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Boyfriend Café #1
A Matcha Made in Hell
Who would have guessed my high school bully could be such a good boy?
Rhett
The worst day of my life was my first day of high school – the day I met him. Spencer Marsh. The guy who would shove me into lockers for the next four years.
I never expected to reunite with him in college. I definitely didn’t predict that sparks would fly. This new and improved Spencer is subverting all my expectations, but I’m not sure if that’s a good thing.
Hooking up with a guy I used to hate is turning into more than just a shameful secret. I should put a stop to it. I should want to put a stop to it. So why don’t I?
Spencer
I’ve been trying since graduation to be different from the guy I was in high school, but seeing Rhett again stirs up old emotions – and an overwhelming desire to atone.
Nevermind that that atonement seems to be happening in some … compromising positions.
My frat brothers and father would never accept what I’m doing, but that doesn’t seem to be enough to stop me. I’m finally the man I want to be, the person I’ve been repressing for most of my life. And it’s all thanks to the guy who used to be the target of my worst impulses.
I only hope Rhett will give me a chance to prove I’m not who I used to be.
A Matcha Made in Hell is an MM enemies-to-lovers romance with first time gay experiences, found family, a bully who just wants to show he's changed his ways, and spicy open door scenes. Readers should note that some scenes include *spicier* spice. Please see the listing on Amazon for more details.
Rhett
The worst day of my life was my first day of high school – the day I met him. Spencer Marsh. The guy who would shove me into lockers for the next four years.
I never expected to reunite with him in college. I definitely didn’t predict that sparks would fly. This new and improved Spencer is subverting all my expectations, but I’m not sure if that’s a good thing.
Hooking up with a guy I used to hate is turning into more than just a shameful secret. I should put a stop to it. I should want to put a stop to it. So why don’t I?
Spencer
I’ve been trying since graduation to be different from the guy I was in high school, but seeing Rhett again stirs up old emotions – and an overwhelming desire to atone.
Nevermind that that atonement seems to be happening in some … compromising positions.
My frat brothers and father would never accept what I’m doing, but that doesn’t seem to be enough to stop me. I’m finally the man I want to be, the person I’ve been repressing for most of my life. And it’s all thanks to the guy who used to be the target of my worst impulses.
I only hope Rhett will give me a chance to prove I’m not who I used to be.
A Matcha Made in Hell is an MM enemies-to-lovers romance with first time gay experiences, found family, a bully who just wants to show he's changed his ways, and spicy open door scenes. Readers should note that some scenes include *spicier* spice. Please see the listing on Amazon for more details.
336 pages, Paperback
Published September 5, 2023
129 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
F.A. Ray
29 books68 followersF.A. Ray writes contemporary queer romance fiction, including gay romance and lesbian romance (writing as Lainee Ash). They especially enjoy sports romance with rivals who become lovers, second chances, unusual sports and grumpy sunshine opposites attracting.
You can connect with them at linktr.ee/faraywrites to keep up to date on new releases, social media and more.
You can connect with them at linktr.ee/faraywrites to keep up to date on new releases, social media and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 12, 2024
"Nothing feels as good as this. Nothing has ever felt as good as this. It doesn’t matter what he does to me. All of it is heaven, and I’ll do anything to come back here. Anything at all. Anything but come out."
I'm a fan of the bully trope. A tremendous fan. And this one really did deliver a lot of what I'm always hoping to get in bully books. The bullied guy was a strong character and didn't let up, he really gave it back to the bully when they met, years after the bullying took place.
But - and I'm sorry to say this, because I honestly thought this was going to be one of the best bully books I've read so far - the author makes a grave mistake of quickly getting the MMCs into a serious relationship - and it wasn't their time yet, at least in my opinion.
Even so, I did like this story, but I'm giving it 3.75 - 4⭐, because the last few chapters with the ending and the epilogue didn't quite live up to the really good development of the story in the first 80% of the book.
🟢 Bully - redeemed
🟣 Bully is deeply closeted since 13 years old
🔵 The bullied guy goes through complete hell, but he's out in middle and elementary school
🟡 Rich/poor, but not that important in the book
🟠 Bully is (quite) submissive, has a degradation/praise kink (lighter, really good)
🔵 Express boyfriends and meeting family (not enough build-up)
🟢 A positive college environment
🟣 Potentially good side characters for future books
🟡 Idea of the Boyfriend café good, but isn't fully developed
🟠 Good dialogues
🌶️ Really good smut, we needed more, half of it was off-page; both vers
Two really endearing characters make up this bully story with a bit of a twist. The twist being probably that Rhett, the bullied guy, really wants to have some kind of payback when he finds out that Spencer, the bully, is actually closeted.
I'm sure you know where this is going.
Spencer actually has a very sad life story of him realising his sexuality at 13 years old and having to forcefully suppress everything about it. He has a bully dad and the dad makes sure Spencer becomes a complete asshole. The author has a very good description of Spencer having to deny and suppress his true self, I really liked it. I'm just going to put everything in here, because it's worth posting.
"Then he was my dad, the freaking Roundup of budding homosexuality. He killed that shit at the root and left nothing but scorched earth in his wake."
"The problem with weed killer is that it doesn’t just kill the weeds; it kills the ground itself. The soil dies. Nothing can grow, not even the good stuff. Sure, you destroy the weeds, but at the cost of anything else that might have grown there."
"I grew up without language for what I wanted, with that brick wall cemented around my heart. And the moment I got a glimpse of what lay on the other side, my father reinforced the barrier brick by painful brick. He scorched that thing budding gingerly inside me, razed it until I was so barren and burned nothing could grow at all."
I've never read such a great description of being in the closet - because there's hell to pay at home if you show just an ounce of who you really are.
Spencer's great in school, he's a jock, a dark, tall and handsome muscular jock, but a complete jerk. He's living up to that idea of a perfect son, but his family always ends up taking a step back from him, he's never going to be accepted.
"That dark stubble and those devastating eyes would be so much more useful if they belonged to someone who wasn’t a total prick. Spencer oozes the kind of male energy that makes me want to get thrown roughly onto the nearest bed, but with a stink of jerk spoiling it all."
Haha 😄, so after high school Spencer wants to put all his bad past behind him and he transfers to Rhett's college without knowing Rhett's there. Rhett and Spencer meet again and begin a sexy push/pull that eventually lands them in bed. Or, at the back of Rhett's car.
Spencer gets to be with a guy for the first time and he's so hungry for it, he's gulping down Rhett's dick and wants to do everything Rhett tells him to do. There isn't a thing he won't do. He lets himself get tied up, used, called all sorts of names and is loving it.
"I, Spencer Marsh, have never been touched like this. I never even thought I wanted to be touched and used and fucked like this, and suddenly I want this and more, so much more. I want him so deep inside me I can’t figure out where my body ends and his begins."
Spencer and Rhett start hooking up and when it gets to be too close and intimate, Rhett puts a stop to it, explaining he'll never go back in the closet for someone, he's had too much to suffer for being who he is, expressing his sexuality and most of it by the hands of Spencer, so yeah, definitely not going back to the closet for that guy, even though he likes the sex, likes Spencer, feels great with him, actually, but he's still carefully holding back, guarding his heart.
"How dare he? How dare he use me as a punching bag for four years, then show back up in my life and try to do something as ridiculous as hold me?"
Yeah, how dare he, that hot, handsome, sexy, stupid asshole.
Spencer is thinking that maybe it's time to do what he wants. Maybe it's time to come out. He really wants Rhett and there's no thinking about it, even though he's going through complete turmoil inside, mostly because of the fear he's had instilled in him at home. But the environment he's in now seems to be very accepting, so when Spencer dares to go out holding Rhett's hand, all the pieces fall into place. He feels like himself - finally right, satisfied and alive.
Both Rhett and Spencer are amazing characters and they had a really good chemistry between them - one that I think could offer much more. More sex should be on-page and when they started hooking up, going from surface hot sex to something more, the story needed more depth. More of Spencer and Rhett going deeper, really hashing things out, talking about everything and building the closeness and emotional intimacy.
They went to a potential couple too soon. Nothing was said about them being serious and then all of a sudden they're going to Spencer's home for lunch and introductions? That was weird. It was very insta, the coming out and the potential relationship - and the first 80% of the story wasn't insta at all! The book definitely needed more chapters to really develop that path to them being serious about each other. That was profoundly missing.
So when they came out as possible boyfriends to their families and their friends, everything had a bit of an abrupt ending. The epilogue wasn't satisfying at all. It basically told us nothing of their journey together past college. So that was a disappointment.
Overall I'd say really good main characters, the setting satisfying, the writing I liked and the dialogues were good, but definitely needed more smut on-page and more of that relationship development. I didn't finish the book satisfied, even though I really liked more than half of it.
I'm a fan of the bully trope. A tremendous fan. And this one really did deliver a lot of what I'm always hoping to get in bully books. The bullied guy was a strong character and didn't let up, he really gave it back to the bully when they met, years after the bullying took place.
But - and I'm sorry to say this, because I honestly thought this was going to be one of the best bully books I've read so far - the author makes a grave mistake of quickly getting the MMCs into a serious relationship - and it wasn't their time yet, at least in my opinion.
Even so, I did like this story, but I'm giving it 3.75 - 4⭐, because the last few chapters with the ending and the epilogue didn't quite live up to the really good development of the story in the first 80% of the book.
🟢 Bully - redeemed
🟣 Bully is deeply closeted since 13 years old
🔵 The bullied guy goes through complete hell, but he's out in middle and elementary school
🟡 Rich/poor, but not that important in the book
🟠 Bully is (quite) submissive, has a degradation/praise kink (lighter, really good)
🔵 Express boyfriends and meeting family (not enough build-up)
🟢 A positive college environment
🟣 Potentially good side characters for future books
🟡 Idea of the Boyfriend café good, but isn't fully developed
🟠 Good dialogues
🌶️ Really good smut, we needed more, half of it was off-page; both vers
Two really endearing characters make up this bully story with a bit of a twist. The twist being probably that Rhett, the bullied guy, really wants to have some kind of payback when he finds out that Spencer, the bully, is actually closeted.
I'm sure you know where this is going.
Spencer actually has a very sad life story of him realising his sexuality at 13 years old and having to forcefully suppress everything about it. He has a bully dad and the dad makes sure Spencer becomes a complete asshole. The author has a very good description of Spencer having to deny and suppress his true self, I really liked it. I'm just going to put everything in here, because it's worth posting.
"Then he was my dad, the freaking Roundup of budding homosexuality. He killed that shit at the root and left nothing but scorched earth in his wake."
"The problem with weed killer is that it doesn’t just kill the weeds; it kills the ground itself. The soil dies. Nothing can grow, not even the good stuff. Sure, you destroy the weeds, but at the cost of anything else that might have grown there."
"I grew up without language for what I wanted, with that brick wall cemented around my heart. And the moment I got a glimpse of what lay on the other side, my father reinforced the barrier brick by painful brick. He scorched that thing budding gingerly inside me, razed it until I was so barren and burned nothing could grow at all."
I've never read such a great description of being in the closet - because there's hell to pay at home if you show just an ounce of who you really are.
Spencer's great in school, he's a jock, a dark, tall and handsome muscular jock, but a complete jerk. He's living up to that idea of a perfect son, but his family always ends up taking a step back from him, he's never going to be accepted.
"That dark stubble and those devastating eyes would be so much more useful if they belonged to someone who wasn’t a total prick. Spencer oozes the kind of male energy that makes me want to get thrown roughly onto the nearest bed, but with a stink of jerk spoiling it all."
Haha 😄, so after high school Spencer wants to put all his bad past behind him and he transfers to Rhett's college without knowing Rhett's there. Rhett and Spencer meet again and begin a sexy push/pull that eventually lands them in bed. Or, at the back of Rhett's car.
Spencer gets to be with a guy for the first time and he's so hungry for it, he's gulping down Rhett's dick and wants to do everything Rhett tells him to do. There isn't a thing he won't do. He lets himself get tied up, used, called all sorts of names and is loving it.
"I, Spencer Marsh, have never been touched like this. I never even thought I wanted to be touched and used and fucked like this, and suddenly I want this and more, so much more. I want him so deep inside me I can’t figure out where my body ends and his begins."
Spencer and Rhett start hooking up and when it gets to be too close and intimate, Rhett puts a stop to it, explaining he'll never go back in the closet for someone, he's had too much to suffer for being who he is, expressing his sexuality and most of it by the hands of Spencer, so yeah, definitely not going back to the closet for that guy, even though he likes the sex, likes Spencer, feels great with him, actually, but he's still carefully holding back, guarding his heart.
"How dare he? How dare he use me as a punching bag for four years, then show back up in my life and try to do something as ridiculous as hold me?"
Yeah, how dare he, that hot, handsome, sexy, stupid asshole.
Spencer is thinking that maybe it's time to do what he wants. Maybe it's time to come out. He really wants Rhett and there's no thinking about it, even though he's going through complete turmoil inside, mostly because of the fear he's had instilled in him at home. But the environment he's in now seems to be very accepting, so when Spencer dares to go out holding Rhett's hand, all the pieces fall into place. He feels like himself - finally right, satisfied and alive.
Both Rhett and Spencer are amazing characters and they had a really good chemistry between them - one that I think could offer much more. More sex should be on-page and when they started hooking up, going from surface hot sex to something more, the story needed more depth. More of Spencer and Rhett going deeper, really hashing things out, talking about everything and building the closeness and emotional intimacy.
They went to a potential couple too soon. Nothing was said about them being serious and then all of a sudden they're going to Spencer's home for lunch and introductions? That was weird. It was very insta, the coming out and the potential relationship - and the first 80% of the story wasn't insta at all! The book definitely needed more chapters to really develop that path to them being serious about each other. That was profoundly missing.
So when they came out as possible boyfriends to their families and their friends, everything had a bit of an abrupt ending. The epilogue wasn't satisfying at all. It basically told us nothing of their journey together past college. So that was a disappointment.
Overall I'd say really good main characters, the setting satisfying, the writing I liked and the dialogues were good, but definitely needed more smut on-page and more of that relationship development. I didn't finish the book satisfied, even though I really liked more than half of it.
January 6, 2024
Tropes: bully romance, college romance
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: not really kinky
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: internalized homophobia, reformed bully, past extremely abusive bullying, homophobic dad
3.5 stars
This book follows Rhett and Spencer. They are college students. Rhett is from a single parent home and has always struggled for money. He's trying to pay for college on his own. He was bullied in high school for being gay, and his main bully was Spencer. He's coming to his own a bit in college and has more of a friend group now. He is consoling a friend about a guy who was trashy to her and he gets the idea of offering as a service being a hot gay BFF who will listen to people vent about their boyfriends. He creates a business that operates in the sly in a friend's house as a boyfriend venting cafe.
Spencer was a bully in high school but he's trying to be a better person now. He's switched colleges this year and coincidentally ended up at the same college as Rhett. He's trying to be a different person away from his homophobic dad. Spencer was actually a bully because he was dealing with internalized homophobia. He realized really young that he was gay and his dad found out at the same time and has been a prick to him his whole life trying to force him to be something he's not. Spencer has only ever been with girls as a result.
When Spencer and Rhett meet again at college they clash because Rhett rightly so has a lot of feelings of anger towards Spencer. Rhett picks up on the fact that Spencer is attracted to him and he's attracted to Spencer to reluctantly. He decides to use Spencer as a hookup. They have a bunch of angry sex on Rhett's side, but there is no anger or ill well on Spencer's side, he's actually very apologetic and interested in Rhett. It's kind of funny how you feel a bit bad for the bully now. But neither of these guys were innocent.
This was an okay book. It wasn't terribly realistic, you have to suspend disbelief over the college business that blooms out of their basement into such a success. Rhett didn't really treat Spencer well for a good hunk of the book and that was a bit uncomfortable to watch, but I'm conflicted because Spencer totally deserved it given how horrible he was to Rhett in high school. There was decent steam. Towards the end there were decent feelings developing to.
I'd quote my favorite moments but I think I somehow deleted my annotations in my Kindle app for this book.
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: not really kinky
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: internalized homophobia, reformed bully, past extremely abusive bullying, homophobic dad
3.5 stars
This book follows Rhett and Spencer. They are college students. Rhett is from a single parent home and has always struggled for money. He's trying to pay for college on his own. He was bullied in high school for being gay, and his main bully was Spencer. He's coming to his own a bit in college and has more of a friend group now. He is consoling a friend about a guy who was trashy to her and he gets the idea of offering as a service being a hot gay BFF who will listen to people vent about their boyfriends. He creates a business that operates in the sly in a friend's house as a boyfriend venting cafe.
Spencer was a bully in high school but he's trying to be a better person now. He's switched colleges this year and coincidentally ended up at the same college as Rhett. He's trying to be a different person away from his homophobic dad. Spencer was actually a bully because he was dealing with internalized homophobia. He realized really young that he was gay and his dad found out at the same time and has been a prick to him his whole life trying to force him to be something he's not. Spencer has only ever been with girls as a result.
When Spencer and Rhett meet again at college they clash because Rhett rightly so has a lot of feelings of anger towards Spencer. Rhett picks up on the fact that Spencer is attracted to him and he's attracted to Spencer to reluctantly. He decides to use Spencer as a hookup. They have a bunch of angry sex on Rhett's side, but there is no anger or ill well on Spencer's side, he's actually very apologetic and interested in Rhett. It's kind of funny how you feel a bit bad for the bully now. But neither of these guys were innocent.
This was an okay book. It wasn't terribly realistic, you have to suspend disbelief over the college business that blooms out of their basement into such a success. Rhett didn't really treat Spencer well for a good hunk of the book and that was a bit uncomfortable to watch, but I'm conflicted because Spencer totally deserved it given how horrible he was to Rhett in high school. There was decent steam. Towards the end there were decent feelings developing to.
I'd quote my favorite moments but I think I somehow deleted my annotations in my Kindle app for this book.
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2023
I’ve not read many bully romances, in this case a former bully and the guy he made miserable in high school. This trope is not usually one I enjoy, but the concept of The Boyfriend Café caught my eye so I gave this one a chance.
Rhett has found himself now after high school, and has built a solid life for himself away from the bullying he experienced before heading off to college. He’s stronger and more sure of himself and his own worth. This is put on full display when he first encounters Spencer again at his successful Boyfriend Café. When Spencer comes back afterward, Rhett truly takes charge of the situation—in more ways than one.
Spencer wants to leave his former self behind and truly wants to become a better person (cue redemption arc), but seeing Rhett makes all those feelings from high school come rushing back in. The thing is, once we get to find out why he acted like he did towards Rhett back then, his motivations become clearer, though are still inexcusable. Spencer knows now though that he was fully in the wrong, and after their first clandestine encounter, he continues to come back for more.
This is not simply a situation of “I was horrible and now I want to make it up to you”. Rhett and Spencer’s contentious meetings involve plenty of hate sex, with Spencer lapping up the verbal humiliation and degradation that Rhett dishes out. Over time, things do begin to change. There is a major turning point when the two travel back home together, and I will say that the range of emotions experienced by them both—but particularly by Spencer—are very well written.
I enjoyed this story even with it being a trope that is normally not my cuppa, and overall it was a 4.5-star read for me. Even if you’re a fan of bully romance, I would recommend checking out the content warnings on the author’s website (the link “Boyfriend café Series CWs”) in case the activities during their naughty times are not quite your thing. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Rhett has found himself now after high school, and has built a solid life for himself away from the bullying he experienced before heading off to college. He’s stronger and more sure of himself and his own worth. This is put on full display when he first encounters Spencer again at his successful Boyfriend Café. When Spencer comes back afterward, Rhett truly takes charge of the situation—in more ways than one.
Spencer wants to leave his former self behind and truly wants to become a better person (cue redemption arc), but seeing Rhett makes all those feelings from high school come rushing back in. The thing is, once we get to find out why he acted like he did towards Rhett back then, his motivations become clearer, though are still inexcusable. Spencer knows now though that he was fully in the wrong, and after their first clandestine encounter, he continues to come back for more.
This is not simply a situation of “I was horrible and now I want to make it up to you”. Rhett and Spencer’s contentious meetings involve plenty of hate sex, with Spencer lapping up the verbal humiliation and degradation that Rhett dishes out. Over time, things do begin to change. There is a major turning point when the two travel back home together, and I will say that the range of emotions experienced by them both—but particularly by Spencer—are very well written.
I enjoyed this story even with it being a trope that is normally not my cuppa, and overall it was a 4.5-star read for me. Even if you’re a fan of bully romance, I would recommend checking out the content warnings on the author’s website (the link “Boyfriend café Series CWs”) in case the activities during their naughty times are not quite your thing. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
September 10, 2023
3 stars
This was my first book form F.A. Ray and I enjoyed the author's writing: the description of the feelings, Spencer's anguish, despair and internal turmoil, Rhett's doubts, frustrations and resentment. I believe the tropes enemies to lovers and former bully to lovers are well delivered and I liked how the story developed.
But this story didn't totally work for me for several reason.
First of all, the dynamic between Spencer and Rhett, at first, made me very uncomfortable. Rhett uses mean words and their physical interaction is too much close to hate sex; Spencer is totally passive and craves to be punished for what he did in the past. ("Make me regret it")
Moreover, I think that degradation talk and puppy play should be addressed in the blurb because they're not for everyone. I'm not into that kind of kinks at all and I had to skip the chapter when Rhett put a tie as a collar on Spencer's neck: "You're like a dog, the way you obey. Should I get you a leash?"
I'm sorry I'm leaving just a 3 stars review, especially because the last 25% of the story, with the actual romance, is very beautiful.
There are also several very interesting characters, like Adam, Joe, Trent, Gabriel and Albert and I hope the author will give them their own books.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
This was my first book form F.A. Ray and I enjoyed the author's writing: the description of the feelings, Spencer's anguish, despair and internal turmoil, Rhett's doubts, frustrations and resentment. I believe the tropes enemies to lovers and former bully to lovers are well delivered and I liked how the story developed.
But this story didn't totally work for me for several reason.
First of all, the dynamic between Spencer and Rhett, at first, made me very uncomfortable. Rhett uses mean words and their physical interaction is too much close to hate sex; Spencer is totally passive and craves to be punished for what he did in the past. ("Make me regret it")
Moreover, I think that degradation talk and puppy play should be addressed in the blurb because they're not for everyone. I'm not into that kind of kinks at all and I had to skip the chapter when Rhett put a tie as a collar on Spencer's neck: "You're like a dog, the way you obey. Should I get you a leash?"
I'm sorry I'm leaving just a 3 stars review, especially because the last 25% of the story, with the actual romance, is very beautiful.
There are also several very interesting characters, like Adam, Joe, Trent, Gabriel and Albert and I hope the author will give them their own books.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
October 7, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
This first book in the Boyfriend Cafe series has small shades of a bully romance — though by the time the book starts, the bullying is long gone — and involves humiliation kink, praise kink, and a slow beginning exploration of BDSM (with the focus on dominance and submission) between the two main characters.
Spencer is a natural submissive, quick to do as he’s told and taking as much pleasure in being berated and ordered about by Rhett as he does from the praise he receives when he does as he’s told. Rhett is an angry young man, both because Spencer is the one he’s attracted to, and because Spencer, who made his life hell in school, is now the one making him see stars.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
This first book in the Boyfriend Cafe series has small shades of a bully romance — though by the time the book starts, the bullying is long gone — and involves humiliation kink, praise kink, and a slow beginning exploration of BDSM (with the focus on dominance and submission) between the two main characters.
Spencer is a natural submissive, quick to do as he’s told and taking as much pleasure in being berated and ordered about by Rhett as he does from the praise he receives when he does as he’s told. Rhett is an angry young man, both because Spencer is the one he’s attracted to, and because Spencer, who made his life hell in school, is now the one making him see stars.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
September 11, 2023
What a surprisingly good story!!
Spencer used to bully Rhett in high school so when they meet again 2 years later in college it’s easy to imagine shit will go down again. But Spencer has changed and things take a turn between those 2. Their relationship and dynamic changes in 1 night and makes for a very steamy read! There’s no kink per say but a lot of dirty talk.
I honestly loved that with so many sex scenes the author managed to make sure there were not 2 identical scenes (which I sometimes see with authors who lack imagination) and I also appreciated that Rhett didn’t let things go all the way in bed until his anger was under control. It would have been a very unwise decision and instead made for a sweet scene.
I loved seeing Spencer’s evolution and I’m glad that we had dual POV chapters because they were needed to understand both characters. I felt like both had suffered a lot in the past but now both were ready to fight for their new lives.
The background characters are present enough that you want to see what happens to them in future books but not too present that you get tired of them!
I will definitely look for their stories later on.
Oh and their last scene was also very sweet.
(MINI SPOILER: I think it’s the first time I read a romance where they don’t tell each other “I love you” but at the same time I appreciated it since it would have been too soon otherwise. I think the author made the right choice on this one! I hate when writers rush a plot point just to fit it in the book’s timeline.)
I volunteered for an ARC but all opinions are my own. Thank you to the author!
Spencer used to bully Rhett in high school so when they meet again 2 years later in college it’s easy to imagine shit will go down again. But Spencer has changed and things take a turn between those 2. Their relationship and dynamic changes in 1 night and makes for a very steamy read! There’s no kink per say but a lot of dirty talk.
I honestly loved that with so many sex scenes the author managed to make sure there were not 2 identical scenes (which I sometimes see with authors who lack imagination) and I also appreciated that Rhett didn’t let things go all the way in bed until his anger was under control. It would have been a very unwise decision and instead made for a sweet scene.
I loved seeing Spencer’s evolution and I’m glad that we had dual POV chapters because they were needed to understand both characters. I felt like both had suffered a lot in the past but now both were ready to fight for their new lives.
The background characters are present enough that you want to see what happens to them in future books but not too present that you get tired of them!
I will definitely look for their stories later on.
Oh and their last scene was also very sweet.
(MINI SPOILER: I think it’s the first time I read a romance where they don’t tell each other “I love you” but at the same time I appreciated it since it would have been too soon otherwise. I think the author made the right choice on this one! I hate when writers rush a plot point just to fit it in the book’s timeline.)
I volunteered for an ARC but all opinions are my own. Thank you to the author!
December 27, 2023
3.5/5 stars
September 15, 2023
Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
For a long time, I've avoided bully romances. I've no idea why; I did the same wth the step brother romances a while back. But something about THIS book piqued my interest. And I jumped straight in.
Much like I'm gonna do with my review.
I liked this, a lot. I can't quite love though, simply because it's FIRST person, PRESENT tense AND multi point of view. Many kudos to the author for me not realising that til a way in, though, it's just not a preference of mine.
I loved the idea of the Boyfriend Cafe, not so much the reason for it, but I could see this taking off in some places. I loved Albert, in turn, the new hires to the cafe. Rhett is the driving force behind the cafe, which kinda makes his own love life a mockery: there simply isn't one.
Until Spencer Marsh turns up in teh cafe with his girlfriend. Then, things kinda take a kookie turn and one thing leads to another.
But what I especially liked about that meeting, was Rhett was strong against Spencer. Rhett knew he wasn't the same boy he was in high school, and Rhett stood up to Spencer. Not quite in the way I think he was expecting to, but still!
Spencer, in turn, knows he did Rhett wrong at school, and coming to this college was supposed to be his fresh start. His feelings for Rhett whoop him upside the head a little bit out of nowhere, and when Rhett does that thing where he tells Spencer what to do?? Spencer cannot deny Rhett anything.
The feelings kinda creep up and both Rhett AND Spencer, but I loved that. Yes there is early chemistry, that spark burns right through the book, but the FEELINGS creep up on them. Why Spencer was the way he was in school was hardly surprising but that Spencer still tries to impress his dad was. Dad kinda comes good, but not until the epilogue and only on Spencer's terms.
I like this group of people, they all have tales to tell, I hope!
This is, as far as I can see, the first that I have read by this author. I like the way they tell their tales. I love this about reviewing: you come across authors all the time with backlists, that then grace you to read shelf!
4 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
For a long time, I've avoided bully romances. I've no idea why; I did the same wth the step brother romances a while back. But something about THIS book piqued my interest. And I jumped straight in.
Much like I'm gonna do with my review.
I liked this, a lot. I can't quite love though, simply because it's FIRST person, PRESENT tense AND multi point of view. Many kudos to the author for me not realising that til a way in, though, it's just not a preference of mine.
I loved the idea of the Boyfriend Cafe, not so much the reason for it, but I could see this taking off in some places. I loved Albert, in turn, the new hires to the cafe. Rhett is the driving force behind the cafe, which kinda makes his own love life a mockery: there simply isn't one.
Until Spencer Marsh turns up in teh cafe with his girlfriend. Then, things kinda take a kookie turn and one thing leads to another.
But what I especially liked about that meeting, was Rhett was strong against Spencer. Rhett knew he wasn't the same boy he was in high school, and Rhett stood up to Spencer. Not quite in the way I think he was expecting to, but still!
Spencer, in turn, knows he did Rhett wrong at school, and coming to this college was supposed to be his fresh start. His feelings for Rhett whoop him upside the head a little bit out of nowhere, and when Rhett does that thing where he tells Spencer what to do?? Spencer cannot deny Rhett anything.
The feelings kinda creep up and both Rhett AND Spencer, but I loved that. Yes there is early chemistry, that spark burns right through the book, but the FEELINGS creep up on them. Why Spencer was the way he was in school was hardly surprising but that Spencer still tries to impress his dad was. Dad kinda comes good, but not until the epilogue and only on Spencer's terms.
I like this group of people, they all have tales to tell, I hope!
This is, as far as I can see, the first that I have read by this author. I like the way they tell their tales. I love this about reviewing: you come across authors all the time with backlists, that then grace you to read shelf!
4 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
August 15, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
This book definitely has something to offer but it just isn’t for me. It is a unique take on a bully romance which I found to be really innovative. In this book, the bully ends up repenting for his actions by being the submissive in the relationship. It wasn’t really my thing but I can recognize that it was something new in a dense genre.
In plot A, we have Rhett the typical nerd that used to be bullied in high school and his bully, Spencer who has decided now that he wants to change and be a better person.
In plot B, we have The Boyfriend Café. Also a very unique concept. One that I was actually extremely into. Rhett, after being told how amazing he is to talk to, decides to open up a cafe that centres on one-on-one sessions with fellow students to be a shoulder to cry on or just a person to talk to over a cup of tea. It’s a great concept thats done pretty well. He opens the cafe with his friend Albert, and eventually hires Mal, Trent, and Gabriel, with the latter two being a package deal.
I am a much bigger fan of plot B than plot A. To be honest the actual romance in this romance novel falls pretty freaking flat for me. It is supposed to be an ‘enemies to lovers’ romance but I feel like the enemies part was so one sided. There was never really that moment where they go from being enemies to lovers. Rhett just stays hating Spencer until he just…doesn’t. Okay then. They dont even get a love declaration scene which is a person necessity but I can’t read a romance novel where they dont profess their love for each other at all.
Moving on to plot B, I really enjoyed the cafe and the setup but I wish it was established a little more. Considering it was easily more interesting than the romance, I wish it took more space in the book. I also wish the boys weren’t in college but thats just me. I will go over why this is particularly annoying to me in my review of book 2 in this series.
If you’re wondering why I read book 2 when I disliked book 1 so much, it is literally just because I want to get to Gabriel and Trents book, because I know they’re getting one.
This book definitely has something to offer but it just isn’t for me. It is a unique take on a bully romance which I found to be really innovative. In this book, the bully ends up repenting for his actions by being the submissive in the relationship. It wasn’t really my thing but I can recognize that it was something new in a dense genre.
In plot A, we have Rhett the typical nerd that used to be bullied in high school and his bully, Spencer who has decided now that he wants to change and be a better person.
In plot B, we have The Boyfriend Café. Also a very unique concept. One that I was actually extremely into. Rhett, after being told how amazing he is to talk to, decides to open up a cafe that centres on one-on-one sessions with fellow students to be a shoulder to cry on or just a person to talk to over a cup of tea. It’s a great concept thats done pretty well. He opens the cafe with his friend Albert, and eventually hires Mal, Trent, and Gabriel, with the latter two being a package deal.
I am a much bigger fan of plot B than plot A. To be honest the actual romance in this romance novel falls pretty freaking flat for me. It is supposed to be an ‘enemies to lovers’ romance but I feel like the enemies part was so one sided. There was never really that moment where they go from being enemies to lovers. Rhett just stays hating Spencer until he just…doesn’t. Okay then. They dont even get a love declaration scene which is a person necessity but I can’t read a romance novel where they dont profess their love for each other at all.
Moving on to plot B, I really enjoyed the cafe and the setup but I wish it was established a little more. Considering it was easily more interesting than the romance, I wish it took more space in the book. I also wish the boys weren’t in college but thats just me. I will go over why this is particularly annoying to me in my review of book 2 in this series.
If you’re wondering why I read book 2 when I disliked book 1 so much, it is literally just because I want to get to Gabriel and Trents book, because I know they’re getting one.
September 13, 2023
A MATCHA MADE IN HELL is the first book in the Boyfriend Café series. Rhett is working hard for his Engineering degree, determined to put his High School behind him with all the associated memories. Easier said than done when his High School nemesis, Spencer Marsh, turns up at the same university.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The storyline of the reason behind the Café is sweet and I can absolutely see a need for it! I love how Albert is a not-so-silent Partner for Rhett's idea and also backs him whenever he can. The group of guys who work in the Café are all brilliant and I can't wait for their stories.
Back to Rhett and Spencer though - oh, man! These two!! Spencer's behaviour is understandable, as is his guilt for it. I liked the power exchange as Spencer and Rhett worked through their issues. However, being the sap I am, I did prefer it once 'something changed' and it became a healthier relationship.
This was a great story and a wonderful introduction to the series. I look forward to reading more and have no hesitation in recommending this book.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 13, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The storyline of the reason behind the Café is sweet and I can absolutely see a need for it! I love how Albert is a not-so-silent Partner for Rhett's idea and also backs him whenever he can. The group of guys who work in the Café are all brilliant and I can't wait for their stories.
Back to Rhett and Spencer though - oh, man! These two!! Spencer's behaviour is understandable, as is his guilt for it. I liked the power exchange as Spencer and Rhett worked through their issues. However, being the sap I am, I did prefer it once 'something changed' and it became a healthier relationship.
This was a great story and a wonderful introduction to the series. I look forward to reading more and have no hesitation in recommending this book.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 13, 2023
September 20, 2023
3.5⭐️
This was an interesting take on bully romance, quite original really. What stood out to me was how precarious Spencer’s new self is, the the old Spencer is still there waiting to resurface. It’s well done, I appreciated how the author shows the struggle, it’s not simple or easy for Spencer to be a better version of himself, to not resort to his bully ways. Spencer hoped college will be his fresh start, and I loved that karma had other ideas and puts him with the person he tormented in high school. I liked a lot of things in this book, but was not very connected to Rhett and Spencer as a couple. I wasn’t the biggest fan of all the hate hookups, it got more interesting for me once they start to be real with each other. Unfortunately, this left for the last quarter or so of the book and would have benefited from more development. My favorite part was their trip back home to New Jersey. The emotions and tension were wonderfully written, it was hard to read at times, but Spencer confronting his father felt very authentic. Overall it was an enjoyable read, the side characters are quite well done and the Boyfriend Cafe is a fun idea, lots of great promise for more stories.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This was an interesting take on bully romance, quite original really. What stood out to me was how precarious Spencer’s new self is, the the old Spencer is still there waiting to resurface. It’s well done, I appreciated how the author shows the struggle, it’s not simple or easy for Spencer to be a better version of himself, to not resort to his bully ways. Spencer hoped college will be his fresh start, and I loved that karma had other ideas and puts him with the person he tormented in high school. I liked a lot of things in this book, but was not very connected to Rhett and Spencer as a couple. I wasn’t the biggest fan of all the hate hookups, it got more interesting for me once they start to be real with each other. Unfortunately, this left for the last quarter or so of the book and would have benefited from more development. My favorite part was their trip back home to New Jersey. The emotions and tension were wonderfully written, it was hard to read at times, but Spencer confronting his father felt very authentic. Overall it was an enjoyable read, the side characters are quite well done and the Boyfriend Cafe is a fun idea, lots of great promise for more stories.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 10, 2024
This may be one of my favorite books I've read so far this year and while you might be saying it's only the second week of January, let me assure you, I've already read like a dozen books!
I've never really read bully romance but I'm happy to say this isn't your typical bully romance (I think) because while you get background of Rhett and Spencer in high school, the book takes place in college with very few flashbacks to their high school days, where Spencer tormented Rhett for four years because he was in the closet and liked Rhett and took out all that internalized homophobia out on the object of his affection.
But when we meet them during their junior year of college, Spencer is looking to be a new and better man and put behind the boy he was in high school. He has no problems being a "good boy" for Rhett and following his every command.
Except, he's still in the closet and still terrified of what everyone will think of him. Which isn't fair to Rhett and they both know it.
I do love me a good redemption arc and second chance in my romances so this pressed so many buttons for me.
It was the first book I've read by this author (I'm catching up to review the ARC I received for the third book, which I just started to read and I can't wait) and I'm pleased by how well written it is, especially since it's a little bit longer than what I've been reading lately.
Amazing book, terrific series, and I can't wait to be able to read more!
I've never really read bully romance but I'm happy to say this isn't your typical bully romance (I think) because while you get background of Rhett and Spencer in high school, the book takes place in college with very few flashbacks to their high school days, where Spencer tormented Rhett for four years because he was in the closet and liked Rhett and took out all that internalized homophobia out on the object of his affection.
But when we meet them during their junior year of college, Spencer is looking to be a new and better man and put behind the boy he was in high school. He has no problems being a "good boy" for Rhett and following his every command.
Except, he's still in the closet and still terrified of what everyone will think of him. Which isn't fair to Rhett and they both know it.
I do love me a good redemption arc and second chance in my romances so this pressed so many buttons for me.
It was the first book I've read by this author (I'm catching up to review the ARC I received for the third book, which I just started to read and I can't wait) and I'm pleased by how well written it is, especially since it's a little bit longer than what I've been reading lately.
Amazing book, terrific series, and I can't wait to be able to read more!
September 10, 2023
This will be a book with a lot of mixed reviews, because it is a bit 'fo-ok-ed up'. Rhett and Spencer Should have no right to fall in love they most certainly shouldn't be attracted to each other. This is more than an enemy to lovers story because the there is so much deep rooted pain from years of bullying, humiliation and toment. It is a bit of a role reversal with the dynamics, but with a completely different intent. Even Rhett knows that Spencer's actions stemmed from more than just petty cruelty, as a reader we don't get to know much about Spencer until quite far into the story. The story gets going quickly and becomes more and more intense and intimate each time and that is why I liked the book. It felt deep, the intimacy felt genuine but you could also feel the unspoken angst. Spencer's character is a surprise and he won me over, I loved how he proved his genuine feelings to Rhett. The epilogue gives us a HFN, which with two young graduates is as happy as you can get. I look forward to Albert's story next. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 20, 2023
BULLY REDEMPTION WITH A TWIST!
REVENGE IS A DISH BEST SERVED COLD!
I was absolutely entranced, enthralled and entertained reading this poignant, sweet love story about a bully needing redemption in the most unlikely way…
Their dynamic was a surprise but also entertaining especially in the beginning of their first encounter after two years… you could cut the sexual tension with a knife…
I love a story with a dual POV as you as reader get to see both sides to the workings of both characters inner mind, heart and soul.
I loved the concept of the Boyfriend Cafe that Rhett engineered with such precision and passion which was also the catalyst to him and Spencer’s beginning!
The character growth of Rhett was present throughout the story with how he treated his enemy who became his lover and best friend!
The found family they all discovered with the Boyfriend Café was awe inspiring how they all looked out for and supported each other not forgetting Spencer’s frat brothers!
A sweet epilogue with Spencer finding closure will endear…
I look forward to the next book!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
REVENGE IS A DISH BEST SERVED COLD!
I was absolutely entranced, enthralled and entertained reading this poignant, sweet love story about a bully needing redemption in the most unlikely way…
Their dynamic was a surprise but also entertaining especially in the beginning of their first encounter after two years… you could cut the sexual tension with a knife…
I love a story with a dual POV as you as reader get to see both sides to the workings of both characters inner mind, heart and soul.
I loved the concept of the Boyfriend Cafe that Rhett engineered with such precision and passion which was also the catalyst to him and Spencer’s beginning!
The character growth of Rhett was present throughout the story with how he treated his enemy who became his lover and best friend!
The found family they all discovered with the Boyfriend Café was awe inspiring how they all looked out for and supported each other not forgetting Spencer’s frat brothers!
A sweet epilogue with Spencer finding closure will endear…
I look forward to the next book!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
July 19, 2025
This book was an absolute delight—fun, flirty, and unexpectedly sweet in the best kind of way. I came for the chaos and enemies-to-lovers tension, but I stayed for the steam... and the surprisingly tender moments that hit me right in the feelings.
The banter? Chef’s kiss. Sharp, playful, and effortlessly charming. And just when I thought I was here purely for the drama, the story snuck in with emotional depth like a surprise hug from your favorite person.
The writing itself? Impressive. It’s not every day an author can describe a bonfire with such grace that it brings an actual tear to my eye. That balance of heartfelt and emotion is rare, and this author nailed it.
This is the kind of book that makes you grin like an idiot, laugh out loud at the one-liners, and root way too hard for two fictional characters. Grab a blanket, get cozy, and enjoy!
The banter? Chef’s kiss. Sharp, playful, and effortlessly charming. And just when I thought I was here purely for the drama, the story snuck in with emotional depth like a surprise hug from your favorite person.
The writing itself? Impressive. It’s not every day an author can describe a bonfire with such grace that it brings an actual tear to my eye. That balance of heartfelt and emotion is rare, and this author nailed it.
This is the kind of book that makes you grin like an idiot, laugh out loud at the one-liners, and root way too hard for two fictional characters. Grab a blanket, get cozy, and enjoy!
November 7, 2023
New author: Yes-ish (previously read shorts in anthologies)
Format: ARC
Rep: Queer (gay)
Keywords: high school bully, new adult, boyfriend cafe, Japanese host club, second chance, fraternity, enemies to lovers, coming out, internalized homophobia, homophobic father, cw: homophobia, child abuse (off page), bullying
A very goo new adult gay romance the premise of the boyfriend cafe is spectacular, the found family is lovely. Def items recommend as a read if the reader is okay with the content warning. Why is it just average? Because the falling for my former bulky storyline is just a touch hard to take. There’s a small amount of suspending reality that has to happen, and it’s almost - just almost - concerning? unhealthy? It was just a smidge too easy.
Format: ARC
Rep: Queer (gay)
Keywords: high school bully, new adult, boyfriend cafe, Japanese host club, second chance, fraternity, enemies to lovers, coming out, internalized homophobia, homophobic father, cw: homophobia, child abuse (off page), bullying
A very goo new adult gay romance the premise of the boyfriend cafe is spectacular, the found family is lovely. Def items recommend as a read if the reader is okay with the content warning. Why is it just average? Because the falling for my former bulky storyline is just a touch hard to take. There’s a small amount of suspending reality that has to happen, and it’s almost - just almost - concerning? unhealthy? It was just a smidge too easy.
Read
October 13, 2025DNF
"it's matcha. I’m guessing you choose it because it doesn’t have too much caffeine, but still gives you a boost. You prefer matcha green when you can get it, but regular will work in a pinch."
Imagine writing a book with "matcha" in the title without knowing the first thing about it, and without even doing minimal research! 🤯 Matcha is one of the most caffeinated teas because you consume the entire leaf. All matcha is green by definition, there's no "regular" matcha that isn't green. The word might refer to a plain preparation without additives, but that's it.
I just can't enjoy a book when the author hasn't bothered to do basic research. ://
For shame because I really like the trope of "bully to lover"
"it's matcha. I’m guessing you choose it because it doesn’t have too much caffeine, but still gives you a boost. You prefer matcha green when you can get it, but regular will work in a pinch."
Imagine writing a book with "matcha" in the title without knowing the first thing about it, and without even doing minimal research! 🤯 Matcha is one of the most caffeinated teas because you consume the entire leaf. All matcha is green by definition, there's no "regular" matcha that isn't green. The word might refer to a plain preparation without additives, but that's it.
I just can't enjoy a book when the author hasn't bothered to do basic research. ://
For shame because I really like the trope of "bully to lover"
September 11, 2023
This is my favorite F.A. Ray book so far! Rhett is such a strong character, overcoming years of bullying to thrive in college. Spencer is trying to change who he is, to not be that hate-filled bully anymore. The tension between them explodes in the best way. I don’t think I’ve even read this before, where the bullied becomes the dom of sorts that humiliates the ex-bully. It was so well done! I felt bad for Spencer and what he had gone through, how much internal turmoil for who he became in order to protect himself. This book had low angst, medium-high heat, and a very hopeful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2023
This enemies to lovers book offers a different spin on the bully trope. Initially I was beyond frustrated with both Spencer and Rhett, but ended up appreciating their interesting relationship. I enjoyed the book, which I think is partly due to great secondary characters and partly due to other themes that were reflected in the book, which drew me in.
The tension between Spencer and Rhett was evident and they were definitely spicy. I’m interested in finding out more about some of the secondary characters. Some of those guys intrigued me.
I love the idea and purpose of The Boyfriend Cafe and want to visit it again.
The tension between Spencer and Rhett was evident and they were definitely spicy. I’m interested in finding out more about some of the secondary characters. Some of those guys intrigued me.
I love the idea and purpose of The Boyfriend Cafe and want to visit it again.
September 22, 2023
The author does an excellent job of convincing us Spencer was truly awful in high school but also allows us to understand the family and social pressures he is trying desperately to overcome and be the man he wants to be living the life he wants to live. For Rhett, meeting Spencer at both periods in his life is a mixed experience. He had to survive Spencer the Bully in high school and now must deal with the college Spencer who's trying to atone and be the man he needs but isn't 100% there as the story begins. As one who loathed high school, this book felt painfully real in places but also encouraging and hopeful.
September 12, 2023
A Matcha Made in Hell gives us the classic reason for bullying the queer kid - repressed self... so when confronted with the man he bullied all through high school and an insightful new girlfriend, we start on the road from enemies to lovers.
This book gives us both the intimate details of the relationship between Spencer and Rhett, but also gives us a glimpse into how Spencer comes to terms with his self-discovery and Rhett's lack of willingness to hide any part of himself.
With a satisfying HFN, this book was a quick read and balanced the angst, the steam and the introspection well.
This book gives us both the intimate details of the relationship between Spencer and Rhett, but also gives us a glimpse into how Spencer comes to terms with his self-discovery and Rhett's lack of willingness to hide any part of himself.
With a satisfying HFN, this book was a quick read and balanced the angst, the steam and the introspection well.
September 22, 2023
4.5 rounded to 5 stars. Matcha Made in Hell is a spicy Enemies-to-Lovers story that’s surprisingly sweet at times. Spencer made Rhett’s high school experience miserable. Rhett has the chance for a little revenge when Spencer transfers to the same college. They have an interesting dynamic together, and their chemistry is smoking hot. Ray does a good job of developing both characters, and I love the progression of their relationship. It’s easy to empathize with both of them. The supporting characters are also really intriguing, which makes me want to continue reading the series.
October 14, 2023
I dont often find bully romances that work well. They are either too revengeful or the bullying wasn't massive to start with.
Spencer was a bully at school, we do see his struggle with his behaviours, his repression, his father and his sexuality.
Rhett balances on a fine line of revenge with their early interactions, they both feed off of the punishment aspect.
I liked that the control and revenge lessened as they both became more secure in finding a place where they could be together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Spencer was a bully at school, we do see his struggle with his behaviours, his repression, his father and his sexuality.
Rhett balances on a fine line of revenge with their early interactions, they both feed off of the punishment aspect.
I liked that the control and revenge lessened as they both became more secure in finding a place where they could be together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2023
Meeting your high school bully years later in college can be daunting, but this bully has changed, a lot. Rhett can only see the bully and not the new Spencer and it chills his soul. A very touching, painful tale as two young men struggle, with the past and the present, this is a lovely but angsty story.
Why do we love to get ourselves some really good angst? The more painful it is the more we love reading it even as it breaks our hearts!
Why do we love to get ourselves some really good angst? The more painful it is the more we love reading it even as it breaks our hearts!
September 22, 2023
I enjoyed the big build up to the romance. It was very entertaining when they finally get to college. The high school days were sad but I fear for some a horrible trip down memory lane. The support from friends made the story stronger and I appreciated that. Reconciliation is always good as we find some ties reconnected as the book closes. The story was good, easy to read and the HeA was well deserved. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
September 24, 2023
Spencer’s life was hell growing up so he took it out Rhett when they were in high school but this story is about second chances and they meet again in college. These two are instantly attracted to each other but they both hold themselves back, both for very different reasons. The more these two get to know each other all over again they truly begin to heal from their past and fall in love. Their ending was super sweet and they got their hea. 😀❤️
September 3, 2024
I wasn't so sure at first about a romance with a guy's high school bully. I mean, the guy bullied him mercilessly for 4 years for being gay, even making a boyfriend of his move because of it. How could there be redemption, let alone love and romance from that? Somehow, the author did it. It helps that we get the bullys back story and find out that he's a repressed gay. Still doesn't excuse it, though this is fiction. Overall, it is a good romance, redemption, and gay awakening story.
September 21, 2023
High school started badly when he met them and they bullied him thought out high school. He never expected to see them again but there they are at college. They know they need to repair the damage they did so seeing him again, sends them into a new way. Can they repair the damage? Will they fall into bed with him? How will it all end? Follow them to see how it will all go
October 7, 2023
DNF
So let me get this straight. The author wants you to join their Patreon to get a four-part bonus scene of how Albert and Rhett first met. Isn't that rather pivotal to the storyline? Why didn't the author include that in the book? This story is poorly conceived and executed. It reads like something a fifteen-year-old might write on Wattpad. Not for me.
So let me get this straight. The author wants you to join their Patreon to get a four-part bonus scene of how Albert and Rhett first met. Isn't that rather pivotal to the storyline? Why didn't the author include that in the book? This story is poorly conceived and executed. It reads like something a fifteen-year-old might write on Wattpad. Not for me.
October 22, 2023
I FLEW through this book because it hit all the right notes, and I liked it from start to finish. The writing is great, pacing is perfect, and the sex is steamy and sexy. A solid start to what I hope is a long series. This is my first time reading this author but I am going to look for more to devour!
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