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Axford Brothers #2
Hot Axe
Not yet published
Expected 17 Mar 26Falling in love with my straight best friend? Tragically inevitable.
Telling him? Completely out of the question.
Everyone in Winsome knows Robbie and I are a matched set. A package deal. Ames and Robbie, Robbie and Ames.
He’s the calm to my chaos. The sun shining through my rain cloud. The guy who convinced me to be a firefighter. The man who’s known every single thing about me since we were thirteen…
Except for the teeny, tiny, inconsequential fact that I’ve been in love with him for years.
I planned to take this secret to the grave. Robbie’s straight. He’s engaged. And I’m finally–finally–ready to move on.
But one uncontrollable blaze, one daring rescue, one inconvenient injury, and one heavily-medicated, wildly inappropriate love confession later, my plan’s up in flames.
Suddenly helpful, perfect, shirtless Robbie is bathing me, dressing me, and nursing me back to health. And if being around my gorgeous bestie 24/7 wasn’t torture enough, it seems I’m not the only one having un-platonic thoughts.
But there’s no way I’m letting myself fall into the fantasy again. Because if I let myself believe this is real and it isn’t, it won’t just break my heart… it’ll break us.
And I refuse to risk our friendship, no matter how tempting the man’s hot axe might be.
Telling him? Completely out of the question.
Everyone in Winsome knows Robbie and I are a matched set. A package deal. Ames and Robbie, Robbie and Ames.
He’s the calm to my chaos. The sun shining through my rain cloud. The guy who convinced me to be a firefighter. The man who’s known every single thing about me since we were thirteen…
Except for the teeny, tiny, inconsequential fact that I’ve been in love with him for years.
I planned to take this secret to the grave. Robbie’s straight. He’s engaged. And I’m finally–finally–ready to move on.
But one uncontrollable blaze, one daring rescue, one inconvenient injury, and one heavily-medicated, wildly inappropriate love confession later, my plan’s up in flames.
Suddenly helpful, perfect, shirtless Robbie is bathing me, dressing me, and nursing me back to health. And if being around my gorgeous bestie 24/7 wasn’t torture enough, it seems I’m not the only one having un-platonic thoughts.
But there’s no way I’m letting myself fall into the fantasy again. Because if I let myself believe this is real and it isn’t, it won’t just break my heart… it’ll break us.
And I refuse to risk our friendship, no matter how tempting the man’s hot axe might be.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 17, 2026
12 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could not put this book down until I finished it (at 3am!!! Sleep is overrated?!)
Ames and Robbie were so entertaining! I was actually really glad that we got the insight with Robbie's therapist to see how he has some pretty big realisations that are uncomfortable for him, but also one that is really exciting! It helped me feel more connected to Robbie and to be able to see how he switched from viewing Ames as his best friend to viewing him as the person he loves - a lot of the time that switch in thinking just seems to come out of the blue, so I liked that we really got to see every step of the way for Robbie finally seeing who he was and what he wanted.
Ames's injury and Robbie's reaction to it was so important for their story and I definitely felt emotional when Robbie was scared. Everyone around them realising what Robbie had realised was funny, but also adorable. The acceptance from everyone, not just the Axford family, is what I love about books with small towns that have a super supportive vibe.
I did want to shake Ames at times, but then I could also understand his reluctance to believe what was happening. I did like that Ames expressed some of his fears, but I would have liked a more in depth and serious conversation about his concerns between him and Robbie, rather than him trying to hide behind friends with benefits, or Robbie being so insistent and the conversation always being minimised. I feel like Ames put himself in Robbie's position to understand his new discovery even if he did mess up his reactions to what he was being told, but Robbie didn't necessarily do the same to really understand Ames's concerns about their friendship and the potential for massive emotional damage when he was trying to show Ames it was all real between them.
I loved the supporting cast again and I'm so excited for Holden to get a story because I always enjoy it so much more when it's an MC who has always been adamant that relationships aren't for them!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Ames and Robbie were so entertaining! I was actually really glad that we got the insight with Robbie's therapist to see how he has some pretty big realisations that are uncomfortable for him, but also one that is really exciting! It helped me feel more connected to Robbie and to be able to see how he switched from viewing Ames as his best friend to viewing him as the person he loves - a lot of the time that switch in thinking just seems to come out of the blue, so I liked that we really got to see every step of the way for Robbie finally seeing who he was and what he wanted.
Ames's injury and Robbie's reaction to it was so important for their story and I definitely felt emotional when Robbie was scared. Everyone around them realising what Robbie had realised was funny, but also adorable. The acceptance from everyone, not just the Axford family, is what I love about books with small towns that have a super supportive vibe.
I did want to shake Ames at times, but then I could also understand his reluctance to believe what was happening. I did like that Ames expressed some of his fears, but I would have liked a more in depth and serious conversation about his concerns between him and Robbie, rather than him trying to hide behind friends with benefits, or Robbie being so insistent and the conversation always being minimised. I feel like Ames put himself in Robbie's position to understand his new discovery even if he did mess up his reactions to what he was being told, but Robbie didn't necessarily do the same to really understand Ames's concerns about their friendship and the potential for massive emotional damage when he was trying to show Ames it was all real between them.
I loved the supporting cast again and I'm so excited for Holden to get a story because I always enjoy it so much more when it's an MC who has always been adamant that relationships aren't for them!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
- best friends to lovers
- bi-awakening
- series
This is the second in this fun series with the Axford brothers, and this time it's Ames' turn to find his HEA. I met both Robbie and Ames in the first book, and I just knew their story wasn't just best friends. Robbie is so delightfully oblivious for most of the book, a lot of the time when that happens in a book, I'm yelling at the pages 😂. I wasn't with this though, Robbie is such a happy golden retriever character that it's impossible to get annoyed at him. If anything I got annoyed at other people taking advantage of Robbie's good nature - but that was fleeting as I loved that worked on himself to realise and stand up for himself, and along the way realise his feelings for his best friend were perhaps not as platonic as he thought.
This is low angst, low drama and honestly I was here for it. There's a little mild peril when Ames gets hurt but that just serves to drive the story when Ames and Robbie end up together while Ames recuperates. I liked Ames too and I get where he was coming from with the walls he built round himself. Robbie was the one thing he thought he could never have and naturally he was wary, especially after thinking Robbie was straight all these years. I'm glad it wasn't drawn out before they sorted it out and it was just a fun read, exactly as I hoped it'd be. I love this series, I love the world May Archer has created and now I want the next story (Holden please and thank you)
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
- bi-awakening
- series
This is the second in this fun series with the Axford brothers, and this time it's Ames' turn to find his HEA. I met both Robbie and Ames in the first book, and I just knew their story wasn't just best friends. Robbie is so delightfully oblivious for most of the book, a lot of the time when that happens in a book, I'm yelling at the pages 😂. I wasn't with this though, Robbie is such a happy golden retriever character that it's impossible to get annoyed at him. If anything I got annoyed at other people taking advantage of Robbie's good nature - but that was fleeting as I loved that worked on himself to realise and stand up for himself, and along the way realise his feelings for his best friend were perhaps not as platonic as he thought.
This is low angst, low drama and honestly I was here for it. There's a little mild peril when Ames gets hurt but that just serves to drive the story when Ames and Robbie end up together while Ames recuperates. I liked Ames too and I get where he was coming from with the walls he built round himself. Robbie was the one thing he thought he could never have and naturally he was wary, especially after thinking Robbie was straight all these years. I'm glad it wasn't drawn out before they sorted it out and it was just a fun read, exactly as I hoped it'd be. I love this series, I love the world May Archer has created and now I want the next story (Holden please and thank you)
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
March 5, 2026
Recognizing your person is right there
I loved Ames and Robbie’s heartwarming and hilarious story as seen through the eyes of two very intense, strong and passionate characters. It had the perfect balance of humor, love, real life issues, and spice. Get ready for the fireworks, the feels, and the snark. I was feeling all the things as they worked through their stuff while I was sometimes low key yelling or rolling my eyes at them. Ames owns a restaurant in small town Winsome, VT and is a volunteer fire fighter. He’s a bit dramatic and frenetic. Robbie is the fire chief in town. He’s steady and solid. They’ve been best friends for 16 years and Ames has been in love with Robbie, his straight best friend, almost as long. His best friend that is engaged to be married to a woman. Ames has decided it’s time to get over his unrequited feelings and move on. It’s a great plan, until Ames is hurt in a fire and Robbie starts playing nursemaid 24/7. That’s when the real fun starts with the pining and the truth bombs and the panicking. It just made my sappy romantic found family loving heart so happy to read about these two characters dealing with all their relatable insecurities and finding their way to forever. I’m still swooning over their HEA. I love the Axford family and this quirky town of Winsome. I’m ready for the rest of the love stories.
I loved Ames and Robbie’s heartwarming and hilarious story as seen through the eyes of two very intense, strong and passionate characters. It had the perfect balance of humor, love, real life issues, and spice. Get ready for the fireworks, the feels, and the snark. I was feeling all the things as they worked through their stuff while I was sometimes low key yelling or rolling my eyes at them. Ames owns a restaurant in small town Winsome, VT and is a volunteer fire fighter. He’s a bit dramatic and frenetic. Robbie is the fire chief in town. He’s steady and solid. They’ve been best friends for 16 years and Ames has been in love with Robbie, his straight best friend, almost as long. His best friend that is engaged to be married to a woman. Ames has decided it’s time to get over his unrequited feelings and move on. It’s a great plan, until Ames is hurt in a fire and Robbie starts playing nursemaid 24/7. That’s when the real fun starts with the pining and the truth bombs and the panicking. It just made my sappy romantic found family loving heart so happy to read about these two characters dealing with all their relatable insecurities and finding their way to forever. I’m still swooning over their HEA. I love the Axford family and this quirky town of Winsome. I’m ready for the rest of the love stories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ames and Robbie…the best friendship of friendships. This book is a true friends to lovers. Everyone has just been waiting for Robbie to get on board.
The book starts with Robbie being engaged and planning his wedding. Ames is desperately trying to move on from his crush and distance this close friendship. So, you see where the book is headed. Robbie is the ultimate people pleaser. He wants to keep his fiancé happy, Ames happy, why doesn’t he feel right?? And, why doesn’t he like Ames dating the new guy?
May Archer weaves the best stories! First, you think you have an idea of where she is taking it, and she twists it another direction sooo much better and you can’t put it down! Second, this book involved some dramatic scenes I didn’t expect that literally had my heart racing (these two MCs are volunteer firefighters and they see some action). Third, the characters you can’t wait to see go away?? May is the best at making them go away in the best way, while making you love the MCs even more. Read. This. Book! ❤️
I laughed, I cuddled my cat, and I had to go lay down for a moment after one of the chapters!! Now, THAT is a great read!! Thank you, May!! I’m ready for the next in the Axford Brothers Series!
The book starts with Robbie being engaged and planning his wedding. Ames is desperately trying to move on from his crush and distance this close friendship. So, you see where the book is headed. Robbie is the ultimate people pleaser. He wants to keep his fiancé happy, Ames happy, why doesn’t he feel right?? And, why doesn’t he like Ames dating the new guy?
May Archer weaves the best stories! First, you think you have an idea of where she is taking it, and she twists it another direction sooo much better and you can’t put it down! Second, this book involved some dramatic scenes I didn’t expect that literally had my heart racing (these two MCs are volunteer firefighters and they see some action). Third, the characters you can’t wait to see go away?? May is the best at making them go away in the best way, while making you love the MCs even more. Read. This. Book! ❤️
I laughed, I cuddled my cat, and I had to go lay down for a moment after one of the chapters!! Now, THAT is a great read!! Thank you, May!! I’m ready for the next in the Axford Brothers Series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This very enjoyable instalment in the series features a very high stubbornness component (Ames) against Robbie who is the most patient man on earth especially when it comes to his bestie Ames. These two best friends know each other inside out and it was an absolute joy watching their friendship grow into more. It takes a bit of time for Robbie to get his head around the fact that he’s not as straight as he thought but once he does he’s all in. It’s Ames who struggles a bit with it as he’s been in love with Robbie forever and he’s so very scared. Once they negotiate their way through a couple of very real life dramatic scenarios that are work and family related these two wonderful men get a well deserved HEA that’s been sixteen years in the making. The drama is neatly balanced with steam, the Axford family still made me giggle and I loved the sneak peak into the next story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I know it’s an incredibly amazing book when it only takes me a couple hours to read it. I’m an avid reader and can average 2 books a day sometimes 3 depending the length and my free time. I was even surprised with myself with how quickly I devoured this book. Robbie and Amesie are one of my favorites. It is a true friends to lovers and I’m not usually a huge fan of those but this one was written beautifully. There was of course drama, them being firefighters and all, but it was well written and didn’t eclipse there growing relationship. The stubbornness was beyond comprehension yet made it entertaining and made me wanna yell at the two but it all worked out well and perfect for them both. I’m really looking forward to the next one about Holden. I received an ARC and am extremely glad I didn’t have to wait for the release date. May Archer is one of my favorites authors.
Review of advance copy received from Autore
And just like that another Axford brother gets his happily ever after and it was sweet agony. I was expecting more angst, but while the drama was low, the stubbornness was high. Luckily one of them was the right kind of stubborn and very patient. It was really great seeing Robbie realise his feelings, understand he was making a mistake, fight for what he wanted. Ames was so scared, his walls were hard to put down; he's been in loved with his bff since forever, it's hard not being afraid that being more might destroy it all. But stubbornness was strong in both the guys and the right kind won, as it should have!
And now we're getting a new brother's love story and I'm excited already after that epilogue!!
And now we're getting a new brother's love story and I'm excited already after that epilogue!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Like all of May Archer's books, this one was an utter delight! What impressed me most about this story was the author's witty, hilarious writing. I love a lighthearted romance, and this best-friends-to-lovers, bi-awakening story delivered beautifully. The character development was terrific; Robbie was the strong, solid foundation of their relationship while Ames was the shooting star that kept their relationship invigorating. The pacing of their emotional journey was spot-on and there was lots of fun along the way, along with some impactful action scenes. All of the side characters were interesting, relatable people and I look forward to the upcoming books in this Axford brothers series. Highly recommended!
March 7, 2026
Ames has been in love with his straight best friend, Robbie, for most of his life. After Robbie gets engaged, Ames is determined to get over him once and for all. After a series of events opens Robbie’s eyes to what’s been in front of him all along, he still has to out-stubborn his best friend and convince him he’s really all in.
May Archer literally never misses for me, and best friends to lovers? YES, PLEASE. Her characters and small towns have so much depth and always leave me wishing they were real. I’m constantly laughing out loud at the banter. Every book is just the perfect blend of humor, angst, spice, and swoon. This was easily one of my favorite reads so far this year!
May Archer literally never misses for me, and best friends to lovers? YES, PLEASE. Her characters and small towns have so much depth and always leave me wishing they were real. I’m constantly laughing out loud at the banter. Every book is just the perfect blend of humor, angst, spice, and swoon. This was easily one of my favorite reads so far this year!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Like most May Archer's book, this was one I devoured from start to finish in one evening.
I'm not the biggest fan of best friends-to-lovers but this was an enjoyable read. Ames has been in love with his straight best friend for years. Robbie is completely oblivious to Ames's feelings - or his own, tbh.
But when one fire goes wrong, Robbie has to face some harsh truths about what matters.
And when Robbie decides something, he's all in.
Holden next, perhaps? One can hope.
I'm not the biggest fan of best friends-to-lovers but this was an enjoyable read. Ames has been in love with his straight best friend for years. Robbie is completely oblivious to Ames's feelings - or his own, tbh.
But when one fire goes wrong, Robbie has to face some harsh truths about what matters.
And when Robbie decides something, he's all in.
Holden next, perhaps? One can hope.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So I absolutely adored this book. Ames and Robbie just made my heart go pitty pat. They had so much love between them that it was only natural for it to be their big love. The Axford family plays such a big supportive role in each others lives and I absolutely adore that. I can’t wait for Holdens book next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once I can't put the book down, I'm completely absorbed in the story and even forget I have an appointment, I know it's a fantastic story.
I've read several books by May Archer, and this one didn't disappoint. I'm looking forward to the next one.
I am glad I received this book through ARC and was able to write an honest review.
I've read several books by May Archer, and this one didn't disappoint. I'm looking forward to the next one.
I am glad I received this book through ARC and was able to write an honest review.
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March 6, 2026I received this book for an honest review
Ames and Robbie have been friends for year. It took a while for them to get into a relationship with Ames hesitation with accepting Robbie’s interest in him. He was trying to protect himself without rarely listening to Robbie overall, it was a good book.
Ames and Robbie have been friends for year. It took a while for them to get into a relationship with Ames hesitation with accepting Robbie’s interest in him. He was trying to protect himself without rarely listening to Robbie overall, it was a good book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4.5/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Ames and Robbie
RTC
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Ames and Robbie
RTC
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