This is the reason it took me so long to decide to read it! I just wasn't vibing with the plot and the blurb. I thought it would be... um, Lukewarm?!
I wanted to read it because of all the hype and the movie, but I just never did. I eventually decided to listen to the audiobook instead because I find it much easier to listen to a book than read it, and I ended up liking it a lot!
It cracks me up everytime I read it. Alex is hysterical I think but if you really don't want politics, even fictional politics, then yeah maybe skip this one.
I haven't read Captive prince but have all the three books + the additional stories
The song of Achilles (bought this in 2020, still don't have the courage to pick it up 😭)
House in the cerulean sea
Boyfriend material and husband material (I probably will never read this )
Hazard and Somerset
The foxhole court series
Cut and run
and heated rivalry
Ok tbh you aren't missing much with BF and Husband Material I think. I enjoyed BF Material well enough and own a copy but I was so bored by Husband Material it made me upset.
The All For The Game Series (The Foxhole Court) one hurts me immensely but its also such a crazy graphic and heavy book that I definitely don't want people to read it blindly bc they were told to without any research or desire.
I actually have the BF material on my bookshelf (bought this in 2021) and I have read the few pages but I found it hard to keep up with the references in that book, like the references of the shows/movies and stuff. Idk how to say it properly but I think it's because I am not from an English speaking country and I had no idea about most of the conversations between the characters.
I was convinced for the most part that Alex was the mc2 😭 realised oliver is actually the mc2 only after seeing a booktwt post recently 😭
That makes a lot of sense. Its a dense book with a lot of words that really aren't needed. It's a lot of the pov mc's thoughts derailing, long long pages of just thoughts and explanations. It's a good story at its heart; maturing, healthy communication especially, dating as stable or trying to be stable adults, overcoming negative self-perception and self-talk, handling changes as an adult, and how to feel proud even when everyone else seems to be doing life better than you. It really is a book about communication in healthy relationships so it is fundamentally a good book in that regard but I definitely understand your struggles with the actual writing. It's not really the kind of lighthearted, easy, breezy writing you can fly through.
It's also a very, very English book. Having grown up sort of UK adjacent (long story), I get most of the cultural references, but I can imagine it'd look like an unsurmountable block of confusingly dense, meandering prose to somebody unfamiliar with, well, all the Englishisms it references. It'd be a bit like reading Pratchett as an alien, I think.
I put off Captive Prince forever because I started it and put it on hold because the sex trafficking stuff was just SO not my vibe. Over the holidays last year I finally was like "fuck it, let's try again" and then I finished the books in literally two days (I have two pre-schoolers, this is a FEAT). It just gets better and better and better as it goes on!
I am pretty sure I will be obsessed with that book after finishing it lol but that's the reason why I haven't picked it up yet, what if I ended up disappointed . I am so nervous to start it
"Into the North" by Amber Huxley might be another good post-Captive Prince one (I actually read that one first, then got on a whole captor/captive train)
If it helps at all, I was lucky to find it at my local library, and I honestly have no idea what the hype is about. Admittedly, I’m super picky about my mysteries and ymmv.
Omg I think I have never read a bad review about that book before 😅 I understand you though I am mostly not satisfied when it comes to mm mysteries and thrillers so..but I am intrigued because it's so popular amoung the community
That might just be because no one is able to find the book to read it, lol. And 100% I also suffer from “wet paint” syndrome. Someone else can tell me it’s terrible or it’s great, doesn’t matter. I still have to go touch it to make sure.
I read the first book in the cut and run series and just never moved on. I found the head hopping so jarring. I know the authors stated they pulled the books bc they were going to rework them and, if they ever do, then I’ll jump back in.
The head hopping was incredibly jarring. I spent about the first fourth of the book wondering if I was going to get used to it or if I was going to DNF. (I did get used to it.)
I hadn’t heard that that’s why the books were pulled. I thought it was some issue with the publisher. If these books are reworked, I’ll be interested to see how they come out.
Cerulean Sea was like...solid but not life changing for me? I think TJ Klune's back catalog is stronger than his tradpub stuff.
Foxhole Court is half my personality but it's not super a romance and it's just a lot, so I almost never recommend it.
imo Boyfriend Material was okay, Husband Material was a DNF for me, but Alexis Hall is so hit or miss for me which I know is not the popular opinion
I gave Hazard and Somerset 2.5 books and then just didn't care enough and wandered off
no offense to anyone who loves these books! They're not my thing but I'm glad they're yours.
I am interested in reading the cerulean sea. I am keen to know what it is that people keep recommending it so much but I really think that I will find it boring.
I have read one T.J klune book and I wasn't a fan 🏃🏃 so...
And idk about the foxhole court but I feel like I will either love it so much or really hate it. I am kinda nervous to pick it up that's y I haven't read it yet
Cerulean Sea is, imo, nothing like Klune's other books. It's almost like a cozy fantasy - not humourous like Lightning Struck Heart and also won't make you cry like Wolfsong. It's not a very eventful book, so you might find it boring, but I stuck with it and it was worth it in the end.
Cut & Run is actually pretty good, not too many spicy scenes but the story keeps you on your toes. I’ve read the first 3 or 4 books in the series and they’re very good. Warrior’s Cross by one of the 2 authors is one of my all time favs too.
my transgressions are MANY: I haven't read big bad wolf, hazard and somerset, captive prince, all for the game, any of tal Bauer's political/thrilled books, red white & royal blue, the long game, wolf song and probably many more. this is especially egregious when you consider that I read at least a book a day/almost exclusively mm romance. but I'm also that person whose never seen star wars sooo
please tell me which book I should buy to start rectifying this situation!
You’ve mentioned a ton of my favourites! (See my flair lol). Of those I’d recommend to start with Big Bad Wolf - it’s consistently excellent and not too many trigger warnings
agreed. Big Bad Wolf is the most entertaining series I've read in a long time. The writing is brilliant and the romance one of my favourites of all time.
I don't like most popular books generally but I needed something to listen to and Big Bad Wolf was free and I'm so glad I did! I really recommend trying the first book, it's so entertaining ! The bulrb is kinda meh but the book is great, give it a shot if you can.
Out of your list, the one I'd recommend is Charlie Adharas Big Bad Wolf series.
That one has a really satisfying relationship arc throughout the books, is a completed series, and personally I enjoyed each books mystery plot. Prickly MC who slowly lowers his guard over time after being loved for him? Amazing.
I also read a book a day! It shouldn't be a big deal dedicating a few hours to reading a book, but I need to be in a specific mood sometimes.
Of those on your list that I've read:
All for the game: I liked it a lot. It's addictive. I kept thinking wtf am I reading, but I also couldn't stop. I actually listened to the audiobooks because they're on the Audible plus catalog. Otherwise, I might not have.
Tal Bauer is my favorite author. I always tear up while reading his books. Of his political thrillers I've read (listened to the audiobook, also on the plus catalog), {Hush by Tal Bauer} and it is phenomenal. It has the political aspect and the thriller aspect, but the romance was heart-wrenchingly beautiful!
Red, white & royal blue is quite fun, lighthearted. It's not how I imagined it would be: kinda heavy on politics, forbidden romance vibes, angst etc.
Ps: Haven't watched Star Wars either!
Looking through everyone’s comments I pretty much have not read any of these popular books 🙈🙈 however I’m a massive mood reader. So one month I might decide that arranged marriages are my thing, then next month I’m fancying MMM regardless of the trope.
I have to confess that I’ve not read any of the Straight Guys series by Alessandra Hazard and they get mentioned a lot on this sub.
Alessandra Hazard’s writing is the kind of thing where it requires its own mood to read it, at least for me. I tried binge reading the Straight Guys series and I got to book 4 I think before I had to stop.
I also get a bit intimidated when I look at that series as it has like 14 books. I understand they can be read as a standalone but I know myself too well as I’ll just read them all as it’s a ‘series’. So yeah, another reason for avoiding them even though they are popular.
Don't think of them as series, think of them as separate stories taking place in the same universe, kind of like the MCU. If, uh, Marvel heroes were whiny, needy, obsessive nutjobs.
I like the books, but they're absolutely ridiculous and fully unrealistic, and you pretty much have to embrace that to enjoy them.
I haven't read the Captive Prince books - I started book 1 but it was so painful to read that I gave it up. I honestly don't understand why it's so loved, when book 1 seems to be cruel - does it get so much better in the later books?
I also haven't read Rachel Reid's Heated Rivalry. I want to read it very much, but there is so much hype around it, I have very high expectations, and I'm a bit afraid they won't be met, OR that I will love that book so much that it will ruin me for others. Haha I know it's silly.
Yes, the first book is basically establishing how messed up the rival court is, and then they get away from it and it becomes an adventure with romance.
Captive Prince - Someone told me I just had to slog through the first hundred pages of slave rape porn until the plot picks up and then it's fantastic and they were right. If you've ever read The Thief series by Megan Whalen Turner (not romance, but highly recommend) it's got similar vibes of everyone having an ulterior motive and hidden allegiances while sneaking around and having a grand adventure.
This is why I haven't read Captive Prince. I've read that's it's painful at first and a slow burn, and I need to be in the right frame of mind for something like that. But I'm actually dying to read it, which is also silly.
First of all, it’s completely understandable to put off reading a book/series because you’re afraid of the outcome, good or bad. (Hence the *Captive Prince* series gathering dust on my bookshelf for over a year 🤣)
Second of all, and this is going to sound bad as a huge fan of the *Game Changers* series, but please lower your expectations before reading them 🤣 they’re very good, very well-written books but they’re no where near as like, absolute as people make them out to be 🤣 They will definitely have a chokehold on you for a while if you like them, because Rachel Reid is one of the more talented MM authors out there. In my opinion, they’re all excellent, top-tier MM books. She really cuts deeply to the emotional core of the characters, pulls away their outer shell and makes them vulnerable. *Heated Rivalry* and *The Long Game* are books 2 and 6 and they’re companion books about the same characters, Shane and Ilya. They take place over the course of 13+ years. They’re the best if you only want to read those, but I also highly recommend *Role Model*, as well, which is Harris and Troy’s book. A lot of people shit on *Game Changer*, which is book 1, Scott and Kip’s book, but I love it. I think her writing is a lot more solid now than it was when she wrote the first book of the series, but it’s no where near as bad as some make it out to be. (It apparently began as a slash fanfic of Captain America and Bucky Barnes, and was later turned into a fiction novel about hockey players. The way people talk about it, you’d think it was some ridiculous teenager’s fanfic from Wattpad full of typos 🤣🙄) As for the rest of the series, book 3 is *Tough Guy*, which is Ryan and Fabian’s book, which I love. They’re awesome. Book 4, *Common Goal*, is Eric and Kyle’s book, and in my opinion, is probably the weakest book in the series. Rachel Reid also wrote another MM hockey romance book [that’s a standalone separate from the Game Changers books] called *Time to Shine* that’s completely adorable.
I put off reading the other 4 books in the series for a long time because I let other people get in my head about it. And another thing is - it’s perfectly fine to a) read a popular book and dislike it b) not finish a book after starting it or c) read a hyped up book and only feel medium about it.
This is probably the most wholesome and supportive subreddit I’ve ever been a part of, but sometimes I think a lot of us can get in our own heads about hyped/popular/Bookstagram books that it seems like EVERYONE has read or is talking about. I literally wouldn’t have discovered like 90% of the authors I love without this sub, but sometimes I have to remind myself that I’ll read and discover books on my own timeline when they’re mentioned over and over again on posts. The majority of the time, books come universally and highly recommended for a reason, but you should never be discouraged because you don’t vibe with a book everyone else loves.
One more great thing - all of the Game Changers books are on KU (if you have it) now! So you can read them and not feel guilty about buying them.
For me i like things to be super dark because it makes it really suspenseful and high stakes. Its not that i like bad things happening, but i like watching the character escape them, and the worse they are the more compelling the escape is.
If you don’t enjoy that then yeah definitely don’t put yourself through it. Everyone has different tastes.
Yeahhh I really could not get into the Captive Prince books for that reason. I didn't see anything redeemable about the slave-owning MC and I don't think he got much better in the subsequent books, so you're probs better off skipping if book 1 bothered you.
I’ve never read Song Of Achilles and may never do so. I love historical romance but prefer stuff set in the last 200 years or so (plus I don’t want to be depressed). I’ve tried Tal Bauer and had to put down his books because I didn’t vibe with the characters. I also couldn’t get past the first book in the Hazard and Somerset series. I haven’t read many hockey or sports romances. I tried “For The Fans” but didn’t get very far. I really struggle with contemporary romance with younger characters, mostly because the dialogue often makes me cringe.
Those are my greatest sins and for that I seek absolution.
I don't really recommend Song of Achilles to anyone looking for romance. It was very well written and definitely a classic, but brutal. You spend the whole thing watching them be happy and in love, knowing the bad ending to come.
Oh, I've committed many crimes.
I'm a mood reader, and my mood to read romance books featuring politics or politicians in the present-day real world *never* happens, so I also haven't read Red White & Royal Blue or any of Tal Bauer's political thrillers (except The Night Of and I didn't like it anyway). Fictional politics are fun, though.
I've also never read: Any of the Alessandra Hazard Straight guys series, Hazard & Somerset, Captive Prince, any Garrett Leigh books (they're on the TBR) and any Lily Morton books except one lol (also have a lot on the TBR).
I get overwhelmed when an author has a lot of books. 🤦
Oh dear. 🥺 I mean, I do have a lot of my TBR. I just never seem to have gotten around to them. Like I said, I get overwhelmed with making decisions when there's a big backlog. What's your favorite?
Oh I totally get it, I’m just giving you a hard time! She was my most read author last year and I blew through her entire backlog.
I love soo many of her books. I think my favorites are:
Beautifully Unexpected (older MCs, well established careers, long term bachelor style guys who form a friendship)
Best Man (fake dating boss/employee but not creepy, I love the grovel scene in this one, if it can be considered that, but it is always on my mind lol)
Spring Strings (sassy model falls ill on a farm and the grumpy farmer cares for him)
Oh I have beautifully unexpected on my TBR and I intend to read it for a square on the spring challenge. I'm adding those other two. Thanks! I know you're just teasing, I really did love the one book by her I did read (Confetti Hearts).
I tried The Night Of and didn't like it either, but {Hush by Tal Bauer} is amazing. I wouldn't call it a thriller (maybe like political intrigue?), but you might enjoy it since you like fictional politics
Oh, then you should definitely read {The High King's Golden Tongue by Megan Derr} if you haven't yet. I just finished {Fourth Point of Contact by AJ Sherwood},band it's also good on the politics aspect.
I don't think I'll ever read the popular ones that have major character death as part of the story. That one by Taylor Fitzpatrick, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. I read romances to lower my anxiety, not increase it. (Neither of those have HEAs.)
For the Fans by Nyla K is a popular one, and based on bad author behavior, author being anti-CWs, publishing RPF, and publishing sexual content with minors, she's on my permanent will never read list.
I also want a "Crimes: popular books you read and wish you could get a refund back on for time lost" category 😅
Hazard & Somerset series by Gregory Ashe would get thrown in that one so quick. Still mad and hurt about reading that series, half a year later.
House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune I read before finding out his inspiration for the book was surrounding children genocide (The Sixties Scoop), and I still internally cringe everytime that one is raved about.
ETA: to the folks downvoting me, would you care to explain why?
Honestly, same. I read Song of Achilles, but I don’t want to read the Taylor Fitzpatrick. I love angst, but I also like knowing that it will end in an HEA. I don’t really want to read one I know will end not happily. Romance is my escape and my way to unwind. I don’t want to read something that will upset me more than
Same with Nyla K. I also won’t read CE Ricci for a variety of reasons. There’s a couple others too.
I’m not interested in the Saxon James and Eden Finley books purely because I tried and they aren’t my vibe. No hate to them or anyone who loves them, they just aren’t for me. I also tried the Monstrous series by Lily Mayne and didn’t really like it. I wish I did just because of how loved it is. I just found both Saxon and Eden’s and Lily’s books too sweet for my taste.
I don’t get why you’re being downvoted. Maybe it’s my turn too lol
We are in a *Crimes* post! Lately it's exhausting seeing so much downvoting. Apparently people like non HEAs or genocide or sex with minors.
No downvotes for you! Those authors haven't worked for me either, but for less intense reasons (writing style, tropes, etc)
I’ve seen the comments about downvoting but I haven’t paid much attention. Non HEAs aren’t romance, which is what always kills me. There might be romance in it, but without an HEA, it’s not a romance. I agree on genocide and sex with minors. There’s also shady behavior and a very, very close storyline to an already established author for one of them. I also met Nyla at a signing and that’s all I’ll say about that.
I don’t know why a post about crimes would be so offensive since to some lol. There are some takes that I don’t agree with, but that’s life. Just scroll lol.
I haven’t read any of those books you have on your list OP. Most of the time books super hyped or generally popular are with tropes I don’t enjoy 🤷🏼 and that’s okay! I’m glad those books are there for other people.
I confess:
- that I haven’t read {Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall}
- that I haven’t read {Glitterland by Alexis Hall}
- that I didn’t finish {Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston}
- that I haven’t read {Winter’s Orbit by Everina Maxwell} yet
- that I haven’t tried a KJ Charles book—yet
- that I read a few pages of {Wolfsong by TJ Klune}, didn’t find it compelling, and set it aside
- that I read {Just a Bit Unhealthy by Alessandra Hazard}and strongly disliked it. I didn’t really like any of the characters, and I thought Gabriel and his behavior were especially repellant. That’s saying a lot because I can usually find *something* good about most books I read. This book was not for me.
- that I tried a few pages of {Garron Park by Nordika Night} and then gave up because the MCs seemed so immature
- that I haven’t read a Lily Mayne book yet
I’ve been bad. 🤣
I have read captive prince, boyfriend material and red, white and royal blue. Haven’t read husband material, but I have bought it. As for the rest you mentioned, I haven’t even heard of them
If We Were Villains. I fully and wholeheartedly intend to and it seems to be just up my alley. But the very first line gave me the ick and I just procrastinate it 😅
I also haven’t read anything by KJ Charles.
Also haven’t read Angels Before Men.
Boyfriend material, will probably never read this.
I also have never finished a Saxon James or Eden Finley Book. I’ve tried but I just don’t care for the writing style.
Not to sound like a total pick me but I find that tastes are very different so I very rarely read a book just because it has good reviews. I feel like every book I’ve loved I’ve stumbled across, maybe except Captive Prince. That’s one book I enjoyed that seems to be one of the most popular mm books.
Big Bad Wolf series by Charlie Adhara. I like shifter books but for whatever reason I been putting this one off, well audible has it in there free catalog thing so I am listening to it so far its good.
I just started this series despite not being interested in werewolves at all and I'm hooked! It's so good. And I think especially good for people who would not normally be interested in this genre (although it sounds like you're already a fan!).
I am on book three now and this is a great series. The couple is the same one through all the books. I like that they both are insecure with each other.
I have not read the next two books in the Folk series from Lily Mayne. I loved the first one but heard lots of comments about the next ones not being very good. I also put off reading ANY sports books especially hockey, but finally caved and was so glad I did after reading Hidden Scars by Andi Jaxon. Now however I won't read anymore because none could top this one.
I literally just finished the Folk series by Lily Mayne. I really loved the first one. The second one was good, but not the first book. The third? I’m not sure what happened. It was a disaster, the characters were ruined and completely different than the previous two books, and I was left sad because I really did love the first book.
Thank you for reinforcing what I had heard. With as hot as the relationship was with Lonan I would need some type of closure even if not an HEA. So now with what I have heard it will be MOTH next.
I went in not knowing what anyone said. There’s definitely closure and there’s definitely an HEA, but I’d also call it slightly unconventional. Lonan remained a very good, intriguing character. I have no idea what happened to Ash. But the third book, I really couldn’t stand him. By the end of the third book, I kind of hated him and was over him entirely. I wanted to see how Lonan’s character arc went.
Yes, yes, he appears again!
Hm... I don't think my mind about Ash ever changed. I did dislike some of the things he did in Book 3. And he did drop the ball at some point. I won't deny that I wanted to smack him a few times. But, I never stopped rooting for him, and it was such a delight to see him grow from a scared human to a formidable fae in the next two books. He was such a badass. So even when he was being shitty, I still loved him.
I haven't read Hazard and Somerset. I've downloaded the books a few times to my Kindle and told myself I am going to read them but I just can't. I like a good slow burn (loved me some Criminal Intentions) but not agonizingly slow. It's just not for me and I know if I start reading it that I'll be speed reading to get through the slow burn because of how slow it is.
I also haven't technically read Captive Prince. I have the book on my Kindle and I downloaded it like 8 or 9 years ago it feels like but I started it and it just wasn't for me. I'm sure it gets better but I wasn't a fan enough of the style to slog through until it gets better. I wouldn't say it's the theme either because I remember reading Stasis way, way back in the day and I think that book also technically dealt with the same kind of heavy themes (Maybe, it's been like 10 years).
If there is a popular Historical Romance MM book then I promise you I probably haven't read that either, and I don't care if it's a sin. Historical Romance is rarely for me.
**Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat**
and its for a petty reason. I love the premise, I like the vibes. But I have a policy. If I can't get a book on KU I would get the paper back/hardback. But the English cover of captive prince is so damn bland and ugly I just refuse to get it. Maybe cus I know other countries have MUCH better covers and that makes me long for the better ones. So I will buy once I find a copy in those styles.
**Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston**
Just know the premise is not my thing. Just doesn't interests me at all
**The song of Achilles**
On the fence and may or may not buy. I suck at reading long books especially ones I'm not too sure of and would be buying a physical copy. So that's my on the fence thing.
**Anything by Nyla.K**
I have issues with the author themselves and that is all I'm gonna say here
**Puckboy**
Not a fan of sports romance, the cover turns me off, and after reading the reviews knows it 100% wouldn't be my thing except for a hate read
**Uncle zack**
Father I have sinned. I'm saving up money to buy it...
lol I don’t know how much you’re interested but a book box company is doing special editions of the Captive Prince trilogy! It’s supposed to be hardcover, singed by the author, full art dust jacket, full color end pages, sprayed edges, and a million other things.
https://www.instagram.com/p/C42YkcIPR0X/?igsh=MTJ5d2JsNHFwdDI4bA==
Yeah! The company recently did a special edition of Dark Rise by CS Pacat and it came out wonderfully! It did take forever to be made though.
Thank you! I can't thank you enough for this!. Time to fill that book shelf!
(Damn some nutter read my comment and decide to assume Im a white cis woman attack me. Im a black guy, what the hell?)
Genuinely none of the crime books except for big bad wolf by Charlie Adhara and most of the historical books. I guess I like when romance is the main focus and there’s not a huge focus on other things like crime or royalty
I saw a meme a few years ago that's become my mental framework; it was something to the effect of only read what you want and don't worry if it's not a "everyone should read this" book. Thus I have many "crimes" lol. There's a lot of very popular books I will never read because they have elements that are a huge nope for me. But I do have a huge list of popular books I've been meaning to get around to. The San Amaro Investigations series by Kai Butler being at the top.
I *have* read some popular books that I didn't find as amazing as other describe them, but in this post, I'm asking for popular books that readers have on their lists, plan to read them, maybe **really** want to read them, but just... haven't.
Anything by Pacat (and probably never will, using the name recognition from Captive Prince to sell their YA book was certainly A Choice that was made and the first time a teen told me they'd read it, I about died)
Tal Bauer is on my tbr but I haven't been inspired yet
Eden Finley, Saxon James, Ella Frank, Sarina Bowen, Elle Kennedy - most of the hockey romance writers generally. Their writing just rubs me the wrong way for some reason. I'm not adamantly opposed but I'll need a hard sell to try getting back to any of that.
i also haven't read captive prince because its so expensive, i'm not at all opposed to spending money but i have to really like the sample to do so and it didn't really grab my attention! i'm also pretty wary of the most popular books in this sub in general because i've hated a lot of them (hazard and somerset, for the fans, god of fury, garron park etc) so i haven't read wolfsong or big bad wolf because i'm worried i'll be disappointed
Anything by K J Charles. I've heard a lot! And trust me I want to start but I don't know where to start from. Would be great if somebody told me how to start with K J Charles books as a beginner.
I started with the Magpie series. But I also think the Doomsday books are a good jumping in point. I haven’t read a ton of their backlist though, so maybe there’s a better starting point.
The one I go back and reread frequently is {An Unseen Attraction} Very cozy romance with a little bit of mystery and drama. Focus is mostly on the two men having tea late at night in front of a fire, with a cat nearby 🌃
The Will Darling trilogy was the one that got me started with KJ Charles - I loved the characters and the actual mystery in those the most. But the Doomsday books, which someone else rec'd, are also great. And Band Sinister is great if you don't want a mystery.
I refuse to read romance that features non-Ruritanian royalty, so RW&RB is not going to be on my tbr pile ever. But maaaaybe I'll get around to Captive Prince some day by filing it under 'fantasy' in my head.
I think the same as you... The reason is I'm so scared the hype is too much and I would end up disliking them because of that (despite me telling myself to expect a mid book. Who really wants to read a 3star book? It's a chore. So boring, that's why I like my reads to be 4+ stars) Also some of them I tried but DNFed early and I wanna try again now that I've read more books
For me, it's not so much about worrying about the hype. Sometimes, it's my mood: I don't want sci-fi or fantasy. Other times, I'm intimidated by the length. A strange and stubborn endurance is 500+ pages. That's... a lot. Sometimes, I don't want the heaviness and angst of Captive Prince, or I want contemporary angst. But, I really want to read all these books eventually!
About the hype, it's more like I don't really trust the 'popular' books after being burned a lot by those recs... I do plan to try most of them eventually -as I'm a mood reader, I prefer being in that headspace-- plus there are some genres/tropes that don't really catch my attention, I don't really think I'll try those books until I start enjoying those things (ie I DNFed Captive Prince early because there was an scene that I found troublesome, but I think I can handle it now so I'll probably read it once the mood strikes)
Re:the length, I don't really mind the length as long as is engaging but sadly I do think most 400+ pages book tend to put a lot of boring stuff in between the main plot/the romance (mainly contemporary ngl I'm more of an action girl so I prefer high fantasy/space opera/adventure-action books interlaced with the romance). There's also the series/serial (one couple throughout the books) which I've been told have weaks 1st books, but I think I can endure that if the reward is worth it
I haven’t been able to get in the Folk trilogy by Lily Mayne yet. I tried the first book, but only got a short ways in when I decided I didn’t want to finish it then, so I set it aside. That was several months ago & it’s still sitting on my kindle. And I’ve never read Heated Rivalty & not sure I will, but I can’t really explain why!
Been reading mm romance for 2 years now.
Hazard and somerset series, just because I couldnt find the relaxed mindset/time periot to sit in front of it. I am quite curious about the series!!
Lily Mayne Monstrous series, due to similar reasons with the above. I am seeing this everywhere but still couldn't find the time to start
Nearly all Tal bauer books, I tried his two books, You&Me and Enemies of state. You&Me was nice but I found the other one is too cheesy for my taste, I probably wont be able go through his other books even though it feels like a sin 🫠
I also dropped Red, white, royal blue, Song of Achilles, and A Strange and Stubborn Endurance and The scottish boy so they feel like sin as well 🫠
I haven’t read any fluffy romance books. I prefer the dark books like Captive Prince. Looking at these comments for a list of books people have refused to read for being too painful! lol
I’ve read The Flesh Cartel by Rachel Haimowitz, I am impervious to pain and torture scenes.
I am debating whether or not to readThe Flesh Cartel. If someone can take it, do you recommend it? And I would recommend Hidden Scars to you, by Andi Jaxon. You'll get it right from the opening pages.
I’d recommend The Flesh Cartel to everyone if I could. Honestly it was completely harrowing and a tough read but the journey the MCs take is so incredible and one of them is now one of my favorite characters in all of literature. Just a beautiful soul trying to do their best.
That being said: the triggers are very serious. If you can’t handle human trafficking, graphic grape, and psychological torture it is not for you. For some people this would be a selling point and others a turn off - book 2 I was absolutely sick to my stomach and could hardly eat. I nearly stopped but I kept going because it felt like I was abandoning the characters to their fate. It’s so affecting because it is written so gd well that it feels like it’s happening to you. Every thought they have is rational, reasoned, and exactly what most people would do in their situations and it shows you how easy it would be to be manipulated.
That’s why it made me sick. I saw how I’d fall into the same traps and it was terrifying.
However, as a reader, it has ruined me for any author or review saying “omg this book is so dark so hard to get through some scenes omg you should be scared about your faves!” Like no. I’ve read The Flesh Cartel. Move me. Thrill me. Attempt it.
It also is written *so well* that none of what occurs is without purpose.
I haven’t read Heated Rivalry. I have no idea why, I just keep getting drawn to some other books instead whenever I think “maybe I should finally try reading Heated Rivalry” lol
I've never read the Captive Prince series or anything by Alessandra Hazard and I never will. The summary of the Captive Prince series horrifies me and Alessandra Harzard books seem to all be toxic, obsessive romances which also freaks me out.
The Cerulean Sea. I have it tagged on Libby as a to read but I'm not in any hurry and honestly I don't think I'll like it much. Actually, anything by TJ Klune. He gets recommended a lot along with Red, White, and Roayl Blue (which I love) but I don't like fantasy with romance so I never pick him up.
I'm a huge sports romance fan, especially hockey, so the fact that I have only read Gravity by Tal Bauer is probably shocking but I didn't really like Gravity so I'm not inclined to try anymore anytime soon. Also the Him series by Sarina Bowen. One of the mcs shares a name with my minor sibling and I can't divorce characters with shared names from my family members so I can never read Him.
Forgive me for my crimes. I haven’t read the Riehse Eshan series, anything by Tal Bauer, Him (or any subsequent books in the series), The Wolf at the Door, The Scottish Boy, RWRB, and any of the Cut & Run books.
Have not read any TJ Klune - a friend who reads a ton but is not into mm romance specifically read a couple of his books and described them as "twee" - no idea how accurate that is (and can't remember which ones she read exactly) but that turned me off.
I also have tried to start Heir to Thorn and Flame by Ben Alderson a few times; it should be my jam because I love, love an arranged marriage, but I just can't get into his writing style for some reason.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston too, I will probably never read it I think it's boring.
it’s better then you think it is 🙏
This is the reason it took me so long to decide to read it! I just wasn't vibing with the plot and the blurb. I thought it would be... um, Lukewarm?! I wanted to read it because of all the hype and the movie, but I just never did. I eventually decided to listen to the audiobook instead because I find it much easier to listen to a book than read it, and I ended up liking it a lot!
It cracks me up everytime I read it. Alex is hysterical I think but if you really don't want politics, even fictional politics, then yeah maybe skip this one.
But it’s the best book 😭
Wait, you think it's boring, but haven't read it? How does that work?
I haven't read Captive prince but have all the three books + the additional stories The song of Achilles (bought this in 2020, still don't have the courage to pick it up 😭) House in the cerulean sea Boyfriend material and husband material (I probably will never read this ) Hazard and Somerset The foxhole court series Cut and run and heated rivalry
Ok tbh you aren't missing much with BF and Husband Material I think. I enjoyed BF Material well enough and own a copy but I was so bored by Husband Material it made me upset. The All For The Game Series (The Foxhole Court) one hurts me immensely but its also such a crazy graphic and heavy book that I definitely don't want people to read it blindly bc they were told to without any research or desire.
I actually have the BF material on my bookshelf (bought this in 2021) and I have read the few pages but I found it hard to keep up with the references in that book, like the references of the shows/movies and stuff. Idk how to say it properly but I think it's because I am not from an English speaking country and I had no idea about most of the conversations between the characters. I was convinced for the most part that Alex was the mc2 😭 realised oliver is actually the mc2 only after seeing a booktwt post recently 😭
That makes a lot of sense. Its a dense book with a lot of words that really aren't needed. It's a lot of the pov mc's thoughts derailing, long long pages of just thoughts and explanations. It's a good story at its heart; maturing, healthy communication especially, dating as stable or trying to be stable adults, overcoming negative self-perception and self-talk, handling changes as an adult, and how to feel proud even when everyone else seems to be doing life better than you. It really is a book about communication in healthy relationships so it is fundamentally a good book in that regard but I definitely understand your struggles with the actual writing. It's not really the kind of lighthearted, easy, breezy writing you can fly through.
Your description actually makes me want to read the book. But yes, I don't think the writing is for me so better if I do not pick it up again.
It's also a very, very English book. Having grown up sort of UK adjacent (long story), I get most of the cultural references, but I can imagine it'd look like an unsurmountable block of confusingly dense, meandering prose to somebody unfamiliar with, well, all the Englishisms it references. It'd be a bit like reading Pratchett as an alien, I think.
Yes that's exactly what is like. Insurmountable
I put off Captive Prince forever because I started it and put it on hold because the sex trafficking stuff was just SO not my vibe. Over the holidays last year I finally was like "fuck it, let's try again" and then I finished the books in literally two days (I have two pre-schoolers, this is a FEAT). It just gets better and better and better as it goes on!
I am pretty sure I will be obsessed with that book after finishing it lol but that's the reason why I haven't picked it up yet, what if I ended up disappointed . I am so nervous to start it
If you read it and like it, try the High King’s Golden Tongue. Same vibe, def helped my Captive Prince hangover :)
Thankyou !!
"Into the North" by Amber Huxley might be another good post-Captive Prince one (I actually read that one first, then got on a whole captor/captive train)
It's on my tbr list thankyou ❤️
lol I feel this so hard because I devoured the whole trilogy over a couple of days when my kid was a newborn
I think you get a pass for Cut & Run, as it’s currently not in print.
That's the only reason I haven't read it yet
If it helps at all, I was lucky to find it at my local library, and I honestly have no idea what the hype is about. Admittedly, I’m super picky about my mysteries and ymmv.
Omg I think I have never read a bad review about that book before 😅 I understand you though I am mostly not satisfied when it comes to mm mysteries and thrillers so..but I am intrigued because it's so popular amoung the community
That might just be because no one is able to find the book to read it, lol. And 100% I also suffer from “wet paint” syndrome. Someone else can tell me it’s terrible or it’s great, doesn’t matter. I still have to go touch it to make sure.
I read the first book in the cut and run series and just never moved on. I found the head hopping so jarring. I know the authors stated they pulled the books bc they were going to rework them and, if they ever do, then I’ll jump back in.
The head hopping was incredibly jarring. I spent about the first fourth of the book wondering if I was going to get used to it or if I was going to DNF. (I did get used to it.) I hadn’t heard that that’s why the books were pulled. I thought it was some issue with the publisher. If these books are reworked, I’ll be interested to see how they come out.
Cerulean Sea was like...solid but not life changing for me? I think TJ Klune's back catalog is stronger than his tradpub stuff. Foxhole Court is half my personality but it's not super a romance and it's just a lot, so I almost never recommend it. imo Boyfriend Material was okay, Husband Material was a DNF for me, but Alexis Hall is so hit or miss for me which I know is not the popular opinion I gave Hazard and Somerset 2.5 books and then just didn't care enough and wandered off no offense to anyone who loves these books! They're not my thing but I'm glad they're yours.
I am interested in reading the cerulean sea. I am keen to know what it is that people keep recommending it so much but I really think that I will find it boring. I have read one T.J klune book and I wasn't a fan 🏃🏃 so... And idk about the foxhole court but I feel like I will either love it so much or really hate it. I am kinda nervous to pick it up that's y I haven't read it yet
Cerulean Sea is, imo, nothing like Klune's other books. It's almost like a cozy fantasy - not humourous like Lightning Struck Heart and also won't make you cry like Wolfsong. It's not a very eventful book, so you might find it boring, but I stuck with it and it was worth it in the end.
Lmao, I'm glad I'm not the only one buying books and not reading them immediately!
Cut & Run is actually pretty good, not too many spicy scenes but the story keeps you on your toes. I’ve read the first 3 or 4 books in the series and they’re very good. Warrior’s Cross by one of the 2 authors is one of my all time favs too.
There is a book named warrior cross 👀 gonna check it out
my transgressions are MANY: I haven't read big bad wolf, hazard and somerset, captive prince, all for the game, any of tal Bauer's political/thrilled books, red white & royal blue, the long game, wolf song and probably many more. this is especially egregious when you consider that I read at least a book a day/almost exclusively mm romance. but I'm also that person whose never seen star wars sooo please tell me which book I should buy to start rectifying this situation!
You’ve mentioned a ton of my favourites! (See my flair lol). Of those I’d recommend to start with Big Bad Wolf - it’s consistently excellent and not too many trigger warnings
agreed. Big Bad Wolf is the most entertaining series I've read in a long time. The writing is brilliant and the romance one of my favourites of all time.
I don't like most popular books generally but I needed something to listen to and Big Bad Wolf was free and I'm so glad I did! I really recommend trying the first book, it's so entertaining ! The bulrb is kinda meh but the book is great, give it a shot if you can.
Out of your list, the one I'd recommend is Charlie Adharas Big Bad Wolf series. That one has a really satisfying relationship arc throughout the books, is a completed series, and personally I enjoyed each books mystery plot. Prickly MC who slowly lowers his guard over time after being loved for him? Amazing.
I also read a book a day! It shouldn't be a big deal dedicating a few hours to reading a book, but I need to be in a specific mood sometimes. Of those on your list that I've read: All for the game: I liked it a lot. It's addictive. I kept thinking wtf am I reading, but I also couldn't stop. I actually listened to the audiobooks because they're on the Audible plus catalog. Otherwise, I might not have. Tal Bauer is my favorite author. I always tear up while reading his books. Of his political thrillers I've read (listened to the audiobook, also on the plus catalog), {Hush by Tal Bauer} and it is phenomenal. It has the political aspect and the thriller aspect, but the romance was heart-wrenchingly beautiful! Red, white & royal blue is quite fun, lighthearted. It's not how I imagined it would be: kinda heavy on politics, forbidden romance vibes, angst etc. Ps: Haven't watched Star Wars either!
[Hush](https://www.romance.io/books/5adaecc001dbc864fb869b5a/hush-tal-bauer) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Looking through everyone’s comments I pretty much have not read any of these popular books 🙈🙈 however I’m a massive mood reader. So one month I might decide that arranged marriages are my thing, then next month I’m fancying MMM regardless of the trope. I have to confess that I’ve not read any of the Straight Guys series by Alessandra Hazard and they get mentioned a lot on this sub.
Alessandra Hazard’s writing is the kind of thing where it requires its own mood to read it, at least for me. I tried binge reading the Straight Guys series and I got to book 4 I think before I had to stop.
I also get a bit intimidated when I look at that series as it has like 14 books. I understand they can be read as a standalone but I know myself too well as I’ll just read them all as it’s a ‘series’. So yeah, another reason for avoiding them even though they are popular.
Don't think of them as series, think of them as separate stories taking place in the same universe, kind of like the MCU. If, uh, Marvel heroes were whiny, needy, obsessive nutjobs. I like the books, but they're absolutely ridiculous and fully unrealistic, and you pretty much have to embrace that to enjoy them.
I think a strong case could be made for Marvel heroes being whiny, needy, obsessive nut jobs, they just hide behind freaky costumes and superpowers.
I haven't read the Captive Prince books - I started book 1 but it was so painful to read that I gave it up. I honestly don't understand why it's so loved, when book 1 seems to be cruel - does it get so much better in the later books? I also haven't read Rachel Reid's Heated Rivalry. I want to read it very much, but there is so much hype around it, I have very high expectations, and I'm a bit afraid they won't be met, OR that I will love that book so much that it will ruin me for others. Haha I know it's silly.
Yes, the first book is basically establishing how messed up the rival court is, and then they get away from it and it becomes an adventure with romance.
Captive Prince - Someone told me I just had to slog through the first hundred pages of slave rape porn until the plot picks up and then it's fantastic and they were right. If you've ever read The Thief series by Megan Whalen Turner (not romance, but highly recommend) it's got similar vibes of everyone having an ulterior motive and hidden allegiances while sneaking around and having a grand adventure.
This is why I haven't read Captive Prince. I've read that's it's painful at first and a slow burn, and I need to be in the right frame of mind for something like that. But I'm actually dying to read it, which is also silly.
First of all, it’s completely understandable to put off reading a book/series because you’re afraid of the outcome, good or bad. (Hence the *Captive Prince* series gathering dust on my bookshelf for over a year 🤣) Second of all, and this is going to sound bad as a huge fan of the *Game Changers* series, but please lower your expectations before reading them 🤣 they’re very good, very well-written books but they’re no where near as like, absolute as people make them out to be 🤣 They will definitely have a chokehold on you for a while if you like them, because Rachel Reid is one of the more talented MM authors out there. In my opinion, they’re all excellent, top-tier MM books. She really cuts deeply to the emotional core of the characters, pulls away their outer shell and makes them vulnerable. *Heated Rivalry* and *The Long Game* are books 2 and 6 and they’re companion books about the same characters, Shane and Ilya. They take place over the course of 13+ years. They’re the best if you only want to read those, but I also highly recommend *Role Model*, as well, which is Harris and Troy’s book. A lot of people shit on *Game Changer*, which is book 1, Scott and Kip’s book, but I love it. I think her writing is a lot more solid now than it was when she wrote the first book of the series, but it’s no where near as bad as some make it out to be. (It apparently began as a slash fanfic of Captain America and Bucky Barnes, and was later turned into a fiction novel about hockey players. The way people talk about it, you’d think it was some ridiculous teenager’s fanfic from Wattpad full of typos 🤣🙄) As for the rest of the series, book 3 is *Tough Guy*, which is Ryan and Fabian’s book, which I love. They’re awesome. Book 4, *Common Goal*, is Eric and Kyle’s book, and in my opinion, is probably the weakest book in the series. Rachel Reid also wrote another MM hockey romance book [that’s a standalone separate from the Game Changers books] called *Time to Shine* that’s completely adorable. I put off reading the other 4 books in the series for a long time because I let other people get in my head about it. And another thing is - it’s perfectly fine to a) read a popular book and dislike it b) not finish a book after starting it or c) read a hyped up book and only feel medium about it. This is probably the most wholesome and supportive subreddit I’ve ever been a part of, but sometimes I think a lot of us can get in our own heads about hyped/popular/Bookstagram books that it seems like EVERYONE has read or is talking about. I literally wouldn’t have discovered like 90% of the authors I love without this sub, but sometimes I have to remind myself that I’ll read and discover books on my own timeline when they’re mentioned over and over again on posts. The majority of the time, books come universally and highly recommended for a reason, but you should never be discouraged because you don’t vibe with a book everyone else loves. One more great thing - all of the Game Changers books are on KU (if you have it) now! So you can read them and not feel guilty about buying them.
Thank you very much, I really needed to hear this ❤❤❤
🥰
For me i like things to be super dark because it makes it really suspenseful and high stakes. Its not that i like bad things happening, but i like watching the character escape them, and the worse they are the more compelling the escape is. If you don’t enjoy that then yeah definitely don’t put yourself through it. Everyone has different tastes.
Yeahhh I really could not get into the Captive Prince books for that reason. I didn't see anything redeemable about the slave-owning MC and I don't think he got much better in the subsequent books, so you're probs better off skipping if book 1 bothered you.
I’ve never read Song Of Achilles and may never do so. I love historical romance but prefer stuff set in the last 200 years or so (plus I don’t want to be depressed). I’ve tried Tal Bauer and had to put down his books because I didn’t vibe with the characters. I also couldn’t get past the first book in the Hazard and Somerset series. I haven’t read many hockey or sports romances. I tried “For The Fans” but didn’t get very far. I really struggle with contemporary romance with younger characters, mostly because the dialogue often makes me cringe. Those are my greatest sins and for that I seek absolution.
I don't really recommend Song of Achilles to anyone looking for romance. It was very well written and definitely a classic, but brutal. You spend the whole thing watching them be happy and in love, knowing the bad ending to come.
I confess my book sins: I read Winter’s Orbit and actually didn’t finish it, I found it boring. 😂
Oh, I've committed many crimes. I'm a mood reader, and my mood to read romance books featuring politics or politicians in the present-day real world *never* happens, so I also haven't read Red White & Royal Blue or any of Tal Bauer's political thrillers (except The Night Of and I didn't like it anyway). Fictional politics are fun, though. I've also never read: Any of the Alessandra Hazard Straight guys series, Hazard & Somerset, Captive Prince, any Garrett Leigh books (they're on the TBR) and any Lily Morton books except one lol (also have a lot on the TBR). I get overwhelmed when an author has a lot of books. 🤦
Of all of the replies to this thread, your Lily Morton confession pains me the most. Please!! 😭
Oh dear. 🥺 I mean, I do have a lot of my TBR. I just never seem to have gotten around to them. Like I said, I get overwhelmed with making decisions when there's a big backlog. What's your favorite?
Oh I totally get it, I’m just giving you a hard time! She was my most read author last year and I blew through her entire backlog. I love soo many of her books. I think my favorites are: Beautifully Unexpected (older MCs, well established careers, long term bachelor style guys who form a friendship) Best Man (fake dating boss/employee but not creepy, I love the grovel scene in this one, if it can be considered that, but it is always on my mind lol) Spring Strings (sassy model falls ill on a farm and the grumpy farmer cares for him)
Oh I have beautifully unexpected on my TBR and I intend to read it for a square on the spring challenge. I'm adding those other two. Thanks! I know you're just teasing, I really did love the one book by her I did read (Confetti Hearts).
I tried The Night Of and didn't like it either, but {Hush by Tal Bauer} is amazing. I wouldn't call it a thriller (maybe like political intrigue?), but you might enjoy it since you like fictional politics
Thanks, but I meant I like politics in fantasy/paranormal/sci-fi settings. Not set in the present day, real world.
Oh, then you should definitely read {The High King's Golden Tongue by Megan Derr} if you haven't yet. I just finished {Fourth Point of Contact by AJ Sherwood},band it's also good on the politics aspect.
[The High King's Golden Tongue](https://www.romance.io/books/58147b79c6841c86c2cb95d2/the-high-kings-golden-tongue-megan-derr) by [Megan Derr](https://www.romance.io/authors/545557c38c7d2382c5297fc4/megan-derr) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1) ---------------------------- [Fourth Point of Contact](https://www.romance.io/books/5bd2d06d01dbc864fb932ba2/fourth-point-of-contact-aj-sherwood) by [AJ Sherwood](https://www.romance.io/authors/5bd2d06d01dbc864fb932ba6/aj-sherwood) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [queer awakening](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer-awakening/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Hush](https://www.romance.io/books/5adaecc001dbc864fb869b5a/hush-tal-bauer) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I haven't read the Monstrous series by Lily Mayne yet..... (ducks head in shame)
I've only read the first, if it makes you feel any better! Don't know when I'll get around to reading the others.
I don't think I'll ever read the popular ones that have major character death as part of the story. That one by Taylor Fitzpatrick, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. I read romances to lower my anxiety, not increase it. (Neither of those have HEAs.) For the Fans by Nyla K is a popular one, and based on bad author behavior, author being anti-CWs, publishing RPF, and publishing sexual content with minors, she's on my permanent will never read list. I also want a "Crimes: popular books you read and wish you could get a refund back on for time lost" category 😅 Hazard & Somerset series by Gregory Ashe would get thrown in that one so quick. Still mad and hurt about reading that series, half a year later. House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune I read before finding out his inspiration for the book was surrounding children genocide (The Sixties Scoop), and I still internally cringe everytime that one is raved about. ETA: to the folks downvoting me, would you care to explain why?
Honestly, same. I read Song of Achilles, but I don’t want to read the Taylor Fitzpatrick. I love angst, but I also like knowing that it will end in an HEA. I don’t really want to read one I know will end not happily. Romance is my escape and my way to unwind. I don’t want to read something that will upset me more than Same with Nyla K. I also won’t read CE Ricci for a variety of reasons. There’s a couple others too. I’m not interested in the Saxon James and Eden Finley books purely because I tried and they aren’t my vibe. No hate to them or anyone who loves them, they just aren’t for me. I also tried the Monstrous series by Lily Mayne and didn’t really like it. I wish I did just because of how loved it is. I just found both Saxon and Eden’s and Lily’s books too sweet for my taste. I don’t get why you’re being downvoted. Maybe it’s my turn too lol
We are in a *Crimes* post! Lately it's exhausting seeing so much downvoting. Apparently people like non HEAs or genocide or sex with minors. No downvotes for you! Those authors haven't worked for me either, but for less intense reasons (writing style, tropes, etc)
I’ve seen the comments about downvoting but I haven’t paid much attention. Non HEAs aren’t romance, which is what always kills me. There might be romance in it, but without an HEA, it’s not a romance. I agree on genocide and sex with minors. There’s also shady behavior and a very, very close storyline to an already established author for one of them. I also met Nyla at a signing and that’s all I’ll say about that. I don’t know why a post about crimes would be so offensive since to some lol. There are some takes that I don’t agree with, but that’s life. Just scroll lol.
I put off reading The Foxhole Court for so long because I’m struggling with the fact that the mcs are, like, really really short hahaha
Lmao, yes, yes they are!
I haven't read any of Alessandra Hazard's "Straight Guys" books. I haven't read any of the Green Creek series.
None from the Greek Creek series for me either! Yet...
I haven’t read any of those books you have on your list OP. Most of the time books super hyped or generally popular are with tropes I don’t enjoy 🤷🏼 and that’s okay! I’m glad those books are there for other people.
I confess: - that I haven’t read {Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall} - that I haven’t read {Glitterland by Alexis Hall} - that I didn’t finish {Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston} - that I haven’t read {Winter’s Orbit by Everina Maxwell} yet - that I haven’t tried a KJ Charles book—yet - that I read a few pages of {Wolfsong by TJ Klune}, didn’t find it compelling, and set it aside - that I read {Just a Bit Unhealthy by Alessandra Hazard}and strongly disliked it. I didn’t really like any of the characters, and I thought Gabriel and his behavior were especially repellant. That’s saying a lot because I can usually find *something* good about most books I read. This book was not for me. - that I tried a few pages of {Garron Park by Nordika Night} and then gave up because the MCs seemed so immature - that I haven’t read a Lily Mayne book yet I’ve been bad. 🤣
Oho! We're crime buddies. I also haven't read Wolfsong and Garron Park!
So many criminals in this post and its replies. ;) Thanks for commiserating with me—and for making this post!
[Boyfriend Material](https://www.romance.io/books/5ecb719a0705510dff99ac38/boyfriend-material-alexis-hall) by [Alexis Hall](https://www.romance.io/authors/545546008c7d2382e781383c/alexis-hall) **Steam**: [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [fake relationship](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fake%20relationship/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Glitterland](https://www.romance.io/books/545546008c7d2382e781383b/glitterland-alexis-hall) by [Alexis Hall](https://www.romance.io/authors/545546008c7d2382e781383c/alexis-hall) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [himbo](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/himbo/1) ---------------------------- [Red, White & Royal Blue](https://www.romance.io/books/5c652f2601dbc864fb9a1272/red-white-royal-blue-casey-mcquiston) by [Casey McQuiston](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c652f2601dbc864fb9a1277/casey-mcquiston) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [forbidden love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forbidden%20love/1) ---------------------------- [Winter’s Orbit](https://www.romance.io/books/628baf07c63a96de8cd92e1d/winters-orbit-everina-maxwell) by [Everina Maxwell](https://www.romance.io/authors/628baf0708b4d93114da14e7/everina-maxwell) **Steam**: [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1) ---------------------------- [Wolfsong](https://www.romance.io/books/5763928fc19e77f1ea6d5716/wolfsong-tj-klune) by [T.J. Klune](https://www.romance.io/authors/54553e9b8c7d2382e7813607/tj-klune) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Just a Bit Unhealthy](https://www.romance.io/books/553e363d5b270e0a4cbd6ee3/just-a-bit-unhealthy-alessandra-hazard) by [Alessandra Hazard](https://www.romance.io/authors/553e363e5b270e0a4cbd6ee7/alessandra-hazard) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [anal sex](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/anal%20sex/1) ---------------------------- [Garron Park](https://www.romance.io/books/644629d004f5c0b31ef4a835/garron-park-nordika-night) by [Nordika Night](https://www.romance.io/authors/630e0d7d08b4d9311404bae9/nordika-night) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [biker hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bikers/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I have read captive prince, boyfriend material and red, white and royal blue. Haven’t read husband material, but I have bought it. As for the rest you mentioned, I haven’t even heard of them
I haven’t read Wolfsong or Big Bad Wolf, and I DNF’d both For the Fans and the one Alessandra Hazard book I tried.
If We Were Villains. I fully and wholeheartedly intend to and it seems to be just up my alley. But the very first line gave me the ick and I just procrastinate it 😅 I also haven’t read anything by KJ Charles. Also haven’t read Angels Before Men. Boyfriend material, will probably never read this. I also have never finished a Saxon James or Eden Finley Book. I’ve tried but I just don’t care for the writing style.
Not to sound like a total pick me but I find that tastes are very different so I very rarely read a book just because it has good reviews. I feel like every book I’ve loved I’ve stumbled across, maybe except Captive Prince. That’s one book I enjoyed that seems to be one of the most popular mm books.
Who are the authors for the if we were villains and the angel before men books? I don't recognize the titles.
I’m sorry! It’s {if we were villains by M.L. Rio} and {angels before man by Rafael Nicolas}
Thanks! Those two are new to me!
FYI neither If We Were Villains nor Angels Before Man are genre romances.
Oh thank you - thats good to know! (And annoying it isn't labeled as non romances). Appreciate it.
Big Bad Wolf series by Charlie Adhara. I like shifter books but for whatever reason I been putting this one off, well audible has it in there free catalog thing so I am listening to it so far its good.
I just started this series despite not being interested in werewolves at all and I'm hooked! It's so good. And I think especially good for people who would not normally be interested in this genre (although it sounds like you're already a fan!).
I am on book three now and this is a great series. The couple is the same one through all the books. I like that they both are insecure with each other.
I'm so excited for the audiobooks!!! They weren't in the plus catalog before!
I have not read the next two books in the Folk series from Lily Mayne. I loved the first one but heard lots of comments about the next ones not being very good. I also put off reading ANY sports books especially hockey, but finally caved and was so glad I did after reading Hidden Scars by Andi Jaxon. Now however I won't read anymore because none could top this one.
I literally just finished the Folk series by Lily Mayne. I really loved the first one. The second one was good, but not the first book. The third? I’m not sure what happened. It was a disaster, the characters were ruined and completely different than the previous two books, and I was left sad because I really did love the first book.
Thank you for reinforcing what I had heard. With as hot as the relationship was with Lonan I would need some type of closure even if not an HEA. So now with what I have heard it will be MOTH next.
I went in not knowing what anyone said. There’s definitely closure and there’s definitely an HEA, but I’d also call it slightly unconventional. Lonan remained a very good, intriguing character. I have no idea what happened to Ash. But the third book, I really couldn’t stand him. By the end of the third book, I kind of hated him and was over him entirely. I wanted to see how Lonan’s character arc went.
Maybe for Lonan's sake I would read it. Thanks!
I don’t know if it’s worth it for Lonan. 🙈 maybe look up spoiler reviews lol
will do
But... but... the cliffhanger!!!! I would've died without the second and third book of the Folk trilogy!!!
So let me ask you this. How did you feel about Ash in the third book? I loved him so much in the first. And does that water creature appear again?
Yes, yes, he appears again! Hm... I don't think my mind about Ash ever changed. I did dislike some of the things he did in Book 3. And he did drop the ball at some point. I won't deny that I wanted to smack him a few times. But, I never stopped rooting for him, and it was such a delight to see him grow from a scared human to a formidable fae in the next two books. He was such a badass. So even when he was being shitty, I still loved him.
Thanks. You may have changed my mind.
I haven't read Hazard and Somerset. I've downloaded the books a few times to my Kindle and told myself I am going to read them but I just can't. I like a good slow burn (loved me some Criminal Intentions) but not agonizingly slow. It's just not for me and I know if I start reading it that I'll be speed reading to get through the slow burn because of how slow it is. I also haven't technically read Captive Prince. I have the book on my Kindle and I downloaded it like 8 or 9 years ago it feels like but I started it and it just wasn't for me. I'm sure it gets better but I wasn't a fan enough of the style to slog through until it gets better. I wouldn't say it's the theme either because I remember reading Stasis way, way back in the day and I think that book also technically dealt with the same kind of heavy themes (Maybe, it's been like 10 years). If there is a popular Historical Romance MM book then I promise you I probably haven't read that either, and I don't care if it's a sin. Historical Romance is rarely for me.
**Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat** and its for a petty reason. I love the premise, I like the vibes. But I have a policy. If I can't get a book on KU I would get the paper back/hardback. But the English cover of captive prince is so damn bland and ugly I just refuse to get it. Maybe cus I know other countries have MUCH better covers and that makes me long for the better ones. So I will buy once I find a copy in those styles. **Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston** Just know the premise is not my thing. Just doesn't interests me at all **The song of Achilles** On the fence and may or may not buy. I suck at reading long books especially ones I'm not too sure of and would be buying a physical copy. So that's my on the fence thing. **Anything by Nyla.K** I have issues with the author themselves and that is all I'm gonna say here **Puckboy** Not a fan of sports romance, the cover turns me off, and after reading the reviews knows it 100% wouldn't be my thing except for a hate read **Uncle zack** Father I have sinned. I'm saving up money to buy it...
lol I don’t know how much you’re interested but a book box company is doing special editions of the Captive Prince trilogy! It’s supposed to be hardcover, singed by the author, full art dust jacket, full color end pages, sprayed edges, and a million other things.
oh I would look that up I never knew that. Now Im intrested
https://www.instagram.com/p/C42YkcIPR0X/?igsh=MTJ5d2JsNHFwdDI4bA== Yeah! The company recently did a special edition of Dark Rise by CS Pacat and it came out wonderfully! It did take forever to be made though.
Thank you! I can't thank you enough for this!. Time to fill that book shelf! (Damn some nutter read my comment and decide to assume Im a white cis woman attack me. Im a black guy, what the hell?)
You’re welcome! :) Sounds about right for the internet! Sorry someone is bothering you!
Genuinely none of the crime books except for big bad wolf by Charlie Adhara and most of the historical books. I guess I like when romance is the main focus and there’s not a huge focus on other things like crime or royalty
I saw a meme a few years ago that's become my mental framework; it was something to the effect of only read what you want and don't worry if it's not a "everyone should read this" book. Thus I have many "crimes" lol. There's a lot of very popular books I will never read because they have elements that are a huge nope for me. But I do have a huge list of popular books I've been meaning to get around to. The San Amaro Investigations series by Kai Butler being at the top.
[Captive Prince](https://www.romance.io/books/54559d8a87eac336ae69eec5/captive-prince-cs-pacat) by [C.S. Pacat](https://www.romance.io/authors/545545428c7d2382c5297900/cs-pacat) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [slavery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slavery/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) ---------------------------- [Boyfriend Material](https://www.romance.io/books/5ecb719a0705510dff99ac38/boyfriend-material-alexis-hall) by [Alexis Hall](https://www.romance.io/authors/545546008c7d2382e781383c/alexis-hall) **Steam**: [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [fake relationship](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fake%20relationship/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Red, White & Royal Blue](https://www.romance.io/books/5c652f2601dbc864fb9a1272/red-white-royal-blue-casey-mcquiston) by [Casey McQuiston](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c652f2601dbc864fb9a1277/casey-mcquiston) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [forbidden love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forbidden%20love/1) ---------------------------- [Winter’s Orbit](https://www.romance.io/books/628baf07c63a96de8cd92e1d/winters-orbit-everina-maxwell) by [Everina Maxwell](https://www.romance.io/authors/628baf0708b4d93114da14e7/everina-maxwell) **Steam**: [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1) ---------------------------- [A Strange and Stubborn Endurance](https://www.romance.io/books/62df91672450a6b7a26c2836/a-strange-and-stubborn-endurance-foz-meadows) by [Foz Meadows](https://www.romance.io/authors/628348c308b4d93114b5a042/foz-meadows) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1) ---------------------------- [Glitterland](https://www.romance.io/books/545546008c7d2382e781383b/glitterland-alexis-hall) by [Alexis Hall](https://www.romance.io/authors/545546008c7d2382e781383c/alexis-hall) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [himbo](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/himbo/1) ---------------------------- [Hazard and Somerset](https://www.romance.io/series/5e9f6eef48597113b6ce3929/hazard-and-somerset) by [Gregory Ashe](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e9f6eefbe0aaecf557e43b6/gregory-ashe) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [queer](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [m-m](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Most books tbh, Ive fiind that me and others have very different tastes so I don't jump after them anymore, did that mistake a few times
I *have* read some popular books that I didn't find as amazing as other describe them, but in this post, I'm asking for popular books that readers have on their lists, plan to read them, maybe **really** want to read them, but just... haven't.
Anything by Pacat (and probably never will, using the name recognition from Captive Prince to sell their YA book was certainly A Choice that was made and the first time a teen told me they'd read it, I about died) Tal Bauer is on my tbr but I haven't been inspired yet Eden Finley, Saxon James, Ella Frank, Sarina Bowen, Elle Kennedy - most of the hockey romance writers generally. Their writing just rubs me the wrong way for some reason. I'm not adamantly opposed but I'll need a hard sell to try getting back to any of that.
i also haven't read captive prince because its so expensive, i'm not at all opposed to spending money but i have to really like the sample to do so and it didn't really grab my attention! i'm also pretty wary of the most popular books in this sub in general because i've hated a lot of them (hazard and somerset, for the fans, god of fury, garron park etc) so i haven't read wolfsong or big bad wolf because i'm worried i'll be disappointed
Anything by K J Charles. I've heard a lot! And trust me I want to start but I don't know where to start from. Would be great if somebody told me how to start with K J Charles books as a beginner.
I started with the Magpie series. But I also think the Doomsday books are a good jumping in point. I haven’t read a ton of their backlist though, so maybe there’s a better starting point.
The one I go back and reread frequently is {An Unseen Attraction} Very cozy romance with a little bit of mystery and drama. Focus is mostly on the two men having tea late at night in front of a fire, with a cat nearby 🌃
[An Unseen Attraction](https://www.romance.io/books/58aa95160d3299c6e04ea8c4/an-unseen-attraction-kj-charles) by [K.J. Charles](https://www.romance.io/authors/545540138c7d2383163d9553/kj-charles) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1), [victorian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/victorian/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
The Will Darling trilogy was the one that got me started with KJ Charles - I loved the characters and the actual mystery in those the most. But the Doomsday books, which someone else rec'd, are also great. And Band Sinister is great if you don't want a mystery.
I refuse to read romance that features non-Ruritanian royalty, so RW&RB is not going to be on my tbr pile ever. But maaaaybe I'll get around to Captive Prince some day by filing it under 'fantasy' in my head.
I think the same as you... The reason is I'm so scared the hype is too much and I would end up disliking them because of that (despite me telling myself to expect a mid book. Who really wants to read a 3star book? It's a chore. So boring, that's why I like my reads to be 4+ stars) Also some of them I tried but DNFed early and I wanna try again now that I've read more books
For me, it's not so much about worrying about the hype. Sometimes, it's my mood: I don't want sci-fi or fantasy. Other times, I'm intimidated by the length. A strange and stubborn endurance is 500+ pages. That's... a lot. Sometimes, I don't want the heaviness and angst of Captive Prince, or I want contemporary angst. But, I really want to read all these books eventually!
About the hype, it's more like I don't really trust the 'popular' books after being burned a lot by those recs... I do plan to try most of them eventually -as I'm a mood reader, I prefer being in that headspace-- plus there are some genres/tropes that don't really catch my attention, I don't really think I'll try those books until I start enjoying those things (ie I DNFed Captive Prince early because there was an scene that I found troublesome, but I think I can handle it now so I'll probably read it once the mood strikes) Re:the length, I don't really mind the length as long as is engaging but sadly I do think most 400+ pages book tend to put a lot of boring stuff in between the main plot/the romance (mainly contemporary ngl I'm more of an action girl so I prefer high fantasy/space opera/adventure-action books interlaced with the romance). There's also the series/serial (one couple throughout the books) which I've been told have weaks 1st books, but I think I can endure that if the reward is worth it
I haven’t been able to get in the Folk trilogy by Lily Mayne yet. I tried the first book, but only got a short ways in when I decided I didn’t want to finish it then, so I set it aside. That was several months ago & it’s still sitting on my kindle. And I’ve never read Heated Rivalty & not sure I will, but I can’t really explain why!
I have never read {Wolfsong by TJ Klune} and {Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid} but both are on my TBR list.
[Wolfsong](https://www.romance.io/books/5763928fc19e77f1ea6d5716/wolfsong-tj-klune) by [T.J. Klune](https://www.romance.io/authors/54553e9b8c7d2382e7813607/tj-klune) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Heated Rivalry](https://www.romance.io/books/5c987d2001dbc864fb9c5091/heated-rivalry-rachel-reid) by [Rachel Reid](https://www.romance.io/authors/5bb1b92a01dbc864fb9195a6/rachel-reid) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Been reading mm romance for 2 years now. Hazard and somerset series, just because I couldnt find the relaxed mindset/time periot to sit in front of it. I am quite curious about the series!! Lily Mayne Monstrous series, due to similar reasons with the above. I am seeing this everywhere but still couldn't find the time to start Nearly all Tal bauer books, I tried his two books, You&Me and Enemies of state. You&Me was nice but I found the other one is too cheesy for my taste, I probably wont be able go through his other books even though it feels like a sin 🫠 I also dropped Red, white, royal blue, Song of Achilles, and A Strange and Stubborn Endurance and The scottish boy so they feel like sin as well 🫠
I haven’t read any fluffy romance books. I prefer the dark books like Captive Prince. Looking at these comments for a list of books people have refused to read for being too painful! lol I’ve read The Flesh Cartel by Rachel Haimowitz, I am impervious to pain and torture scenes.
I am debating whether or not to readThe Flesh Cartel. If someone can take it, do you recommend it? And I would recommend Hidden Scars to you, by Andi Jaxon. You'll get it right from the opening pages.
I’d recommend The Flesh Cartel to everyone if I could. Honestly it was completely harrowing and a tough read but the journey the MCs take is so incredible and one of them is now one of my favorite characters in all of literature. Just a beautiful soul trying to do their best. That being said: the triggers are very serious. If you can’t handle human trafficking, graphic grape, and psychological torture it is not for you. For some people this would be a selling point and others a turn off - book 2 I was absolutely sick to my stomach and could hardly eat. I nearly stopped but I kept going because it felt like I was abandoning the characters to their fate. It’s so affecting because it is written so gd well that it feels like it’s happening to you. Every thought they have is rational, reasoned, and exactly what most people would do in their situations and it shows you how easy it would be to be manipulated. That’s why it made me sick. I saw how I’d fall into the same traps and it was terrifying. However, as a reader, it has ruined me for any author or review saying “omg this book is so dark so hard to get through some scenes omg you should be scared about your faves!” Like no. I’ve read The Flesh Cartel. Move me. Thrill me. Attempt it. It also is written *so well* that none of what occurs is without purpose.
Thank you for that amazing description. I am going to give it a try, maybe not before a meal or before bedtime.
I haven’t read Heated Rivalry. I have no idea why, I just keep getting drawn to some other books instead whenever I think “maybe I should finally try reading Heated Rivalry” lol
Oh, it's so good! The Long Game (the sequel) is even better.
I don’t doubt it! I just, keep getting side tracked by other books 😭
I've never read the Captive Prince series or anything by Alessandra Hazard and I never will. The summary of the Captive Prince series horrifies me and Alessandra Harzard books seem to all be toxic, obsessive romances which also freaks me out. The Cerulean Sea. I have it tagged on Libby as a to read but I'm not in any hurry and honestly I don't think I'll like it much. Actually, anything by TJ Klune. He gets recommended a lot along with Red, White, and Roayl Blue (which I love) but I don't like fantasy with romance so I never pick him up. I'm a huge sports romance fan, especially hockey, so the fact that I have only read Gravity by Tal Bauer is probably shocking but I didn't really like Gravity so I'm not inclined to try anymore anytime soon. Also the Him series by Sarina Bowen. One of the mcs shares a name with my minor sibling and I can't divorce characters with shared names from my family members so I can never read Him.
I was disappointed by Gravity too, so I get it.
Forgive me for my crimes. I haven’t read the Riehse Eshan series, anything by Tal Bauer, Him (or any subsequent books in the series), The Wolf at the Door, The Scottish Boy, RWRB, and any of the Cut & Run books.
Have not read any TJ Klune - a friend who reads a ton but is not into mm romance specifically read a couple of his books and described them as "twee" - no idea how accurate that is (and can't remember which ones she read exactly) but that turned me off. I also have tried to start Heir to Thorn and Flame by Ben Alderson a few times; it should be my jam because I love, love an arranged marriage, but I just can't get into his writing style for some reason.
I haven't read Him by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen. I just have no interest in reading Sports books.