so. they fucking deserve to be married and live the rest of their life as happy as possible because that HEA was hard earned! and the fact that Sid said he starting falling for Ty the first time he saw him.
� “Let me see your ring. I helped him pick it out. Guess how many carats?�
I stare at it. “Twenty? It’s unbelievable.�
“Tٲ-DzԱ!�
“Holy fuck! Wait, when did he pick it out?�
“When you were separated.� My jaw drops.
~ Sid got Ty a fucking 31 carat engagement ring! omfg 😭 and when they were separated? just shows you Sid knew Ty was it for him 🥺
*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�*:･ﾟ�
what to expect:
🏀 angst
❤️ hurt/comfort
🏀 basketball romance
❤️ sexy & intimate
🏀 rival teams
❤️ mental health rep
🏀 secret relationship
❤️ found family
🏀 possessivness
❤️ soulmate love
🏀 friends to lovers
and also expect all the emotional yet very hot spice. and bring tissues! sorry for this long ass review btw. 😭
February 25, 2024
I’m in my outlier era.🫣 This was such a chore to get through! I liked the very beginning and because it’s such a long book & I had already invested so much time, I just had to finish it - no matter what!!! The writing really took me out of it. Everyone is nice. Everyone is beautiful. Everyone knows the right thing to say. And boy oh boy don’t I know it. Everything. Gets. Described. Are you opening the window and letting a pleasant breeze in and maybe the breeze smells like the ocean? Heck, write about that in detail. Metaphors are used constantly. For anything. For everything. I probably should’ve tapped out when I wasn’t feeling the chemistry between Ty & Sid. The initial radio show meeting is where we’re supposed to be seeing the sparks fly and I didn’t see anything. For such a long long long long LONG book, I was surprised at how instant the feelings were. My slow burn loving heart broke in two. But it’s fine, we prevail. An excellent jealousy scene! Yay! Surely there will be chemistry soon. Nope. And again, maybe it’s because I don’t like the writing. I just became sort of accustomed to it. And also, I’m very picky with writing styles so your mileage may vary! I hate to say it, I hope I don’t sound ridiculous but he could be walking down the street and I wouldn’t know a thing. Sorry to this man. (Me about the love interest, Sid.) I would’ve appreciated knowing more about him. He’s famous. He’s gorgeous. He loves Ty. But he didn’t feel like a fully fleshed out character to me. But my biggest issue was just never really feeling their romantic connection. I appreciated what the author had to say about mental health & grief. It was clearly done with much care. But overall, I unfortunately didn’t enjoy this book much at all. So tedious & overwrought.
June 2, 2024
Reread 06/2024
3,5 stars.
I had loved this on my first read, but although I enjoyed certain parts, I struggled with other parts on my reread.
There was too much focus on sex in my opinion (I skipped lots of scenes).
Ty refused too long to consider therapy (thinking he could fix himself).
The whole prologue sounded like a musical.
Overall the book was too long and could/should have been shortened in many instances, there were many parts that could have benefitted from better editing.
I didn't like that later on Sid told Ty he had already be gone for Ty at christmas (when in fact he had had sex with Kathrina at christmas).
I loved the chemistry and love between Ty and Sid. I loved the friendship between the teammates. I loved Adam and Lily, their families.
Rounding up to 4 because I had loved it the first time.
----------
Read 02/2024
4,5 stars.
Such a beautiful book.. hard to believe this is a debut novel.
I loved Ty and Sid's story. I was glued to the pages, never bored (it has over 450 pages!) and enjoyed the pace of the book and the storyline in general.
There were no stupid plot twists to keep the story going, or unbelievable / unrealistic actions.
The story is written in first person present tense from Ty's pov. I think it's much more challenging to write a romance in single pov, and if the author pulls it off (like in this case) my reading experience is much more rewarding.
The part in the storyline I loved most was Ty and Sid falling in love. Their growing friendship with so much underlying sexual tension was awesome to read. The author did a wonderful job writing their chemistry and attraction while they got to know each other better and fell in love.
Once they were committed, there were severe issues to overcome and struggles to face, but I never lost interest in them and was invested how they could make it work.
An awesome part of the book was its focus on therapy. Ty took way to long to believe his loved ones that therapy would help him, but they kept reminding him, and thankfully he accepted how important it was to get help in order to find peace.
Ty and Sid's families and friends were awesome and had an important role in their lives.
I had a great time watching Ty and Sid get closer and fighting for each other through their challenges, strenghtening their deep love for each other.
Can't wait for Arnaz's book!
3,5 stars.
I had loved this on my first read, but although I enjoyed certain parts, I struggled with other parts on my reread.
There was too much focus on sex in my opinion (I skipped lots of scenes).
Ty refused too long to consider therapy (thinking he could fix himself).
The whole prologue sounded like a musical.
Overall the book was too long and could/should have been shortened in many instances, there were many parts that could have benefitted from better editing.
I didn't like that later on Sid told Ty he had already be gone for Ty at christmas (when in fact he had had sex with Kathrina at christmas).
I loved the chemistry and love between Ty and Sid. I loved the friendship between the teammates. I loved Adam and Lily, their families.
Rounding up to 4 because I had loved it the first time.
----------
Read 02/2024
4,5 stars.
Such a beautiful book.. hard to believe this is a debut novel.
I loved Ty and Sid's story. I was glued to the pages, never bored (it has over 450 pages!) and enjoyed the pace of the book and the storyline in general.
There were no stupid plot twists to keep the story going, or unbelievable / unrealistic actions.
The story is written in first person present tense from Ty's pov. I think it's much more challenging to write a romance in single pov, and if the author pulls it off (like in this case) my reading experience is much more rewarding.
The part in the storyline I loved most was Ty and Sid falling in love. Their growing friendship with so much underlying sexual tension was awesome to read. The author did a wonderful job writing their chemistry and attraction while they got to know each other better and fell in love.
Once they were committed, there were severe issues to overcome and struggles to face, but I never lost interest in them and was invested how they could make it work.
An awesome part of the book was its focus on therapy. Ty took way to long to believe his loved ones that therapy would help him, but they kept reminding him, and thankfully he accepted how important it was to get help in order to find peace.
Ty and Sid's families and friends were awesome and had an important role in their lives.
I had a great time watching Ty and Sid get closer and fighting for each other through their challenges, strenghtening their deep love for each other.
Can't wait for Arnaz's book!
February 1, 2024
This was incredible. I couldn’t stop reading. One more chapter. Just one more. My workaholic ass is sitting here writing this at 10:30 on a Thursday because I just had to finish the book. I just couldn’t handle the idea of putting these guys aside to work.
It’s all told from Ty’s POV, and I loved it. I loved Ty. I loved being in his head. So many feelings. Grief. Awe. Friendship. Love. Fears. Passion. More fears. Grief, always. Sadness. Feeling worthless. Jealousy. I felt everything with him and it hurt so good.
Sid. True legend. On the court and off the court. How can you not fall for Sid?
And the sex. Omg the sex. 🔥🔥🔥
I give this 5 ⭐️ even though it wasn’t perfect. It needs editing, especially toward the end. Basketball games. Speeches. Therapy sessions. Sex scenes. Too many details, and it dragged here and there.
But I still couldn’t stop reading. ❤️❤️❤️
It’s all told from Ty’s POV, and I loved it. I loved Ty. I loved being in his head. So many feelings. Grief. Awe. Friendship. Love. Fears. Passion. More fears. Grief, always. Sadness. Feeling worthless. Jealousy. I felt everything with him and it hurt so good.
Sid. True legend. On the court and off the court. How can you not fall for Sid?
And the sex. Omg the sex. 🔥🔥🔥
I give this 5 ⭐️ even though it wasn’t perfect. It needs editing, especially toward the end. Basketball games. Speeches. Therapy sessions. Sex scenes. Too many details, and it dragged here and there.
But I still couldn’t stop reading. ❤️❤️❤️
May 3, 2025
REAL TALK Y’ALL this fucking book has 9 time-skips that I counted, it's very possible there were more but I'll confess I had to skim parts of it, otherwise, I risked walking into traffic to forget the awfulness that is this book.
For starters, Ty is one of the worst MCs that I've ever read, and since this book is a single POV we are stuck in his head while he has some of the worst inner monologues ever written.
This fucker is supposed to be an amazing generational type of talent and yet the dude suffers devastating depression and never appears to sleep and yet he can perform in the NBA? I don't know Rick I think is fake. The guy even takes sleeping pills and sleeps for like a day and constantly thinks about killing himself and yet when the uncle or Sid ask him to get help and go to therapy he dares to say he is ok and does not have depression.
There are so many boring and stupid things in this book like the fact we get extreme and constant descriptions about everything any random character who happens to pass Ty's field of vision is wearing or their back story even if it's not in any way relevant to the plot, we get all the rules and regulations about basketball that no one and I repeat NO ONE who read a sports romance book wants to know.
Sid, on the other side, is the most bland and boring Love interest ever, so I guess in a sense he is perfect for Ty. Like Sid is supposed to be this super cool dude and yet we are told constantly how much his body is his temple and everything he consumes is as boring and flavorless as him with a nice side of "let's meditate" all the fucking time. Like the dude is supposed to be a millionaire and yet he couldn't buy a personality?
And to top it all off, in every paragraph we are subjected to random slang that it’s just thrown out there for I don't know, to make the book more cool? Nobody who is a human talks like that, it is so weird and cringe. Like that episode of Friends where Joey wants to look young and instead looks ridiculous, exactly like that, more so when both characters try to act enlightened all the time.
“We fall apart when we reach the impossibly tender place that on your lovemaking can traverse�. Who the fuck talks like that????
For starters, Ty is one of the worst MCs that I've ever read, and since this book is a single POV we are stuck in his head while he has some of the worst inner monologues ever written.
This fucker is supposed to be an amazing generational type of talent and yet the dude suffers devastating depression and never appears to sleep and yet he can perform in the NBA? I don't know Rick I think is fake. The guy even takes sleeping pills and sleeps for like a day and constantly thinks about killing himself and yet when the uncle or Sid ask him to get help and go to therapy he dares to say he is ok and does not have depression.
There are so many boring and stupid things in this book like the fact we get extreme and constant descriptions about everything any random character who happens to pass Ty's field of vision is wearing or their back story even if it's not in any way relevant to the plot, we get all the rules and regulations about basketball that no one and I repeat NO ONE who read a sports romance book wants to know.
Sid, on the other side, is the most bland and boring Love interest ever, so I guess in a sense he is perfect for Ty. Like Sid is supposed to be this super cool dude and yet we are told constantly how much his body is his temple and everything he consumes is as boring and flavorless as him with a nice side of "let's meditate" all the fucking time. Like the dude is supposed to be a millionaire and yet he couldn't buy a personality?
And to top it all off, in every paragraph we are subjected to random slang that it’s just thrown out there for I don't know, to make the book more cool? Nobody who is a human talks like that, it is so weird and cringe. Like that episode of Friends where Joey wants to look young and instead looks ridiculous, exactly like that, more so when both characters try to act enlightened all the time.
“We fall apart when we reach the impossibly tender place that on your lovemaking can traverse�. Who the fuck talks like that????
January 24, 2024
I love this amazing friends-to-lovers debut. Sid and Ty completely captured my heart and I loved getting to see their relationship develop and grow into something so pure, heartfelt, moving, and beautiful. They have such an amazing connection that is based on truths, real conversations, and love that begins as something so sincere and grows into such an intense bond that I could not get enough of.
This amazing debut has lingered in my mind due to the beautiful development of Sid and Ty's relationship. They both are in a challenging spot as professional athletes, but I loved how their profession did not negate their feelings for one another and allowed their passion and devotion for one another to flourish regardless.
I cannot say enough glowing things about this story!!! I look forward to reading more of these characters and seeing what this author has in store next. I loved this story from beginning to end and enjoyed how the author took the much-needed time to develop and naturally grow Sid and Ty's connection into something truly remarkable and memorable.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
This amazing debut has lingered in my mind due to the beautiful development of Sid and Ty's relationship. They both are in a challenging spot as professional athletes, but I loved how their profession did not negate their feelings for one another and allowed their passion and devotion for one another to flourish regardless.
I cannot say enough glowing things about this story!!! I look forward to reading more of these characters and seeing what this author has in store next. I loved this story from beginning to end and enjoyed how the author took the much-needed time to develop and naturally grow Sid and Ty's connection into something truly remarkable and memorable.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Read
February 5, 2024DNF
Two of my dearest friends loved this one, so I soldiered until 40% waiting for the same kind of love to knock me out of my feet. But... 🫣
✔️ I find myself bothered by extensive detailed descriptions of clothing, fabrics, perfumes, and the like in a story—it's a personal pet peeve of mine when an MC places too much emphasis on these elements. He describes even what his manager is wearing, irritating me in a way that takes me completely out of the story.
✔️Everyone is so beautiful. 🙄
✔️The banter between the two main characters during their initial interview (when they met) was underwhelming, lacking the tension I anticipated. From there on, everything was too easy for the likes of me.
✔️The absence of friction and tension has left the storyline lacking in excitement, so I decided to throw the towel.
Two of my dearest friends loved this one, so I soldiered until 40% waiting for the same kind of love to knock me out of my feet. But... 🫣
✔️ I find myself bothered by extensive detailed descriptions of clothing, fabrics, perfumes, and the like in a story—it's a personal pet peeve of mine when an MC places too much emphasis on these elements. He describes even what his manager is wearing, irritating me in a way that takes me completely out of the story.
✔️Everyone is so beautiful. 🙄
✔️The banter between the two main characters during their initial interview (when they met) was underwhelming, lacking the tension I anticipated. From there on, everything was too easy for the likes of me.
✔️The absence of friction and tension has left the storyline lacking in excitement, so I decided to throw the towel.
April 19, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up.
The first like 45% of this book was exceptional and I lapped it up. Then there was a 3 month time jump that felt like I missed out on some really significant moments in their early relationship that was frustrating.
Overall I think this book felt like 2 books crammed into 1. I’d have preferred it as a duet and without the big time jump.
I fucking loveeeeeeed the chemistry between Ty and Sid and the spice was 🥵 damnnn. Sid is an angel and I love him so much 😭
Ty was super frustrating at times but people are. He’s so stubborn and at times you really felt his age and the fact he didn’t quite have the maturity to handle everything on his plate, overall I found his character development satisfying in the end though.
The side characters in this were great and I adored Lily and especially Ty’s teammates. It was my first MM basketball romance and it didn’t disappoint. It had everything I love about MM sports romance and I really enjoyed the time on the courts too.
The first like 45% of this book was exceptional and I lapped it up. Then there was a 3 month time jump that felt like I missed out on some really significant moments in their early relationship that was frustrating.
Overall I think this book felt like 2 books crammed into 1. I’d have preferred it as a duet and without the big time jump.
I fucking loveeeeeeed the chemistry between Ty and Sid and the spice was 🥵 damnnn. Sid is an angel and I love him so much 😭
Ty was super frustrating at times but people are. He’s so stubborn and at times you really felt his age and the fact he didn’t quite have the maturity to handle everything on his plate, overall I found his character development satisfying in the end though.
The side characters in this were great and I adored Lily and especially Ty’s teammates. It was my first MM basketball romance and it didn’t disappoint. It had everything I love about MM sports romance and I really enjoyed the time on the courts too.
March 15, 2025
I was crushed from the first chapter! Ty was really breaking my heart�.his pain was so palpable�.i just wanted to give him a hug 🥺 Going through what he went through it was so understandable but he never lost his heart and how fiercely he loved even after such an enormous loss. I just love how hard he fell for Sid and didn’t even put up a fight to his feelings 😍 I love when a character also doesn’t question their identity and just goes with the flow once the feelings are there 💕
Sid was just so charming, sexy, emotionally intelligent and understanding I loved him from their first interaction I was 100% invested in their relationship, no matter where it was headed. You could tell that he was going to be exactly what Ty needed both on and off the court, even before anything happened between the two of them. Their chemistry, connection and understanding of one another was really was so electric and intense. I love how there were undertones of attraction and flirting before it even got to that point. And once these two got there, it was so hot I definitely re-read every spicy scene (somno 🥵😴�..that’s all I will say) Their intense chemistry made it feel like more than just sex from the first time. The sex was super hot yes, but always furthered their emotional connection as well.
Their love and relationship was so hard won. They both went through a lot before each other and within their relationship but they never lost each other. There a sort 3rd act thing that happens but it’s so necessary for their relationship and their own personal growth, specifically Ty.
Kit Grey’s writing is truly stunning and emotional, it’s just been a while since a book resonated with me like this, it touches on so many important issues that are not talked about enough in the black community especially when it comes to black men. Mental health, grief, actively seeking out therapy, LGBTQ+ issues specifically in sports and so many more issues are covered with care and heart. I loved reading a story about black men in love and fighting for their love while also trying to make it easier for others to be able to live in their truth as well. I would recommend this to any and everyone, not to be dramatic but this is definitely a read that will change you and stay with you long after you’re done.
Sid was just so charming, sexy, emotionally intelligent and understanding I loved him from their first interaction I was 100% invested in their relationship, no matter where it was headed. You could tell that he was going to be exactly what Ty needed both on and off the court, even before anything happened between the two of them. Their chemistry, connection and understanding of one another was really was so electric and intense. I love how there were undertones of attraction and flirting before it even got to that point. And once these two got there, it was so hot I definitely re-read every spicy scene (somno 🥵😴�..that’s all I will say) Their intense chemistry made it feel like more than just sex from the first time. The sex was super hot yes, but always furthered their emotional connection as well.
Their love and relationship was so hard won. They both went through a lot before each other and within their relationship but they never lost each other. There a sort 3rd act thing that happens but it’s so necessary for their relationship and their own personal growth, specifically Ty.
Kit Grey’s writing is truly stunning and emotional, it’s just been a while since a book resonated with me like this, it touches on so many important issues that are not talked about enough in the black community especially when it comes to black men. Mental health, grief, actively seeking out therapy, LGBTQ+ issues specifically in sports and so many more issues are covered with care and heart. I loved reading a story about black men in love and fighting for their love while also trying to make it easier for others to be able to live in their truth as well. I would recommend this to any and everyone, not to be dramatic but this is definitely a read that will change you and stay with you long after you’re done.
July 14, 2024
I didn’t enjoy this, I can’t exactly pinpoint what didn’t work for me, it was a mix of many things like single POV, which made me feel disconnected from Sid, Ty’s insecurities, this story was very long and filled with random things that bored me to death, Ty’s refusal to get therapy for like 90% of the book and I’m sorry but the mention of the dead parents every chapter was a turn off, I completely understand people grieve different and I love mental health rep in books but the mood around that topic was somber, depressing and got old after a while. I kinda supported Syd when he said their relationship was between them two and the ghost of Ty’s parents.
It has a few nice moments but I was mostly annoyed.
It has a few nice moments but I was mostly annoyed.
April 13, 2024
I don’t think I’m capable of expressing the feelings that this book triggered in me.
I honestly don’t even want to try.
This book will stay with me for a while, I think.
I honestly don’t even want to try.
“It wasn’t all a nightmare. He smiled at me. For a moment, I was the most important person in his world. I wasn’t myself. I was laughing gas. Weightless.�
“Even though I try every day, I’ll never know all of your depths. And because of that, I’ll always know humility with you. Sometimes, I fear I’ve met you too late, and we’ll never have enough time.�
This book will stay with me for a while, I think.
June 27, 2024
Well, I was torn about rating this book. Giving 2 stars seemed unfair, giving 4 seemed excessive, because I wouldn't read it again -- so 3 'not bad' stars. 🤌
This was the debut of Kit Grey, and I really felt her passion in writing about something she seems to have experienced firsthand. The way the grief is processed, the fear of forgetting or being forgotten, the idea of family were very touching. ❤️�
”Even when you're sinking through life's muck, you reach out for help and keep going.�
Unfortunately, it was so repetitive at times --- it caused to lose interest and I think there could have been a better editor and def fewer sex scenes. Hey don't get me wrong, I LOVE reading scorching hot sex, but in this case idk it seems like the author wanted to force things for no reason -- the deep love between Sid and Ty shines in their words in literally every chapter, so I would have shortened this book by at least 100 pages, OR if she really wanted it to be that long, she could have added Sid's POV. It would have been more vibrant imo, I mean, does this guy even has a flaw?? I NEED FLAWS and I can't see them through Ty's eyes. sigh.
Anywaaay, it was a nice rivals to friends to lovers -- I enjoyed it, just... not fully. Such a shame the next book will not be about uncle Adam and Ishan lol 😭😭
This was the debut of Kit Grey, and I really felt her passion in writing about something she seems to have experienced firsthand. The way the grief is processed, the fear of forgetting or being forgotten, the idea of family were very touching. ❤️�
”Even when you're sinking through life's muck, you reach out for help and keep going.�
Unfortunately, it was so repetitive at times --- it caused to lose interest and I think there could have been a better editor and def fewer sex scenes. Hey don't get me wrong, I LOVE reading scorching hot sex, but in this case idk it seems like the author wanted to force things for no reason -- the deep love between Sid and Ty shines in their words in literally every chapter, so I would have shortened this book by at least 100 pages, OR if she really wanted it to be that long, she could have added Sid's POV. It would have been more vibrant imo, I mean, does this guy even has a flaw?? I NEED FLAWS and I can't see them through Ty's eyes. sigh.
Anywaaay, it was a nice rivals to friends to lovers -- I enjoyed it, just... not fully. Such a shame the next book will not be about uncle Adam and Ishan lol 😭😭
April 3, 2024
this is probably the best MM sports romance i’ve read since Heated Rivalry, so it’s the easiest 5 stars i’ve ever given to a book. not that i’m ever that stingy, but whatever. as a disclaimer, while this book is not dark, it deals with topics that can be difficult for many, such as grief, loss, mental health issues and more. i would recommend going into this as blind as possible as it allowed me to emotionally connect with the story in an unexpected way.
tyler and sid are such beautifully vulnerable characters. i love how the author allowed us such insight into tyler’s deepest feelings and fears, my heart just kept breaking for him and i couldn’t help empathize with his pain. i feel that his relationship with sid unravels in such a natural way, giving us plenty of swoon-worthy moments as well as heartbreaking ones, needless to say these two earned their HEA hard.
to think that this is Kit Grey’s first novel is absolutely INSANE to me. the author does such a great job at making us feel connected to the characters as well as truly allowing us to feel their connection and emotions. the way the relationship is built is very real, even the moments of conflict don’t feel like the classic “narrative tools� used by other authors, but rather like very real situations that happen when you and your partner struggle with mental health issues. the journey Grey built was beautiful and I’ll definitely read all the upcoming books to.
Speaking of - I am so intrigued by the preview to Arnaz and Salem’s story, Salem is unhinged and i love him already.
tyler and sid are such beautifully vulnerable characters. i love how the author allowed us such insight into tyler’s deepest feelings and fears, my heart just kept breaking for him and i couldn’t help empathize with his pain. i feel that his relationship with sid unravels in such a natural way, giving us plenty of swoon-worthy moments as well as heartbreaking ones, needless to say these two earned their HEA hard.
to think that this is Kit Grey’s first novel is absolutely INSANE to me. the author does such a great job at making us feel connected to the characters as well as truly allowing us to feel their connection and emotions. the way the relationship is built is very real, even the moments of conflict don’t feel like the classic “narrative tools� used by other authors, but rather like very real situations that happen when you and your partner struggle with mental health issues. the journey Grey built was beautiful and I’ll definitely read all the upcoming books to.
Speaking of - I am so intrigued by the preview to Arnaz and Salem’s story, Salem is unhinged and i love him already.
January 30, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This was almost perfect if only for a few tiny bits 😭
This story touched the deepest parts of my soul with the themes it delved into. First and foremost I recommend anyone wanting to read this book to check all the trigger warnings.
Ty and Sid were a match made in heaven, the instant connection these two had was palpable and their first encounter during that interview scene was perfect. I loved their off the roof chemistry even as friends and thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the book when they were still in the back and forth stage throwing little flirts here and there, I even wished it went for a little bit longer before they hooked up and got together, just because of how much I really enjoyed their chemistry and banter.
I got to admit that once they got together I kinda skipped a lot of the smut scenes, not because they were badI won’t have an idea because I skipped them but because I don’t really like to read a lot of smut and like to focus more on the emotional progress of the characters. I even wished it took a little bit longer for them to hook up, but as I said that’s my personal preference and the story still as it is with its own pace was really great. not to mention that what I read of the smut scenes was HOT AF🥵
Speaking of Ty and Sid, let’s all give a moment of appreciation to the new entry of the top list of book boyfriends, MR. SIDNEY KING.
THIS MAN🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
He raised the bar too high no one can reach anymore.
He was so kind, intelligent, generous, patient, SEXY AS HELL, and loving. He would do anything for the people he loved and I just swooned over how fierce he loved and showed his love and care.
He cared so much for Ty, focused on the teeny tiny details and went all in. The amount of perception and attentiveness he portrayed were goals. I was OBSESSED with how much HE WAS OBSESSED WITH TY!! The man fell first AND FELL HARDER!
Man I would’ve died for a dual POV and a glimpse into Sid’s head. I mean yeah it was so obvious and HE was so obvious and forward regarding how he felt about Ty, but a glimpse of what was going on inside his head at certain parts would’ve been amazing.
OH AND THE FOUND FAMILY!! I freaking LOVED the support group of both Ty and Sid, their families are literally gold.
I can’t say their relationship was all smooth sailing and perfect, but i still loved those parts as well and really enjoyed seeing their progress and how they worked to be better for their own selves and each other.
On another different note, I loved all the basketball games, I love reading about the sports being a part of the story especially when it showcases the dynamics between the characters and how their relationships affect their performance and the game. And I LOVED how competitive these two were!! During the games they weren’t Ty and Sid the cute couple, they played hard to wipe the floor with each other’s asses, and I was so here for it. I was cheering and getting so hyped whenever they went face to face.
SPOILERS
Now delving into the angsty side of the book, Ty’s struggles with depression touched a nerve within me and my heart literally shattered reading his journey, the struggles of loss and grief he endured while fighting depression and the will to stay standing and trying to make his parents proud was really hard and I just wanted to dive into these pages and give him the biggest hug 😭🤧
-> utter heartbreak
“I know we cannot possess another person, but Sid is mine, and I am his forever. I feel it in the marrow of my bones, the tendons of my heart, the core of my soul.�
This was almost perfect if only for a few tiny bits 😭
This story touched the deepest parts of my soul with the themes it delved into. First and foremost I recommend anyone wanting to read this book to check all the trigger warnings.
Ty and Sid were a match made in heaven, the instant connection these two had was palpable and their first encounter during that interview scene was perfect. I loved their off the roof chemistry even as friends and thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the book when they were still in the back and forth stage throwing little flirts here and there, I even wished it went for a little bit longer before they hooked up and got together, just because of how much I really enjoyed their chemistry and banter.
I got to admit that once they got together I kinda skipped a lot of the smut scenes, not because they were bad
Speaking of Ty and Sid, let’s all give a moment of appreciation to the new entry of the top list of book boyfriends, MR. SIDNEY KING.
THIS MAN🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
He raised the bar too high no one can reach anymore.
He was so kind, intelligent, generous, patient, SEXY AS HELL, and loving. He would do anything for the people he loved and I just swooned over how fierce he loved and showed his love and care.
He cared so much for Ty, focused on the teeny tiny details and went all in. The amount of perception and attentiveness he portrayed were goals. I was OBSESSED with how much HE WAS OBSESSED WITH TY!! The man fell first AND FELL HARDER!
“I started falling for you the first time I saw you, and I’ve been utterly in love with you ever since. Even though that day on TV was the first time my eyes laid upon you, my soul recognized you. Its grace and wisdom led me straight to you.�
______________________🦋🩵 ______________________
“Hold on!� Sid says, turning back to the camera. “To my family at home watching”—he places his hand on his heart, his signal to me—“god, I wish you were here. I love you, and I can’t wait to celebrate with you.�
Man I would’ve died for a dual POV and a glimpse into Sid’s head. I mean yeah it was so obvious and HE was so obvious and forward regarding how he felt about Ty, but a glimpse of what was going on inside his head at certain parts would’ve been amazing.
OH AND THE FOUND FAMILY!! I freaking LOVED the support group of both Ty and Sid, their families are literally gold.
I can’t say their relationship was all smooth sailing and perfect, but i still loved those parts as well and really enjoyed seeing their progress and how they worked to be better for their own selves and each other.
On another different note, I loved all the basketball games, I love reading about the sports being a part of the story especially when it showcases the dynamics between the characters and how their relationships affect their performance and the game. And I LOVED how competitive these two were!! During the games they weren’t Ty and Sid the cute couple, they played hard to wipe the floor with each other’s asses, and I was so here for it. I was cheering and getting so hyped whenever they went face to face.
SPOILERS
Now delving into the angsty side of the book, Ty’s struggles with depression touched a nerve within me and my heart literally shattered reading his journey, the struggles of loss and grief he endured while fighting depression and the will to stay standing and trying to make his parents proud was really hard and I just wanted to dive into these pages and give him the biggest hug 😭🤧
“I can’t muster the strength to give a shit about anything or anyone. Something as simple as brushing my teeth feels insurmountable. It’s like I’m stuck in a daze with a single thought. And it’s not that I’m necessarily sad. It’s just that everything seems hollow. Like everyone is playing a game that I have no interest in participating in. It’s all numbing, except it isn’t, I guess. I mean, it’s more that I’m numb. It takes over everything. But it’s kinda fucked because I’m the only one that knows it’s there. And it takes even me forever to realize it. One minute I’m fine, then blink and my place in the world is wrong. I’ll try to shake it off, but days pass before I realize I’ve only sunk deeper.�
-> utter heartbreak
February 21, 2025
6⭐️
4🌶�
I can’t believe I’ve been sleeping on this book.
This was a wholesome experience and as someone who is Nigerian, the black representation in this gave me so much joy. It felt so good seeing healthy black families with awesome communication, understanding and love represented in this.
Now, don’t get me started on Sid and Ty. Oh lord 😮💨😮💨😩�
I am a Simp for SIDNEY KING.
If he tells me to jump I’ll ask “how high do you want it, Sir.� Hell he can bend me over his knee and spank me into oblivion and that’s saying a lot because hello, it’s me, I don’t submit but for Sid King, I’ll bark.😮💨😮�
³�
Alright, despite how much I loved Sidney, there was an instant where he made me really mad. The things he said to Ty during their fight, na bro, that was too far but I understood his frustration to be honest. I also had times wherein I was pissed at Ty, boy got on my nerves a few times but I couldn’t even fault him at the end of the day.
I felt like this ended abruptly because I wanted more.😩😩 I see people saying the book is long and I’m here thinking, Uhmm where’s the rest of it? 😂 That’s how much I loved reading this book.
It’s refreshing to see representation like this, healthy gay/bi black men in healthy relationships. Without any negative stereotypes. Everything about this book was chef’s kiss.
My brain is buffering so I can’t really formulate the right words.
Have I said I love this book? 🥹🥹
Because I do. I love it so much. 😍😍😍
4🌶�
I can’t believe I’ve been sleeping on this book.
This was a wholesome experience and as someone who is Nigerian, the black representation in this gave me so much joy. It felt so good seeing healthy black families with awesome communication, understanding and love represented in this.
Now, don’t get me started on Sid and Ty. Oh lord 😮💨😮💨😩�
I am a Simp for SIDNEY KING.
If he tells me to jump I’ll ask “how high do you want it, Sir.� Hell he can bend me over his knee and spank me into oblivion and that’s saying a lot because hello, it’s me, I don’t submit but for Sid King, I’ll bark.😮💨😮�
³�
Alright, despite how much I loved Sidney, there was an instant where he made me really mad. The things he said to Ty during their fight, na bro, that was too far but I understood his frustration to be honest. I also had times wherein I was pissed at Ty, boy got on my nerves a few times but I couldn’t even fault him at the end of the day.
I felt like this ended abruptly because I wanted more.😩😩 I see people saying the book is long and I’m here thinking, Uhmm where’s the rest of it? 😂 That’s how much I loved reading this book.
It’s refreshing to see representation like this, healthy gay/bi black men in healthy relationships. Without any negative stereotypes. Everything about this book was chef’s kiss.
My brain is buffering so I can’t really formulate the right words.
Have I said I love this book? 🥹🥹
Because I do. I love it so much. 😍😍😍
February 13, 2024
“Say I’ll be your husband and a father to our kids.�
Ohmygod it was beautiful. One of my favorites this year officially. I love books where characters get together early and we see them build a strong relationship together. Also, the amount of time I cried because of Ty and Sid cannot be counted on both hands. Hands down, one of the sweetest couples ever. I love how this book is centered on depression, panic attacks etc. and talks about how it's different irl than what's shown on-screen. I felt connected with it so much more because of that. Also, Ty and Sid, their personalities are not just about basketball, it made them so much more real because of that. Generally, we have so many things
that make us 'us' and even if we are passionate about something, it's not just all there is to life. I love
their geeky comments and come on, they are also bookworms. The family, the friends everyone is so lovable in the book. I wish we got to see the wedding and the kids though, literally the only thing that disappointed me. AND I LOVE DOUBLE PROPOSALS. So that was also a plus one. Since I picked this up, I couldn't breathe until I finished it and seriously, the best decision. Also, I realised I have read so many sports romance (one of my favorite genres) and never watched any game irl lol, making a mental note to work on that. Also, DEBUT AUTHOR?? I am in awe.
Ohmygod it was beautiful. One of my favorites this year officially. I love books where characters get together early and we see them build a strong relationship together. Also, the amount of time I cried because of Ty and Sid cannot be counted on both hands. Hands down, one of the sweetest couples ever. I love how this book is centered on depression, panic attacks etc. and talks about how it's different irl than what's shown on-screen. I felt connected with it so much more because of that. Also, Ty and Sid, their personalities are not just about basketball, it made them so much more real because of that. Generally, we have so many things
that make us 'us' and even if we are passionate about something, it's not just all there is to life. I love
their geeky comments and come on, they are also bookworms. The family, the friends everyone is so lovable in the book. I wish we got to see the wedding and the kids though, literally the only thing that disappointed me. AND I LOVE DOUBLE PROPOSALS. So that was also a plus one. Since I picked this up, I couldn't breathe until I finished it and seriously, the best decision. Also, I realised I have read so many sports romance (one of my favorite genres) and never watched any game irl lol, making a mental note to work on that. Also, DEBUT AUTHOR?? I am in awe.
April 30, 2025
Upd 04.2025
I tried again. DNF again. This time at 57%
I just thought. So many people loved it. Maybe it’s worth it? I didn’t check friend reviews before resuming reading it this time. I checked them after I reached another breaking point. And. Well. Turns out some of my GR friends feel about this book the exact same way I do 😂
The mental jerk-off session this author has about rich people and their expensive and awesome things throughout this book?
All the descriptions of stupid things that don’t matter (clothes lol)?
The way author (not so subtly) tries to lecture the reader on ways how we should live and act and think (some more meditation anyone?) ?
The boring, trite and shallow romance?
All the “cool� words that are often used out of context?
Maaan. Why did I torture myself with this for another 43%? I honestly don’t know 🙈😂 I just kept hoping it’ll get better. But I’ve lost all hope. And I’m done.
08.2024.
DNF 14%
I just couldn’t get trough all the clothes they wear. I was bored from page one. For a while there I hoped to return to it. And maybe I will. But I don’t feel like it’ll be soon.
I tried again. DNF again. This time at 57%
I just thought. So many people loved it. Maybe it’s worth it? I didn’t check friend reviews before resuming reading it this time. I checked them after I reached another breaking point. And. Well. Turns out some of my GR friends feel about this book the exact same way I do 😂
The mental jerk-off session this author has about rich people and their expensive and awesome things throughout this book?
All the descriptions of stupid things that don’t matter (clothes lol)?
The way author (not so subtly) tries to lecture the reader on ways how we should live and act and think (some more meditation anyone?) ?
The boring, trite and shallow romance?
All the “cool� words that are often used out of context?
Maaan. Why did I torture myself with this for another 43%? I honestly don’t know 🙈😂 I just kept hoping it’ll get better. But I’ve lost all hope. And I’m done.
08.2024.
DNF 14%
I just couldn’t get trough all the clothes they wear. I was bored from page one. For a while there I hoped to return to it. And maybe I will. But I don’t feel like it’ll be soon.
May 3, 2024
Sid and Ty ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. Whew. This book was a wild. And it was so worth it. When I usually pick up a sports romance it is a light hearted comfort read full of laughs and spice. This was that and so much more. The way the author tackled grief, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts all while building a truly loving relationship was amazing. I loved it all. And the spice. These men are filthy in the best way. Sid is definitely my new book boyfriend. I really can’t wait for the next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. Whew. This book was a wild. And it was so worth it. When I usually pick up a sports romance it is a light hearted comfort read full of laughs and spice. This was that and so much more. The way the author tackled grief, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts all while building a truly loving relationship was amazing. I loved it all. And the spice. These men are filthy in the best way. Sid is definitely my new book boyfriend. I really can’t wait for the next book.
dnf
February 9, 2024DNF
Technically I ended at 44% but I skipped a about 10-20% in the middle of it. There wasn’t anything really wrong I just wasn’t vibing with the writing.
Technically I ended at 44% but I skipped a about 10-20% in the middle of it. There wasn’t anything really wrong I just wasn’t vibing with the writing.
September 4, 2024
RTC but this was excessively long and detailed and I lowkey have whiplash.
I'll be back with what worked and what didn't when it isn't 1am and my brain isn't soup
I'll be back with what worked and what didn't when it isn't 1am and my brain isn't soup
March 30, 2025
i love them with my entire heart!!!!!! their love felt so genuine and so real to me - i never wanted it to end. definition of soul mates. they had so many layers to each of them and just complex emotions. their flirting gave me goosebumps and made me kick my feet. great from page one. amazing amazing AMAZING communication between our loves which is so refreshing. i also loved how they approached grief & depression. ughhh i wanna swaddle ty up!! one of, if not best MM romances ive read.
July 4, 2024
So good!!! I’ve had this one on my TBR for a while and I’m mad at myself for not picking it up sooner. This was such an emotional read for me and I loved every second of it. This is for sure one of my top reads of the year.
February 7, 2024
Wow, just wow. This was perfection, I’ve been in kind of a reading slump lately but this book has managed to get me out of it single handedly. How am I going to wait for the second book of this series? 😭 I should never have read the preview honestly, it looks almost better than the first book and it just makes the wait harder.
Seriously though, awesome work by the author, she’s already an autoread for me now.
Seriously though, awesome work by the author, she’s already an autoread for me now.
July 3, 2024
5 stars the first time I read this.
Still 5 big perfect shining stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌈
RTC.
Still 5 big perfect shining stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌈
RTC.
January 26, 2024
I really believe that this book could have benefited from a dual-POV form of storytelling. I felt a bit disconnected from Sid and his journey and I WISH there would have been a glimpse into the things he was feeling. I really needed to understand Sid and his thoughts and I just didn't get that at all. I WANTED to understand his frustrations and his thoughts. Even things as simple as his conversations with his family about Ty, or his coming out to Arnaz. Like I wanted to be a part of those moments but we were stuck in Ty's head for the whole book which became really frustrating and heavy.
January 28, 2024
This packed quite a punch. The grief sort of overshadowed the romance for me. It's definitely not a light read.
It read more like a story of a guy (not) working his way through grief and coincidentally finding love along the way than a romance including a guy who happens to also struggle dealing with grief.
I don't know if that makes sense. The romance is absolutely there, though.
It read more like a story of a guy (not) working his way through grief and coincidentally finding love along the way than a romance including a guy who happens to also struggle dealing with grief.
I don't know if that makes sense. The romance is absolutely there, though.
July 20, 2024
I’m fücking DEVASTATED that this is over. I’ve never read a more perfect story that depicts and shows so many factors of life, love, grief, friendship, depression and an ADULT relationship. This is content I crave in romance books!
The chemistry and bond between Ty & Sid was INSANE!!! Like honestly my heart was pitter pattering everytime they spoke to each other or were in the room together. The pace of the book was so fucking good, the tension was CRAZY. The first time they TOUCHED HANDS my fanny was fluttering bitch. God I loved them so much. The spice was nuts OMFGGG
It’s something so potent about BLACK LOVE between two men that just hits man. I’m truly so goddamn moved and changed by this story. I can’t wrap my head around the fact that it’s a debut novel. It was perfect.
There were so many small yet impactful moments in the book that turned me into mush FR. I wish I could read it again for the first time. This was such an amazing experience. Kit will forever have a reader in me. I can’t wait for the next book!
The chemistry and bond between Ty & Sid was INSANE!!! Like honestly my heart was pitter pattering everytime they spoke to each other or were in the room together. The pace of the book was so fucking good, the tension was CRAZY. The first time they TOUCHED HANDS my fanny was fluttering bitch. God I loved them so much. The spice was nuts OMFGGG
It’s something so potent about BLACK LOVE between two men that just hits man. I’m truly so goddamn moved and changed by this story. I can’t wrap my head around the fact that it’s a debut novel. It was perfect.
There were so many small yet impactful moments in the book that turned me into mush FR. I wish I could read it again for the first time. This was such an amazing experience. Kit will forever have a reader in me. I can’t wait for the next book!
March 9, 2024
Before i start this review i would like to state that you check trigger warnings before you start this book. Heavy mentions of loss of loved ones (yes a lot), mental health, grief (HEAVY), Homophobia, depression, suicidal thoughts etc.
This book was undoubtedly 5 stars for me because it put me through a lot of emotions and i felt everything deeply. My review is going to be an honest to god word vomit because i am processing as i am reviewing, so take it as you see it😂. Also there are going to be spoilers because my review won’t come without one so sorry in advance .
First off, the way this book started was not something i expected. You’re hit with the grief instantly. Tyler Washington is a high school basketball player aspiring to go pro after college and his parents support him heavily and
Tyler goes on to blame himself (which i knew was going to be like that but man i didn’t expect the extent of it) blames the fact that it was them coming to his game that took them away from him and then he gets this pressure to get the championship ring in his rookie years for them. For me, personally i think in this situation he wouldn’t find happiness in playing the game he loves anymore. Doing something because of /for grief takes away the joy of that particular thing love because i am not a fan of the belief that grief is a good motivator.We see how the pressure gets to tyler and how depressed he is anytime he loses because he thinks he has failed his parents. Tyler after the loss of his parents is taken under his uncle’s wing (Uncle Adam deserves the world) who also lost his bestfriend in a fire accident (They’re firefighters so it’s scary okay) and even the thought of losing his uncle to a fire mishap at work doubles tyler’s fear and depression. It was a lot and i was scared for him and had tears in my eyes all the time.
Then , to the character i think carried this book, my man SIDNEY DAVID KING. Everything in this book was told from Ty’s POV but Sidney kept this book alive in my opinion. Sid also lost his first boyfriend and bestfriend to depression and suicide due to abuse. But with the support of his family and loved ones he got through it.
I love how this author portrays family support and love which is honestly rare in most MM books, therapy and a host of other things I don’t get enough of in certain books. She clearly did her research and went in depth .
Enough of the heavy stuff okay. What� comes next is going to be rants and swoony moments (check my highlights 😂). Here we go;
So *clears throat *, Tyler and Sid have a strong connection and are in a secret relationship. It is veryyyyyyy spicyyyyyy like no games, Sid is possessive. It’s hot. He’s my 2nd book boyfriend after Brendan Taggart.
We know, Tyler knows, Sid knows that their relationship is endgame right? So tell me why Tyler wanted his fear of loss and his depression to ruin the one good thing that has happened to him in a long time
There were chapters that honestly pissed me off because tyler wasn’t focusing on the positives and it hurt me to see that he was selfish about a lot of things
Uncle Adam went to therapy after his loss. Sid went to therapy and has been going since then. Tyler has stubbornly refused to go to therapy and process what he’s going through and it started affecting his relationship with Sid and even Sid’s mental health. There was a situation where tyler did something that triggered Sid from his past loss and it ruined his game and all that and i was so angry because Sid has been supportive and patient and generous with his love and time and patience. I felt like Tyler was being selfish and didn’t consider the fact that helping himself would help those that love him and losing himself will break those that love him. He just wanted everyone to love him the way he came without considering how his depression and suicidal thoughts might affect the man he was in love with . Well it caused a huge fight and things were said and i cried and i begged 😂😂 . We’ll enough of that.
This book was extremely spicy, has the best swoon moments and honestly is one of the best love stories out there. I love them so much and i want Sidney King so bad. He’s perfect guys😍
Generally i think this book helped me understand different stages of loss , grief, depression and the way our characters navigated everything and came out strong in the end. Love prevailed guys yay🥲
I want to say thank you to anyone who has made it this far, I don’t know if i made any sense but i hope you understood what this book made me go through 😂
And to the AMAZING side characters in this book who deserve nothing short of love and unending happiness;
Kieran and Tommy (I want their story so bad😭🩵)
Uncle Adam and Ishan ( Thank you for being the most amazing and supportive parents to Tyler)
Malik, Nicholas, Kaleb, Tevin, Idris, Anzar. ( The best kind of friends anyone could wish for . Also i’m shipping Tevin and Malik idc. Also excited for Anzare since his book is next)
Lily ( The best mama. Adopt me please)
And to the author for writing this great book. I refuse to believe this is a debut but i am not surprised because i have been having the best luck with debut books recently so cheers.
To my friends who after Chapter 13🥵🥵 i made them read and finish this book with me so we could cry and rave and rage and swoon together. It was a snotfest guys😂😂
So can you tell now how much i loved this book??🥹❤️💜
Major tropes:
Secret Relationship
Rivals who are friends to lovers
And a whole lot of triggers 🥲
This book was undoubtedly 5 stars for me because it put me through a lot of emotions and i felt everything deeply. My review is going to be an honest to god word vomit because i am processing as i am reviewing, so take it as you see it😂. Also there are going to be spoilers because my review won’t come without one so sorry in advance .
First off, the way this book started was not something i expected. You’re hit with the grief instantly. Tyler Washington is a high school basketball player aspiring to go pro after college and his parents support him heavily and
Tyler goes on to blame himself (which i knew was going to be like that but man i didn’t expect the extent of it) blames the fact that it was them coming to his game that took them away from him and then he gets this pressure to get the championship ring in his rookie years for them. For me, personally i think in this situation he wouldn’t find happiness in playing the game he loves anymore. Doing something because of /for grief takes away the joy of that particular thing love because i am not a fan of the belief that grief is a good motivator.We see how the pressure gets to tyler and how depressed he is anytime he loses because he thinks he has failed his parents. Tyler after the loss of his parents is taken under his uncle’s wing (Uncle Adam deserves the world) who also lost his bestfriend in a fire accident (They’re firefighters so it’s scary okay) and even the thought of losing his uncle to a fire mishap at work doubles tyler’s fear and depression. It was a lot and i was scared for him and had tears in my eyes all the time.
Then , to the character i think carried this book, my man SIDNEY DAVID KING. Everything in this book was told from Ty’s POV but Sidney kept this book alive in my opinion. Sid also lost his first boyfriend and bestfriend to depression and suicide due to abuse. But with the support of his family and loved ones he got through it.
I love how this author portrays family support and love which is honestly rare in most MM books, therapy and a host of other things I don’t get enough of in certain books. She clearly did her research and went in depth .
Enough of the heavy stuff okay. What� comes next is going to be rants and swoony moments (check my highlights 😂). Here we go;
So *clears throat *, Tyler and Sid have a strong connection and are in a secret relationship. It is veryyyyyyy spicyyyyyy like no games, Sid is possessive. It’s hot. He’s my 2nd book boyfriend after Brendan Taggart.
We know, Tyler knows, Sid knows that their relationship is endgame right? So tell me why Tyler wanted his fear of loss and his depression to ruin the one good thing that has happened to him in a long time
There were chapters that honestly pissed me off because tyler wasn’t focusing on the positives and it hurt me to see that he was selfish about a lot of things
Uncle Adam went to therapy after his loss. Sid went to therapy and has been going since then. Tyler has stubbornly refused to go to therapy and process what he’s going through and it started affecting his relationship with Sid and even Sid’s mental health. There was a situation where tyler did something that triggered Sid from his past loss and it ruined his game and all that and i was so angry because Sid has been supportive and patient and generous with his love and time and patience. I felt like Tyler was being selfish and didn’t consider the fact that helping himself would help those that love him and losing himself will break those that love him. He just wanted everyone to love him the way he came without considering how his depression and suicidal thoughts might affect the man he was in love with . Well it caused a huge fight and things were said and i cried and i begged 😂😂 . We’ll enough of that.
This book was extremely spicy, has the best swoon moments and honestly is one of the best love stories out there. I love them so much and i want Sidney King so bad. He’s perfect guys😍
Generally i think this book helped me understand different stages of loss , grief, depression and the way our characters navigated everything and came out strong in the end. Love prevailed guys yay🥲
I want to say thank you to anyone who has made it this far, I don’t know if i made any sense but i hope you understood what this book made me go through 😂
And to the AMAZING side characters in this book who deserve nothing short of love and unending happiness;
Kieran and Tommy (I want their story so bad😭🩵)
Uncle Adam and Ishan ( Thank you for being the most amazing and supportive parents to Tyler)
Malik, Nicholas, Kaleb, Tevin, Idris, Anzar. ( The best kind of friends anyone could wish for . Also i’m shipping Tevin and Malik idc. Also excited for Anzare since his book is next)
Lily ( The best mama. Adopt me please)
And to the author for writing this great book. I refuse to believe this is a debut but i am not surprised because i have been having the best luck with debut books recently so cheers.
To my friends who after Chapter 13🥵🥵 i made them read and finish this book with me so we could cry and rave and rage and swoon together. It was a snotfest guys😂😂
So can you tell now how much i loved this book??🥹❤️💜
Major tropes:
Secret Relationship
Rivals who are friends to lovers
And a whole lot of triggers 🥲
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2024
Wow this book blew my expectations out of the water. So I’d seen a whole host of glowing reviews and my expectations weren’t low but man, Sid and Ty were something else. The writing just sucks you in. Tragedy pulls at your heart strings as you start and there is a gentle ebb and flow in the emotions as these two meet and become closer and then it layers in intensity and it build like a fantastic crescendo, emotions piling higher and higher until that spectacular end.
Ty’s a rookie and Sid is a star and I loved both their generous spirits, warm hearts and insane skills to back up their confidence. Both have loss in their lives and I think that bonds them instantly. Seeing Ty recognise and work through his grief was equally heartbreaking and inspirational. The story is told almost entirely through Ty’s PoV and the author doesn’t shy away at all from the difficult parts.
Also I have to mention they are HOT, like white HOT, the steam is a slow burn build but it is an explosive payoff. Why did I wait so long to read this? oh and I also have to mention I loved Sid’s family and Adam and Ishan!
Expect:
* Basketball romance
* Friends to lovers
* Hi heat
* Stellar mental health rep
* Sexual awakening
* Grief
* Secret relationship
* First times
Ty’s a rookie and Sid is a star and I loved both their generous spirits, warm hearts and insane skills to back up their confidence. Both have loss in their lives and I think that bonds them instantly. Seeing Ty recognise and work through his grief was equally heartbreaking and inspirational. The story is told almost entirely through Ty’s PoV and the author doesn’t shy away at all from the difficult parts.
Also I have to mention they are HOT, like white HOT, the steam is a slow burn build but it is an explosive payoff. Why did I wait so long to read this? oh and I also have to mention I loved Sid’s family and Adam and Ishan!
Expect:
* Basketball romance
* Friends to lovers
* Hi heat
* Stellar mental health rep
* Sexual awakening
* Grief
* Secret relationship
* First times
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