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Bristlecone Springs #1
Aisle Be The Groom
I always dreamed of a perfect wedding. But when my fiancé jets off to the Caribbean, leaving me stranded on a Colorado ranch to plan everything alone, that dream crumbles.
Then his father, Gray, steps in to help. But with every moment we spend together, something shifts. Gray makes me feel wanted, desired, and sexy—the way every big boy dreams of feeling.
The pull between us is undeniable. But can I cancel my wedding to my fiancé when the one I've fallen for is his father?
My affair with Gray might be forbidden, but my heart is ready to risk it all.
Then his father, Gray, steps in to help. But with every moment we spend together, something shifts. Gray makes me feel wanted, desired, and sexy—the way every big boy dreams of feeling.
The pull between us is undeniable. But can I cancel my wedding to my fiancé when the one I've fallen for is his father?
My affair with Gray might be forbidden, but my heart is ready to risk it all.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 8, 2024
86 people are currently reading
291 people want to read
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April 20, 2025
4**** stars
I don’t know why Gianny Holmes wrote this under this new pen name of hers but this book was so damn heartwarming, sweet und super hot. I loved reading it.
(but what about Gray never prepping Ozzie and just sliding right in? weird!)
Looking forward to the next one.
************
Bristlecone Springs Series
Book 1 - Aisle Be The Groom - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - Marry Me, Maybe? - release 09/25
I don’t know why Gianny Holmes wrote this under this new pen name of hers but this book was so damn heartwarming, sweet und super hot. I loved reading it.
(but what about Gray never prepping Ozzie and just sliding right in? weird!)
Looking forward to the next one.
************
Bristlecone Springs Series
Book 1 - Aisle Be The Groom - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - Marry Me, Maybe? - release 09/25
October 7, 2024
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
Aisle Be The Groom is a forbidden romance between Ozzie, sweet as pie but insecure about himself, and his fiancé’s dad, sexy cowboy ranch owner, Gray.
I loooooved the tension and the forbidden aspect, how caring and gentle Gray was with Ozzie. We love a man who knows how to worship their partner’s body.
Among all the sweet loving and sexiness, this read also packed some emotion. I teared up hearing Ozzie and his insecurities, how he thought he wasn’t lovable, wasn’t beautiful exactly how he is. I loved the positive body image rep, how happy and confident Ozzie was in the end.
The drama was a little too much for me, though. I didn’t like how it turned out, how it ended being extra crazy in the end.
Other than that, this was a fun and sexy read.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Future father-in-law vs son’s fiancé
- Cheating (not between MCs)
- Age gap (24 years)
- Plus size MC
- Insecure MC
- Stuck in the rain
- Mentions of body/weight shaming
- MC w/ nipple piercings
- Panties & lingerie
- Strict top/bottom
- Public sex
- Snowballing
- Brief somnophilia
« He would figure out soon enough that he and Carter were all wrong for each other. That he deserved better. That better might be… me? »
Aisle Be The Groom is a forbidden romance between Ozzie, sweet as pie but insecure about himself, and his fiancé’s dad, sexy cowboy ranch owner, Gray.
I loooooved the tension and the forbidden aspect, how caring and gentle Gray was with Ozzie. We love a man who knows how to worship their partner’s body.
“Ozzie, if in the future, you ever doubt you’re wanted, remember me. All I’ve done since we met was want you.”
Among all the sweet loving and sexiness, this read also packed some emotion. I teared up hearing Ozzie and his insecurities, how he thought he wasn’t lovable, wasn’t beautiful exactly how he is. I loved the positive body image rep, how happy and confident Ozzie was in the end.
“What are we doing, Gray?” “Hell if I know, sweetheart.”
The drama was a little too much for me, though. I didn’t like how it turned out, how it ended being extra crazy in the end.
Other than that, this was a fun and sexy read.
« Maybe we’re already playing with fire. As long as we don’t get burned, right? »
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Future father-in-law vs son’s fiancé
- Cheating (not between MCs)
- Age gap (24 years)
- Plus size MC
- Insecure MC
- Stuck in the rain
- Mentions of body/weight shaming
- MC w/ nipple piercings
- Panties & lingerie
- Strict top/bottom
- Public sex
- Snowballing
- Brief somnophilia
dnf
March 19, 2025Dnf’ed that a while ago, just remembered to shelve it. Premise sounded promising, but everything happened far too quickly for being a ‘taboo’ and the cheating didn’t sit right with me, even if the fiancé was a huge dick.
October 10, 2024
Read in a buddy read with the always lovely Lilly ❤️
Another great installment from Sage Abbott/Gianni Holmes.
In this one, we got a juicy tale of the groom falling for his fiance's father, and the father falling right back.
But this is unique in that Ozzie is plus-sized, and Gray is a sexy, handsome, rugged older man who still has definition on his chest and belly for his age. And he's completely and utterly smitten with Ozzie, who has a soft stomach, love handles, nipples that aren't flat, slightly chubby face, etc. As well as a dick on the smaller end.
And he's completely, 100% desired by this hot, older sexy man. We who are just average looking or plus-sized all wish we could find that for ourselves. It's a very rare thing indeed.
But Ozzie is more than how he looks. He's sweet and kind and loving, and so much more than Carter, his fiance and Gray's son, deserves.
From the get go, we the audience know that Carter is a piece of shit. How big of a piece of shit remains to be seen.
But of course, there is the cheating tag added to this, because Ozzie and Gray do have an affair behind Carter's back. Carter also cheats, and he's clearly not with Ozzie because of any real feelings. He clearly wants his inheritance from Gray, who owns a very big, successful ranch worth millions, and his sons Carter and Matty will inherent their own millions from him once they marry.
Carter is such a complete shithead that it barely even feels like they're cheating. And he treats Ozzie like such utter shit that I did not give a shit that they were technically cheating. Definitely once we meet him, I felt even less bad.
I was just like...Ozzie sweetie, get your hot, sexy man who treats you right and loves you how you should be loved! And also will fuck you six ways from sunday! Get it!
There's obviously an age-gap as well here, but Ozzie and Gray get along so well that that is never an issue. Their chemistry is fire and I loved every single second of them together. I couldn't enough of them, and Gray treating Ozzie like the prince he is.
I also loved how we got characters who reacted negatively to finding out they were together, and held onto it for a while, they didn't just immediately accept it or do a 180 after initially not accepting it. Like it's such good drama and I LOVED it. Like yes, let the mother and Carter stay assholes, let these two kick them out of their lives, essentially, for horrible behavior. Not everyone has to make up for our couple to get their HEA. I'm so happy Gianni Holmes leans into the drama and the shitty characters and lets characters get their HEA with not everyone's relationship wrapped up in a pretty bow.
Not only is it more realistic, but it's more fun and interesting to read.
And yeah, someone falling for and having an affair with their fiance's father *is* scandalous, so people having a negative reaction makes sense! (sideye-ing all you "stepbrother romance" authors) The town actually gossips and gives them looks at first when they find out! Like yes, give it to me!
I might not like Emma, Gray's (soon-to-be) ex-wife or Carter, but damn does their attitude's make for good drama (that actually makes sense for the narrative!)
So like, all the stars for that.
And also Ozzie getting to be with the man who makes him feel alive, who loves him for him, and appreciate's all that he is, all of his looks and is so turned on by him. And Gray finding a sweetheart who genuinely loves the ranch and all the animals and everything that comes with it, and who appreciate's Gray just as much.
They're perfect together, I absolutely loved this.
I can't wait for Matty, Gray's other (and non-asshole) son and Hudson, one of the ranch hands, romance. They're giving either friends or lovers to enemies to lovers and I'm living for it. And if there's anyone I trust to give a good enemies-to-lovers book, it's Gianni Holmes. So I can't wait!
Onto the next! 😍
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Another great installment from Sage Abbott/Gianni Holmes.
In this one, we got a juicy tale of the groom falling for his fiance's father, and the father falling right back.
But this is unique in that Ozzie is plus-sized, and Gray is a sexy, handsome, rugged older man who still has definition on his chest and belly for his age. And he's completely and utterly smitten with Ozzie, who has a soft stomach, love handles, nipples that aren't flat, slightly chubby face, etc. As well as a dick on the smaller end.
And he's completely, 100% desired by this hot, older sexy man. We who are just average looking or plus-sized all wish we could find that for ourselves. It's a very rare thing indeed.
But Ozzie is more than how he looks. He's sweet and kind and loving, and so much more than Carter, his fiance and Gray's son, deserves.
From the get go, we the audience know that Carter is a piece of shit. How big of a piece of shit remains to be seen.
But of course, there is the cheating tag added to this, because Ozzie and Gray do have an affair behind Carter's back. Carter also cheats, and he's clearly not with Ozzie because of any real feelings. He clearly wants his inheritance from Gray, who owns a very big, successful ranch worth millions, and his sons Carter and Matty will inherent their own millions from him once they marry.
Carter is such a complete shithead that it barely even feels like they're cheating. And he treats Ozzie like such utter shit that I did not give a shit that they were technically cheating. Definitely once we meet him, I felt even less bad.
I was just like...Ozzie sweetie, get your hot, sexy man who treats you right and loves you how you should be loved! And also will fuck you six ways from sunday! Get it!
There's obviously an age-gap as well here, but Ozzie and Gray get along so well that that is never an issue. Their chemistry is fire and I loved every single second of them together. I couldn't enough of them, and Gray treating Ozzie like the prince he is.
I also loved how we got characters who reacted negatively to finding out they were together, and held onto it for a while, they didn't just immediately accept it or do a 180 after initially not accepting it. Like it's such good drama and I LOVED it. Like yes, let the mother and Carter stay assholes, let these two kick them out of their lives, essentially, for horrible behavior. Not everyone has to make up for our couple to get their HEA. I'm so happy Gianni Holmes leans into the drama and the shitty characters and lets characters get their HEA with not everyone's relationship wrapped up in a pretty bow.
Not only is it more realistic, but it's more fun and interesting to read.
And yeah, someone falling for and having an affair with their fiance's father *is* scandalous, so people having a negative reaction makes sense! (sideye-ing all you "stepbrother romance" authors) The town actually gossips and gives them looks at first when they find out! Like yes, give it to me!
I might not like Emma, Gray's (soon-to-be) ex-wife or Carter, but damn does their attitude's make for good drama (that actually makes sense for the narrative!)
So like, all the stars for that.
And also Ozzie getting to be with the man who makes him feel alive, who loves him for him, and appreciate's all that he is, all of his looks and is so turned on by him. And Gray finding a sweetheart who genuinely loves the ranch and all the animals and everything that comes with it, and who appreciate's Gray just as much.
They're perfect together, I absolutely loved this.
I can't wait for Matty, Gray's other (and non-asshole) son and Hudson, one of the ranch hands, romance. They're giving either friends or lovers to enemies to lovers and I'm living for it. And if there's anyone I trust to give a good enemies-to-lovers book, it's Gianni Holmes. So I can't wait!
Onto the next! 😍
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
November 7, 2024
Good lawwwwdddd, I finally managed to finished it. Reading this book on and off for like a month says a lot.
October 7, 2024
Aisle Be The Groom is an entertaining forbidden romance between the groom-to-be Ozzie and his future father-in-law Gray. These two have great chemistry, their connection is instant, and due to their complicated situation, they must overcome many hurdles due to their forbidden love.
I love the building of the relationship and how protective and loving Gray is towards Ozzie. Gray's kindness and patience make for quite the perfect partner and Ozzie cannot help but fall for this earnest man. Ozzie on the other hand has no idea how sugary sweet and kind-hearted he is. I love these two together and how they fight for one another without shame.
Overall this was such a breath of fresh air. A lovely low-angst story that made me fall hard for these characters and made me excited to get more from Matty and Hudson because I know that will be another complicated romance.
** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.**
I love the building of the relationship and how protective and loving Gray is towards Ozzie. Gray's kindness and patience make for quite the perfect partner and Ozzie cannot help but fall for this earnest man. Ozzie on the other hand has no idea how sugary sweet and kind-hearted he is. I love these two together and how they fight for one another without shame.
Overall this was such a breath of fresh air. A lovely low-angst story that made me fall hard for these characters and made me excited to get more from Matty and Hudson because I know that will be another complicated romance.
** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.**
October 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
this was a sweet and sexy, fast-paced story that i really enjoyed. sage abbott is a favorite writer and i love the way she just pulls me into her little worlds each time i open one of her books.
this writer does insta-love quite often, but i think this was one time where i think i just needed a slower burn. the relationship happened kind of quickly and felt just a touch unrealistic for me. but i did love ozzie and gray as a couple and i really enjoyed some of the side characters we had.
very, very interested to see what’s going on with matty and hudson. also fuck carter.
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
this was a sweet and sexy, fast-paced story that i really enjoyed. sage abbott is a favorite writer and i love the way she just pulls me into her little worlds each time i open one of her books.
this writer does insta-love quite often, but i think this was one time where i think i just needed a slower burn. the relationship happened kind of quickly and felt just a touch unrealistic for me. but i did love ozzie and gray as a couple and i really enjoyed some of the side characters we had.
very, very interested to see what’s going on with matty and hudson. also fuck carter.
October 11, 2024
I must be on a role or something because the books ive been reading have been soo good. This one damn near takes the cake. Loved it!!! Ozzie and Gray are so damn sweet and swoony and sexy. The love you can feel, the passion you can see, and the heart you can love. One of my top reads for the year for sure!! Can’t wait for Hudson and Marty I need their book with the quickness!!!!
October 11, 2024
I better not see Carter get a redemption story 😒
October 14, 2024
Oh…my goodness. I just adored this story. Gianni Holmes, writing as Sage Abbott, never fails to write an enjoyable story that I devour in one sitting. Aisle Be the Groom was that story for me today. Ozzie is planning a wedding to Carter, a spoiled man who treats Ozzie like trash. He plans the wedding at Carter’s father’s ranch. While there, Ozzie and Gray, realize that they have feelings for each other. I loved the way that Gray talked about Ozzie and how he loved him for who he was. I kept waiting for Ozzie to realize that Carter was a jerk and did not love him. It was very satisfying when he confronted Carter. Though the depths of Carter’s machinations was surprising to me. I desperately need Matty and Hudson’s story. What happened there? I just really, really loved this one and I know it will be a reread for me.
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review
October 7, 2024
3.5 stars
Ozzie, a young, adorable, sweet man, is about to marry his fiancé Carter at his father's ranch in a couple of weeks. The grooms should have gone there to organise the wedding, but Carter decided to have a last trip with his mates to the Caribbean, sending Ozzie to the ranch alone.
During these days Ozzie spends alone with his father in law, he starts feeling more and more attracted to the man and also, he starts to understand how awful Carter has been to him during their relationship.
Gray is a wonderful man, hard worker, kind, easy going, well respected in his community. Gray is also bisexual and he's very much attracted to his soon-to-be son in law.
I liked how the relationship between the two of them evolved from a tentative friendship to something more, something sensual, strong and, especially, right.
Of course drama has to expected since Carter is still in the picture, but I loved how Gray was determined to make things work with Ozzie, once he surrendered to their love.
The sex scenes were steamy but also so romantic and emotional, particularly because we can see that Ozzie is finally feeling cherished.
So, what prevented me from giving a higher rate?
Throughout all the book we have proof of how awful Carter had been with Ozzie for two years: how he bullied him, neglected him, how he only had sex with him for his own pleasure, how he constantly made him feel uncomfortable, unwanted, unappreciated. How he mocked him privately and publicly. How he cheated on him over and over.
And yet no one said that Carter was abusive and toxic, no one made him feel horrible for what he did, not his father, not his brother not his mother (who was awful and judgemental to Ozzie too). They were all focused on the fact that Gray and Ozzie were together.
Matty disappointed me, he was pretty fast in judging Ozzie and then he played neutral with his selfish brother.
Their mother was the worst ever, her presence in the story had the only purpose of creating drama and it honestly bothered me to no end that Gray had still affection for her when he said at the beginning of the story that they haven't even talked to each other for about a year. She justified her son cheating on Ozzie then she played the role of the moralist with Gray...
I'm going to be honest, all these people almost ruined the story for me.
I'm going to give Matty another chance when his book will come out, especially because I loved seeing him cuddling that adorable little girl.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Ozzie, a young, adorable, sweet man, is about to marry his fiancé Carter at his father's ranch in a couple of weeks. The grooms should have gone there to organise the wedding, but Carter decided to have a last trip with his mates to the Caribbean, sending Ozzie to the ranch alone.
During these days Ozzie spends alone with his father in law, he starts feeling more and more attracted to the man and also, he starts to understand how awful Carter has been to him during their relationship.
Gray is a wonderful man, hard worker, kind, easy going, well respected in his community. Gray is also bisexual and he's very much attracted to his soon-to-be son in law.
I liked how the relationship between the two of them evolved from a tentative friendship to something more, something sensual, strong and, especially, right.
Of course drama has to expected since Carter is still in the picture, but I loved how Gray was determined to make things work with Ozzie, once he surrendered to their love.
The sex scenes were steamy but also so romantic and emotional, particularly because we can see that Ozzie is finally feeling cherished.
So, what prevented me from giving a higher rate?
Throughout all the book we have proof of how awful Carter had been with Ozzie for two years: how he bullied him, neglected him, how he only had sex with him for his own pleasure, how he constantly made him feel uncomfortable, unwanted, unappreciated. How he mocked him privately and publicly. How he cheated on him over and over.
And yet no one said that Carter was abusive and toxic, no one made him feel horrible for what he did, not his father, not his brother not his mother (who was awful and judgemental to Ozzie too). They were all focused on the fact that Gray and Ozzie were together.
Matty disappointed me, he was pretty fast in judging Ozzie and then he played neutral with his selfish brother.
Their mother was the worst ever, her presence in the story had the only purpose of creating drama and it honestly bothered me to no end that Gray had still affection for her when he said at the beginning of the story that they haven't even talked to each other for about a year. She justified her son cheating on Ozzie then she played the role of the moralist with Gray...
I'm going to be honest, all these people almost ruined the story for me.
I'm going to give Matty another chance when his book will come out, especially because I loved seeing him cuddling that adorable little girl.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
October 9, 2024
This was my first book by Sage Abbott. I loved it! Loved watching Ozzie & Gray fall in love. Their story was definitely unconventional but their love got them through quite a storm. I’m so glad that Ozzie stood up to Carter in the end. I spent a lot of this book disliking Carter! Grrr. Loved getting to know the people Bristlecone Springs. Looking forward to more books set in this world.
December 10, 2025
3.5 rounded down!
I absolutely adored Ozzie and Gray - truly everything about them!!! I just hated that they barely had anyone on their side, and I didn't buy that Carter masterminded the whole thing especially when it seemed like he shocked himself when he lashed out and called Ozzie sloppy seconds? Idk. I also didn't like Emma, and I felt like the epilogue had an unnecessary spoiler.
I absolutely adored Ozzie and Gray - truly everything about them!!! I just hated that they barely had anyone on their side, and I didn't buy that Carter masterminded the whole thing especially when it seemed like he shocked himself when he lashed out and called Ozzie sloppy seconds? Idk. I also didn't like Emma, and I felt like the epilogue had an unnecessary spoiler.
October 12, 2024
4.5 stars, rounded. I adored this. I already love many of Gianni’s books, so reading a book under her alter ego was bound to be an enjoyable experience. This book hit every trope that usually interests me, in regards to MM romances at least. An insecure MC? Check. A man that loves said MC for who he is and lifts him up mentally? Check. Forbidden romance? Check. Age gap? Check. Scenes that showcase the insecure MC getting his feelings hurt? Check. Check. Check. Plus-size representation was also shown in this book, and it was beautiful in my opinion. Ozzie was so cute, and Gray was so protective and loving towards him. I’m intrigued by the next book, which I assume will be Matty and Hudson’s story. In the meantime, I’ll be rereading this.
October 12, 2024
An MF pretending to be an MM. The writing was hackneyed and cliche. The characters were badly written and more than one was toxic. The dialogue was awkward in all scenes between the MCs. Badly introduced and corny romance tropes abounded. The entire book was eye rolling cringe. MF readers come to MM romance to get away from shabbily written, filler books like this which abound in the MF genre. Disappointing to see it here.
I usually move on and don’t review books as bad as this one, but I didn’t enjoy one single scene and that needs a mention.
I usually move on and don’t review books as bad as this one, but I didn’t enjoy one single scene and that needs a mention.
August 18, 2025
5 ⭐️
Edit: Came to update because I can’t stop thinking about this book. 🥹
Original: 3.75 ⭐️
Edit: Came to update because I can’t stop thinking about this book. 🥹
Original: 3.75 ⭐️
October 12, 2024
3.5 ✨️
Drama, baby, drama 💅
Drama, baby, drama 💅
October 18, 2024
While the premise of this book intrigued me, and as much as I liked Ozzie and Gray together, the crap that Ozzie put up with from his so-called fiance and having Ozzie take a while to realize the man wasn't for him, was a bit frustrating. And the way the story plays out, Carter gets what he's manipulated both his dad and Ozzie for. Carter and Emma are the worst and i liked Ozzie and Gray's HEA, but I'm still frustrated at the gall of Carter.
June 8, 2025
New to me author just made a fan out of me
The blurb for this story got me and I had to read it. I'm really glad I did too. It was a definite page-turner and guilty pleasure which was just what I needed. From the play on words in the title to the chaos of emotions to the kindle melting spice and the love of two people coming together in the most unexpected and forbidden way I fell in love. Ozzie and Gray are two people you don't think would suit each other but they do. Ozzie is in a relationship with Gray's son. They're engaged and planning a wedding that Gray insisted happen on his ranch and he'd pay for it as he's well off and has a big piece of land. He also has a strained relationship with his son Carter and wants the wedding on the ranch so he can spend some time with his son since Carter makes it a point to use his dad as a piggy bank and keeps clear of the country as he prefers big cities. Sadly, Ozzie has been emotionally abused by Carter for years from being insulted about his weight to letting Ozzie go out in the snow in a town he doesn't know to drop gifts off for his dad whom Carter makes an excuse to not see. That night in the snow after Ozzie has an accident with his car is when Ozzie and Gray first meet. And six months later Ozzie finds himself planning a wedding alone while Carter is off on a vacation to celebrate the "end of his freedom" and Ozzie and Gray find themselves in a sticky situation. The more time they spend together they can't deny that there's an attraction between them. Tensions are high as they feel guilty but with how mistreated Ozzie has been and how Gray just wants to see the man smile and be himself it's hard to not get closer especially when Gray shows Ozzie all the ways in which hes been deprived of his light and stifled by a man he can't be sure even loves him. When Ozzie gets to Gray's ranch his confidence is low and he's willing to accept the treatment he's being given because he lost his value in himself. But being on Gray's ranch and with him slowly brings him back to himself. To the man, he was before Carter's cruelty. And there he fell in love and found the love of his life. Such a good forbidden romance. I hated Carter but Ozzie and Gray have my heart along with some of the other supporting characters! I can't wait to read more from this series and will have my eye out for Matty's story and hopefully one for Rowan as well!
The blurb for this story got me and I had to read it. I'm really glad I did too. It was a definite page-turner and guilty pleasure which was just what I needed. From the play on words in the title to the chaos of emotions to the kindle melting spice and the love of two people coming together in the most unexpected and forbidden way I fell in love. Ozzie and Gray are two people you don't think would suit each other but they do. Ozzie is in a relationship with Gray's son. They're engaged and planning a wedding that Gray insisted happen on his ranch and he'd pay for it as he's well off and has a big piece of land. He also has a strained relationship with his son Carter and wants the wedding on the ranch so he can spend some time with his son since Carter makes it a point to use his dad as a piggy bank and keeps clear of the country as he prefers big cities. Sadly, Ozzie has been emotionally abused by Carter for years from being insulted about his weight to letting Ozzie go out in the snow in a town he doesn't know to drop gifts off for his dad whom Carter makes an excuse to not see. That night in the snow after Ozzie has an accident with his car is when Ozzie and Gray first meet. And six months later Ozzie finds himself planning a wedding alone while Carter is off on a vacation to celebrate the "end of his freedom" and Ozzie and Gray find themselves in a sticky situation. The more time they spend together they can't deny that there's an attraction between them. Tensions are high as they feel guilty but with how mistreated Ozzie has been and how Gray just wants to see the man smile and be himself it's hard to not get closer especially when Gray shows Ozzie all the ways in which hes been deprived of his light and stifled by a man he can't be sure even loves him. When Ozzie gets to Gray's ranch his confidence is low and he's willing to accept the treatment he's being given because he lost his value in himself. But being on Gray's ranch and with him slowly brings him back to himself. To the man, he was before Carter's cruelty. And there he fell in love and found the love of his life. Such a good forbidden romance. I hated Carter but Ozzie and Gray have my heart along with some of the other supporting characters! I can't wait to read more from this series and will have my eye out for Matty's story and hopefully one for Rowan as well!
December 13, 2024
I might regret continuing putting off my ARCs until closer to their due date...but at least I'm getting things crossed off my (many) TBR list(s). Here's Sage Abbott's "Aisle Be The Groom." It's the first novel in her latest series, Bristlecone Springs.
["I always dreamed of a perfect wedding. But when my fiancé jets off to the Caribbean, leaving me stranded on a Colorado ranch to plan everything alone, that dream crumbles.
Then his father, Gray, steps in to help. But with every moment we spend together, something shifts. Gray makes me feel wanted, desired, and sexy—the way every big boy dreams of feeling.
The pull between us is undeniable. But can I cancel my wedding to my fiancé when the one I've fallen for is his father?
My affair with Gray might be forbidden, but my heart is ready to risk it all."]
Warning: there is some cheating in this, BUT (and here's be justifying cheating (in the sake of a fictional novel where our MCs get a HEA)) Ozzie's fiancé is a piece of shit, and Gray's marriage is open and practically nonexistent. And these two belong together.
Gray shows Ozzie everything wrong with his relationship/almost-marriage without even trying, just simply existing and being himself. Being a kind-hearted, caring gentleman shows Ozzie how horrible his sham of a boyfriend is. And helps Ozzie fall in love with Gray (and Bristlecone Springs).
And Ozzie reminds Gray what happiness is, what passion is, what dreaming and hoping and loving is. Gray is content, for once in his life, all the while he's internally battling his son (who he was hoping to finally connect with) and Ozzie (who just might be the love of his life).
I'm OBSESSED with this town. I want more of it. I want background on some of it. I want more drama and spice and HEAs.
Trigger Warnings: cheating, fat shaming, bullying, and more.
#aislebethegroom #marrymemaybe #bristleconesprings #bristleconespringsseries #sageabbott #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["I always dreamed of a perfect wedding. But when my fiancé jets off to the Caribbean, leaving me stranded on a Colorado ranch to plan everything alone, that dream crumbles.
Then his father, Gray, steps in to help. But with every moment we spend together, something shifts. Gray makes me feel wanted, desired, and sexy—the way every big boy dreams of feeling.
The pull between us is undeniable. But can I cancel my wedding to my fiancé when the one I've fallen for is his father?
My affair with Gray might be forbidden, but my heart is ready to risk it all."]
Warning: there is some cheating in this, BUT (and here's be justifying cheating (in the sake of a fictional novel where our MCs get a HEA)) Ozzie's fiancé is a piece of shit, and Gray's marriage is open and practically nonexistent. And these two belong together.
Gray shows Ozzie everything wrong with his relationship/almost-marriage without even trying, just simply existing and being himself. Being a kind-hearted, caring gentleman shows Ozzie how horrible his sham of a boyfriend is. And helps Ozzie fall in love with Gray (and Bristlecone Springs).
And Ozzie reminds Gray what happiness is, what passion is, what dreaming and hoping and loving is. Gray is content, for once in his life, all the while he's internally battling his son (who he was hoping to finally connect with) and Ozzie (who just might be the love of his life).
I'm OBSESSED with this town. I want more of it. I want background on some of it. I want more drama and spice and HEAs.
Trigger Warnings: cheating, fat shaming, bullying, and more.
#aislebethegroom #marrymemaybe #bristleconesprings #bristleconespringsseries #sageabbott #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
October 19, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: forbidden (fiancé's dad), age gap, forced proximity
Aisle Be The Groom was an enjoyable and tension filled forbidden romance!
Ozzie was an absolute sweetheart and I hated how his fiancé was treating him, and it was obvious from Ozzie's ways of thinking about himself at the beginning of the story that the verbal abuse wasn't anything new. It hurt to see how he was treated and dismissed by the person who was supposed to love and marry him, and the story packed a bit more of emotion than I thought it would.
The attraction between Ozzie and Gray was fierce, and it was sweet to see how Ozzie's confidence grew and how he started to find the way back to himself after spending time with Gray on the ranch. I loved that Ozzie was a bigger guy who enjoyed lacy and sexy lingerie, and even if he didn't have the best thoughts about himself initially, Gray was great with him and helped boost his confidence as well.
There was a bit of drama, as to be expected with the forbidden romance theme, and while I didn't love all of it, I quite enjoyed the twists and turns. The tension was well written and the pull between these two was fantastic - I loved the relationship development and how protective and loving Gray was.
Aisle Be The Groom was an enjoyable and sweet romance, with low angst and a lot of chemistry. Ozzie definitely deserved someone who was as loving and sweet to him as Gray was, and I loved the way they found each other while being on the ranch together. There were some interesting side characters introduced here, and I really hope that we get Matty and Hudson's story!
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Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: forbidden (fiancé's dad), age gap, forced proximity
Aisle Be The Groom was an enjoyable and tension filled forbidden romance!
Ozzie was an absolute sweetheart and I hated how his fiancé was treating him, and it was obvious from Ozzie's ways of thinking about himself at the beginning of the story that the verbal abuse wasn't anything new. It hurt to see how he was treated and dismissed by the person who was supposed to love and marry him, and the story packed a bit more of emotion than I thought it would.
The attraction between Ozzie and Gray was fierce, and it was sweet to see how Ozzie's confidence grew and how he started to find the way back to himself after spending time with Gray on the ranch. I loved that Ozzie was a bigger guy who enjoyed lacy and sexy lingerie, and even if he didn't have the best thoughts about himself initially, Gray was great with him and helped boost his confidence as well.
There was a bit of drama, as to be expected with the forbidden romance theme, and while I didn't love all of it, I quite enjoyed the twists and turns. The tension was well written and the pull between these two was fantastic - I loved the relationship development and how protective and loving Gray was.
Aisle Be The Groom was an enjoyable and sweet romance, with low angst and a lot of chemistry. Ozzie definitely deserved someone who was as loving and sweet to him as Gray was, and I loved the way they found each other while being on the ranch together. There were some interesting side characters introduced here, and I really hope that we get Matty and Hudson's story!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 4, 2024
When your fiance abandons you to plan your wedding, living it up on a Carribean vacation, and continually decides to be a giant dick what do you do? Obviously, you fuck his dad.
One, reading this book made me want to reread Lawson and Opie's story: Dead Daddy, Please Love Me. Two, this book was a ridiculously fun read. Three, Rowan absolutely needs a book.
Ozzie is an absolute sweetheart. His fiance isn't supportive, caring, or loving. Ozzie is gaslit and his sparkle has dimmed. But being on the ranch, being appreciated by Gray really brings him back to life.
These two are so into each other. Gray and Ozzie really don't have a choice when it comes to being together. Fiance or no.
I loved how Ozzie gets his confidence back. I love how Gray loves and defends Ozzie.
AISLE BE THE GROOM is a terrible name for a book, but I really really enjoyed it. There aren't enough stories with plus size mcs. And who doesn't love the idea of falling in love with your crappy ex's dad?
If you're looking for a book with spice, cheating *not between mcs*, plus size mc in lingerie, dirty talking ranch owners, size difference, fiancé's dad, and learning to love yourself : AISLE BE THE GROOM will be right up your alley!
Available October 8th!
One, reading this book made me want to reread Lawson and Opie's story: Dead Daddy, Please Love Me. Two, this book was a ridiculously fun read. Three, Rowan absolutely needs a book.
Ozzie is an absolute sweetheart. His fiance isn't supportive, caring, or loving. Ozzie is gaslit and his sparkle has dimmed. But being on the ranch, being appreciated by Gray really brings him back to life.
These two are so into each other. Gray and Ozzie really don't have a choice when it comes to being together. Fiance or no.
I loved how Ozzie gets his confidence back. I love how Gray loves and defends Ozzie.
AISLE BE THE GROOM is a terrible name for a book, but I really really enjoyed it. There aren't enough stories with plus size mcs. And who doesn't love the idea of falling in love with your crappy ex's dad?
If you're looking for a book with spice, cheating *not between mcs*, plus size mc in lingerie, dirty talking ranch owners, size difference, fiancé's dad, and learning to love yourself : AISLE BE THE GROOM will be right up your alley!
Available October 8th!
October 6, 2024
This book was so full of romance it made my heart sing. It was sweet rugged and thought provoking. Ozzie I think from the start you will love. He loves with his whole heart. he's supposed to marry someone that he thought was the one. Over time he realizes just how terrible this guy is. While planning the wedding he's shipped off to the grooms fathers house. little did Ozzie know he would fall for the grooms dad.
So I need to be honest. I'm not a fan of the "cheating" reads. It's one of those books where you can see the morally gray in cheating. Ozzie's soon to be x groom is an arse hat of epic proportions. And the dad was there to save Ozzie from ruining his life
Unfortunately both dad and Ozzie come to the realization of how terrible the x is. But it brings them closer together.
I adored both the characters and you know two more characters are coming to a book soon. Matty and Hudson. She did a fantastic job weaving these two in. Their book is coming soon.
What I kind of felt like something was hanging was the selfish narcissistic x. Did the author want to not tarnish him to hell or can we expect the book from Carter to redeem himself. If that's the case I can't wait to see her bringing him to his breaking point and give the reader the other side.
We shall see.
So I need to be honest. I'm not a fan of the "cheating" reads. It's one of those books where you can see the morally gray in cheating. Ozzie's soon to be x groom is an arse hat of epic proportions. And the dad was there to save Ozzie from ruining his life
Unfortunately both dad and Ozzie come to the realization of how terrible the x is. But it brings them closer together.
I adored both the characters and you know two more characters are coming to a book soon. Matty and Hudson. She did a fantastic job weaving these two in. Their book is coming soon.
What I kind of felt like something was hanging was the selfish narcissistic x. Did the author want to not tarnish him to hell or can we expect the book from Carter to redeem himself. If that's the case I can't wait to see her bringing him to his breaking point and give the reader the other side.
We shall see.
October 6, 2024
Aisle Be The Groom is the story of Ozzie and Gray. Ozzie is engaged to Carter, who is one of Gray's sons. Gray has offered to pay for their wedding if they have it as his ranch. Ozzie and Carter are meant to go to Gray's and plan the wedding together, but Carter decides to head on a Caribbean vacation... without Ozzie. So, Ozzie goes to Gray's ranch without him.
Ozzie is a bigger guy, and while there is mutual attraction between Ozzie and Gray, Ozzie has never known what it feels like to truly be wanted. It's clear from the beginning that Carter doesn't care for Ozzie. He calls him names related to his weight, and doesn't want to be seen in public with him. There is an ulterior motive for Carter wanting to get married but I won't divulge that. Ozzie is one of those characters that sees the good everywhere, while suffering from bad self esteem. Ozzie has become one of my favorite characters, I truly felt for him in this story. And I absolutely loved the way Gray treated Ozzie with absolutely zero inhibitions, he loved everything about Ozzie and wasn't afraid to show that.
I absolutely loved this first book of the Bristlecone Springs series, and I can't wait to read more, I'm especially curious to see Matty's story.
Ozzie is a bigger guy, and while there is mutual attraction between Ozzie and Gray, Ozzie has never known what it feels like to truly be wanted. It's clear from the beginning that Carter doesn't care for Ozzie. He calls him names related to his weight, and doesn't want to be seen in public with him. There is an ulterior motive for Carter wanting to get married but I won't divulge that. Ozzie is one of those characters that sees the good everywhere, while suffering from bad self esteem. Ozzie has become one of my favorite characters, I truly felt for him in this story. And I absolutely loved the way Gray treated Ozzie with absolutely zero inhibitions, he loved everything about Ozzie and wasn't afraid to show that.
I absolutely loved this first book of the Bristlecone Springs series, and I can't wait to read more, I'm especially curious to see Matty's story.
October 21, 2024
This book had the perfect balance of a sweet romance, humor, and steam (so 🔥🥵). The MCs are not perfect but are completely loveable, which makes their story so perfect.
Just when Ozzie thinks hes found his fairytale ending, life throws him a curve ball in a form of a very sexy father in law, Gray. I don't blame Ozzie for falling for Gray...cause swoon....he's so sexy, sweet, considerate, and supporting. Everything poor Ozzie needed in his life. Gray was just living day to day without actually living life. But Ozzie being so sweet and full of life, showed Gray that there was more in life to appreciate and love than what he had allowed himself.
I'm not gonna lie, I did go into this book a little wary cause cheating is a big no thank you for me. But the author created a beautiful story of finding true love and readjusting a dream to reality that the I couldn't help but cheer the MCs on and love their HEA.
Now I need the next book cause there were so many secondary characters that just intrigued me.
Just when Ozzie thinks hes found his fairytale ending, life throws him a curve ball in a form of a very sexy father in law, Gray. I don't blame Ozzie for falling for Gray...cause swoon....he's so sexy, sweet, considerate, and supporting. Everything poor Ozzie needed in his life. Gray was just living day to day without actually living life. But Ozzie being so sweet and full of life, showed Gray that there was more in life to appreciate and love than what he had allowed himself.
I'm not gonna lie, I did go into this book a little wary cause cheating is a big no thank you for me. But the author created a beautiful story of finding true love and readjusting a dream to reality that the I couldn't help but cheer the MCs on and love their HEA.
Now I need the next book cause there were so many secondary characters that just intrigued me.
October 7, 2025
Well, frankly speaking, I did not assume that I would enjoy this book so much, yet, Aisle Be the Groom turned out to be an unexpected and a positively surprising one. The story of Ozzie and Gray was merely warm and soft and disarmingly real. I liked that Gray never made any attempts to transform Ozzie he simply looked at him, valued him and caused him to feel safe to be himself. Such love struck a dissimilar way.
Their chemistry was unquestionable, but what truly caught my attention was that the two did their best to do the right thing, although it all seemed so hectic. It was not too dramatic but in a very human manner, it was emotional. And Carter? Don't mention it. I was going to scream with him several times.
This was a so reassuring, low-angst romance that even made me feel something. I am already looking forward to more Bristlecone Springs.
This is where I leave you now To read Marry Me, Maybe? I can hardly wait to read another Bristlecone Springs romance!
Their chemistry was unquestionable, but what truly caught my attention was that the two did their best to do the right thing, although it all seemed so hectic. It was not too dramatic but in a very human manner, it was emotional. And Carter? Don't mention it. I was going to scream with him several times.
This was a so reassuring, low-angst romance that even made me feel something. I am already looking forward to more Bristlecone Springs.
This is where I leave you now To read Marry Me, Maybe? I can hardly wait to read another Bristlecone Springs romance!
October 10, 2024
I’m glad I gave this book a chance and I loved reading about Ozzie growing into a confident man and not tolerating rubbish from anyone and that's all thanks to Gray. I also loved how all in Gray was the moment he knew he wanted Ozzie and nothing was stopping him. I didn't expect that plot twist at the end but it’s crazy and made the book hotter. Looking forward to Matty & Hudson’s book 📖
November 9, 2024
Ozzie ends up at his future father-in-law's ranch in Colorado, without his future husband Carter. That guy is partying elsewhere, with all the stupidest arguments.
Ozzie has to plan the wedding on his own. Ozzie’s doubts are growing and valid.
Gray, the future father-in-law, helps him where he can.
Gray can’t deny his attraction to this sweet chubby guy. Who has low self-esteem, he heard too many times comments about his weight. (Yes Carter again, ugh)
The attraction is mutual, and they end up more bonded than Ozzie or Gray with Carter.
One thing leads to another, yes, you guessed right!
They are sweet and sexy together. Gray is the best for Ozzie, who finally found the love and appreciation he deserves!
Altogether a wonderfully written attractive story, I enjoyed reading!
Ozzie has to plan the wedding on his own. Ozzie’s doubts are growing and valid.
Gray, the future father-in-law, helps him where he can.
Gray can’t deny his attraction to this sweet chubby guy. Who has low self-esteem, he heard too many times comments about his weight. (Yes Carter again, ugh)
The attraction is mutual, and they end up more bonded than Ozzie or Gray with Carter.
One thing leads to another, yes, you guessed right!
They are sweet and sexy together. Gray is the best for Ozzie, who finally found the love and appreciation he deserves!
Altogether a wonderfully written attractive story, I enjoyed reading!
dnf
November 17, 2025DNF @3%
The way the author writes about fat bodies is so patronizing. It's like they thought they were being body positive, but it had the opposite effect. Plus, the writing is so juvenile and the interactions did not feel natural, and Gray's inner monologue was cringey. I only made it through the prologue and I couldn't do it.
The way the author writes about fat bodies is so patronizing. It's like they thought they were being body positive, but it had the opposite effect. Plus, the writing is so juvenile and the interactions did not feel natural, and Gray's inner monologue was cringey. I only made it through the prologue and I couldn't do it.
June 10, 2025
Unfortunately I really didn’t get on well with aisle be the groom, the characters were for me incredibly unlikeable and I just couldn’t connect with it.
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