What do you think?
Rate this book
Never Have I Ever #4
Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival
(Alternate cover edition of ASIN B0BVW18Z11.)
“Why is the one person I hate the only guy I can’t stop thinking about?”
West, my older brother’s high school rival. The rich kid who has it all. The guy who disappeared six years ago and destroyed my brother’s life.
I thought West and I were friends. I trusted him, but he showed me I was nothing more to him than a means to an end.
Being twenty and in my last year of college isn’t easy. Neither is being a virgin. I’ve never been normal or felt like I fit in, and I don’t feel what I’m supposed to.
My online job has given me the perfect way to solve my virginity problem, but then the last person I ever wanted to see again shows up on my doorstep. Not only has West learned what I do for a living, he’s essentially my landlord.
I hate him. So why can’t I stay away from him? Why is he the only person I’ve ever felt a connection with, who makes me feel like there’s something in me worth wanting?
Eli and West’s story is an enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance between a former bad boy who seemingly has it all and an awkward genius who’s never felt like he fits in. Expect lots of banter and hot first times as these two try (and fail) to stay away from each other. It is the fourth novel in the steamy Never Have I Ever series but can be read as a standalone.
“Why is the one person I hate the only guy I can’t stop thinking about?”
West, my older brother’s high school rival. The rich kid who has it all. The guy who disappeared six years ago and destroyed my brother’s life.
I thought West and I were friends. I trusted him, but he showed me I was nothing more to him than a means to an end.
Being twenty and in my last year of college isn’t easy. Neither is being a virgin. I’ve never been normal or felt like I fit in, and I don’t feel what I’m supposed to.
My online job has given me the perfect way to solve my virginity problem, but then the last person I ever wanted to see again shows up on my doorstep. Not only has West learned what I do for a living, he’s essentially my landlord.
I hate him. So why can’t I stay away from him? Why is he the only person I’ve ever felt a connection with, who makes me feel like there’s something in me worth wanting?
Eli and West’s story is an enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance between a former bad boy who seemingly has it all and an awkward genius who’s never felt like he fits in. Expect lots of banter and hot first times as these two try (and fail) to stay away from each other. It is the fourth novel in the steamy Never Have I Ever series but can be read as a standalone.
364 pages, ebook
First published May 18, 2023
609 people are currently reading
2143 people want to read
About the author
Willow Dixon
21 books1,173 followersWhat can I say about myself? It’s kind of like being the new kid in school and being asked to tell everyone a bit about yourself. Anyone else forget everything they’ve ever liked, thought of, and even their name in those moments?
A few facts about me; I’m a veteran, I’m Canadian, and I love books! I’ve been writing my own stories since I was eight and wrote my first novel at sixteen. I’m the first to admit those attempts weren’t my best work, but they started me on a journey of creating stories that has led me to fulfilling my dream of becoming an author. I’ve written and published in several genres under different names, but MM is by far my favorite, and I’m so happy to be able to share my stories with people today.
I currently live on Canada’s east coast with my kiddo and my cats. I have a shoe collecting addiction, and I enjoy taking long walks, discussions with friends, and reading anything and everything I can get my hands on.
A few facts about me; I’m a veteran, I’m Canadian, and I love books! I’ve been writing my own stories since I was eight and wrote my first novel at sixteen. I’m the first to admit those attempts weren’t my best work, but they started me on a journey of creating stories that has led me to fulfilling my dream of becoming an author. I’ve written and published in several genres under different names, but MM is by far my favorite, and I’m so happy to be able to share my stories with people today.
I currently live on Canada’s east coast with my kiddo and my cats. I have a shoe collecting addiction, and I enjoy taking long walks, discussions with friends, and reading anything and everything I can get my hands on.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 413 reviews
May 18, 2023
2.5
yeah the two pages (and i’m being kind) about house maintenance really bothered me. this isn’t bob the fucking builder, i don’t care.
honestly a good 60% is really repetitive and definitely on the boring side. i was begging them to have a different thought.
spoilers ahead
also i kept thinking “are the brother and the rivalry in the room with us right now?” for the majority of the book, no they aren’t.
a title should describe a book, right?
it should be “wanted my brother(who i don’t bother to talk to) ‘s rival (they haven’t talked in nearly seven years).
do you see how underwhelming that is?
it’s a total different (boring) vibe.
it does become an issue, at the very end, but it’s not what the title suggests.
so yeah, disappointing.
the last part was more enjoyable but not enough to make up for the rest.
i’m definitely bummed because i enjoyed book 2 so much, but the rest of this series just isn’t on that level.
we’ll see if the next one is better.
yeah the two pages (and i’m being kind) about house maintenance really bothered me. this isn’t bob the fucking builder, i don’t care.
honestly a good 60% is really repetitive and definitely on the boring side. i was begging them to have a different thought.
spoilers ahead
also i kept thinking “are the brother and the rivalry in the room with us right now?” for the majority of the book, no they aren’t.
a title should describe a book, right?
it should be “wanted my brother(who i don’t bother to talk to) ‘s rival (they haven’t talked in nearly seven years).
do you see how underwhelming that is?
it’s a total different (boring) vibe.
it does become an issue, at the very end, but it’s not what the title suggests.
so yeah, disappointing.
the last part was more enjoyable but not enough to make up for the rest.
i’m definitely bummed because i enjoyed book 2 so much, but the rest of this series just isn’t on that level.
we’ll see if the next one is better.
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 21, 2023
Throughout the series we got small peaks into Eli, and in the previous book, we got to learn more about him, so since book one I’ve been looking forward to his story.
We have Eil, who has been ahead of his peers in school, and now, at 20, he’s about to graduate to go into grad school in California. He’s socially awkward and often gets into his mind too much. He doesn’t trust easily, especially after being bullied and ostracized in high school. He was once left alone because of who his brother was, but that all changed after an incident involving his older brother, Gary and West.
His brother, an aspiring athlete, had everything stripped of him, and he has harboured a hatred towards the West, whom he blames. Repairs bring them back into each other’s lives when Eil finds out the property manager of the house they’re living in is West. West has always had a soft spot for Eil and is surprised when he finds out that the young boy he was found of and was tutored by is now a cam boy. He’s never watched him, only tipping him, but when he sees he’s putting up his virginity for auction, he bids to stop him from making a decision he would regret.
The title led me to think the story was going in a particular direction when that was not the case. This story is pretty low angst, sweet, and more of a sort of estranged to friends to lovers story in which West happens to be rivals with Eli’s brother in high school. It’s a bit of slow-burn romance as they rekindle their friendship since they’re forced to spend time together at West’s mansion due to a power outage.
I liked seeing shy Eli become more confident and open, and West was really sweet and affectionate and met all of Eli’s needs at his pace. The hugs, cuddling, and touching between them were really sweet. They both value emotional connections, but Eli lacks a lot of self-confidence, so he slips back into old habits in which he questions West’s intentions and actions.
Eli is a virgin, and despite winning the auction, West doesn’t want Eli to make the same mistakes he did. They take their time and slowly build trust, friendship, and emotions before having penetrative sex. I liked that West cared for Eli in that manner, wanting to make sure his first time was as good as possible.
This may have been a me thing, but I felt this book was missing a spark I saw in the others. I thought it was going in one direction due to the title, so my expectations differed greatly from what happened. I thought there would be more angst and the situation with Gary to be central. Things were very slow in the middle, but I guess it makes sense as well story-wise as they’re getting to know one another again.
The sex scenes were okay; this book is definitely lower on the steam compared to the others. It seems that Gary will get his own story, a stepbrother one, in the spin-off series. I liked the epilogue and seeing where everyone is years later. It was lovely. The found family aspect was one of the best parts of this series.
Overall while not my favourite of the series, it was a good read. If you have enjoyed this series so far, you will also enjoy this book.
We have Eil, who has been ahead of his peers in school, and now, at 20, he’s about to graduate to go into grad school in California. He’s socially awkward and often gets into his mind too much. He doesn’t trust easily, especially after being bullied and ostracized in high school. He was once left alone because of who his brother was, but that all changed after an incident involving his older brother, Gary and West.
His brother, an aspiring athlete, had everything stripped of him, and he has harboured a hatred towards the West, whom he blames. Repairs bring them back into each other’s lives when Eil finds out the property manager of the house they’re living in is West. West has always had a soft spot for Eil and is surprised when he finds out that the young boy he was found of and was tutored by is now a cam boy. He’s never watched him, only tipping him, but when he sees he’s putting up his virginity for auction, he bids to stop him from making a decision he would regret.
The title led me to think the story was going in a particular direction when that was not the case. This story is pretty low angst, sweet, and more of a sort of estranged to friends to lovers story in which West happens to be rivals with Eli’s brother in high school. It’s a bit of slow-burn romance as they rekindle their friendship since they’re forced to spend time together at West’s mansion due to a power outage.
I liked seeing shy Eli become more confident and open, and West was really sweet and affectionate and met all of Eli’s needs at his pace. The hugs, cuddling, and touching between them were really sweet. They both value emotional connections, but Eli lacks a lot of self-confidence, so he slips back into old habits in which he questions West’s intentions and actions.
Eli is a virgin, and despite winning the auction, West doesn’t want Eli to make the same mistakes he did. They take their time and slowly build trust, friendship, and emotions before having penetrative sex. I liked that West cared for Eli in that manner, wanting to make sure his first time was as good as possible.
This may have been a me thing, but I felt this book was missing a spark I saw in the others. I thought it was going in one direction due to the title, so my expectations differed greatly from what happened. I thought there would be more angst and the situation with Gary to be central. Things were very slow in the middle, but I guess it makes sense as well story-wise as they’re getting to know one another again.
The sex scenes were okay; this book is definitely lower on the steam compared to the others. It seems that Gary will get his own story, a stepbrother one, in the spin-off series. I liked the epilogue and seeing where everyone is years later. It was lovely. The found family aspect was one of the best parts of this series.
Overall while not my favourite of the series, it was a good read. If you have enjoyed this series so far, you will also enjoy this book.
May 22, 2023
I loved how he looked at me. The desire and need made my pulse quicken, but the dark possession set my blood on fire. He wanted me as much as I wanted him.
I was really looking forward to Eli's book, and it really pains me to say this, but it just fell a bit flat for me. It felt too long, a bit repetitive and even a little boring at times.
Another thing that bothered me was how much West kept telling Eli what he should want. Like FFS, let the guy make up his own mind. I also still feel like I don't really know West very well. I would have liked more flirting or experimenting or something between Eli and West. It was lacking some spark between the MCs that the other books had.
Gray showing up right towards the end just felt a bit rushed. I feel like the story revolved so much around Gray's rivalry with West and then that was it. Feels like a missed opportunity to add more angst or sneaking around or something.
So this went more negative than I intended. All that being said, I loved when Eli decided to go stay with West for a bit while his house got worked on. There were some really cute and steamy moments there. I liked when West finally got out of his head and was a little rough with Eli (because Eli wanted him to be and he listened).
“I am too much for you.” “You’re not. I want the West who came apart on my fingers. The one who let me choke on his dick and topped from the bottom.” “You noticed, huh?” He smirked and relaxed over me. “I noticed, and I loved it. Toppy West is hot. I want that guy to be my first.”
*** I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion. ***
I was really looking forward to Eli's book, and it really pains me to say this, but it just fell a bit flat for me. It felt too long, a bit repetitive and even a little boring at times.
Another thing that bothered me was how much West kept telling Eli what he should want. Like FFS, let the guy make up his own mind. I also still feel like I don't really know West very well. I would have liked more flirting or experimenting or something between Eli and West. It was lacking some spark between the MCs that the other books had.
Gray showing up right towards the end just felt a bit rushed. I feel like the story revolved so much around Gray's rivalry with West and then that was it. Feels like a missed opportunity to add more angst or sneaking around or something.
So this went more negative than I intended. All that being said, I loved when Eli decided to go stay with West for a bit while his house got worked on. There were some really cute and steamy moments there. I liked when West finally got out of his head and was a little rough with Eli (because Eli wanted him to be and he listened).
“I am too much for you.” “You’re not. I want the West who came apart on my fingers. The one who let me choke on his dick and topped from the bottom.” “You noticed, huh?” He smirked and relaxed over me. “I noticed, and I loved it. Toppy West is hot. I want that guy to be my first.”
*** I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion. ***
May 22, 2023
This was pretty boring. Nothing in particular I disliked about it, but it was just so boring and dull. I've been looking forward to Eli's book since book 1, but this was a let down. Towards the end 60%/70% I was just ready for the book to be over.
And also
And also
August 17, 2025
4 Stars
Every time I finish a book by Willow Dixon, my first and most prevalent thought is always how badly I need to read more Willow Dixon books. There’s nothing revolutionary about her storytelling, per se, but I always get a strong feeling of reminiscence to stories and characters I adored when I first started reading in the M/M genre (over a decade ago) and I love that about her work. It’s a cozy, nostalgic feeling, and I eat it up every time.
As the fourth and final story in the series, Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival may not be winning any favourite awards with me, but I had such a good time with MCs Eli and West that I consider it a strong finish to what has been a very sexy and surprisingly heartfelt new adult M/M series.
In this particular instalment, I enjoyed the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers dynamic between the MCs and I appreciated the progression of their relationship and the saucy sexual exploration that came with Eli’s virgin cam-boy status. It gave good opposites attract vibes and some perfectly executed hurt-comfort moments, bringing these two lonely young men together in a deeper, more profound way than either of them (nor I) expected.
Mostly, having (accidentally) read Eli’s brother’s book first (Stepbrother Dearest), I liked seeing these characters and hearing about the old rivalry and fall out through a whole new lens. If I’d read this first—in the order Dixon’s books were originally released—I’m not sure I would have had the same positive reaction to brother Gray and the whole murky conflict between him and West. I usually hate to read things out of order, but it seems to have worked a treat for me in this particular case.
The ending and the extended epilogue were perhaps a bit too sappy and overlong for me, but I did appreciate getting the chance to see ALL the Never Have I Ever couples still together and thriving so far into the future for what was a pretty clear-cut and solid HEA for all involved.
******************************
Never Have I Ever Series
Book 1 - Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card (4.5 Stars)
Book 2 - Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy (5 Stars)
Book 3 - Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate (4 Stars)
Book 4 - Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival (4 Stars)
Every time I finish a book by Willow Dixon, my first and most prevalent thought is always how badly I need to read more Willow Dixon books. There’s nothing revolutionary about her storytelling, per se, but I always get a strong feeling of reminiscence to stories and characters I adored when I first started reading in the M/M genre (over a decade ago) and I love that about her work. It’s a cozy, nostalgic feeling, and I eat it up every time.
As the fourth and final story in the series, Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival may not be winning any favourite awards with me, but I had such a good time with MCs Eli and West that I consider it a strong finish to what has been a very sexy and surprisingly heartfelt new adult M/M series.
In this particular instalment, I enjoyed the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers dynamic between the MCs and I appreciated the progression of their relationship and the saucy sexual exploration that came with Eli’s virgin cam-boy status. It gave good opposites attract vibes and some perfectly executed hurt-comfort moments, bringing these two lonely young men together in a deeper, more profound way than either of them (nor I) expected.
Mostly, having (accidentally) read Eli’s brother’s book first (Stepbrother Dearest), I liked seeing these characters and hearing about the old rivalry and fall out through a whole new lens. If I’d read this first—in the order Dixon’s books were originally released—I’m not sure I would have had the same positive reaction to brother Gray and the whole murky conflict between him and West. I usually hate to read things out of order, but it seems to have worked a treat for me in this particular case.
The ending and the extended epilogue were perhaps a bit too sappy and overlong for me, but I did appreciate getting the chance to see ALL the Never Have I Ever couples still together and thriving so far into the future for what was a pretty clear-cut and solid HEA for all involved.
******************************
Never Have I Ever Series
Book 1 - Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card (4.5 Stars)
Book 2 - Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy (5 Stars)
Book 3 - Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate (4 Stars)
Book 4 - Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival (4 Stars)
August 20, 2024
Re-read on Aug-20th/23
I'm quickly re-reading this series to get to Crimson Club series.
My rating is 2.75⭐.
___________________
Original review on May-19th/23
Not what I expected this book to be. 2.9⭐
The guys are sweet together, don't get me wrong, but the story wasn't that well developed.
The start of the book that was definitely promising, quickly fell flat. I liked Eli and West together, but the potential that was there wasn't utilised properly. There are so many loose ends in their book, things that weren't talked about enough or were just left hanging, none of the important things get resolved or they happen off-page.
West was Eli's brother Gray's rival in high school, they were both on the swimming team and Eli and Gray were there on a scholarship. They were from the poorer part of town, one a really good swimmer, other a mastermind -- so there was obviously history there, but it wasn't much talked about, and the "rival" - Gray, comes into play at the very end of the book.
The way this story is set up, one would expect it would be Gray and West ending up together, but we don't really have a clear picture of who West was and what a heavy, important role he played in both brother's lives.
Eli and West
I liked the beginning of Eli and West's love journey, but the story just stopped developing at some point. I have no objections to smut in books and there was a lot of good smut here, but I kept waiting for Gray to come into the picture or at least Eli's family. Maybe West's family? Anyone, but they just kept hooking up and nothing else happened.
Another part that bothered me in West and Eli's relationship was a little bit of miscommunication. These guys were 20+ years old. Couldn't they have talked about their intentions with each other? Why keep it quiet? West was waiting for Eli to realise they were dating. This guy was quiet for the entire month and said he'll just wait for Eli to put 2 and 2 together and realise they're actually boyfriends, while they haven't talked about being together at all.
Who has time for that guessing game? Weird.
I did like Gray's character and as I said in one of my previous reviews, I'm more interested in the strippers than these guys, so I'm really hoping Gray's story will be better.
Matt and Jax are stil my fav couple in the series.
I'm quickly re-reading this series to get to Crimson Club series.
My rating is 2.75⭐.
___________________
Original review on May-19th/23
Not what I expected this book to be. 2.9⭐
The guys are sweet together, don't get me wrong, but the story wasn't that well developed.
The start of the book that was definitely promising, quickly fell flat. I liked Eli and West together, but the potential that was there wasn't utilised properly. There are so many loose ends in their book, things that weren't talked about enough or were just left hanging, none of the important things get resolved or they happen off-page.
West was Eli's brother Gray's rival in high school, they were both on the swimming team and Eli and Gray were there on a scholarship. They were from the poorer part of town, one a really good swimmer, other a mastermind -- so there was obviously history there, but it wasn't much talked about, and the "rival" - Gray, comes into play at the very end of the book.
The way this story is set up, one would expect it would be Gray and West ending up together, but we don't really have a clear picture of who West was and what a heavy, important role he played in both brother's lives.
Eli and West
I liked the beginning of Eli and West's love journey, but the story just stopped developing at some point. I have no objections to smut in books and there was a lot of good smut here, but I kept waiting for Gray to come into the picture or at least Eli's family. Maybe West's family? Anyone, but they just kept hooking up and nothing else happened.
Another part that bothered me in West and Eli's relationship was a little bit of miscommunication. These guys were 20+ years old. Couldn't they have talked about their intentions with each other? Why keep it quiet? West was waiting for Eli to realise they were dating. This guy was quiet for the entire month and said he'll just wait for Eli to put 2 and 2 together and realise they're actually boyfriends, while they haven't talked about being together at all.
Who has time for that guessing game? Weird.
I did like Gray's character and as I said in one of my previous reviews, I'm more interested in the strippers than these guys, so I'm really hoping Gray's story will be better.
Matt and Jax are stil my fav couple in the series.
May 18, 2023
Aww, I really enjoyed this slow-burn story. Eli and West are two sweet and caring guys who are perfect for one another, but due to a major misunderstanding have not spoken in years. Their reunion is both random and completely not ideal.
The slow rebuilding of their relationship is my favorite aspect of the story. In particular, how West earns Eli's trust and the slow unraveling of Eli's protective instincts. By spending time together they fall into old patterns, which only reignites their strong connection.
Eli was always the mysterious roommate who I never really had a firm grasp on, so finally getting his story enlightens and changes every preconceived notion I had about him. He is incredibly shy with severe trust issues due to his past which West plays a pivotal role. I enjoyed getting to see Eli's personality come through as his confidence grows and how protective and generous West is.
Together they are a great pair, who are clearly devoted to one another. Overall I enjoyed this story and it leaves a great opening for the next series.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
The slow rebuilding of their relationship is my favorite aspect of the story. In particular, how West earns Eli's trust and the slow unraveling of Eli's protective instincts. By spending time together they fall into old patterns, which only reignites their strong connection.
Eli was always the mysterious roommate who I never really had a firm grasp on, so finally getting his story enlightens and changes every preconceived notion I had about him. He is incredibly shy with severe trust issues due to his past which West plays a pivotal role. I enjoyed getting to see Eli's personality come through as his confidence grows and how protective and generous West is.
Together they are a great pair, who are clearly devoted to one another. Overall I enjoyed this story and it leaves a great opening for the next series.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
January 10, 2024
2.5 stars
This was my least favourite of the series. I liked Eli and West. But.
It had so much potential with the enemy backstory, but then it was basically brushed aside immediately and they became friends again.
I disliked the whole evil father story, one of my most disliked tropes.
And I have to say there was way too much sex, I got bored and started skipping sex scenes.
This was my least favourite of the series. I liked Eli and West. But.
It had so much potential with the enemy backstory, but then it was basically brushed aside immediately and they became friends again.
I disliked the whole evil father story, one of my most disliked tropes.
And I have to say there was way too much sex, I got bored and started skipping sex scenes.
May 22, 2023
Eli has been such an intriguing character this whole series and I was really looking forward to his book. My expectations were probably too high because I found this to be a letdown. It wasn’t bad but it really didn’t end up going the way I expected and it felt flat. Similar to the other books in this series I felt it could have been tightened up a fair bit with the sex scenes and general content. The story was still nice, they have a lovely caring relationship and the virginity losing scene is very tender and emotional. I just found from about 60% I was ready for things to wrap up and didn’t care much for the very predictable outcomes.
I was intrigued about Gray’s story but now I see it’s going to be another stepbrother book and I’m a bit over them right now, would have loved something different for him!
I was intrigued about Gray’s story but now I see it’s going to be another stepbrother book and I’m a bit over them right now, would have loved something different for him!
May 22, 2023
"His tongue brushed mine, and a shockwave of need shot through me. The second touch tore a growl from deep in my throat."
Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival is the fourth book in the low angst, high steam, college MM romance series by the delightful Willow Dixon. They are all linked but can be read as standalones. I always suggest you read them in order though, for continuity and so as not to spoil the relationships that develop within the group of housemates.
This is Eli and West's story and it's a real second chance, first times, cute and romantic read, but with all the steam you expect from a Willow Dixon book.
What to expect:
❣️MM brother's rival
❣️Forced proximity
❣️Virgin camboy
❣️Opposites attract
❣️Low angst
❣️Steamy
❣️HEA
Recommended.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival is the fourth book in the low angst, high steam, college MM romance series by the delightful Willow Dixon. They are all linked but can be read as standalones. I always suggest you read them in order though, for continuity and so as not to spoil the relationships that develop within the group of housemates.
This is Eli and West's story and it's a real second chance, first times, cute and romantic read, but with all the steam you expect from a Willow Dixon book.
What to expect:
❣️MM brother's rival
❣️Forced proximity
❣️Virgin camboy
❣️Opposites attract
❣️Low angst
❣️Steamy
❣️HEA
Recommended.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 21, 2023
Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Steam: 3/5 🔥
POV: Dual, First Person
Camboy | Enemies to Lovers | Brothers Rival | Opposites Attract | Forced Proximity
"I’d just spent three thousand dollars buying my former rival’s little brother’s virginity online."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Ahhh this is my favourite book by Willow Dixon so far!! I have wanted Eli's story forever and now I am sad it's over. This one I would say was almost slow burn, despite the chemistry and tension between the two, and I am all for that! It was full of sweet heartwarming scenes as well as some super spicy ones! West treated Eli so well, showing him how worthy of love he is, and waiting for Eli to realise they were boyfriends was so cute!! The reaction from Eli's brother was handled well and now I cannot wait for Gray's story in the spin-off series!
Trigger and Content Warnings: Mentions of past bullying, mention of childhood domestic abuse.
Steam: 3/5 🔥
POV: Dual, First Person
Camboy | Enemies to Lovers | Brothers Rival | Opposites Attract | Forced Proximity
"I’d just spent three thousand dollars buying my former rival’s little brother’s virginity online."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Ahhh this is my favourite book by Willow Dixon so far!! I have wanted Eli's story forever and now I am sad it's over. This one I would say was almost slow burn, despite the chemistry and tension between the two, and I am all for that! It was full of sweet heartwarming scenes as well as some super spicy ones! West treated Eli so well, showing him how worthy of love he is, and waiting for Eli to realise they were boyfriends was so cute!! The reaction from Eli's brother was handled well and now I cannot wait for Gray's story in the spin-off series!
Trigger and Content Warnings: Mentions of past bullying, mention of childhood domestic abuse.
July 12, 2024
2.5 stars
Some of the conversations don’t feel realistic. It felt like I was reading how someone wanted a conversation to go, not how actual real people talk. Just very distracting. Oh, and the author makes such a big deal about Eli “not being like other people” in all the ways emotionally. Eli droned on and on about it in the book. Like I think the author was trying to say he was on the spectrum without actually saying he was on the spectrum? It just really rubbed me the wrong way. Every time he’d go on about feeling like something was wrong with him I just wanted to check out. Not my jam. I couldn’t really like him…
Somehow this book gets alluded to as if it’s an enemies to lovers book. It’s not.
It’s a sweet book. I’ll agree with other reviewers that it is a bit misleading.
I did think the camboy aspect was interesting and some off the writing and spice was entertaining. I’ll read more of her stuff. Maybe it was more about not connecting with Eli than anything else.
Some of the conversations don’t feel realistic. It felt like I was reading how someone wanted a conversation to go, not how actual real people talk. Just very distracting. Oh, and the author makes such a big deal about Eli “not being like other people” in all the ways emotionally. Eli droned on and on about it in the book. Like I think the author was trying to say he was on the spectrum without actually saying he was on the spectrum? It just really rubbed me the wrong way. Every time he’d go on about feeling like something was wrong with him I just wanted to check out. Not my jam. I couldn’t really like him…
Somehow this book gets alluded to as if it’s an enemies to lovers book. It’s not.
It’s a sweet book. I’ll agree with other reviewers that it is a bit misleading.
I did think the camboy aspect was interesting and some off the writing and spice was entertaining. I’ll read more of her stuff. Maybe it was more about not connecting with Eli than anything else.
August 26, 2024
Time of death: 50%
A shame, because the audio is really good, but the book itself (and the characters) are too inconsistent and plain stupid at times for me to continue.
I don’t even know where to start.
First of all, the timing is off. The incident that made West leave happened when he was 16. Since then, he spent 2 years at a boarding school, went to college and got a degree and worked for 4 years as an unpaid intern for his father, only to end up working for him again (at terrible conditions, being “forced” to rent a huge house from his father, at “standard market rates”). And that all happened in 6.5 years? And he never ever knew what happened in his hometown, because not one of his friends ever talked to him again?
On top of that, he STILL slaves away for his father, because…why? Is his father some kind of feudal king? Why didn’t he stand up to him for so long?
And he feels guilty because of Eli, the kid he kind of protected back then at school (and who tutors him because he’s insanely smart), because he… left him? But there wasn’t anything between them, or am I reading it wrong?
And Eli. After hating and blaming West for almost 7 years for l most of his and his brother’s misfortunes, he forgives him after just one brief chat? And everyone at school hated him because he’s been too smart, including all the teachers? And because he’s socially awkward, he decided to make money as a cam boy?
Come. On. 🙄
Not even the smut makes me want to tag along, I’ve only read one so far and it’s… awkward.
There were things that I found interesting though - the talk about Eli’s medical condition for example, or the way his mind works.
But that’s not enough to make me finish, even though - as mentioned - the narrators are great.
What a waste 😕
A shame, because the audio is really good, but the book itself (and the characters) are too inconsistent and plain stupid at times for me to continue.
I don’t even know where to start.
First of all, the timing is off. The incident that made West leave happened when he was 16. Since then, he spent 2 years at a boarding school, went to college and got a degree and worked for 4 years as an unpaid intern for his father, only to end up working for him again (at terrible conditions, being “forced” to rent a huge house from his father, at “standard market rates”). And that all happened in 6.5 years? And he never ever knew what happened in his hometown, because not one of his friends ever talked to him again?
On top of that, he STILL slaves away for his father, because…why? Is his father some kind of feudal king? Why didn’t he stand up to him for so long?
And he feels guilty because of Eli, the kid he kind of protected back then at school (and who tutors him because he’s insanely smart), because he… left him? But there wasn’t anything between them, or am I reading it wrong?
And Eli. After hating and blaming West for almost 7 years for l most of his and his brother’s misfortunes, he forgives him after just one brief chat? And everyone at school hated him because he’s been too smart, including all the teachers? And because he’s socially awkward, he decided to make money as a cam boy?
Come. On. 🙄
Not even the smut makes me want to tag along, I’ve only read one so far and it’s… awkward.
There were things that I found interesting though - the talk about Eli’s medical condition for example, or the way his mind works.
But that’s not enough to make me finish, even though - as mentioned - the narrators are great.
What a waste 😕
May 10, 2023
- virgin camboy
- enemies to lovers
- brother’s rival
- opposites attract
- forced proximity
I’ve been waiting for Eli’s book since the moment he appeared on page back in Beck’s book, and I was not disappointed at all!
Eli and West reconnect after the water heater dies and West is none other than their property manager who shows up to fix it. Eli isn’t too happy to see the boy who ruined his brother Grey’s life, but not everything as it seems.
Things go from bad to worse when a pipe bursts while the rest do the roomies are away, and forces Eli’s hand to depend on none other than West for a place to stay. The pair hash out their differences, and Eli finally learns the truth of what really happened the night that ruined his brother’s chance of a better life.
There’s also some things that go down with Eli’s cam biz and its connection to West as well, but it’s best to keep that vague so y’all can read it for yourselves!
Their story is so sweet and I really loved that they got a second chance at friendship and that it had the chance to turn into something more. West and Eli bring out the best in each other, and I’m so sad that their story is the end of this series, but it truly was the perfect conclusion.
Can’t wait for the Crimson Club spin-off!
- enemies to lovers
- brother’s rival
- opposites attract
- forced proximity
I’ve been waiting for Eli’s book since the moment he appeared on page back in Beck’s book, and I was not disappointed at all!
Eli and West reconnect after the water heater dies and West is none other than their property manager who shows up to fix it. Eli isn’t too happy to see the boy who ruined his brother Grey’s life, but not everything as it seems.
Things go from bad to worse when a pipe bursts while the rest do the roomies are away, and forces Eli’s hand to depend on none other than West for a place to stay. The pair hash out their differences, and Eli finally learns the truth of what really happened the night that ruined his brother’s chance of a better life.
There’s also some things that go down with Eli’s cam biz and its connection to West as well, but it’s best to keep that vague so y’all can read it for yourselves!
Their story is so sweet and I really loved that they got a second chance at friendship and that it had the chance to turn into something more. West and Eli bring out the best in each other, and I’m so sad that their story is the end of this series, but it truly was the perfect conclusion.
Can’t wait for the Crimson Club spin-off!
May 25, 2023
I have really mixed feelings about this one.
From the title I expected at least a bit of conflict with the brother, but it was just two quick conversations right at the end of the book where everyone was pretty calm considering all the build up! Then it's immediately into an eight year later epilogue 🧐
I liked the relationship and the way it built, but the story didn't feel finished? It just ended then relied on the epilogue to tie up every single plot point - this is something I really don't like!
For me, an epilogue should be a bonus addition to the story, not a quick paragraph that's used to explain how everything is wrapped up in a neat little bow. That's just telling instead of showing which I'm not a huge fan of, and it didn't add anything to the story, it was just used to finish it quickly with no real details or emotions from the characters.
I did really like seeing that the guys were all friends still, and I liked knowing what happened to them, but I just would have preferred if the actual story had more to it I guess.
Overall I've really enjoyed this series, but this is definitely my least favourite installment unfortunately.
From the title I expected at least a bit of conflict with the brother, but it was just two quick conversations right at the end of the book where everyone was pretty calm considering all the build up! Then it's immediately into an eight year later epilogue 🧐
I liked the relationship and the way it built, but the story didn't feel finished? It just ended then relied on the epilogue to tie up every single plot point - this is something I really don't like!
For me, an epilogue should be a bonus addition to the story, not a quick paragraph that's used to explain how everything is wrapped up in a neat little bow. That's just telling instead of showing which I'm not a huge fan of, and it didn't add anything to the story, it was just used to finish it quickly with no real details or emotions from the characters.
I did really like seeing that the guys were all friends still, and I liked knowing what happened to them, but I just would have preferred if the actual story had more to it I guess.
Overall I've really enjoyed this series, but this is definitely my least favourite installment unfortunately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2023
⭐︎
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
⭐︎
This, unfortunately, was kind of my least favorite of this series.
That's not to say I didn't enjoy it at times, because I did. I also thought Eli and West were so cute and sweet overall, I did.
This was just...slow at times. Because honestly, a big chunk of this didn't really have much plot going on, and while I liked these two, I didn't love them, so getting through a big chunk of this was slow going.
Did this need to be 360 page? Nah. It didn't need to be a lot shorter, just...not on the closer end to 400 pages.
Maybe just 60 pages less would have made this go by a little faster for me.
What happens is that it's spring break, and Eli is spending the week alone in the house. Now that all the other guys in the house are couples up, they're off doing couple-y things for spring break.
But then a big storm hits, and it turns out the person who owns their university housing is none other than West's rich-ass, asshole father. And after something that happened in high school, West was sent away by said father and he's been away for 6 years.
But he's been back in town for 6 months, working under his father's thumb, afraid to get out of it at the same time he hates it.
He's the new property manager for the guys' house, and so not only does he show up before the storm, before there's a problem with the water heater, but he has to come during the story as one of the pipes burst on the same water heater and flood the laundry room it's in and part of the hall outside too.
He and Eli have a past. They were friends in high school, but West was Eli's brother, Gray's, rival. Because of swimming, because it was encouraged by his swimming coach and others to be rivals for no good reason. Also the big thing that happened to make Gray really hate West, even though a lot of it was mistakes made and then things out of his control at 16 years old.
West has also, for the past 6 months, been sending tips to Eli's cam channel - which we learned he did in the last book. He never watches him, as he feels bad about doing so without Eli knowing and because of their past.
He does give in once, though, and when he does, he learns Eli is going to auction off his virginity to his viewers, and West...doesn't want anything bad to happen to Eli with some stranger. So he "buys" it himself. Although of course he doesn't actually take him up on the offer, although he does want Eli, but not that way. Especially when Eli is angry at him for what happened all those years ago.
But once that storm hits and the laundry room floods, Eli stays with West at his place, as all that water could be dangerous. A lot of things in that house aren't up to code either, because of course his asshole father wants to cut costs and line his pockets instead of spending money that would actually save the lives of the people living in that house.
And so over the week or so Eli stays with him, they get closer and closer, and start to date after that week is over. They're just keeping it a secret from Gray, because he still hates West for what happened, and Eli's parents as well.
I think the problem for me was that a majority of this story takes place in that one week alone. Just day in and day out of just them for a majority of this story, with not much else going on.
Which is good to give us relationship development, of course, but...I wasn't feeling fire chemistry, I wasn't super into these two, to the point where not much else happens couldn't bother me.
We never even see Gray on page until near the end. He's talked about, but we don't see him, we don't meet him, until then. It really dampened the whole "brother's rival" feeling too, the whole title of this book, for aa good almost like 90% of this. Once Gray was on page, and we saw his anger at West, then I felt it...but it was too little, too late.
We barely get any of Gray, this big 'ol elephant in the room, until the very end. Also that was went things go really interesting, when the world expanded outside of their little bubble in West's house.
It was nice at first and as they got deeper into their relationship, but too much and it got a little stale. We barely see any of the other characters outside of these two and when the chemistry and romance isn't exactly on point, that makes the story suffer.
Like how did such a big part of the story go by with not much happening at all?
And also with Gray, we find out after the fact that he knew about Eli and West basically the whole time because he saw them out and about several times. But because Eli was practically ghosting him, Gray didn't say anything and he was processing as well.
But we learn all that through Gray telling us at the end. For such a big factor in their relationship, Gray isn't seen until the end and I think this story would have benefitted from seeing him beforehand. Lets see how close Eli and Gray are as brothers, lets see Gray letting out his grievances about West - he could learn West was back in town but not know about him and Eli - and understand how deep his anger and hatred goes to really understand why Eli was so scared to tell him.
Because yes, while Gray is upset, he doesn't take it bad at all and really just wants his brother to be happy.
It would also just amp up the sense of forbiddeness between Eli and West and make their apparent "hiding" of it from Gray make more sense. Also yeah, why did they think they could go out and about around this small town and think Gray would never see them? And for months on end while they were dating and not telling Gray?
Also it kind of takes away from what could have been exciting, interesting drama by not showing Gray finding out about them. Like him just walking up to them when they're at the grocery store or something all confused and then angry and it's making a scene and all this stuff.
Instead we get him talking about it and so there's not much drama at all. Gray has had time to process it enough at this point that he's not just filled with rage or anything. He's angry, but ultimately at a truce with West and never angry with his brother at all.
It just....was a missed opportunity. And Gray is interesting and I'm excited for his book in the spin-off, I am, but...that's exactly why I wish we got more of him. He was interesting and his story is interesting and why would he just...let his little brother ghost him for 2 months when he knows what's going on? Why wouldn't he confront them like he does later on anyway? Or well, confront West. He's much calmer with Eli.
Also I see that in Gray's book he's gonna fall for his stepbrother - is that their stepfather's son? We never even meet him in this either so when I read the blurb to Gray's book I was so confused for a second, because as far as we know in this, they just have their half siblings.
Like why wouldn't Eli think about or mention a stepbrother at all?
Anyway, I digress.
Eli and West were cute and sweet. I didn't always feel it during their sex scenes, but I did during one especially that was really hot. So they had some chemistry just not a ton.
This gets points for keeping my interest at times. As much as this was slow at times, there were times where I was into it, especially near the end. It picked up then.
I also did like these two, even though I didn't love them. They did have a sweet, loving relationship.
But *sigh* can't win them all. West was a worthy LI and he wasn't the problem with this one, I really liked West. I was just expecting more for Eli's love story anyway. Both Eli and West deserved a little bit of a better storyline.
Oh well, onto the next. I am eager to read Gray's story in the spin-off 😁
My Ratings for the Never Have I Ever Series:
💫 Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card: 5 stars (my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy: 4 stars ( my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate: 5 stars (my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival: 3.5 stars
This, unfortunately, was kind of my least favorite of this series.
That's not to say I didn't enjoy it at times, because I did. I also thought Eli and West were so cute and sweet overall, I did.
This was just...slow at times. Because honestly, a big chunk of this didn't really have much plot going on, and while I liked these two, I didn't love them, so getting through a big chunk of this was slow going.
Did this need to be 360 page? Nah. It didn't need to be a lot shorter, just...not on the closer end to 400 pages.
Maybe just 60 pages less would have made this go by a little faster for me.
What happens is that it's spring break, and Eli is spending the week alone in the house. Now that all the other guys in the house are couples up, they're off doing couple-y things for spring break.
But then a big storm hits, and it turns out the person who owns their university housing is none other than West's rich-ass, asshole father. And after something that happened in high school, West was sent away by said father and he's been away for 6 years.
But he's been back in town for 6 months, working under his father's thumb, afraid to get out of it at the same time he hates it.
He's the new property manager for the guys' house, and so not only does he show up before the storm, before there's a problem with the water heater, but he has to come during the story as one of the pipes burst on the same water heater and flood the laundry room it's in and part of the hall outside too.
He and Eli have a past. They were friends in high school, but West was Eli's brother, Gray's, rival. Because of swimming, because it was encouraged by his swimming coach and others to be rivals for no good reason. Also the big thing that happened to make Gray really hate West, even though a lot of it was mistakes made and then things out of his control at 16 years old.
West has also, for the past 6 months, been sending tips to Eli's cam channel - which we learned he did in the last book. He never watches him, as he feels bad about doing so without Eli knowing and because of their past.
He does give in once, though, and when he does, he learns Eli is going to auction off his virginity to his viewers, and West...doesn't want anything bad to happen to Eli with some stranger. So he "buys" it himself. Although of course he doesn't actually take him up on the offer, although he does want Eli, but not that way. Especially when Eli is angry at him for what happened all those years ago.
But once that storm hits and the laundry room floods, Eli stays with West at his place, as all that water could be dangerous. A lot of things in that house aren't up to code either, because of course his asshole father wants to cut costs and line his pockets instead of spending money that would actually save the lives of the people living in that house.
And so over the week or so Eli stays with him, they get closer and closer, and start to date after that week is over. They're just keeping it a secret from Gray, because he still hates West for what happened, and Eli's parents as well.
I think the problem for me was that a majority of this story takes place in that one week alone. Just day in and day out of just them for a majority of this story, with not much else going on.
Which is good to give us relationship development, of course, but...I wasn't feeling fire chemistry, I wasn't super into these two, to the point where not much else happens couldn't bother me.
We never even see Gray on page until near the end. He's talked about, but we don't see him, we don't meet him, until then. It really dampened the whole "brother's rival" feeling too, the whole title of this book, for aa good almost like 90% of this. Once Gray was on page, and we saw his anger at West, then I felt it...but it was too little, too late.
We barely get any of Gray, this big 'ol elephant in the room, until the very end. Also that was went things go really interesting, when the world expanded outside of their little bubble in West's house.
It was nice at first and as they got deeper into their relationship, but too much and it got a little stale. We barely see any of the other characters outside of these two and when the chemistry and romance isn't exactly on point, that makes the story suffer.
Like how did such a big part of the story go by with not much happening at all?
And also with Gray, we find out after the fact that he knew about Eli and West basically the whole time because he saw them out and about several times. But because Eli was practically ghosting him, Gray didn't say anything and he was processing as well.
But we learn all that through Gray telling us at the end. For such a big factor in their relationship, Gray isn't seen until the end and I think this story would have benefitted from seeing him beforehand. Lets see how close Eli and Gray are as brothers, lets see Gray letting out his grievances about West - he could learn West was back in town but not know about him and Eli - and understand how deep his anger and hatred goes to really understand why Eli was so scared to tell him.
Because yes, while Gray is upset, he doesn't take it bad at all and really just wants his brother to be happy.
It would also just amp up the sense of forbiddeness between Eli and West and make their apparent "hiding" of it from Gray make more sense. Also yeah, why did they think they could go out and about around this small town and think Gray would never see them? And for months on end while they were dating and not telling Gray?
Also it kind of takes away from what could have been exciting, interesting drama by not showing Gray finding out about them. Like him just walking up to them when they're at the grocery store or something all confused and then angry and it's making a scene and all this stuff.
Instead we get him talking about it and so there's not much drama at all. Gray has had time to process it enough at this point that he's not just filled with rage or anything. He's angry, but ultimately at a truce with West and never angry with his brother at all.
It just....was a missed opportunity. And Gray is interesting and I'm excited for his book in the spin-off, I am, but...that's exactly why I wish we got more of him. He was interesting and his story is interesting and why would he just...let his little brother ghost him for 2 months when he knows what's going on? Why wouldn't he confront them like he does later on anyway? Or well, confront West. He's much calmer with Eli.
Also I see that in Gray's book he's gonna fall for his stepbrother - is that their stepfather's son? We never even meet him in this either so when I read the blurb to Gray's book I was so confused for a second, because as far as we know in this, they just have their half siblings.
Like why wouldn't Eli think about or mention a stepbrother at all?
Anyway, I digress.
Eli and West were cute and sweet. I didn't always feel it during their sex scenes, but I did during one especially that was really hot. So they had some chemistry just not a ton.
This gets points for keeping my interest at times. As much as this was slow at times, there were times where I was into it, especially near the end. It picked up then.
I also did like these two, even though I didn't love them. They did have a sweet, loving relationship.
But *sigh* can't win them all. West was a worthy LI and he wasn't the problem with this one, I really liked West. I was just expecting more for Eli's love story anyway. Both Eli and West deserved a little bit of a better storyline.
Oh well, onto the next. I am eager to read Gray's story in the spin-off 😁
My Ratings for the Never Have I Ever Series:
💫 Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card: 5 stars (my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy: 4 stars ( my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate: 5 stars (my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival: 3.5 stars
May 23, 2023
As always, the series’ titles and the baked in tropes do such a disservice to this series. I get that these tropes and buzzwords are a differentiator in the market but when you don’t absolutely NAIL the brief the whole thing feels cheap.
The story was sweet but dull. Eli and West are likable(arguably too)mature characters, who don’t pull away from each other and treat each other with kindness and generosity.
Nothing too toxic here, though, some things were off putting. For one: The rival thing is so dumb it does nothing for the plot especially when we’re just told how close Eli & Gray are when it’s never once shown. There was also no consequences for West’s dad for ruining their lives OR for being a shitty landlord (redundant I know). And two: although their age difference is honestly negligible, West acts like he’s 15 years older than Eli (and everyone else) and he almost infantilized Eli even when Eli was a grown (autistic-coded) adult which did give me the ick.
The epilogue was deep in the future which I usually love but I just never really cared much for the friend group (I literally cannot tell the couples apart from one another once their books end) so it didn’t mean that much to me.
The story was sweet but dull. Eli and West are likable(arguably too)mature characters, who don’t pull away from each other and treat each other with kindness and generosity.
Nothing too toxic here, though, some things were off putting. For one: The rival thing is so dumb it does nothing for the plot especially when we’re just told how close Eli & Gray are when it’s never once shown. There was also no consequences for West’s dad for ruining their lives OR for being a shitty landlord (redundant I know). And two: although their age difference is honestly negligible, West acts like he’s 15 years older than Eli (and everyone else) and he almost infantilized Eli even when Eli was a grown (autistic-coded) adult which did give me the ick.
The epilogue was deep in the future which I usually love but I just never really cared much for the friend group (I literally cannot tell the couples apart from one another once their books end) so it didn’t mean that much to me.
May 25, 2023
I did like this book, I was looking forward to Eli’s story, I loved his cam work and how he was really friendly online, I liked we got to see him come out of his shell, West was really good for him.
West gave him the comfort and guidance he needed to start healing and being himself, he just needed to make those final ones by himself and let his family know how he feels. I loved how caring West was towards Eli and I liked that he always made sure he felt safe and comfortable when they were together.
I would have liked a bit more back story on West and this book defiantly wasn’t as spicy as the others, was more of a slow burn read, felt like it was missing a spark.
I am looking forward to the next series I hope we get more writing like in the first books because they were really good.
One bit I really liked was the veggie 🍆, you know I was straight on Google looking stuff up!!
TW read them if you’re sensitive to them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book content-
🩶Enemies-to-Friends-to-Lovers
🩶A virgin cam model
🩶A reformed bad boy
🩶Forced proximity
🩶An online auction
🩶Lots of hot firsts
🩶All the feels
West gave him the comfort and guidance he needed to start healing and being himself, he just needed to make those final ones by himself and let his family know how he feels. I loved how caring West was towards Eli and I liked that he always made sure he felt safe and comfortable when they were together.
I would have liked a bit more back story on West and this book defiantly wasn’t as spicy as the others, was more of a slow burn read, felt like it was missing a spark.
I am looking forward to the next series I hope we get more writing like in the first books because they were really good.
One bit I really liked was the veggie 🍆, you know I was straight on Google looking stuff up!!
TW read them if you’re sensitive to them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book content-
🩶Enemies-to-Friends-to-Lovers
🩶A virgin cam model
🩶A reformed bad boy
🩶Forced proximity
🩶An online auction
🩶Lots of hot firsts
🩶All the feels
June 28, 2023
“Never Have I Ever Reconnected With My Best Friend from High School and Fallen Mutually and Completely in Love With Him Over Spring Break, Also My Older Brother Was Allegedly Rivals With Him 7 Years Ago But They Haven’t Spoken Since and This Will Not Actually Be a Source of Conflict at All and The Brother Will Not Appear Until like 85% Into the Book and Is Actually Super Supportive and No One is Mean or Mad Once The Whole Book”
doesn’t have quite the same ring to it?
Or remotely the same vibe? Why was it named this?
Anything negative happens off-page (I was bullied before the book starts by characters not in the book but everyone is loving and kind every single page of it)
and is just referenced later with an extremely unrealistically healthy wholesome conversation (e.g., after reading a sweet romance for most of the book the family who have never been characters appear for a conversation each to say they love and support the main characters then disappear into the mist again)
It’s like a hypothetical grievance is put forth and a Greek chorus of supportive people appear to say something supportive and just stop existing after that?
doesn’t have quite the same ring to it?
Or remotely the same vibe? Why was it named this?
Anything negative happens off-page (I was bullied before the book starts by characters not in the book but everyone is loving and kind every single page of it)
and is just referenced later with an extremely unrealistically healthy wholesome conversation (e.g., after reading a sweet romance for most of the book the family who have never been characters appear for a conversation each to say they love and support the main characters then disappear into the mist again)
It’s like a hypothetical grievance is put forth and a Greek chorus of supportive people appear to say something supportive and just stop existing after that?
November 15, 2023
I'm thinking that's a wrap
June 24, 2023
3.5⭐️
Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother’s Rival by Willow Dixon is book 4 in the Never Have I Ever series.
Since the beginning of the series, Eli’s book was the one I most looking forward to. There was something about him that intrigued and captivated me. He seemed to be an enigma and that is something that attracts me to an MC. In the previous book, we learned a lot more about who he was, his personality and also what he does for a living. I was still excited to read his book and find out what surprises Willow Dixon had in store for us.
This is one of the aspects of Willow Dixon's books that I love. For the previous MCs in the series, I had a very clear idea of what they would be like in their own book and once I delve into it, I realize that there was a whole dimension to these characters that I never saw coming. And that's what disappointed me in this one, there were no surprises and we already knew everything there was to know about Eli. As for the story, I was also expecting a little more depth. I didn't feel the same rush of excitement for the relationship between Eli and West, compared to the previous couples. There was nothing wrong with the story and how it was written, but I felt like I was reading something I've read many times before. It didn't have the same degree of freshness as the other three books in the series and for that reason, it's not as memorable for me. Despite this, I still enjoyed seeing the conclusion of this series that I loved so much.
Sadly being the last book in the series was its greatest weakness and it suffers from being compared to its predecessors.
I do love Willow Dixon though and she has given me some of my favourite books this year. I will continue to read her next books in hopes of finding what I loved so much in her work.
Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother’s Rival by Willow Dixon is book 4 in the Never Have I Ever series.
Since the beginning of the series, Eli’s book was the one I most looking forward to. There was something about him that intrigued and captivated me. He seemed to be an enigma and that is something that attracts me to an MC. In the previous book, we learned a lot more about who he was, his personality and also what he does for a living. I was still excited to read his book and find out what surprises Willow Dixon had in store for us.
This is one of the aspects of Willow Dixon's books that I love. For the previous MCs in the series, I had a very clear idea of what they would be like in their own book and once I delve into it, I realize that there was a whole dimension to these characters that I never saw coming. And that's what disappointed me in this one, there were no surprises and we already knew everything there was to know about Eli. As for the story, I was also expecting a little more depth. I didn't feel the same rush of excitement for the relationship between Eli and West, compared to the previous couples. There was nothing wrong with the story and how it was written, but I felt like I was reading something I've read many times before. It didn't have the same degree of freshness as the other three books in the series and for that reason, it's not as memorable for me. Despite this, I still enjoyed seeing the conclusion of this series that I loved so much.
Sadly being the last book in the series was its greatest weakness and it suffers from being compared to its predecessors.
I do love Willow Dixon though and she has given me some of my favourite books this year. I will continue to read her next books in hopes of finding what I loved so much in her work.
April 30, 2023
This was an amazing end to the Never Have I Ever series! Every story in this series was great and Eli and West’s story was no exception! I loved how every book was about a different roommate (or two) in the house and were all different tropes, kinks and stories! This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the others in the series first to get to know all the characters.
Eli and West’s story was a lot of fun but also had a lot of serious moments. I felt like it was an excellent balance! These two were very cute together and took such good care of each other in their own way which worked perfectly for them! I loved how they took it slow but their amazing chemistry didn’t make it feel that way. There were quite a few time jumps in the book and a few times we were told about an event instead of shown that I would have loved to actually read about. However, I didn’t feel like it took away from the story at all, I’m just being greedy with wanting more!
The end of this story was awesome. I loved seeing all the roommates back together. It wrapped everything up so nicely. Definitely make sure to download the bonus chapter for a little bit of extra sexy time between Eli and West. This series is over now but next up we can look forward to a spin-off series about the men of Crimson Club starting with Gray, Eli’s brother. I am so excited for this series!
Eli and West’s story was a lot of fun but also had a lot of serious moments. I felt like it was an excellent balance! These two were very cute together and took such good care of each other in their own way which worked perfectly for them! I loved how they took it slow but their amazing chemistry didn’t make it feel that way. There were quite a few time jumps in the book and a few times we were told about an event instead of shown that I would have loved to actually read about. However, I didn’t feel like it took away from the story at all, I’m just being greedy with wanting more!
The end of this story was awesome. I loved seeing all the roommates back together. It wrapped everything up so nicely. Definitely make sure to download the bonus chapter for a little bit of extra sexy time between Eli and West. This series is over now but next up we can look forward to a spin-off series about the men of Crimson Club starting with Gray, Eli’s brother. I am so excited for this series!
May 16, 2023
Six years ago West left town without a word and left a disaster behind for Eli’s brother.
Eli was close to West and was devastated.
Now West is back and the store everyone thought they know, is completely different.
Eli wants to hate him, because of his brother, only, he can’t. West is such a caring person.
“I can’t have both of them.”
The story is mainly built around Eli and West their characters, their past, their friendship, and growing feelings. It isn’t simple but they have something special. There are complications with both their families.
The chemistry between them is hot AF.
The development of their characters was so well done, there’s so much to know.
Overall an attractive story with kindness, hotness, and sweetness.
Eli was close to West and was devastated.
Now West is back and the store everyone thought they know, is completely different.
Eli wants to hate him, because of his brother, only, he can’t. West is such a caring person.
“I can’t have both of them.”
The story is mainly built around Eli and West their characters, their past, their friendship, and growing feelings. It isn’t simple but they have something special. There are complications with both their families.
The chemistry between them is hot AF.
The development of their characters was so well done, there’s so much to know.
Overall an attractive story with kindness, hotness, and sweetness.
June 13, 2023
This wasn’t a bad story and was quite readable and a lot more sophisticated (writing wise) compared to the first book I read in the series.
Eli has always been different he’s incredibly smart and was in high school before anyone else his age. He was somewhat befriended by West who had some ongoing swimming rivalry with Eli’s older brother. West’s action inadvertently led to Eli’s brother losing his future and this is where the enemies to lovers trope comes in.
The ending got a little too mushy for me, a little too HEA, a little too artificial for my liking. Overall, a decent story but not something I’d remember.
Eli has always been different he’s incredibly smart and was in high school before anyone else his age. He was somewhat befriended by West who had some ongoing swimming rivalry with Eli’s older brother. West’s action inadvertently led to Eli’s brother losing his future and this is where the enemies to lovers trope comes in.
The ending got a little too mushy for me, a little too HEA, a little too artificial for my liking. Overall, a decent story but not something I’d remember.
August 10, 2024
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 4 stars
Story - 4 stars
May 5, 2023
I was eagerly anticipating the elusive/mysterious story of Eli since book one and his and West's story did not disappoint. They were both lonely and kinda broken in their own ways. After circumstances that push them together and hidden truths are revealed, they start to fall in love with each other. Together, they were hot as F!! As well as so loving and supportive. They had a few bumps in the road, but after Gray (Eli's brother and West’s high school rival) finds out and accepts it and Eli gets more confidence, they get their HEA! The epilogue was everything!! I loved it so much and am looking forward to Gray's story in the spin-off series. Def recommend!
May 20, 2023
2.5 🌟
How..do you have the "obstacle" that stands between the couple going for something real literally in the title...and then only have that obstacle show up at the 88% mark...and then proceed to resolve the "issue" within ten pages? And how come Eli and his brother are best friends...yet the brother doesn't show up on page or utter a single word in the first 85% of the narrative?
Make it make sense?
How..do you have the "obstacle" that stands between the couple going for something real literally in the title...and then only have that obstacle show up at the 88% mark...and then proceed to resolve the "issue" within ten pages? And how come Eli and his brother are best friends...yet the brother doesn't show up on page or utter a single word in the first 85% of the narrative?
Make it make sense?
June 7, 2023
ughhhh yessss i love men crying during sex !!!!! esp when it’s bc they’re overwhelmed with emotion bc they’re falling in love !!!!!! also “operation wait until eli figures out he’s my boyfriend”🥺🥺🥺 i’m kicking my feet and smiling like a fool ahhhhhh so cute !!! ngl it was a little bit of a chore to finish…..i will b tuning into gray’s story tho
January 9, 2024
All in all this was a great end to the series and it made me want to read Gray's book in a non annoying way...so that's what I'm doing right now :D
A very sweet dynamic between the two of these, very affirming and caretaking.
Some quotes
NSFW infos:
- 6ft bi guy with a swimmer's build and dark brown hair, 23
- 5ft 9 bi guy, 20, beautiful and model-esque type 1 diabetes (virgin, cams, auctions off his virginity which other MC buys to protecc)
- vers and switch in dynamic of power
- biting
- lifting and carrying
- clothed frotting
- intercrural
- coming from kissing
- dildo in the shape of one MCs penis as a gift to the other so he can fuck him on camera
Nickname:
Sweetheart
A very sweet dynamic between the two of these, very affirming and caretaking.
Some quotes
"Sex isn't transactional. It's not about making things fair or doing something that's expected of you." p. 142
"I pushed my chair back and waved him over. He darted across the room and sat on my lap. I wrapped one arm around his waist, pressing my nose into his neck. He leaned back against me. He smelled like an intoxicating mix of my laundry soap and body wash. Possessive desire rolled through me, and I hugged him tighter.
He let out a happy sigh..." p. 215
NSFW infos:
- 6ft bi guy with a swimmer's build and dark brown hair, 23
- 5ft 9 bi guy, 20, beautiful and model-esque type 1 diabetes (virgin, cams, auctions off his virginity which other MC buys to protecc)
- vers and switch in dynamic of power
- biting
- lifting and carrying
- clothed frotting
- intercrural
- coming from kissing
- dildo in the shape of one MCs penis as a gift to the other so he can fuck him on camera
Nickname:
Sweetheart
Displaying 1 - 30 of 413 reviews