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Beaumont University #1
Persuade You
Carter
The Number One Rule for gay guys is to not fall in love with the straight guy. I broke that rule the moment I fell in love with my best friend. I’ve never acted on it and have always kept it to myself. But one day he tells me that he might be into guys and he wants to see what it’s like. There’s only one thing for me to volunteer to help.
West
I’ve always considered myself a straight man. Until the day I start looking at my best friend differently and it turns my world upside down. This is all new to me, so I do the only thing I ask for his help.
***Persuade You is the first book in the Beaumont University series. Each book follows a new couple through their journey to their HEA.
Tropes: MM romance, Miscommunication, Friends to lovers, bi-awakening, college setting, pinky locking, low angst.
The Number One Rule for gay guys is to not fall in love with the straight guy. I broke that rule the moment I fell in love with my best friend. I’ve never acted on it and have always kept it to myself. But one day he tells me that he might be into guys and he wants to see what it’s like. There’s only one thing for me to volunteer to help.
West
I’ve always considered myself a straight man. Until the day I start looking at my best friend differently and it turns my world upside down. This is all new to me, so I do the only thing I ask for his help.
***Persuade You is the first book in the Beaumont University series. Each book follows a new couple through their journey to their HEA.
Tropes: MM romance, Miscommunication, Friends to lovers, bi-awakening, college setting, pinky locking, low angst.
230 pages, Paperback
Published October 8, 2023
98 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
October 17, 2023
Nah this was dumb. And this review might be spoilery.
It’s a very rushed and all kinds of cliché friends to lovers story. This truly had potential. Imo, it wouldve been better if West just be honest and direct about his feelings rather than coming up with the plan bcs it seems a bit ridiculous. (I wrote this earlier before I finished the book, and yes this turned out horrifying) I also hate it because it made Carter seems like his little gay experiment. I get it, they’re besties and apparently no one else can have sex better than you and bestie, but I hate the experimenting trope. If I was Carter, I’d feel stupid.
Next, I’m down for all of those possessive protective bullshit, but West ruining all of Carter’s dates didn’t sit well with me. Not even until the end. Why are you behaving like a child and not having even little decency to respect your so called bestfriend’s choice to date. You can be jealous without being petty. God, get a fucking grip. I’m very glad Carter was mad at him near the climax. He doesn’t deserve the best friend at all. West did grovel, but all I hear was blah blah blah
Can you believe it? They call themselves best friends, but had the stupidest miscommunication trope ever. Pft.
And because of the excessive sex afterwards, their relationship didn’t feel genuine at all. I wanted more emotional bond between them friends. I don’t see it. Speaking off, the sex is very unrealistic for a first time straight guy. Like, why he fucking like a porn star already..
This can be done better with more depth and less stupid characters.
It’s a very rushed and all kinds of cliché friends to lovers story. This truly had potential. Imo, it wouldve been better if West just be honest and direct about his feelings rather than coming up with the plan bcs it seems a bit ridiculous. (I wrote this earlier before I finished the book, and yes this turned out horrifying) I also hate it because it made Carter seems like his little gay experiment. I get it, they’re besties and apparently no one else can have sex better than you and bestie, but I hate the experimenting trope. If I was Carter, I’d feel stupid.
Next, I’m down for all of those possessive protective bullshit, but West ruining all of Carter’s dates didn’t sit well with me. Not even until the end. Why are you behaving like a child and not having even little decency to respect your so called bestfriend’s choice to date. You can be jealous without being petty. God, get a fucking grip. I’m very glad Carter was mad at him near the climax. He doesn’t deserve the best friend at all. West did grovel, but all I hear was blah blah blah
Can you believe it? They call themselves best friends, but had the stupidest miscommunication trope ever. Pft.
And because of the excessive sex afterwards, their relationship didn’t feel genuine at all. I wanted more emotional bond between them friends. I don’t see it. Speaking off, the sex is very unrealistic for a first time straight guy. Like, why he fucking like a porn star already..
This can be done better with more depth and less stupid characters.
September 27, 2023
Releases on October 10!
This is Ashley’s debut novel! It ends with the sweetest HEA and has everything else you could want in between.
💌MM Romance
💌First Time
💌Low Angst
💌Housemates
💌Bi-awakening
💌Pinky Locking
💌College Setting
💌Friends to Lovers
💌Known since childhood
This friends to lovers story was adorable, I loved every minute of reading this. From jealousy to sabotage to forgiveness, this one is sure to make you swoon.
West and Carter have been inseparable since they were kids. They’re older brothers were forced to let them tagalong with them everywhere they went. Thus, the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Carter knew he was gay since in his teens and has been pining after his best friend, West. He has never told him or acted on it. He didn’t want to risk his friendship with West. So he kept his secret to himself.
West thought he was straight, until he starts reacting to Carter when in close proximity. When West realizes he is jealous over his dates and has feelings for Carter, he develops a plan to get his help. He tells Carter he thinks he is attracted to guys and ask for his help. Instead of just telling Carter he has feelings for him. His fear that Carter wouldn’t take him seriously, lead him to make these decisions.
These two have so much chemistry together. From pinky holding, blow jobs and first times, these two have plenty of steamy moments. But hidden truths, lies and feelings get in the way of these two. When everything starts coming out they have decide what to do.
Ashley, thank you for letting me read an ARC for you. I truly enjoyed this one. I couldn’t read this one fast enough and then it ended before I was ready. I love this and I can’t wait to see what you write next.
This is Ashley’s debut novel! It ends with the sweetest HEA and has everything else you could want in between.
💌MM Romance
💌First Time
💌Low Angst
💌Housemates
💌Bi-awakening
💌Pinky Locking
💌College Setting
💌Friends to Lovers
💌Known since childhood
This friends to lovers story was adorable, I loved every minute of reading this. From jealousy to sabotage to forgiveness, this one is sure to make you swoon.
West and Carter have been inseparable since they were kids. They’re older brothers were forced to let them tagalong with them everywhere they went. Thus, the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Carter knew he was gay since in his teens and has been pining after his best friend, West. He has never told him or acted on it. He didn’t want to risk his friendship with West. So he kept his secret to himself.
West thought he was straight, until he starts reacting to Carter when in close proximity. When West realizes he is jealous over his dates and has feelings for Carter, he develops a plan to get his help. He tells Carter he thinks he is attracted to guys and ask for his help. Instead of just telling Carter he has feelings for him. His fear that Carter wouldn’t take him seriously, lead him to make these decisions.
These two have so much chemistry together. From pinky holding, blow jobs and first times, these two have plenty of steamy moments. But hidden truths, lies and feelings get in the way of these two. When everything starts coming out they have decide what to do.
Ashley, thank you for letting me read an ARC for you. I truly enjoyed this one. I couldn’t read this one fast enough and then it ended before I was ready. I love this and I can’t wait to see what you write next.
September 20, 2023
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
College setting friends-to-lovers romance with a gay awakening.
Okay, this was cute.
Carter and West are the overly-touchy kind of friends, the kind of friends that make you think ‘but are they only friends?’
I’m a sucker for these tropes, so even if I’ve probably read a couple books with this same storyline I still very much enjoyed it.
Not much going on plot-wise, but the sexual tension and cute feels made up for it.
Pretty low-angst and high steam — Persuade You was entertaining and very hot.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am leaving this honest review voluntarily. Thank you Ashley Rayne!
College setting friends-to-lovers romance with a gay awakening.
Okay, this was cute.
Carter and West are the overly-touchy kind of friends, the kind of friends that make you think ‘but are they only friends?’
I’m a sucker for these tropes, so even if I’ve probably read a couple books with this same storyline I still very much enjoyed it.
Not much going on plot-wise, but the sexual tension and cute feels made up for it.
Pretty low-angst and high steam — Persuade You was entertaining and very hot.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am leaving this honest review voluntarily. Thank you Ashley Rayne!
January 23, 2024
3/5 stars
“I want everything with you. I want to wake up with you every day and then fall asleep with you every night. I want your dreams to be my dreams. I want to spend every moment of forever with you.”
September 26, 2023
4.5 stars. This is the debut novel for this author and I’m pleasantly surprised! It’s always a toss up when trying new authors (whether it’s their debut or they are just new to you). In this case I’m really happy I took a chance as I really enjoyed this book.
At times I could tell with the writing that this is a debut novel but I did notice I enjoyed the writing more and more as the book went on. And let me tell you. The sex scenes in this book! Wow! Those scenes were my favourite writing in the whole book. The description and connection between these two characters was written incredibly well during the intimate scenes!
West and Carter were fun characters that I wish would have communicated better. They were only 21 so I can give them some forgiveness but jeeze. When will all these boys realize communication is the key? But then I guess we wouldn’t have so many amazing stories!
It’s fairly low-angst between the two both in and outside of their relationship. We get a lot of self-discovery and exploration and lots of fun dates in this story. I absolutely loved that we got such a future-dated epilogue. When I enjoy reading about a couple there is nothing better than an epilogue ten years in the future to see they truly did get their HEA!
If you want to support a new author and are looking for a best friends to lovers, college, low-angst, fun read then I absolutely recommend checking this book out! I’m really excited to read the next book in the series!
At times I could tell with the writing that this is a debut novel but I did notice I enjoyed the writing more and more as the book went on. And let me tell you. The sex scenes in this book! Wow! Those scenes were my favourite writing in the whole book. The description and connection between these two characters was written incredibly well during the intimate scenes!
West and Carter were fun characters that I wish would have communicated better. They were only 21 so I can give them some forgiveness but jeeze. When will all these boys realize communication is the key? But then I guess we wouldn’t have so many amazing stories!
It’s fairly low-angst between the two both in and outside of their relationship. We get a lot of self-discovery and exploration and lots of fun dates in this story. I absolutely loved that we got such a future-dated epilogue. When I enjoy reading about a couple there is nothing better than an epilogue ten years in the future to see they truly did get their HEA!
If you want to support a new author and are looking for a best friends to lovers, college, low-angst, fun read then I absolutely recommend checking this book out! I’m really excited to read the next book in the series!
September 20, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Persuade You is a Best friends to lovers with a gay awakening book based in a college setting.
I absolutely loved how cute this was, I was rooting for West and Carter by page 14.
Though there wasn’t a big plot I do love how this made me feel and left me wanting to keep reading. There is A LOT of sexual tension and is very hot!
Looking forward to reading the next book.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book, thank you Ashley Rayne
Persuade You is a Best friends to lovers with a gay awakening book based in a college setting.
I absolutely loved how cute this was, I was rooting for West and Carter by page 14.
Though there wasn’t a big plot I do love how this made me feel and left me wanting to keep reading. There is A LOT of sexual tension and is very hot!
Looking forward to reading the next book.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book, thank you Ashley Rayne
September 21, 2024
So, yeah. This book is super cliche and works every single one of them to the bone. Miscommunication is my giant pet peeve so no, absolutely not.
I don’t understand how these two best friends have been in each others lives, are having a FWB relationship, and cant be bothered to say that they have feelings for each other?
Blegh.
I don’t understand how these two best friends have been in each others lives, are having a FWB relationship, and cant be bothered to say that they have feelings for each other?
Blegh.
February 6, 2025
The book is a disappointing waste of some favorite tropes: best friends to lovers; straight to bi; multiple hot guy house on college campus. When I found myself checking the page count progress more than once at KU, I knew the book was a bust.
Too bad, because all of the roommates are hot and seem interesting. Carter and West, the lifelong friends, are the gay and straight besties who are now in third year college. West finds that his equilibrium is disturbed by Carter’s plans to actively seek out a romantic gay relationship. I like this kind of new awareness in the trope of longtime friends. If only it had been well written.
The writing does not grab the reader. It drags and has no pizzazz. The first time sex scenes were boring. Why does gay Carter tell straight West ‘no kissing’? These guys love each other as years long best friends who touch each other and lay in each other’s beds. They are not with a stranger. I didn’t get it. This lack of communication took the shine off the sexual intimacy.
West and Carter have no deep conversations about their feelings. This doesn’t make sense considering their ride or die friendship. They each hide their real feelings for far too many chapters and scenes in a dual POV. Instead of depth the reader got shallow romance and characters.
The bland, too long narrative made for a boring read.
A waste of hot college guys! DNF 57%
Too bad, because all of the roommates are hot and seem interesting. Carter and West, the lifelong friends, are the gay and straight besties who are now in third year college. West finds that his equilibrium is disturbed by Carter’s plans to actively seek out a romantic gay relationship. I like this kind of new awareness in the trope of longtime friends. If only it had been well written.
The writing does not grab the reader. It drags and has no pizzazz. The first time sex scenes were boring. Why does gay Carter tell straight West ‘no kissing’? These guys love each other as years long best friends who touch each other and lay in each other’s beds. They are not with a stranger. I didn’t get it. This lack of communication took the shine off the sexual intimacy.
West and Carter have no deep conversations about their feelings. This doesn’t make sense considering their ride or die friendship. They each hide their real feelings for far too many chapters and scenes in a dual POV. Instead of depth the reader got shallow romance and characters.
The bland, too long narrative made for a boring read.
A waste of hot college guys! DNF 57%
September 27, 2023
This book was pretty much all fluff and it was so enjoyable. West and Carter are both great characters (although I think West is my favourite 😅)and are great together. I loved how this book had two epilogues! I’m super excited for Noah and Asher’s book. If you’re looking for a low angst fluffy book this is definitely the book to read.
December 26, 2024
Super cute friends to lovers story! West & Carter are definitely a little messy but I really enjoyed this. West is a loveable himbo and Carter is super sweet. They’ve got a very sweet friendship and when they finally communicate properly their relationship is cute.
October 11, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.75 stars
I have great opportunities to try new books and new authors and, when I see friends-to-lovers stories, I will be interested time and again. However, this book is a debut and it didn’t give me what I was looking for. Carter and West are already deep into their friendship and in college when the story starts. That would have been fine, but their relationship and the overall story felt bland and flat.
We get alternating POVs from both West and Carter, but their voices sound too similar and, at times, it was easy to lose track of who was speaking. All of their roommates, who look to be getting books in this series, sound the same as well. The story has an easy premise, with West getting jealous of Carter’s dates and devising a plan to be with him. There is some deception and miscommunication and it felt uninspired and lacking for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.75 stars
I have great opportunities to try new books and new authors and, when I see friends-to-lovers stories, I will be interested time and again. However, this book is a debut and it didn’t give me what I was looking for. Carter and West are already deep into their friendship and in college when the story starts. That would have been fine, but their relationship and the overall story felt bland and flat.
We get alternating POVs from both West and Carter, but their voices sound too similar and, at times, it was easy to lose track of who was speaking. All of their roommates, who look to be getting books in this series, sound the same as well. The story has an easy premise, with West getting jealous of Carter’s dates and devising a plan to be with him. There is some deception and miscommunication and it felt uninspired and lacking for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 8, 2024
2* feels a little mean but it just wasn't written that well. The pacing of the story was off and it was all very surface level.
October 12, 2023
2.5⭐️ 3🌶️
Kudos to author for publishing her first book. While I definitely see promise unfortunately this story leaned on clichés, too much internal monologue and heavily on the miscommunication trope.
The characters themselves were sweet, and I enjoyed the bond between the roommates and the subtle hints of what their future stories will look like.
The start wasn’t too bad either, you could see the affection between Carter and West, even if it was only intended to be friendly. However it’s that same connection (that everyone and their mother could see) that made their inner whining later on in the book a little too annoying for me. 🙄 Once West realizes he has feeling for Carter (who has loved West forever) and they engage in a FWB arrangement to help West “discover” his sexuality, there was too much back in forth by both of them thinking the other wouldn’t want the other after it was over. It didn’t give the angst I’d want to feel.
The third act conflict was predictable and the end just got a little too cheesy for my taste. 🤷🏻♀️ I actually skimmed most of the last 10%
I love a best friend sexual awakening story but this one just didn’t give me the vibes that I love about the others I’ve read with this trope.
Kudos to author for publishing her first book. While I definitely see promise unfortunately this story leaned on clichés, too much internal monologue and heavily on the miscommunication trope.
The characters themselves were sweet, and I enjoyed the bond between the roommates and the subtle hints of what their future stories will look like.
The start wasn’t too bad either, you could see the affection between Carter and West, even if it was only intended to be friendly. However it’s that same connection (that everyone and their mother could see) that made their inner whining later on in the book a little too annoying for me. 🙄 Once West realizes he has feeling for Carter (who has loved West forever) and they engage in a FWB arrangement to help West “discover” his sexuality, there was too much back in forth by both of them thinking the other wouldn’t want the other after it was over. It didn’t give the angst I’d want to feel.
The third act conflict was predictable and the end just got a little too cheesy for my taste. 🤷🏻♀️ I actually skimmed most of the last 10%
I love a best friend sexual awakening story but this one just didn’t give me the vibes that I love about the others I’ve read with this trope.
August 1, 2024
⭐️: 8/10 🌶️: 3/5 😭: -/5 🤣: 2/5
Tropes:
💚 Childhood best friends to lovers
💙 Bi awakening
🧡 College
“Moving from loving you to being in love with you was the easiest transition I’ve ever made.”
(ESP) Primera vez que leo a esta autora y siendo su obra debut debo decir que me gustó mucho.
Es una historia bastante corta y aún así nos hace conocer a los que serán todos los personajes de la serie. En este caso, nos centramos en West y Carter. Ambos son muy bellos, compensan sus energías perfecto y forman una pareja muy divertida de leer.
Definitivamente seguiré leyendo más de Ashley.
(ENG) I'd never read this author before, this was her debut work, I have to say that I really enjoyed it.
It's a fairly short story, but it introduces us to all the characters of the series. In this case, we focus on West and Carter. They're both very beautiful, they balance each other's energies perfectly, and they make a very fun couple to read about.
I'll certainly be reading more of Ashley's work.
Tropes:
💚 Childhood best friends to lovers
💙 Bi awakening
🧡 College
“Moving from loving you to being in love with you was the easiest transition I’ve ever made.”
(ESP) Primera vez que leo a esta autora y siendo su obra debut debo decir que me gustó mucho.
Es una historia bastante corta y aún así nos hace conocer a los que serán todos los personajes de la serie. En este caso, nos centramos en West y Carter. Ambos son muy bellos, compensan sus energías perfecto y forman una pareja muy divertida de leer.
Definitivamente seguiré leyendo más de Ashley.
(ENG) I'd never read this author before, this was her debut work, I have to say that I really enjoyed it.
It's a fairly short story, but it introduces us to all the characters of the series. In this case, we focus on West and Carter. They're both very beautiful, they balance each other's energies perfectly, and they make a very fun couple to read about.
I'll certainly be reading more of Ashley's work.
August 19, 2025
Was enjoying it until the third act ‘break up’ and it didn’t make sense
October 11, 2023
Lovers and Friends
Dee's Grade for Persuade You: A
Kink:🚦/5
Spice: 🥵🥵🥵/5
Angst: 🥹🥹/5
Humor: 🤣🤣/5
Toxicity: ☣️/5
Bullying: 💔/5
Intimacy: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥/5
Chemistry: 🌋🌋🌋🌋/5
Dirty Talking: 🤬🤬🤬/5
Hurt/Comfort: ❤️🩹/5
Swoon Factor: 🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
Codependency: 🫂🫂🫂🫂/5
Possessiveness: ⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️/5
Communication: 🗣🗣🗣/5
Growth and Healing: 🥳/5
Comfort Readability: 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗/5
** If the score is ONE EMOJI that means little to none of whatever category/trope was present in the book.
Review For Persuade You by @ashleyrayne_author
Clueless codependent BFFs to Lovers is my FAVORITE TROPE and this book checks all my boxes. It's so sweet with pinky linking, possessive best friends, and an extended epilogue that gives a true HEA.
Carter and West have been best friends for most of their lives. Their affectionate and spend all their time together. West is "straight" and Carter is in his words, the clichéd gay guy crushing on his straight best friend.
They are so adorably clueless. I love them right from the start. The evolution of their friendship to more happens pretty quickly, but the tradeoff for the mid burn is that they are lizard brained college boys, so there is some LACK of communication that causes drama. It's not dragged out, though, and is resolved satisfactorily.
The book has good spice with low angst and likeable characters. It's a great initial offering from a first-time author. I recommend you read this sweet story. It's a great palate cleanser this spooky season and will definitely end up as a comfort read of mine.
Dee's Grade for Persuade You: A
Kink:🚦/5
Spice: 🥵🥵🥵/5
Angst: 🥹🥹/5
Humor: 🤣🤣/5
Toxicity: ☣️/5
Bullying: 💔/5
Intimacy: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥/5
Chemistry: 🌋🌋🌋🌋/5
Dirty Talking: 🤬🤬🤬/5
Hurt/Comfort: ❤️🩹/5
Swoon Factor: 🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
Codependency: 🫂🫂🫂🫂/5
Possessiveness: ⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️/5
Communication: 🗣🗣🗣/5
Growth and Healing: 🥳/5
Comfort Readability: 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗/5
** If the score is ONE EMOJI that means little to none of whatever category/trope was present in the book.
Review For Persuade You by @ashleyrayne_author
Clueless codependent BFFs to Lovers is my FAVORITE TROPE and this book checks all my boxes. It's so sweet with pinky linking, possessive best friends, and an extended epilogue that gives a true HEA.
Carter and West have been best friends for most of their lives. Their affectionate and spend all their time together. West is "straight" and Carter is in his words, the clichéd gay guy crushing on his straight best friend.
They are so adorably clueless. I love them right from the start. The evolution of their friendship to more happens pretty quickly, but the tradeoff for the mid burn is that they are lizard brained college boys, so there is some LACK of communication that causes drama. It's not dragged out, though, and is resolved satisfactorily.
The book has good spice with low angst and likeable characters. It's a great initial offering from a first-time author. I recommend you read this sweet story. It's a great palate cleanser this spooky season and will definitely end up as a comfort read of mine.
January 7, 2024
How is this a debut novel? it was sooo good
God these two were so cute! I loved their friendship and they were so oblivious to the other feelings, west oblivious to his feelings full stop thinking he was "straight".
So happy there was an extended epilogue what a deeply satisfying ending. These two made me laugh and all way through I felt a rollercoaster of emotions wondering what was going to go wrong. I have read a lot of mm books but this was actually one of my faves.
I loved that it was low angst not zero angst but didn't rip your heart out type and Im glad for it. I wanted them to have their HEA.
Great read and I will definitely be reading more of Ashley's books going off this one.
God these two were so cute! I loved their friendship and they were so oblivious to the other feelings, west oblivious to his feelings full stop thinking he was "straight".
So happy there was an extended epilogue what a deeply satisfying ending. These two made me laugh and all way through I felt a rollercoaster of emotions wondering what was going to go wrong. I have read a lot of mm books but this was actually one of my faves.
I loved that it was low angst not zero angst but didn't rip your heart out type and Im glad for it. I wanted them to have their HEA.
Great read and I will definitely be reading more of Ashley's books going off this one.
January 23, 2025
Super cute, and the right amount of spice to make this a quick read. HEA
September 29, 2023
4.5 stars
I was impressed with this book, particularly for a debut. I was invested in all the characters almost immediately and wanted to know more. (I was still invested at the end of the book, which is not always a given, sometimes I lose interest like nobody's business but that wasn't the case here.) I would most definitely read more by this author and am looking forward to their next books.
I'll always be a fan of friends to lovers, and although West behaved pretty badly and it included some themes I'm not so keen on, I feel the author was able to pull it off, for the most part at least. The charm of the characters shone through, especially when they were relaxed and just being themselves on the beach, probably my favourite scene from the book.
The writing quality was variable. Some parts were excellent, some not so much. Not that it was bad exactly, I think it's got serious potential, but the author's inexperience shows in some bits. Happily, I would expect that to improve over time. I would have also liked the book to be a little longer-- I felt some of the dates and interactions from 70% onwards were a bit rushed, and tended to be glossed over where I would have enjoyed more dialogue and feeling in the moment with West and Carter. I want to feel like I'm there, not just get a brief rundown of what they did that day.
The intimate scenes between the couple were fantastic. With debut authors they often go wrong, but in this case I can only call them excellent. The connection and intimacy between the couple during the sex scenes was palpable, and I feel plenty of even experienced authors could learn from this example.
I was wavering between 4 and 5 stars for most of the book, so eventually decided to go for 4.5, simply because of how much I enjoyed it. I am still wrestling with a weird book slump, so just the fact it was able to keep my attention is a major plus. I would definitely keep an eye on this author, they have got tremendous potential and I think they're one to watch. I will certainly be downloading their future books.
I was impressed with this book, particularly for a debut. I was invested in all the characters almost immediately and wanted to know more. (I was still invested at the end of the book, which is not always a given, sometimes I lose interest like nobody's business but that wasn't the case here.) I would most definitely read more by this author and am looking forward to their next books.
I'll always be a fan of friends to lovers, and although West behaved pretty badly and it included some themes I'm not so keen on, I feel the author was able to pull it off, for the most part at least. The charm of the characters shone through, especially when they were relaxed and just being themselves on the beach, probably my favourite scene from the book.
The writing quality was variable. Some parts were excellent, some not so much. Not that it was bad exactly, I think it's got serious potential, but the author's inexperience shows in some bits. Happily, I would expect that to improve over time. I would have also liked the book to be a little longer-- I felt some of the dates and interactions from 70% onwards were a bit rushed, and tended to be glossed over where I would have enjoyed more dialogue and feeling in the moment with West and Carter. I want to feel like I'm there, not just get a brief rundown of what they did that day.
The intimate scenes between the couple were fantastic. With debut authors they often go wrong, but in this case I can only call them excellent. The connection and intimacy between the couple during the sex scenes was palpable, and I feel plenty of even experienced authors could learn from this example.
I was wavering between 4 and 5 stars for most of the book, so eventually decided to go for 4.5, simply because of how much I enjoyed it. I am still wrestling with a weird book slump, so just the fact it was able to keep my attention is a major plus. I would definitely keep an eye on this author, they have got tremendous potential and I think they're one to watch. I will certainly be downloading their future books.
June 12, 2024
old post reposted
We interrupt your regularly schedule reading to bring you something that won't fucking trigger my already too thing mental state. I want to read more dark romance and finish some other series, but I'm trying to be kind to my body while it's struggling to take care of itself, hence a cute low-angst romance. "Persuade You" is the first novel in Ashley Rayne's Beaumont University series.
["Carter
The Number One Rule for gay guys is to not fall in love with the straight guy. I broke that rule the moment I fell in love with my best friend. I’ve never acted on it and have always kept it to myself. But one day he tells me that he might be into guys and he wants to see what it’s like. There’s only one thing for me to do: volunteer to help.
West
I’ve always considered myself a straight man. Until the day I start looking at my best friend differently and it turns my world upside down. This is all new to me, so I do the only thing I can: ask for his help."]
This book was definitely a bandaid for my heart. There was very little angst, like I was promised. There was some miscommunication and trust-me-I-know-what-I'm-doing boy shit. But they made their way back to each other, again and again.
I loved them. I looooove friends to lovers, and this one definitely didn't disappoint. There was so much fluff (so much sweet gestures and butterflies) and so much spice (they really just jumped in it).
I can't wait to read the rest of the series and see what the rest of the roommates get into and how hard they fall. This was a fabulous beginning to Ashley's (hopefully long) writing career.
#persuadeyou #protectyou #praiseyou #beaumontuniversity #beaumontuniversityseries #ashleyrayne #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
We interrupt your regularly schedule reading to bring you something that won't fucking trigger my already too thing mental state. I want to read more dark romance and finish some other series, but I'm trying to be kind to my body while it's struggling to take care of itself, hence a cute low-angst romance. "Persuade You" is the first novel in Ashley Rayne's Beaumont University series.
["Carter
The Number One Rule for gay guys is to not fall in love with the straight guy. I broke that rule the moment I fell in love with my best friend. I’ve never acted on it and have always kept it to myself. But one day he tells me that he might be into guys and he wants to see what it’s like. There’s only one thing for me to do: volunteer to help.
West
I’ve always considered myself a straight man. Until the day I start looking at my best friend differently and it turns my world upside down. This is all new to me, so I do the only thing I can: ask for his help."]
This book was definitely a bandaid for my heart. There was very little angst, like I was promised. There was some miscommunication and trust-me-I-know-what-I'm-doing boy shit. But they made their way back to each other, again and again.
I loved them. I looooove friends to lovers, and this one definitely didn't disappoint. There was so much fluff (so much sweet gestures and butterflies) and so much spice (they really just jumped in it).
I can't wait to read the rest of the series and see what the rest of the roommates get into and how hard they fall. This was a fabulous beginning to Ashley's (hopefully long) writing career.
#persuadeyou #protectyou #praiseyou #beaumontuniversity #beaumontuniversityseries #ashleyrayne #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
October 11, 2023
- Thoughts on Persuade You -
This is a dual POV - which I always love - of two best friends who are roommates (along with other friends) in college. I found this MM college romance a bit different than ones I’m used to reading because I guess I tend to gravitate toward ones where at least one MC is in a sport or is like coach and professor but never just regular college students - and this is what that was. I kinda liked it - it made the plot about the two of them and going through their ever day normal life while trying to navigate this transformation in their relationship.
West was the fun loving, golden retriever, always thought he was straight, best friend to Carter - “Carter deserves to be appreciated and treated like a f****** king, and I know I can do that for him,” 🥹
Carter is the more serious, reserved, always been in love with his straight best friend - friend to West, but has always been there for him no matter what - “…no one has ever been good enough because no one was ever you,” *chefs kiss* 🤌🏼
From the beginning the love they have for each other regardless of sexuality is potent and beautiful. The friendship their future is build on top of is just wonderfully written.
There’s chemistry, jealousy, friends with benefits, exploration, sabotaged dates, witty banter, and a bit of overthinking on both sides 👨🏼🤝👨🏻
This is on KU and it’s made it to the top 3 of new releases in bisexual fiction and top 7 in best sellers for bisexual fiction 👏🏼🎉 congratulations, Ashley Rayne - I cannot wait to see what books come next 😆
If you like 🔽 add this to your tbr…
☀️ golden retriever energy
☀️ friends to lovers
☀️ pinky holding
☀️ bi awakening
☀️ childhood friends
☀️ MM college romance
This is a dual POV - which I always love - of two best friends who are roommates (along with other friends) in college. I found this MM college romance a bit different than ones I’m used to reading because I guess I tend to gravitate toward ones where at least one MC is in a sport or is like coach and professor but never just regular college students - and this is what that was. I kinda liked it - it made the plot about the two of them and going through their ever day normal life while trying to navigate this transformation in their relationship.
West was the fun loving, golden retriever, always thought he was straight, best friend to Carter - “Carter deserves to be appreciated and treated like a f****** king, and I know I can do that for him,” 🥹
Carter is the more serious, reserved, always been in love with his straight best friend - friend to West, but has always been there for him no matter what - “…no one has ever been good enough because no one was ever you,” *chefs kiss* 🤌🏼
From the beginning the love they have for each other regardless of sexuality is potent and beautiful. The friendship their future is build on top of is just wonderfully written.
There’s chemistry, jealousy, friends with benefits, exploration, sabotaged dates, witty banter, and a bit of overthinking on both sides 👨🏼🤝👨🏻
This is on KU and it’s made it to the top 3 of new releases in bisexual fiction and top 7 in best sellers for bisexual fiction 👏🏼🎉 congratulations, Ashley Rayne - I cannot wait to see what books come next 😆
If you like 🔽 add this to your tbr…
☀️ golden retriever energy
☀️ friends to lovers
☀️ pinky holding
☀️ bi awakening
☀️ childhood friends
☀️ MM college romance
January 22, 2024
Carter Evans (20/21), junior at Beaumont University
West (21), junior at Beaumont University
I am not the biggest fan of college-aged romance or the miscommunication trope but the second book in the series peaked my interest and I received an ARC for it so I figured I should start with the first one.
This was a very easy read that kept my interest. I am impressed that this is a debut novel for this author. I loved the easy relationship and banter between all of the housemates. I loved the pinky locking and closeness of Carter and West's relationship and absolutely adored the sweet dates West came up with to try and make Carter fall in love with him, being too oblivious to realize that he already was. The intimacy between Carter and West was off-the-charts, as was how well they obviously suited each other.
That said, I was thrilled that Carter had the self-preservation instinct to try and end the sexual relationship that had developed with West when he realized it was detrimental to his well-being and would jeopardize his friendship with West but the break-up fell a little flat for me. I think West needed to apologize a little more - I did not really like the pretty deliberate date ruining revelation, I think that could have been accomplished a little more elegantly - but frankly both guys deserves an apology from Ronan as I wasn't thrilled with the extent to which he was involved in manipulating both of them. I enjoyed the epilogue and was thrilled that I wasn't forced to to subscribe to the author's newsletter to be able to read it.
I won an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest, but late, review.
West (21), junior at Beaumont University
I am not the biggest fan of college-aged romance or the miscommunication trope but the second book in the series peaked my interest and I received an ARC for it so I figured I should start with the first one.
This was a very easy read that kept my interest. I am impressed that this is a debut novel for this author. I loved the easy relationship and banter between all of the housemates. I loved the pinky locking and closeness of Carter and West's relationship and absolutely adored the sweet dates West came up with to try and make Carter fall in love with him, being too oblivious to realize that he already was. The intimacy between Carter and West was off-the-charts, as was how well they obviously suited each other.
That said, I was thrilled that Carter had the self-preservation instinct to try and end the sexual relationship that had developed with West when he realized it was detrimental to his well-being and would jeopardize his friendship with West but the break-up fell a little flat for me. I think West needed to apologize a little more - I did not really like the pretty deliberate date ruining revelation, I think that could have been accomplished a little more elegantly - but frankly both guys deserves an apology from Ronan as I wasn't thrilled with the extent to which he was involved in manipulating both of them. I enjoyed the epilogue and was thrilled that I wasn't forced to to subscribe to the author's newsletter to be able to read it.
I won an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest, but late, review.
October 16, 2023
Overall, I enjoyed this MM college aged debut. Many other reviews mentioned how they didn't like the way West handled his feelings and how he acted out before understanding what he was feeling. I think a) this leans toward the miscommunication trope, so if that's not your thing, you probably will get frustrated with this book and b) you have to remember that this is a college aged romance. These characters aren't that mature because they aren't grown up and in the real world with long term relationship experience under their belt. They're still sowing their wild oats a bit. AND West thought he was straight his whole life, so his actions weren't rooted in malice, just ignorance. I wanted to point out those two things for anybody needing further clarification.
Beyond that, I love how devoted West and Carter were to each other, and it made the transition to more than friends fairly simple, even with the major hiccup. Tired of hooking up, poor Carter was feeling down about his dating life, and he was ready for romance and a serious relationship. West was painfully oblivious to his feelings until one of their roommates pointed out his jealousy when Carter went out on a date. Even though West made big mistakes in his pursuit of Carter, he really was a sweetie to him. His aftercare skills and wanting to please Carter earned an A plus for effort and execution. The friendship between them and their roommates was special and added a nice sense of "found family" to the storyline. The bread crumbs for Asher and Noah's story left me hankering for their turn next.
Beyond that, I love how devoted West and Carter were to each other, and it made the transition to more than friends fairly simple, even with the major hiccup. Tired of hooking up, poor Carter was feeling down about his dating life, and he was ready for romance and a serious relationship. West was painfully oblivious to his feelings until one of their roommates pointed out his jealousy when Carter went out on a date. Even though West made big mistakes in his pursuit of Carter, he really was a sweetie to him. His aftercare skills and wanting to please Carter earned an A plus for effort and execution. The friendship between them and their roommates was special and added a nice sense of "found family" to the storyline. The bread crumbs for Asher and Noah's story left me hankering for their turn next.
October 12, 2023
SWEET STEAMY BEST FRIENDS TO LOVERS!
I was pleasantly surprised with this debut novel by this new to me author thank you Gay Romance Reviews for this opportunity!
“I knew I had to persuade you.” “Persuade me? Persuade me to do what?” “To give me a chance.”
These two naive made for each other souls were so cute and funny with their antics and mannerisms regarding their unusual closeness as friends…
Everybody could see it except them but an opportunity arises for “straight” West when his eye’s finally opens to what’s been in front of him all these years… he tries to romance the socks of Carter.. Will he succeed?…
I loved their friendship, I loved their connection, I loved how they grounded each other by touching their pinkies together…
I hated one of Carter’s rules regarding their arrangement even if it was to protect his heart…
They were heading in the right direction until Carter decides to wave the white flag…
What will West do when their arrangement ends?
Will he tell Carter the truth regarding his feelings before it’s too late?
I enjoyed getting to know all the roommates and especially how Ronan supported and helped Carter and West in their journey to trust and love each other no matter what!
I loved the extended epilogues so we can see what happens in the future with our boys!
I look forward to Noah and Asher next!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
I was pleasantly surprised with this debut novel by this new to me author thank you Gay Romance Reviews for this opportunity!
“I knew I had to persuade you.” “Persuade me? Persuade me to do what?” “To give me a chance.”
These two naive made for each other souls were so cute and funny with their antics and mannerisms regarding their unusual closeness as friends…
Everybody could see it except them but an opportunity arises for “straight” West when his eye’s finally opens to what’s been in front of him all these years… he tries to romance the socks of Carter.. Will he succeed?…
I loved their friendship, I loved their connection, I loved how they grounded each other by touching their pinkies together…
I hated one of Carter’s rules regarding their arrangement even if it was to protect his heart…
They were heading in the right direction until Carter decides to wave the white flag…
What will West do when their arrangement ends?
Will he tell Carter the truth regarding his feelings before it’s too late?
I enjoyed getting to know all the roommates and especially how Ronan supported and helped Carter and West in their journey to trust and love each other no matter what!
I loved the extended epilogues so we can see what happens in the future with our boys!
I look forward to Noah and Asher next!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
July 22, 2024
Persuade You had a bit of a slow start to me. I wasn't feeling like the attraction between West & Carter was really there for a while. Their unorthodox friendship was wonderful, and that was easy to see and understand, but it seemed very much like Carter had a one-sided love for West that wouldn't change. I know that's often the point of a best friends-to-lovers story, but this one just seemed a bit sluggish at first. I still loved the story, and once West really understood what he was feeling, I was happy to see him step up to the plate and put himself out there for Carter.
I love that these boys have such a supportive friend group. Ronan really put himself on the line to step in between our MCs and help them realize what they needed to do to move forward. I'm looking forward to his eventual story .
I didn't realize Persuade You was Ashley Rayne's debut novel until I reached the end acknowledgements. I'd previously read her novella Not So Casual and greatly enjoyed it. I'm happy to experience and enjoy so many new authors that show us what kinds of stories they can dream up.
I'm very glad I stepped into the Beaumont University universe, and I'm looking forward to Asher & Noah's story next.
I love that these boys have such a supportive friend group. Ronan really put himself on the line to step in between our MCs and help them realize what they needed to do to move forward. I'm looking forward to his eventual story .
I didn't realize Persuade You was Ashley Rayne's debut novel until I reached the end acknowledgements. I'd previously read her novella Not So Casual and greatly enjoyed it. I'm happy to experience and enjoy so many new authors that show us what kinds of stories they can dream up.
I'm very glad I stepped into the Beaumont University universe, and I'm looking forward to Asher & Noah's story next.
September 28, 2023
3.5 stars
Nice debut story for an author I'll definitely keep an eye on.
Best friends to lovers, sexual awakening, college romance are the main tropes. Carter and West have been best friends since forever and they now share a house during college (with three other friends).
The plot is not very original: Carter is gay, West is supposedly straight, they've always touched and cuddled each other, and one day West, after overhearing Carter talking about wanting a boyfriend, starts developing a physical and emotional attraction to him. Basically, West's sexual awakening is triggered by jealousy over his best friend (but why didn't it happened sooner? Carter has dated guys in the past).
Carter and West are cute and sweet (the pinky holding!) and their sexual "exploration" is very hot, but the story didn't totally enthrall me: they say they're best friends and they have no secrets, but, while I can understand why Carter kept his feelings for his BF hidden, I don't get why West made up that plan that led only to a lot of micommunications and hurt.
He had several occasions to be honest with Carter and yet everytime he chose to carry out another pointless strategy to let his friend know that he was interested in him. I wish Carter would have let him grovel more before forgiving him.
Anyway, I'm very interested in Asher and Noah story, I'll definitely read their book.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Nice debut story for an author I'll definitely keep an eye on.
Best friends to lovers, sexual awakening, college romance are the main tropes. Carter and West have been best friends since forever and they now share a house during college (with three other friends).
The plot is not very original: Carter is gay, West is supposedly straight, they've always touched and cuddled each other, and one day West, after overhearing Carter talking about wanting a boyfriend, starts developing a physical and emotional attraction to him. Basically, West's sexual awakening is triggered by jealousy over his best friend (but why didn't it happened sooner? Carter has dated guys in the past).
Carter and West are cute and sweet (the pinky holding!) and their sexual "exploration" is very hot, but the story didn't totally enthrall me: they say they're best friends and they have no secrets, but, while I can understand why Carter kept his feelings for his BF hidden, I don't get why West made up that plan that led only to a lot of micommunications and hurt.
He had several occasions to be honest with Carter and yet everytime he chose to carry out another pointless strategy to let his friend know that he was interested in him. I wish Carter would have let him grovel more before forgiving him.
Anyway, I'm very interested in Asher and Noah story, I'll definitely read their book.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
October 12, 2023
This story was cute and incredibly hot! Carter and West are best friends, have been since they were 5 years old and pretty much inseparable. Carter is gay and the ultimate cliche, in love with his straight best friend. West thinks he’s straight but when Carter starts going on dates and looking for more than sex, ie romance, West all of a sudden sees Carter in a new light. He realizes he’s attracted to him and jealous. So, he comes up with a plan to get Carter. First step, don’t admit his feelings for Carter in particular, just admit he’s curious. Carter comes up with the idiotic idea to be West’s experimentation partner. I mean really, you can see the issues from a mile away. So, these boys are in for some hot sex and feelings so deep they can’t find the bottom. Their love is so strong and pure, even when West didn’t realize it. They were so cute and sweet together, from the fingers in the hair with head in lap (not sexually lol), to the pinkie locking, these boys were boyfriends long before they realized it. I adored them. The writing was well done. My biggest dislike was, sometimes it felt like too much was spent on the roommates, I know the author is setting up for the series but at times the roommates seemed too much. But that is a really small thing, honestly, the story was great. The characters were adorable and sweet, very endearing and charming. The plot is full of cliches in the best ways. And these boys will worm their way under your skin. Their steamy times were hot. And the ending was just wonderful. I’m glad we got the extended epilogue cause it was fire and so sweet.
October 3, 2023
Carter and West have been friends for a long time and therefore are very close. Carter is gay and has had a crush on West since he was a teen. Carter has started dating (more?) and West becomes jealous, realizing it’s because he has feelings for Carter. He drafts a plan for Carter to help him ‘figure out’ his sexuality because he doesn’t think he would believe him if he came out and said he was attracted to him. How could anything go wrong?
Best friends to lovers is usually my favorite trope, but I hate this damn spin on it specifically. West used his best friend, who did not want to mess around and wanted the emotional connection of dating which West knew from the beginning. And instead of being upfront and talking to him about it like an adult he manipulated Carter into ‘experimenting’ to confirm that he likes guys and he sabotaged his dates prior to this and inadvertently hurt Carter’s self esteem.
I did like the connection they had, their pinkie thing they like to do when they are emotional, and that West was doing all the right things without saying he wanted a relationship.
I would probably still read the next one.
I received an advanced copy from GRR in exchange for my honest review.
October 10, 2023
Carter and West have been best friends since they were five. They are now juniors in college, West is straight and Carter is gay, and in love with his best friend for years. When West sees Carter kissing another guy at a party, it makes him very uncomfortable, but when Carter is on a date West knew nothing about, he realizes that he is jealous, and maybe not as straight as he thought. When West tells Carter about wanting to explore his new interest in men, Carter volunteers to help. Probably not the best thing to offer, as things get complicated and feelings grow real fast. Now what do they do when past actions come to light, with devastating consequences. Will they be able to come back from all that has happened.
A delightful book from a new author, with engaging, well drawn main and supporting characters, lots of humor and empathy from and for the characters, and a plot that keeps things moving right along in a natural progression with interesting events. The author indicates a second book to come with two more of the characters introduced here, and I definitely look forward to that one. 4.5 stars
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
A delightful book from a new author, with engaging, well drawn main and supporting characters, lots of humor and empathy from and for the characters, and a plot that keeps things moving right along in a natural progression with interesting events. The author indicates a second book to come with two more of the characters introduced here, and I definitely look forward to that one. 4.5 stars
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
September 24, 2023
🌈Best Friends to Lovers
🌈Bi-Awakening
🌈Low Angst
🌈College Setting
🌈Pinky Locking
This is Ashley’s debut novel and it’s the cutest friends to lovers story! West and Carter have been best friends since their older brothers were forced to bring them along on their adventures when they were kids and they have been stuck together ever since.
West and Carter know everything about each other except the fact that Carter has been in love with West since he figured out he was gay, but he’s never acted on it and doesn’t want to loose his friendship.
When West starts developing not straight feelings for his best friend, instead of just telling him his true feelings, he asks for help “figure out” if he’s really into guys. As with any true friends to lovers story there’s secrets, lies and a crap ton of feelings ls in between, but there’s a well deserved and adorable HEA to wrap it all up in a perfect little bow!
I want to thank the author for sending me an advanced copy of this book, this is my honest review!
🌈Bi-Awakening
🌈Low Angst
🌈College Setting
🌈Pinky Locking
This is Ashley’s debut novel and it’s the cutest friends to lovers story! West and Carter have been best friends since their older brothers were forced to bring them along on their adventures when they were kids and they have been stuck together ever since.
West and Carter know everything about each other except the fact that Carter has been in love with West since he figured out he was gay, but he’s never acted on it and doesn’t want to loose his friendship.
When West starts developing not straight feelings for his best friend, instead of just telling him his true feelings, he asks for help “figure out” if he’s really into guys. As with any true friends to lovers story there’s secrets, lies and a crap ton of feelings ls in between, but there’s a well deserved and adorable HEA to wrap it all up in a perfect little bow!
I want to thank the author for sending me an advanced copy of this book, this is my honest review!
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