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Elysian Escapades #1
My Best Friend’s Brother
What's worse than mistakenly professing my love for my best friend?... How about sleeping with his brother?
I swear I had no idea Will was Emry's older brother when we hooked up.
So when Emry barges in on us— awkward —things get real messy, real fast, and I find myself smack bang in the middle of a family feud.
To make matters worse, I'm developing feelings for Will, even though I shouldn't be. Because he's totally off-limits. The one guy I can't have.
Now I have to do I pursue something with Will at the risk of losing my best friend?
*** Elysian Escapades is a NOVELLA spin-off series from the Escape books. Each novella can be read as a stand-alone.
I swear I had no idea Will was Emry's older brother when we hooked up.
So when Emry barges in on us— awkward —things get real messy, real fast, and I find myself smack bang in the middle of a family feud.
To make matters worse, I'm developing feelings for Will, even though I shouldn't be. Because he's totally off-limits. The one guy I can't have.
Now I have to do I pursue something with Will at the risk of losing my best friend?
*** Elysian Escapades is a NOVELLA spin-off series from the Escape books. Each novella can be read as a stand-alone.
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Casey Cox
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 25, 2023
3.5 Stars
This was a one-sitting, feel-good novella if I ever read one.
Although a spin-off series to Cox’s earlier Escape series—still set at the same queer-friendly Elysian resort in Florida—this new series of three sexy-sweet MM novellas can totally be read as standalone stories, featuring a fun dynamic between each new couple to make your trope-loving hearts sing.
Here, the title speaks for itself. Best-friends-brother romances have always held a special place in my heart and this one was a delight, although shorter in length than I’d usually prefer, if truth be told.
If you’ve read the third Escape novel—Faraway—then you would have met the brother/best friend in question, Emry. This time around, Emry’s estranged brother, Will, begins to explore his sexuality with eager intent, when he meets big, brawny, sex-on-legs Hawk… who just happens to be Emry’s bestie and therefore totally off-limits.
But the heart wants what the heart wants, and initial attraction turns deeper, as Will and Hawk get to know each other, despite the roadblock posed by their mutual person.
Will and Hawk’s little story covers a lot of ground very quickly, so it was fairly light on the character and relationship development—but it was still very heart-warming and appropriately sexy, serving as just the ticket for a refreshing romantic palate cleanser between bigger reads.
***A special thanks to the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a one-sitting, feel-good novella if I ever read one.
Although a spin-off series to Cox’s earlier Escape series—still set at the same queer-friendly Elysian resort in Florida—this new series of three sexy-sweet MM novellas can totally be read as standalone stories, featuring a fun dynamic between each new couple to make your trope-loving hearts sing.
Here, the title speaks for itself. Best-friends-brother romances have always held a special place in my heart and this one was a delight, although shorter in length than I’d usually prefer, if truth be told.
If you’ve read the third Escape novel—Faraway—then you would have met the brother/best friend in question, Emry. This time around, Emry’s estranged brother, Will, begins to explore his sexuality with eager intent, when he meets big, brawny, sex-on-legs Hawk… who just happens to be Emry’s bestie and therefore totally off-limits.
But the heart wants what the heart wants, and initial attraction turns deeper, as Will and Hawk get to know each other, despite the roadblock posed by their mutual person.
Will and Hawk’s little story covers a lot of ground very quickly, so it was fairly light on the character and relationship development—but it was still very heart-warming and appropriately sexy, serving as just the ticket for a refreshing romantic palate cleanser between bigger reads.
***A special thanks to the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2023
If you are looking for a super cute, fun, resort romance then definitely check this book out. This is the first book in a new novella series that is a spin-off of the Escape series. I haven’t read any of that series but didn’t have any trouble understanding this story so definitely can be read as standalones.
Hawk and Will really hit it off right away and I loved how their friendship developed into something more as they let each other in. It felt like it moved very fast because it was a novella but it still worked.
This book had some very memorable lines including the very first line which made me laugh out loud and a conversation about topping and bottoming that was very non-assuming and not stereotypical which is was really nice to see.
I’m looking forward to reading more in this series and it’s made me interested in the Escape series as well!
Hawk and Will really hit it off right away and I loved how their friendship developed into something more as they let each other in. It felt like it moved very fast because it was a novella but it still worked.
This book had some very memorable lines including the very first line which made me laugh out loud and a conversation about topping and bottoming that was very non-assuming and not stereotypical which is was really nice to see.
I’m looking forward to reading more in this series and it’s made me interested in the Escape series as well!
September 27, 2023
2 and 1/2 stars. I hadn’t read any of the other books so I just didn’t feel much of a connection with either Hawk or Will. Emory was a totally obnoxious. Novellas are tricky. There’s not much time to develop the relationship and I just didn’t care enough to feel invested.
July 18, 2023
I love everything that Casey writes and this novella is great, funny and romantic. I just so wish it was a proper book lenghwise!
This short story is super cute, I love how Hawk and Will meet, but mostly how they got to know each other over time. Those calls were so romantic and just stated that they were inevitable.
Another novel set at the Elysian with a beautiful love story, funny moments and heartwarming MCs that just want to be loved.
Now, onto the next novella in this series!!!
This short story is super cute, I love how Hawk and Will meet, but mostly how they got to know each other over time. Those calls were so romantic and just stated that they were inevitable.
Another novel set at the Elysian with a beautiful love story, funny moments and heartwarming MCs that just want to be loved.
Now, onto the next novella in this series!!!
April 27, 2025
This story follows Hawk, who accidentally stumbles into a whirlwind of emotional chaos. First, they mistakenly confess their love for their best friend, Emry. Then, in a twist they never saw coming, they hook up with Emry’s older brother, Will—without knowing they were related. When Emry catches them in the act, tensions explode, dragging Hawk into a family feud they never intended to start. As if things weren’t messy enough, Hawk begins developing genuine feelings for Will, despite knowing he’s off-limits. Now, they face an impossible choice: follow their heart and risk losing their best friend, or walk away from something that could be real.
This was a sweet novella which was a story packed with romantic turmoil, tough decisions, and the inevitable clash between love and loyalty. Emry was a bit silly with his sulking but I did like Will who was fairly well adjusted. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
This was a sweet novella which was a story packed with romantic turmoil, tough decisions, and the inevitable clash between love and loyalty. Emry was a bit silly with his sulking but I did like Will who was fairly well adjusted. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
June 26, 2023
This is the first in a novella series by Casey and it is sunshine filled goodness at Elysian, a gay resort on the Florida coast. Hawk and Will meet and it is instant chemistry until they realise Will is Hawks best friends brother. Awkwarddd. Especially when they’ve all been having some troubles on the friendship/sibling front. The boys put an end to their would be summer fling, but feelings aren’t always easy to deny. It’s a fun and light novella set in the sun and a classic case of choosing love or saving a friendship.
June 27, 2023
I loved the Escape series and I looked forward to this Novella dedicated to Hawk and Will, side characters of the books Faraway and Gataway. This is a quick hot read, but given its shorter length, it lacks of the depth of the other books of the series. Insta-attraction, first time with a man, brotherly quarrels, best friends arguments all contribute to this entertaining light read.
June 19, 2023
A really quick and easy going read. At first I struggled with feeling enough emotion between the two MC's but I think it was because they always felt they had to hold back and a lot of their getting to know each other was over video calls. When they finally got together and became intimate it was very emotional and you felt the meaning in every word they said to each other. Despite some angst between Will's brother, in general it was a low angst book. I'm looking forward to the next one in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 2, 2023
A nice but also rather angst filled story, I found myself loving the two main characters who were attracted to each other, but totally annoyed with the kid brother.
July 4, 2023
Hawk had only recently got his best friend back after mistakenly thinking he was in love with his best friend Emry but really, he was just a bit jealous of the relationship he had with his new boyfriend. They all go to Elysian, a gay resort where anything goes, and all Hawk can think about is finding a man to enjoy the evening with. While Hawk is looking around, he spies a pretty boy at the bar and makes his way over. Hawk isn’t one for talking, so it literally takes three words before they are walking back to his room together.
Will is a chef at Elysian Escapades. He needed to get away from his family. He needed to spread his wings. He’s never been with a man before, so when this handsome, tanned muscleman asked him to go to his room, Will jumped at the chance. But As they start to hook up, everything goes wrong.
Hawk couldn’t believe it when his best friend is banging on the door. He told him to go away. He was busy, but Emry was not having it, and it was at this time that he found out the guy on his knees was Emry’s older brother. And they didn’t talk. As Hawk opened the door, everything went wrong.
But months later, when Hawk couldn’t forget Will he returned to the resort to see if he could finally get him off his mind, but if he was honest, all he wanted was Will.
This was a really good story. It’s like a forbidden relationship but really what can you do when your heart is yearning for one man. Hawk needed to work out if spending time with Will is worth, maybe losing his friendship with his best friend. Will also hasn’t forgotten about Hawk. He hadn’t heard of his brother since that day but seeing hawk again, the attraction was still there and they spent time getting to know one another. These two have real chemistry, and for once Hawk talks to Will about everything. And Hawk learns more about Will and Emry’s past. This is the first book in the series which is a spinoff from escape series, and I’ve Gotta say I’m excited to see where this series goes.
I received an ARC and this is me leaving my honest review.
Will is a chef at Elysian Escapades. He needed to get away from his family. He needed to spread his wings. He’s never been with a man before, so when this handsome, tanned muscleman asked him to go to his room, Will jumped at the chance. But As they start to hook up, everything goes wrong.
Hawk couldn’t believe it when his best friend is banging on the door. He told him to go away. He was busy, but Emry was not having it, and it was at this time that he found out the guy on his knees was Emry’s older brother. And they didn’t talk. As Hawk opened the door, everything went wrong.
But months later, when Hawk couldn’t forget Will he returned to the resort to see if he could finally get him off his mind, but if he was honest, all he wanted was Will.
This was a really good story. It’s like a forbidden relationship but really what can you do when your heart is yearning for one man. Hawk needed to work out if spending time with Will is worth, maybe losing his friendship with his best friend. Will also hasn’t forgotten about Hawk. He hadn’t heard of his brother since that day but seeing hawk again, the attraction was still there and they spent time getting to know one another. These two have real chemistry, and for once Hawk talks to Will about everything. And Hawk learns more about Will and Emry’s past. This is the first book in the series which is a spinoff from escape series, and I’ve Gotta say I’m excited to see where this series goes.
I received an ARC and this is me leaving my honest review.
June 15, 2023
My Best Friend’s Brother by Casey Cox is the first book in his Elysian Escapades series. It is a novella where the question is: Who do you choose – your best friend or his brother? The story mostly takes place at the Elysian, a gay resort on the Florida coast where Hawk and his best friend Emry and his boyfriend have come to vacation and to recement their best friend relationship after a slip up on Hawk’s part. It’s there that he finds his Pretty Boy, Will, and they go his room for some fun. Unfortunately they find out that Will is Emry’s big brother and he throws a fit because he wasn’t treated well during his childhood, even though Will did the best he could. This could have ended Emry’s relationship with both of them but as long as Hawk had no contact with Will they could still be best friends. Hawk really wanted to stay away but something drew him to Will so he went back to the Elysian where he worked and continued where they left off. As they learned more about each other and then texted and talked after he left, they realized that they really wanted to be in a relationship, especially after the bad ones they had both had in the past. And then there was the problem of telling Emry. I really enjoyed this story. While it is short you still get all the “feels” and emotions of everyone involved. Hawk wasn’t a talker but he soon revealed everything to Will. Will felt like he was caught in the middle of Hawk and Emry but he couldn’t let Hawk go. I liked the ending when all was resolved and everyone could be with who they wanted. I always enjoy Mr. Cox’s books and it was refreshing to find one that was a novella that I could read in one sitting. At the end there was a tiny preview of what comes next in the series and I am looking forward to reading it, too. I highly recommend this book as it doesn’t disappoint, especially if you like men who have to overcome obstacles to find their happy ending.
June 26, 2023
4.25 stars. Well, Hawk, that was awkward!
Hawk can completely unwind at Elysian, a luxury, all-male LGBT resort.
He knows what he wants, or better not wants. A relationship. Nope, nada, not for him!
Finding an attractive guy and asking him up in his room should have been fun but gets awfully embarrassing when his best friend walks in.
Will works as a junior chef in the kitchen of Elysian, allowed to use the facilities. Invited by a hot stud to fuck, as in “hi, wanna fuck?” he’s gonna do it, losing his virginity.
Oh boy, Will, that was awkward!
It never got that far, losing his V-card, because when your younger brother enters the scene… yes, oh boy! Will already has feelings of shame towards his brother, It’s just short since they reconnected.
Said brother isn’t amused.
Hawk and Will have trouble staying away from each other.
Ahhh it’s getting sappy and I love it!
A great short read, fast-paced, with just enough depth, slightly developed, and sexy. Nothing more to ask, great read!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Hawk can completely unwind at Elysian, a luxury, all-male LGBT resort.
He knows what he wants, or better not wants. A relationship. Nope, nada, not for him!
Finding an attractive guy and asking him up in his room should have been fun but gets awfully embarrassing when his best friend walks in.
Will works as a junior chef in the kitchen of Elysian, allowed to use the facilities. Invited by a hot stud to fuck, as in “hi, wanna fuck?” he’s gonna do it, losing his virginity.
Oh boy, Will, that was awkward!
It never got that far, losing his V-card, because when your younger brother enters the scene… yes, oh boy! Will already has feelings of shame towards his brother, It’s just short since they reconnected.
Said brother isn’t amused.
Hawk and Will have trouble staying away from each other.
Ahhh it’s getting sappy and I love it!
A great short read, fast-paced, with just enough depth, slightly developed, and sexy. Nothing more to ask, great read!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
July 27, 2023
Summary: On a trip to a resort, Hawk gets caught hooking up with his BFF’s estranged older brother Will. After his BFF’s blowup, it seems all is at an end between Hawk and Will, but neither can quite forget the other.
‘"But now, I think I might be." Do not get your hopes up. Do not get your hopes up. "Oh." His eyes flash bright. "Now that I've met someone." Okay, he's hardcore eye fucking you. Get your hopes up a little. "Someone?" I play coy. "In a world full of someones, he's totally the worst, most complicated someone I could have chosen." I smirk. "He sounds like a handful." Hawk licks his lips. "So far, I've only experienced a mouthful.”'
Review: This is a good story for a novella. Usually I feel that novella stories don’t give the characters enough time to develop their relationship, but Cox does a good job of allowing for the passage of time in this story. Hawk and Will have a long distance relationship for a most of the book, which gives them time to really get to know each other and bond in a way that’s not just physical. That’s one of my favorite things that an author can do—in any length book—make it clear that the characters actually like each other and are compatible outside of the bedroom.
‘"But now, I think I might be." Do not get your hopes up. Do not get your hopes up. "Oh." His eyes flash bright. "Now that I've met someone." Okay, he's hardcore eye fucking you. Get your hopes up a little. "Someone?" I play coy. "In a world full of someones, he's totally the worst, most complicated someone I could have chosen." I smirk. "He sounds like a handful." Hawk licks his lips. "So far, I've only experienced a mouthful.”'
Review: This is a good story for a novella. Usually I feel that novella stories don’t give the characters enough time to develop their relationship, but Cox does a good job of allowing for the passage of time in this story. Hawk and Will have a long distance relationship for a most of the book, which gives them time to really get to know each other and bond in a way that’s not just physical. That’s one of my favorite things that an author can do—in any length book—make it clear that the characters actually like each other and are compatible outside of the bedroom.
June 3, 2025
A great spin-off series of novellas
This trio of novellas (Elysian Escapades) follow on from the Elysian three-book series, adding in new characters to the established group, making sure that the HEAs keep coming.
I received the introductory novella (#0.5) through an older Bookfunnel giveaway, and a few days ago, I came across Heart Unbroken, the standalone novel that I really should have waited to read after the two above-mentioned trilogies.
That said (as I put in my review for Heart Unbroken), I found that I had discovered a new written voice that affected me deeply. So, I bought the Elysian trilogy (read in just over two days), followed by the Escapades trio, and I have already finished #1, My Best Friend's Brother, and I am about to start #2.
Unsure as to how good the Elysian trilogies would be, I was a little nervous, but that thought was quickly quashed by the deftly light tone of these books, some of which cover a number of tough topics that so many LGBTQIA+ persons so unfairly have to work through.
Casey Cox handles these topics with a sure but relatable touch and a positive and assured manner, without any descent into condescending territory.
I don't believe that it will be long before I have devoured all of the series/standalones available.
This trio of novellas (Elysian Escapades) follow on from the Elysian three-book series, adding in new characters to the established group, making sure that the HEAs keep coming.
I received the introductory novella (#0.5) through an older Bookfunnel giveaway, and a few days ago, I came across Heart Unbroken, the standalone novel that I really should have waited to read after the two above-mentioned trilogies.
That said (as I put in my review for Heart Unbroken), I found that I had discovered a new written voice that affected me deeply. So, I bought the Elysian trilogy (read in just over two days), followed by the Escapades trio, and I have already finished #1, My Best Friend's Brother, and I am about to start #2.
Unsure as to how good the Elysian trilogies would be, I was a little nervous, but that thought was quickly quashed by the deftly light tone of these books, some of which cover a number of tough topics that so many LGBTQIA+ persons so unfairly have to work through.
Casey Cox handles these topics with a sure but relatable touch and a positive and assured manner, without any descent into condescending territory.
I don't believe that it will be long before I have devoured all of the series/standalones available.
June 26, 2023
🩶💛 My Best Friend’s Brother ARC Review 💛🩶
Thank you so much to Casey Cox for the opportunity to read and review this book!!
My Best Friend’s Brother is an MM contemporary romance novella and book one in the Elysian Escapades series. Hawk is enjoying a relaxing vacation at Elysian, a luxury LGBTQIA resort with his best friend Emry. When Hawk finds the perfect man for a quick vacation hookup, he never expects to find Will. Little does he know, Will is Emry’s older brother
This was such a fun novella to read! I really loved Will and Hawk’s relationship together! Even though this is a quick read, this relationship evolves slowly over time. I did find myself wishing this story was longer, just because I loved the characters and wanted more of them. Each of the characters had their own hesitations and vulnerabilities and I loved their journey together
Overall this is was a solid 4 star read for me! This was about a 70 page read and there were a few spicy scenes in throughout the story, so three flames for spice
If you’re a fan of quick reads with lovable characters and spice, then absolutely pick this one up!
Thank you so much to Casey Cox for the opportunity to read and review this book!!
My Best Friend’s Brother is an MM contemporary romance novella and book one in the Elysian Escapades series. Hawk is enjoying a relaxing vacation at Elysian, a luxury LGBTQIA resort with his best friend Emry. When Hawk finds the perfect man for a quick vacation hookup, he never expects to find Will. Little does he know, Will is Emry’s older brother
This was such a fun novella to read! I really loved Will and Hawk’s relationship together! Even though this is a quick read, this relationship evolves slowly over time. I did find myself wishing this story was longer, just because I loved the characters and wanted more of them. Each of the characters had their own hesitations and vulnerabilities and I loved their journey together
Overall this is was a solid 4 star read for me! This was about a 70 page read and there were a few spicy scenes in throughout the story, so three flames for spice
If you’re a fan of quick reads with lovable characters and spice, then absolutely pick this one up!
July 1, 2023
My Best Friend’s Brother by Casey Cox is the first book in his new Elysian Escapades series. This novella is sweet, steamy, and packs an emotional punch.
The title says it all. Hawk is on vacation with his best friend Emry and his boyfriend. Emry is not happy when he finds Hawk mid hookup with the estranged brother he recently reconnected with. Will is trying to atone for his mistakes, but Emry cuts him off again. And, pushing the bounds of friendship, Emry forbids Hawk from seeing his big brother.
But Hawk and Will are drawn together. When Hawk heads home to Philly and Will stays on as junior chef, they get to know each other through phone conversations. Will is exploring his bisexuality, and he wants Hawk to be his first. Love ‘em and leave ‘em Hawk wants Will’s first time to matter, and is developing feelings…
Their night together is romantic, tender, and very hot. I loved how stoic Hawk was the first to confess his love.
For a short novella, this one hit all the right notes. Both men were so likable you’re rooting for their HEA. Hawk and Will’s story is the perfect beach read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
The title says it all. Hawk is on vacation with his best friend Emry and his boyfriend. Emry is not happy when he finds Hawk mid hookup with the estranged brother he recently reconnected with. Will is trying to atone for his mistakes, but Emry cuts him off again. And, pushing the bounds of friendship, Emry forbids Hawk from seeing his big brother.
But Hawk and Will are drawn together. When Hawk heads home to Philly and Will stays on as junior chef, they get to know each other through phone conversations. Will is exploring his bisexuality, and he wants Hawk to be his first. Love ‘em and leave ‘em Hawk wants Will’s first time to matter, and is developing feelings…
Their night together is romantic, tender, and very hot. I loved how stoic Hawk was the first to confess his love.
For a short novella, this one hit all the right notes. Both men were so likable you’re rooting for their HEA. Hawk and Will’s story is the perfect beach read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
July 11, 2023
I feel like I have been waiting forever for Hawk's story and it did not disappoint!!!!! I was so intrigued by how things were going to play out when we got a glimpse of just who Hawk was spending time with.😉 Will was an amazingly beautiful character who had not always been a great person but had figured out who he was and was trying to make things right with his brother Emry, who also happens to be Hawk's best friend. Hawk is still trying to figure out his relationship with Emry when he meets Will but doesn't realize he is taking his best friend's brother to bed at first. The confrontation that continues is hilarious and heartbreaking. I loved seeing Will and Hawk's relationship develop over the phone and through text instead of them just falling right into bed together. I was a little afraid Emry was never going to forgive Will for their past but it was so sweet to see the brothers finally patch things up in the end. I loved how this story ended and hope we will see more from Hawk, Will, Emry and the entire Escape crew!
July 11, 2023
Elysian is a gay resort in Florida. This novella features Will, a chef at the resort, who has begun to work there recently to explore more about his own identity as a recently realized gay man. His family in Texas was always very conservative and one of his biggest regrets was not supporting his femme brother, Emry, when they were teens living at home together. He and Emry have been estranged, but are now tentatively rebuilding their relationship, although Emry has no idea that Will is gay or even working at the resort.
Hawk is vacationing with his best friend Emry and Emry's husband. Hawk is not looking for anything special, but he is up for a one-night stand. He spots Will at the bar area and, since Will is off work, they go together to Hawk's room. Little does Hawk know that Will has not been with a man before or that Will is Emry's brother. This book is fun, passionate, and it feels like a mini-vacation with a great HEA. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Hawk is vacationing with his best friend Emry and Emry's husband. Hawk is not looking for anything special, but he is up for a one-night stand. He spots Will at the bar area and, since Will is off work, they go together to Hawk's room. Little does Hawk know that Will has not been with a man before or that Will is Emry's brother. This book is fun, passionate, and it feels like a mini-vacation with a great HEA. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
September 20, 2025
This was so much fun!
For a moment I was concerned about how the bestie’s response would be handled once Will & Hawk decided to get to know each other better but I really had no reason because Casey handles sticky situations like that so very well. I initially chose to read this trilogy because of the Vet Shop Boys connection & fell in love with Leo & am pretty sure his story is book 3. Hawk & Will were very enjoyable characters & I fell in love with them both early on. I really enjoyed Emry’s acknowledgement of his ridiculousness in outburst & requiring Hawk to never seek out or speak to Will because the older I get the more I expect characters who consider themselves adults to actually own up to whatever they may have done. Anyway, this was just what I needed for a break in between the final book in a series that I really don’t want to end yet & quick, low key was definitely what I needed & now onto book 2!!
For a moment I was concerned about how the bestie’s response would be handled once Will & Hawk decided to get to know each other better but I really had no reason because Casey handles sticky situations like that so very well. I initially chose to read this trilogy because of the Vet Shop Boys connection & fell in love with Leo & am pretty sure his story is book 3. Hawk & Will were very enjoyable characters & I fell in love with them both early on. I really enjoyed Emry’s acknowledgement of his ridiculousness in outburst & requiring Hawk to never seek out or speak to Will because the older I get the more I expect characters who consider themselves adults to actually own up to whatever they may have done. Anyway, this was just what I needed for a break in between the final book in a series that I really don’t want to end yet & quick, low key was definitely what I needed & now onto book 2!!
June 17, 2023
This novella is set in the Elysian resort pre Heart Unbroken novel. Hawk and his best friend Emry and Emery's boyfriend live in Philadelphia but are in Florida vacationing at the Elysian Resort. Hawk is looking for a hookup and he meets Will who he thinks the perfect guy for that. They are getting hot and heavy in Hawk's room when they are interrupted by Emry and Hawk finds out this his hookup is Emery's estranged older brother. This complicates things and Hawk goes back to Philadelphia but returns again in 3-4 months and meets up with Will again.who is a chef at Elysian They begin a relationship where they talk via Zoom with meeting up every 3 months or so. How are they going to tell Emry about their relationship and What will be the fallout. This was a fun read and pretty low angst story. The ending introduces the reader to the MC's in the next book.
June 15, 2023
I loved going back to the Elysian! Since Emry has found his HEA, Hawk is on the prowl to try and get over his misinterpreted "feelings" for his best friend and put things back to how they should be. When he sees Will, he's locked in and ready for action. Hawk is definitely a man of few words and when he propositions Will with a mere three words, and he accepts, it's game on! These two had instant chemistry and I loved the heat they put off. When an unexpected visitor shows up at a very inopportune time, things get interesting. I love that we get to learn more about Hawk this time around. He and Emry have been favorite characters of mine from the Elysian series. This was a sweet and sexy quick read with just a touch of family angst. A great start to a new series!
June 28, 2023
Hawk and Will have a random meet up at Elysian, but it backfires when it's discovered that Will is the brother of Hawk's best friend, Emry. Fans of Casey's will remember him from the book, Faraway.
There's bad history between the brothers which leads to things being tense between everyone.
I love that the connection the two made stays with them across several months and distance and when they reconnect, it has strong emotion and heat. There's an element of hurt/comfort amongst the different characters involved but it all comes to a very happy ending.
It's another story that brings the joys that Elysian is known for, freedom to be open and yourself. A fast paced, short story that's entertaining from start to finish.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
There's bad history between the brothers which leads to things being tense between everyone.
I love that the connection the two made stays with them across several months and distance and when they reconnect, it has strong emotion and heat. There's an element of hurt/comfort amongst the different characters involved but it all comes to a very happy ending.
It's another story that brings the joys that Elysian is known for, freedom to be open and yourself. A fast paced, short story that's entertaining from start to finish.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 13, 2023
Off the Charts
Hawk has insecurities with relationships, but can he have a friendship with his best friend and love the man who makes him want to open up to and love.
Will and Hawk both have problems with finding the one. But Hawk goes against his best friends wishes he continues to talk and open up to his friends big brother.
Will never have been with a man before but discovered that he wants to be with his brothers best friend, making it difficult to repair this relationship with his brother and be with the man he's fallen for.
Love takes work, and between all of them, it works out with communication and time.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hawk has insecurities with relationships, but can he have a friendship with his best friend and love the man who makes him want to open up to and love.
Will and Hawk both have problems with finding the one. But Hawk goes against his best friends wishes he continues to talk and open up to his friends big brother.
Will never have been with a man before but discovered that he wants to be with his brothers best friend, making it difficult to repair this relationship with his brother and be with the man he's fallen for.
Love takes work, and between all of them, it works out with communication and time.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2023
This is such a cute novella! I am so glad that we get Hawk's story. You have to read Emery's story first which is Faraway first as his story is pretty important to Hawk's seeing as their best friends and that where we get introduced to Hawk. Even though this is on the smaller side, it's still packed with a lot of feels and some delicious heat. Casey expertly builds a solid relationship between Hawk and Will. Lots of great communication and trust between these two. It was sweet watching Hawk open up to someone. This is a great addition to the Elysian universe and I can't wait to see what else will happen at this amazing resort!
June 26, 2023
Good plot: getting to know you was key😉
4-4.5🌟 stars
No negatives to say about this MM romance; I enjoyed it start to finish. It's short but brings emotion, some conflict (not really of Will and Hawk's making) and a chance encounter at a Florida resort that starts the plot rolling.
I liked that the steamy stuff is present but does not dominate the story. Cox really gets these guys communicating; I actually prefer that to a romance where the main conflict involves NOT talking over their issues.
I've become a solid fan of the author's work and this is definitely a series I will be following.
4-4.5🌟 stars
No negatives to say about this MM romance; I enjoyed it start to finish. It's short but brings emotion, some conflict (not really of Will and Hawk's making) and a chance encounter at a Florida resort that starts the plot rolling.
I liked that the steamy stuff is present but does not dominate the story. Cox really gets these guys communicating; I actually prefer that to a romance where the main conflict involves NOT talking over their issues.
I've become a solid fan of the author's work and this is definitely a series I will be following.
June 27, 2023
Novellas are tough - sometimes we get this wonderful story with an abrupt ending, and other times we don’t get enough relationship building. This one definitely falls in the latter category.
We get a bit too much set up for the length of this and way too much about Emry. I would’ve liked more about Hawk and Will as individuals. More about their sexual awakenings. I would’ve liked more about why Emry was hellbent on acting like a total asshole towards Will (and I know Emry has a book, which I think needs to be read to actually understand this novella - but this wasn’t mentioned anywhere.)
I just didn’t have enough to get invested in this relationship.
We get a bit too much set up for the length of this and way too much about Emry. I would’ve liked more about Hawk and Will as individuals. More about their sexual awakenings. I would’ve liked more about why Emry was hellbent on acting like a total asshole towards Will (and I know Emry has a book, which I think needs to be read to actually understand this novella - but this wasn’t mentioned anywhere.)
I just didn’t have enough to get invested in this relationship.
July 7, 2023
I love having this little novella set at the Elysian. It was nice to see the resort still in major swing with the awesome Leo at the helm (even though he is just in the background and isn't a major character). In this one, we meet Emry's older brother. We've seen Emry and his best friend Hawk in Faraway, so it was cool to see Hawk get his own story.
This is short, but it was just enough for me to enjoy the characters and the story. I liked seeing Emry and Will figure out their relationship, and for Will and Hawk to find happiness.
This is short, but it was just enough for me to enjoy the characters and the story. I liked seeing Emry and Will figure out their relationship, and for Will and Hawk to find happiness.
June 24, 2023
It’s great being back at Elysian. Hawk, Emry and Miguel are there vacationing when Hawk spots someone and goes to meet him. He takes Will back to his room for a bit of fun but Emry interrupts, telling Hawk that this is his older brother. Fast forward three months, and Will is now the chef at Elysian, when he spots Hawk again. They start talking and slowly start their relationship. Love how Emry was finally able to forgive his brother and were working on mending their relationship. Love this world and cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
June 30, 2023
Fun quick read
Aww, it was great being back at Elysian again. I liked Hawk from Faraway so it was nice to see him get his own story. He meets Will at the resort not knowing he is his best friend's brother. Will wasn't the older brother that Emry deserved and has carried that guilt for many years. But hooking up with his brothers best friend throws a wrench in any plans of reconciliation. I liked how Hawk and Will connected over phone and video calls. They were sweet and spicy. A fun quick read.
Aww, it was great being back at Elysian again. I liked Hawk from Faraway so it was nice to see him get his own story. He meets Will at the resort not knowing he is his best friend's brother. Will wasn't the older brother that Emry deserved and has carried that guilt for many years. But hooking up with his brothers best friend throws a wrench in any plans of reconciliation. I liked how Hawk and Will connected over phone and video calls. They were sweet and spicy. A fun quick read.
July 20, 2023
This was a very low angst, high steam romance and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The MC’s had an instant connection and their chemistry was amazing. This was a quick romp with a very upset brother and two very attracted men who went after each other anyway. I love this author’s writing style, and this was another book that was well worth the read. This is the first book in the Elysian Escapades series and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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