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Mixed Messages #3
Risk Taker
Being in love with your best friend is hard.
Henry’s the odd man out. All his friends are settling down, and his reputation as the Hook-Up King of London seems more like a curse than a blessing these days. Especially when it keeps photojournalist Ivo, his best friend and the brilliant man he’s loved since they were fifteen, at arm’s length. But that’s where Ivo wants him, right? Putting aside his feelings, Henry decides to give up casual sex and look for the real deal. After all, he has no chance with Ivo - or does he?
Henry is everything to Ivo. Best friend, soul mate, the one person who has never let him down. The one person he is loyal to above everything and everyone. But Henry’s in a box marked best friend and that’s where Ivo’s kept him for nearly twenty years, despite steadily falling in love with the gentle man. And besides, why would Henry want to date Ivo? Burned out and injured, he’s the walking embodiment of damaged.
Distance has helped Henry and Ivo keep a lid on their attraction, but when they find themselves in the same city for a change—Ivo hurt and needing assistance, and Henry more than willing to provide it—the two best friends grow closer than ever, forcing a realization, and a decision. Risk their friendship for their hearts? Or can they have both?
From the bestselling author of Rule Breaker and Deal Maker comes a tender love story about two best friends who are perfect for each other, and always have been - if only they knew it.
This is the third book in the Mixed Messages series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Henry’s the odd man out. All his friends are settling down, and his reputation as the Hook-Up King of London seems more like a curse than a blessing these days. Especially when it keeps photojournalist Ivo, his best friend and the brilliant man he’s loved since they were fifteen, at arm’s length. But that’s where Ivo wants him, right? Putting aside his feelings, Henry decides to give up casual sex and look for the real deal. After all, he has no chance with Ivo - or does he?
Henry is everything to Ivo. Best friend, soul mate, the one person who has never let him down. The one person he is loyal to above everything and everyone. But Henry’s in a box marked best friend and that’s where Ivo’s kept him for nearly twenty years, despite steadily falling in love with the gentle man. And besides, why would Henry want to date Ivo? Burned out and injured, he’s the walking embodiment of damaged.
Distance has helped Henry and Ivo keep a lid on their attraction, but when they find themselves in the same city for a change—Ivo hurt and needing assistance, and Henry more than willing to provide it—the two best friends grow closer than ever, forcing a realization, and a decision. Risk their friendship for their hearts? Or can they have both?
From the bestselling author of Rule Breaker and Deal Maker comes a tender love story about two best friends who are perfect for each other, and always have been - if only they knew it.
This is the third book in the Mixed Messages series, but it can be read as a standalone.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2018
457 people are currently reading
1809 people want to read
About the author
Lily Morton
78 books3,296 followersLily is a bestselling gay romance author.
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
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She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10000...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lilymortonauthor
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 710 reviews
July 13, 2018
Let me first say that I absolutely *LOVED* the first two books in this series. They were funny and had tons of feels.
This book, well, there were parts that I completely adored, but also parts that drove me bat shit crazy.
The story started out well enough, with Henry deciding that he needed to move past his decades-long feelings for Ivo and look for love elsewhere -- just in time for Ivo to return home.
Then seeing the hilarious series of horrible first dates that Henry embarked upon thanks to his best friends' terrible matchmaking attempts, ahhhh, that's the stuff right there!
Except after a while, Henry's silent mooning over Ivo, and Ivo's unvoiced mooning over Henry started to grate on my nerves. And when they finally began hooking up, but avoided having "the talk" about defining what they both wanted at all costs, GAH!
Don't get me wrong, I love a good slow-burn, which this story started out being. However, I also like characters with not only a bit of emotional maturity, but enough guts to go after what they want -- without endlessly waffling about.
Henry and Ivo were *not* those types of MC's.
Here's one on-page example of that infuriating behavior, which lasted until about 80% into the book.
(This passage almost made me throw my eReader at a wall, true story.)
“You’re right,” I say quietly and with a fair amount of dread. “I need to talk to him.”#YesThisAngryLittleBunnyWasAngry
... [Todd sees a *glimmer* of hope, but then this] ...
Three days later I still haven’t managed it. Every time I get close, Ivo distracts me with sex or lively discussions on whatever is in his quicksilver mind at that moment and then more sex. I’ve gone along with him, only to wake up the next morning determined to have this out this time before I fail again. It’s been rinse and repeat.
I even tried this morning, but now I’m lying on the floor of the studio panting hard as he levers off my cock and rolls to my side. We’re covered in come and sweat and his hair is sticking up like he’s put his finger in a socket. He coils around me and I hug him automatically. Needless to say, we haven’t had any form of conversation apart from “fuck, that’s good” and “fuck me harder.”
And the fact that they constantly used sex as an avoidance measure made me start skimming pages the moment that clothes began hitting the floor.
But once they did finally divulge their feelings, there was *still* the elephant in the room of when, not if, Ivo would leave again, returning to the job that got him shot last time out.
The ending of the book turns out nearly perfect, but OMG, by that time, it was a bit too little, too late for me to completely forget my extreme levels of frustration just prior to the ending.
Overall, I did enjoy the story, but I also wanted to punch a couple of MC's in the throat chapter after chapter, so I'd rate this one at around 3.5 stars.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
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July 12, 2018
~4.5~
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways:
Romance: YES! Henry and Ivo have been in love since they were teens. Henry has unconsciously waited for Ivo all these years.
Ivo, an artist at heart, has wanderlust and is dedicated to his job as a photojournalist, because that's what his dad did; it's what he's expected to do. But Henry is Ivo's home, and Ivo always, always comes back.
Hurt/Comfort: Ivo is severely injured during his last trip to the Middle East. Henry finds him bloody and exhausted on his doorstep. Henry is always taking care of Ivo.
Family/Friendship: Henry has a wonderful relationship with his older brother Silas and his friends. Ivo is more of a loner.
Both have complicated relationships with their parents. At one point, Ivo was Henry's stepbrother. Ivo's mom, a practiced gold digger, was married to Henry's homophobic, abusive father. Ivo always comes when his mom calls, and Henry hates her for it.
Humour: SO MUCH YES. I loved the banter and the very Britishness of the dialogue. Henry's dates, especially the "standoff" at the restaurant, were absolutely hilarious.
My favourite thing about Lily Morton's books is how much they make me laugh, and I mean uncontrollable giggling & full-on belly laughs. JOY!
HEA: Eventually, YES, a glorious HEA (epilogue set five years in the future), but the men have to work for it.
Angst: Some, and it's all internally generated. Neither man wants to acknowledge how much he loves the other. Ivo especially resists talking about their relationship at all costs. This was so frustrating, and the only reason I rounded down instead of up.
Steam: HELL YES! So much hot sex, I can't even. These two have been lusting after one another for so long, once they connect, it's all systems GO.
The handjob scene at the restaurant was ... OMFG, SIZZLING. Also, the closet scene where Ivo played the, uh, coat servant? SEXY and FUNNY AF.
Standalone: YES. Henry was Gabe's roommate in college, so we do revisit with the MCs from the first two books here, but Risk Taker can be read as a standalone.
"All I could see was you, so bright and warm and gorgeous. You're the only thing I ever see."
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways:
Romance: YES! Henry and Ivo have been in love since they were teens. Henry has unconsciously waited for Ivo all these years.
Ivo, an artist at heart, has wanderlust and is dedicated to his job as a photojournalist, because that's what his dad did; it's what he's expected to do. But Henry is Ivo's home, and Ivo always, always comes back.
Hurt/Comfort: Ivo is severely injured during his last trip to the Middle East. Henry finds him bloody and exhausted on his doorstep. Henry is always taking care of Ivo.
Family/Friendship: Henry has a wonderful relationship with his older brother Silas and his friends. Ivo is more of a loner.
Both have complicated relationships with their parents. At one point, Ivo was Henry's stepbrother. Ivo's mom, a practiced gold digger, was married to Henry's homophobic, abusive father. Ivo always comes when his mom calls, and Henry hates her for it.
Humour: SO MUCH YES. I loved the banter and the very Britishness of the dialogue. Henry's dates, especially the "standoff" at the restaurant, were absolutely hilarious.
My favourite thing about Lily Morton's books is how much they make me laugh, and I mean uncontrollable giggling & full-on belly laughs. JOY!
HEA: Eventually, YES, a glorious HEA (epilogue set five years in the future), but the men have to work for it.
Angst: Some, and it's all internally generated. Neither man wants to acknowledge how much he loves the other. Ivo especially resists talking about their relationship at all costs. This was so frustrating, and the only reason I rounded down instead of up.
Steam: HELL YES! So much hot sex, I can't even. These two have been lusting after one another for so long, once they connect, it's all systems GO.
The handjob scene at the restaurant was ... OMFG, SIZZLING. Also, the closet scene where Ivo played the, uh, coat servant? SEXY and FUNNY AF.
Standalone: YES. Henry was Gabe's roommate in college, so we do revisit with the MCs from the first two books here, but Risk Taker can be read as a standalone.
"When I die, I'll have your name on my lips, and my last thought will be of you."
July 16, 2018
4.5
Lily Morton once again introduces two highly likeable characters in Ivo and Henry, in the third book in her Mixed Messages series.Can be read alone but I definitely recommend reading the two previous books.
A story of friends to lovers done in the absolute best way....
Henry and Ivo met when they were 15 and their friendship never wavered.After an encounter that wasn't when they were 18 they are firmly in the friend zone.
Now,as adults,Ivo's job as a Photojournalist means he's absent for long periods and so far Henry has been content with casual hook ups....but what if he wants more?, what if he's looking to settle down with that special someone?
It seems everyone else can see that they're made for each other but how long before they both realize that the one they've always wanted is right in front of them...
Lily Morton's books push so many buttons for me and this one is no exception,
-the wit and banter is always perfectly delivered,something she's becoming known for but it never gets old,never gets predictable or boring,
-the sex is just delicious here.I mean all those years of pent up longing unleashed! When these two get going there's no stopping them,
-I can think of a few Authors that keep it British and Lily Morton is right up there with them-one of the things I love about her books,
-the inclusion of Gabe & Dylan and Asa & Jude from previous books was just right and the dates that were set up for Henry by them were hilarious,
This was a joy to read and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
Review copy.
"You're the only thing I ever see"
Lily Morton once again introduces two highly likeable characters in Ivo and Henry, in the third book in her Mixed Messages series.Can be read alone but I definitely recommend reading the two previous books.
A story of friends to lovers done in the absolute best way....
Henry and Ivo met when they were 15 and their friendship never wavered.After an encounter that wasn't when they were 18 they are firmly in the friend zone.
Now,as adults,Ivo's job as a Photojournalist means he's absent for long periods and so far Henry has been content with casual hook ups....but what if he wants more?, what if he's looking to settle down with that special someone?
It seems everyone else can see that they're made for each other but how long before they both realize that the one they've always wanted is right in front of them...
Lily Morton's books push so many buttons for me and this one is no exception,
-the wit and banter is always perfectly delivered,something she's becoming known for but it never gets old,never gets predictable or boring,
-the sex is just delicious here.I mean all those years of pent up longing unleashed! When these two get going there's no stopping them,
-I can think of a few Authors that keep it British and Lily Morton is right up there with them-one of the things I love about her books,
-the inclusion of Gabe & Dylan and Asa & Jude from previous books was just right and the dates that were set up for Henry by them were hilarious,
This was a joy to read and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
Review copy.
July 28, 2018
BR Review with Lost
2.5 Hearts
Before I get into what didn't work for me let me just say how much I adored the first two books in this series. I actually pestered other people to read them because I loved them and wanted to share the love by force if necessary. I also pestered this author for a this book, so it actually pains me that I didn't love it as much as many other people, my co-reviewer included. Lastly, I will ABSOLUTELY read another book by Lily Morton even another one in this series. Especially if said book features Silas.
Risk Taker features Henry and his longtime best friend and ex-stepbrother, Ivo. Henry's been in love with Ivo since he first set eyes on him when they were boys but he's convinced himself that Ivo harbors only platonic feelings for him. Ivo and Henry have grown up together (something we get flashback glimpses of throughout the narrative) which typically is a trope that works for me. They know each other better than anyone else in the world, yet they cannot see the other's feelings? The feelings that were aliens to land and observe them would be like, ‘they’re into each other, no?’ or whatever the alien equivalent is. Maybe it’s a case of being too close to the situation to see it clearly but something about it didn't jive for me.
We get both of their perspectives and Ivo mirrors Henry's feelings. On top of that he's quite possessive and jealous particularly when Henry begins a series of horrific dates set up by his best friend Gabe who arranges a plethora of awful blokes for Henry to go out with in an effort to force Ivo’s hand. Henry is unaware of Gabe's ulterior motives and is subjected to a couple of truly humiliating experiences; however, he's making a good faith effort to put Ivo behind him so he soldiers on despite Ivo's increasingly bad mood and glowering.
Ivo is a photojournalist who's narrowly missed being killed by a car bomb and subsequent shoot-out when he returns to his and Henry's shared home. Expect a heavier feel to this installment due to Ivo's mental health issues; I would classify this as new adult and hurt/comfort. Truthfully, I wasn't expecting the heaviness and I missed the comedic elements found in the first two. The mental health aspects were handled well, not magically cured. But I didn't care for how Ivo, and Henry to a lesser extent, seemed to use Ivo's job as reason enough to continue the push/pull between them nor did I care for how this storyline abruptly played out. It was sweet and the sappy marshmallow in me responded, but it felt too convenient, too easy.
Henry and Ivo are opposites in many ways excepting their stubbornness. Both have atrocious communication skills which ordinarily doesn't bother me but it really became too much for me when coupled with the fact that both of them have, at one point or another, declared their feelings for the other yet they both continue to cling to this notion that they're piloting their love boats solo. It seemed contrived when literally all evidence points to the contrary.
Once they add sex into the mix and continued to hold firm to this non-communication track until a highly awkward and seemingly unnecessarily catty confrontation in a crowded club with Henry's ex-boyfriend forces both of their hands was the straw that broke my back. I hate dramatics in my life and in my reads so take that with a grain of salt. I need for people to use their words. I understand that’s scary sometimes but two supposed best friends since childhood who are closer than any two people can be should be able to have an adult conversation.
Dramatics aside they have chemistry galore and I thoroughly enjoyed their newly discovered kink for semi-public sex. I also enjoyed Henry's clotheshorseness and how much of his time is spent on sartorial matters.
Few authors are more capable of showing a connection between protagonists than Lily Morton and she did so again here. I never doubted their feelings for each other and there were parts of this story that I found emotional, but overall I wish both of them had been more willing to take a risk on each other a helluva a lot sooner.
Risk Taker could be read as a standalone though I wouldn't recommend it since both prior couples from the series make appearances and you don’t want to miss their stories! This I promise you. I loved catching up with them and seeing how happy they still are.
As always, my opinions are my own and YMMV.
ARCs were provided by the publisher in exchange for honest reviews.
2.5 Hearts
Before I get into what didn't work for me let me just say how much I adored the first two books in this series. I actually pestered other people to read them because I loved them and wanted to share the love by force if necessary. I also pestered this author for a this book, so it actually pains me that I didn't love it as much as many other people, my co-reviewer included. Lastly, I will ABSOLUTELY read another book by Lily Morton even another one in this series. Especially if said book features Silas.
Risk Taker features Henry and his longtime best friend and ex-stepbrother, Ivo. Henry's been in love with Ivo since he first set eyes on him when they were boys but he's convinced himself that Ivo harbors only platonic feelings for him. Ivo and Henry have grown up together (something we get flashback glimpses of throughout the narrative) which typically is a trope that works for me. They know each other better than anyone else in the world, yet they cannot see the other's feelings? The feelings that were aliens to land and observe them would be like, ‘they’re into each other, no?’ or whatever the alien equivalent is. Maybe it’s a case of being too close to the situation to see it clearly but something about it didn't jive for me.
We get both of their perspectives and Ivo mirrors Henry's feelings. On top of that he's quite possessive and jealous particularly when Henry begins a series of horrific dates set up by his best friend Gabe who arranges a plethora of awful blokes for Henry to go out with in an effort to force Ivo’s hand. Henry is unaware of Gabe's ulterior motives and is subjected to a couple of truly humiliating experiences; however, he's making a good faith effort to put Ivo behind him so he soldiers on despite Ivo's increasingly bad mood and glowering.
Ivo is a photojournalist who's narrowly missed being killed by a car bomb and subsequent shoot-out when he returns to his and Henry's shared home. Expect a heavier feel to this installment due to Ivo's mental health issues; I would classify this as new adult and hurt/comfort. Truthfully, I wasn't expecting the heaviness and I missed the comedic elements found in the first two. The mental health aspects were handled well, not magically cured. But I didn't care for how Ivo, and Henry to a lesser extent, seemed to use Ivo's job as reason enough to continue the push/pull between them nor did I care for how this storyline abruptly played out. It was sweet and the sappy marshmallow in me responded, but it felt too convenient, too easy.
Henry and Ivo are opposites in many ways excepting their stubbornness. Both have atrocious communication skills which ordinarily doesn't bother me but it really became too much for me when coupled with the fact that both of them have, at one point or another, declared their feelings for the other yet they both continue to cling to this notion that they're piloting their love boats solo. It seemed contrived when literally all evidence points to the contrary.
Once they add sex into the mix and continued to hold firm to this non-communication track until a highly awkward and seemingly unnecessarily catty confrontation in a crowded club with Henry's ex-boyfriend forces both of their hands was the straw that broke my back. I hate dramatics in my life and in my reads so take that with a grain of salt. I need for people to use their words. I understand that’s scary sometimes but two supposed best friends since childhood who are closer than any two people can be should be able to have an adult conversation.
Dramatics aside they have chemistry galore and I thoroughly enjoyed their newly discovered kink for semi-public sex. I also enjoyed Henry's clotheshorseness and how much of his time is spent on sartorial matters.
Few authors are more capable of showing a connection between protagonists than Lily Morton and she did so again here. I never doubted their feelings for each other and there were parts of this story that I found emotional, but overall I wish both of them had been more willing to take a risk on each other a helluva a lot sooner.
Risk Taker could be read as a standalone though I wouldn't recommend it since both prior couples from the series make appearances and you don’t want to miss their stories! This I promise you. I loved catching up with them and seeing how happy they still are.
As always, my opinions are my own and YMMV.
ARCs were provided by the publisher in exchange for honest reviews.
July 14, 2018
I absolutely loved the first two books in this series, "Rule Breaker" and "Deal Maker". I gave them 4,5 and 5 stars ;) So when I found out we were getting Henry's book next, I couldn't wait to dive in !!
Henry has been secretly in love with his stepbrother Ivo for a very long time. Even though their parents didn't stick together, Henry and Ivo did. Not as lovers though...as the best of friends. Not for lack of trying, since Henry once tried to take their relationship further.... He was shot down hard and never dared to try again.
Ivo's job entails lots and lots of traveling, so they spend more time apart then together. That's about to change though, when Ivo shows up at their house hurt....
What Henry doesn't know is that Ivo has been secretly pining as much as he has...
Now I have got to be honest here and say, that even though I enjoyed reading this book very much....it didn't top the first two books for me. I think this is mostly, because I missed some of the snark and banter, which was such a big part of the previous books.
It also took a bit long for the two of them to get together and while I am a big fan of slow burn, I just wanted them to get on with it already. The secret pining for one another was getting on my nerves a bit. Everyone could see they belonged together !!
That said, once they do get together, they definitely set the sheets on fire !!! Their communication is for shit though, so they have lots they have to work on !!
I also really liked catching up with Gabe and Dylan and Jude and Asa. They all have their little part in this book. This was a 3,5 star read for me, but I am rounding up because I really love them all so much. If you haven't read their books, no worries, this one can be read as a stand alone.
I can't wait to see what this wonderful author has in store for us next...maybe Silas ??? Let's hope ;)
I highly recommend this series if you're a fan of funny, steamy and romantic gay romance !!
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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August 8, 2018
3.5 Stars
This one was a bit different with the other two previous books in the series. This one was a bit more serious but still I liked those previous books more!
Ivo is a photojournalist and he was in the war zone. Now that he came back he has some issues. He saw and felt things that scarred his soul. Henry is a lawyer and in love with his best friend but he scared of being rejected, again. And he thinks Ivo will leave him again and he’s going to be alone and more importantly he afraid of not seeing him anymore. So he decided to remain his best friend but with seeing his friends settled down, he has this urge to be happy like them.
Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s the third installment in the "Mixed Messages" series with character crossover but it can be read as a standalone. Overall, it was a good read and hope you enjoy it as well!
Thanks, dear Hadis for the recommendation!
This one was a bit different with the other two previous books in the series. This one was a bit more serious but still I liked those previous books more!
Ivo is a photojournalist and he was in the war zone. Now that he came back he has some issues. He saw and felt things that scarred his soul. Henry is a lawyer and in love with his best friend but he scared of being rejected, again. And he thinks Ivo will leave him again and he’s going to be alone and more importantly he afraid of not seeing him anymore. So he decided to remain his best friend but with seeing his friends settled down, he has this urge to be happy like them.
Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s the third installment in the "Mixed Messages" series with character crossover but it can be read as a standalone. Overall, it was a good read and hope you enjoy it as well!
Thanks, dear Hadis for the recommendation!
February 29, 2020
Audio book - 4 stars
Story - 2.5 stars
My perverted dumb ass thought these two were getting down and dirty while they were still stepbrothers. Shock on me!!
Anyhoo! this was such a disappointment. Unnecessary miscommunication was the theme throughout the whole book, what a waste. Something that could have been simply solved with a yes or no.
I can’t believe I am saying this, but Joel Leslie’s narration pulled me through, and the notes that Henry and Ivo left for each other at the beginning of the chapters.
Story - 2.5 stars
My perverted dumb ass thought these two were getting down and dirty while they were still stepbrothers. Shock on me!!
Anyhoo! this was such a disappointment. Unnecessary miscommunication was the theme throughout the whole book, what a waste. Something that could have been simply solved with a yes or no.
I can’t believe I am saying this, but Joel Leslie’s narration pulled me through, and the notes that Henry and Ivo left for each other at the beginning of the chapters.
November 20, 2018
No one deserves a happily ever after more than Henry.
I fell in love with him in Rule Breaker, almost as much as I did with Gabe.
Who knew his back story would be so rich with unrequited love? The absolute pining he has been doing since he was fifteen years old was heart wrenching.
Ivo, his short-lived stepbrother, is all Henry has ever wanted. Even after their parents' marriage fell apart, they've been kindred spirits and best friends.
But Ivo is gone more than he's around. He travels the world as a photojournalist, in the most dangerous of places. Being hurt by IEDs and bullets is par for the course.
Ivo has been pining for Henry too.
"Stuck" for a while with Henry due to a work-related injury, he's around to see Henry in dating mode. And he doesn't like it. At all.
Gabe, Dylan, Jude, and Asa are there for all of the shenanigans. They can see what's plainly obvious - that Ivo wants Henry just as much as Henry wants Ivo.
The push/pull was delicious. The antics of their friends had me laughing out loud more than once. The banter wasn't the same as with the first two books, but the one-liners and the laughs were plentiful.
While most of the story is told in Henry's POV, every few chapters, Morton gave us a tidbit of Ivo's POV too. I appreciated that.
I thoroughly enjoyed Book 3 and highly recommend it. It wasn't the magic of Book 1, but who doesn't have their favorite couple in this universe Morton has created?
I fell in love with him in Rule Breaker, almost as much as I did with Gabe.
Who knew his back story would be so rich with unrequited love? The absolute pining he has been doing since he was fifteen years old was heart wrenching.
Ivo, his short-lived stepbrother, is all Henry has ever wanted. Even after their parents' marriage fell apart, they've been kindred spirits and best friends.
He doesn't let himself care for anyone apart from seemingly me.
But Ivo is gone more than he's around. He travels the world as a photojournalist, in the most dangerous of places. Being hurt by IEDs and bullets is par for the course.
Ivo has been pining for Henry too.
"Stuck" for a while with Henry due to a work-related injury, he's around to see Henry in dating mode. And he doesn't like it. At all.
Gabe, Dylan, Jude, and Asa are there for all of the shenanigans. They can see what's plainly obvious - that Ivo wants Henry just as much as Henry wants Ivo.
The push/pull was delicious. The antics of their friends had me laughing out loud more than once. The banter wasn't the same as with the first two books, but the one-liners and the laughs were plentiful.
Gabe smiles. "How wonderful to see you, Ivo. Where have you been all week, and do you need the number of the sexual health clinic?"
While most of the story is told in Henry's POV, every few chapters, Morton gave us a tidbit of Ivo's POV too. I appreciated that.
I thoroughly enjoyed Book 3 and highly recommend it. It wasn't the magic of Book 1, but who doesn't have their favorite couple in this universe Morton has created?
"That smell of you is home to me[…]"
July 8, 2018
Superb. British writing at its absolute finest and (let me whisper it) my favourite in the series because Henry!
Oh this book is just gorgeous, Henry has been in love with Ivo since he was 15 when the other boy was briefly his step-brother for a few short years. Ivo is his world, his best friend, the only person he's truly honest with and never hides from.
Ivo's a photojournalist and is often in the most dangerous places in the world and he's been in love with Henry for quite some time too, only he's too afraid to do anything about it for many complex reasons which I completely understood.
Both men have been influenced by how they saw their parents' lives and Ivo is still trying to live up to his dead dad's mantra of living a free life, even if it means he'll lose Henry to someone else in the long run.
The UST in this book was so well done. It's obvious to the reader, as it is to all of Henry and Ivo's mutual friends, that they are both desperately in love with the other. But there's no so blind as those who won't see and there ensues a delightfully hilarious and quite poignant period of their lives when Henry is trying out dating and Ivo is seething in the background.
The push/pull is never too much, it never becomes a chore to read because it is handled so well by Lily Morton that you're eagerly waiting to see what outrageous thing is going to happen next. There's a bit more depth goes into Henry's background and we're introduced to his delightful brother Silas (book please Lily!) and it was great to see their relationship was one of mutual support and love too.
The letters which introduce each chapter were genius, so many times I was finding myself choking back a laugh at the escapades they got up to in the three short years Ivo's mum was married to Henry's father.
I don't think I've actually laughed out loud quite as much as I did with this book, even Gabe and Dylan in Rule Breaker didn't make me chuckle as much.
Henry and Ivo just get each other, they're able to snark for England and this book is a tour de force of humour. I think some are those only another Brit can truly appreciate - like referring to someone you love affectionally as a twat.
There's quite a bit of Gabe and Dylan in this one too, and we pop in with Jude and Asa as well, and all of it adds up to more of the banter that this series is known for. The Guess Who dinner party had me in fits of laughter with tears as the sarcastic wit flew around the room.
Gabe referring to Dylan as like a cold that sneaks up on you and damages your immune system when expressing how much he loves him was pitched perfectly in contrast to Henry's vacillating about what he was going to do about Ivo.
Things eventually come to a head - literally - and the sex is off the charts with these two when 20 years of tensions finally explode. But it's not just about the lust, or the getting off, each man knows the other intimately, their fears, hopes, what keeps them awake at night and the emotional bond which has tied their friendship together is stretched out almost to snapping point.
I just loved everything about this book. It's the culmination of the two narratives which went before it in the Mixed Messages series and, for me, it's the cream at the top.
While I absolutely adored Jude and Asa and loved the heck out of Dylan and vulnerable Gabe, there was just something about seeing two men who've both been in love with the other for more than half their lives finally realise that love was worth taking the risk which spoke to me.
I've been waiting for Henry's story since he first appeared as Gabe's best mate and, in Risk Taker, Lily Morton delivered - for me - absolute perfection.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Oh this book is just gorgeous, Henry has been in love with Ivo since he was 15 when the other boy was briefly his step-brother for a few short years. Ivo is his world, his best friend, the only person he's truly honest with and never hides from.
Ivo's a photojournalist and is often in the most dangerous places in the world and he's been in love with Henry for quite some time too, only he's too afraid to do anything about it for many complex reasons which I completely understood.
Both men have been influenced by how they saw their parents' lives and Ivo is still trying to live up to his dead dad's mantra of living a free life, even if it means he'll lose Henry to someone else in the long run.
The UST in this book was so well done. It's obvious to the reader, as it is to all of Henry and Ivo's mutual friends, that they are both desperately in love with the other. But there's no so blind as those who won't see and there ensues a delightfully hilarious and quite poignant period of their lives when Henry is trying out dating and Ivo is seething in the background.
The push/pull is never too much, it never becomes a chore to read because it is handled so well by Lily Morton that you're eagerly waiting to see what outrageous thing is going to happen next. There's a bit more depth goes into Henry's background and we're introduced to his delightful brother Silas (book please Lily!) and it was great to see their relationship was one of mutual support and love too.
The letters which introduce each chapter were genius, so many times I was finding myself choking back a laugh at the escapades they got up to in the three short years Ivo's mum was married to Henry's father.
I don't think I've actually laughed out loud quite as much as I did with this book, even Gabe and Dylan in Rule Breaker didn't make me chuckle as much.
Henry and Ivo just get each other, they're able to snark for England and this book is a tour de force of humour. I think some are those only another Brit can truly appreciate - like referring to someone you love affectionally as a twat.
There's quite a bit of Gabe and Dylan in this one too, and we pop in with Jude and Asa as well, and all of it adds up to more of the banter that this series is known for. The Guess Who dinner party had me in fits of laughter with tears as the sarcastic wit flew around the room.
Gabe referring to Dylan as like a cold that sneaks up on you and damages your immune system when expressing how much he loves him was pitched perfectly in contrast to Henry's vacillating about what he was going to do about Ivo.
Things eventually come to a head - literally - and the sex is off the charts with these two when 20 years of tensions finally explode. But it's not just about the lust, or the getting off, each man knows the other intimately, their fears, hopes, what keeps them awake at night and the emotional bond which has tied their friendship together is stretched out almost to snapping point.
I just loved everything about this book. It's the culmination of the two narratives which went before it in the Mixed Messages series and, for me, it's the cream at the top.
While I absolutely adored Jude and Asa and loved the heck out of Dylan and vulnerable Gabe, there was just something about seeing two men who've both been in love with the other for more than half their lives finally realise that love was worth taking the risk which spoke to me.
I've been waiting for Henry's story since he first appeared as Gabe's best mate and, in Risk Taker, Lily Morton delivered - for me - absolute perfection.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
July 17, 2018
One box of shame coming right up! I'm the minority about this one. Ι absolutely LOVED the first two books in the series but Risk Taker was a constant exercise in frustration for me. I'll go with three stars because there were still parts that worked for me; the banter, although toned down, was still there. The writing was excellent, the perfect mix of funny and evocative. The impossibly humorous situations, the steamy bits and the glorious HEA did not disappoint.
So one might ask, "what in the world didn't work for you, Ele?". OMG, everything else. My biggest problem, though, was Ivo's character. In the end, I never understood that man. Why did he insist on staying in that job? Even after getting together with Henry, why did he want to leave? Why why why? There wasn't enough info in the book to justify Ivo's constant need to flee or his tendency to keep pushing Henry away.
Until the end, I hated the way the characters acted. So dramatic and immature. Like
Their inability to just sit down and talk (despite being soulmates), the way they used sex to postpone a serious discussion, Ivo's "WTF were you thinking" attitude and Henry's almost doormat behaviour sealed the deal for me.
From any other author this would have been a complete disaster. But Lily Morton is a talented author and her writing clicks with me, so despite my niggles I managed to find some enjoyment in this. I hope more characters in the series get their own book!
So one might ask, "what in the world didn't work for you, Ele?". OMG, everything else. My biggest problem, though, was Ivo's character. In the end, I never understood that man. Why did he insist on staying in that job? Even after getting together with Henry, why did he want to leave? Why why why? There wasn't enough info in the book to justify Ivo's constant need to flee or his tendency to keep pushing Henry away.
Until the end, I hated the way the characters acted. So dramatic and immature. Like
Their inability to just sit down and talk (despite being soulmates), the way they used sex to postpone a serious discussion, Ivo's "WTF were you thinking" attitude and Henry's almost doormat behaviour sealed the deal for me.
From any other author this would have been a complete disaster. But Lily Morton is a talented author and her writing clicks with me, so despite my niggles I managed to find some enjoyment in this. I hope more characters in the series get their own book!
May 4, 2019
Spoilery rant ahead.
Rule Breaker still my favourite.
Rule Breaker still my favourite.
September 27, 2022
***4.0 rating***
“I want the years with you. I want to watch you grow in your career. I want to sleep naked and wrapped around you for warmth because you won’t turn the fucking heating on. I want years of splitting the Sunday papers, going for walks with Bertie and arguing over the best way to cook lasagne. I want years."
Mixed Messages was the first series I read by Lily Morton and when I fell in love with her funny, witty, sexy, and romantic men. They were heartfelt stories that felt genuine and made me reminisce about why I originally enjoyed LM's writing.
I miss the Lily Morton who wrote Gabe and Dylan, Jude and Asa, and Henry and Ivo. These men made me laugh, get emotional and appreciate the romance genre more. I want LM to get back to this era when she wrote believable characters with deep-seated feelings for one another where the reader felt the passion, romance, and genuine happiness between her characters and their love interests.
I thoroughly enjoyed rereading this series and will always come back to read stories about some of my favorite men who wear their hearts on their sleeves.
“I want the years with you. I want to watch you grow in your career. I want to sleep naked and wrapped around you for warmth because you won’t turn the fucking heating on. I want years of splitting the Sunday papers, going for walks with Bertie and arguing over the best way to cook lasagne. I want years."
Mixed Messages was the first series I read by Lily Morton and when I fell in love with her funny, witty, sexy, and romantic men. They were heartfelt stories that felt genuine and made me reminisce about why I originally enjoyed LM's writing.
I miss the Lily Morton who wrote Gabe and Dylan, Jude and Asa, and Henry and Ivo. These men made me laugh, get emotional and appreciate the romance genre more. I want LM to get back to this era when she wrote believable characters with deep-seated feelings for one another where the reader felt the passion, romance, and genuine happiness between her characters and their love interests.
I thoroughly enjoyed rereading this series and will always come back to read stories about some of my favorite men who wear their hearts on their sleeves.
![Profile Image for Anna [Bran. San. Stan].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1593184464i%2F98245866._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
April 25, 2021
As much as I adored Henry and Ivo and their best-friends-to-lovers relationship, the fact that they hook up for the longest time and don’t talk about their very obvious feelings for each other drove me to distraction. I hate it when characters fail to communicate – the only worse thing is miscommunication.
When finally – fucking finally - Henry and Ivo shout their feelings at each other, they end up having rough sex (surprise, surprise). So far so good. Dirty talk then follows the declaration of love. Ok, fine by me. No need to be mushy or lovey-dovey, really. Love me some dirty talk. Except when it sounds like this: “Like a fucking slut, Henry. Your hole needs filling.“ What the hell?! It boils down to “I love you, you slut”? Just nope. (To be fair, I feel I need to add this is the only incidence of that kind of wtf dirty talk.)
As if I wasn’t impatient enough considering the lack of communication: Henry keeps noticing Ivo‘s reactions – for example to Henry‘s announcement he is now looking for commitment – but never once does he think about why Ivo reacts the way he does. Even though he did see Ivo’s reactions, he still remained inexplicably blind to them. As a reader, I found that incredibly annoying.
I also missed part of what I love most about book 2. Deal Maker has both heart-warming and steamy scenes –the former was a rare commodity here; the latter can be found in abundance.
Despite all my criticism, I did get some enjoyment out of this. Possibly my favorite part were the cameos from the other characters of this series; especially Henry’s friend Gabe (book 1). Those interactions always crack me up.
All in all, a great series with some great writing/dialogue with a sadly weaker finish. My favorite will remain Jude and Asa‘s story – for the laugh-out-loud humor and the emotions.
When finally – fucking finally - Henry and Ivo shout their feelings at each other, they end up having rough sex (surprise, surprise). So far so good. Dirty talk then follows the declaration of love. Ok, fine by me. No need to be mushy or lovey-dovey, really. Love me some dirty talk. Except when it sounds like this: “Like a fucking slut, Henry. Your hole needs filling.“ What the hell?! It boils down to “I love you, you slut”? Just nope. (To be fair, I feel I need to add this is the only incidence of that kind of wtf dirty talk.)
As if I wasn’t impatient enough considering the lack of communication: Henry keeps noticing Ivo‘s reactions – for example to Henry‘s announcement he is now looking for commitment – but never once does he think about why Ivo reacts the way he does. Even though he did see Ivo’s reactions, he still remained inexplicably blind to them. As a reader, I found that incredibly annoying.
I also missed part of what I love most about book 2. Deal Maker has both heart-warming and steamy scenes –the former was a rare commodity here; the latter can be found in abundance.
Despite all my criticism, I did get some enjoyment out of this. Possibly my favorite part were the cameos from the other characters of this series; especially Henry’s friend Gabe (book 1). Those interactions always crack me up.
All in all, a great series with some great writing/dialogue with a sadly weaker finish. My favorite will remain Jude and Asa‘s story – for the laugh-out-loud humor and the emotions.
November 20, 2023
✰ 3.75 stars ✰
“You’re sure you want to give us a go, even though we’re risking everything?”
“Are we risking our friendship?” I ask worriedly. “That’s my biggest worry. I don’t ever want to do that. I just don’t ever want to see a time when you aren’t in my life.”
“It won’t happen, ” he says steadily. “Even if this goes wrong I will always need you right where you are. At the centre of my life.”
“Well then,” I say softly. “Let’s see where this takes us.”
If there is one trope that will forever have my heart, it is friends to lovers and Risk Taker was all about that. The fact that I'm looking at my notes, and I highlighted so many passages, because all their confessions were just so naturally earnest, that despite how cheesy they may be to some, I really enjoyed them. Or well, maybe I just know what it's like to be the poster girl for unrequited love and longing crushes that I felt Henry and Ivo's love story so viscerally so. Granted, these two lovable fools took their sweet time getting there - too afraid to put their friendship at risk, but the final outcome was definitely worth the wait. 🩷🩷
“I think we’ll be friends,” he says suddenly, and I start.
“Oh, you do, do you?” I laugh.
“I’m never wrong,” he says calmly.”
Henry carried such a charming presence in the previous books that I really wanted him to find his happily ever after. I did not know it would come in the face of his once-stepbrother, now best friend forever Ivo, a talented photojournalist, whose career revolves around chasing down the wild stories and risking his life in dangerous situations - something that weighs heavily on Henry's heart at how callous he is with his life. It was one of those heartbreaking realizations that no matter how much he loves Ivo - it's not enough to keep him here and he would never ask him to give up his passion and career just to stay. It's that fierce tug-of-war in the heart of not knowing if it is worth the next step to lay your heart out to someone just to never watch them walk away. 😢 'Then I’ll be left alone again, and for what? Someone who means the world to me but for whom I can never be the same.' It was such a relatable feeling, watching him try to stave off his ever-present feelings for his best friend, and attempting different prospects for casual hook-ups, in the hopes one would leave an impression. But, somehow, it always comes back to Ivo - the one he'd always wait for, even when he's the one that he feared would always go away. 😔
Ivo is that soul that is so burdened by his father's shadow, that he's too afraid to make a commitment that will last; forever, living life on the edge, because he knows that if he ever would tie himself down it would be for Henry, the one person he cannot have. 'I will be the best friend he’ll ever have, but I have to stop pining for him.' 💔 It was hard for me to stomach seeing Ivo watch Henry go on all those dates - hoping and praying in his heart that none of these so-called dates would ever work out for the best. It was sad being in his head, knowing that he's seen the worst of life, and still trying to process that he can live a normal life. Henry was so calm and gentle with him, giving Ivo the space that he needed, a safe haven to express his artistic talent and still give him the comfort of being by his side. I loved seeing Ivo build up the courage to act upon his emotions - the reassurance of shedding his past for a present that was within his grasp. 🤍🤍
“Love is the biggest risk you can ever take, but like all the most dangerous ventures it comes with the biggest payout.”
Even before they took that next leap, I enjoyed all the little glimpses that we got into their relationship - how, since the day they met at the tender age of fifteen, they were forever each other's soul - mate - gravitating in each other's orbit, this forever bond that was entirely theirs, a connection no one else could understand. 🥺 Their chemistry was so sweet and genuine and so potent with a fierce longing - they felt and acted like two fools who were helplessly pining for the other, just too afraid to take that next step - at the risk of jeopardizing their precious friendship. Is it aggravating, yes? But, it happens in life - and it was so convincingly portrayed. And yet, even when they're finally together, 'He holds me tight, crooning nonsense into my ear, and I despair because I have never felt this connection. I’ve never felt so cherished.' 🥹🥹
For if it's not the hurdle of crossing the line of more than friends, then their biggest enemy is the fact that one of them will always be left behind because of the job. It's something that is a part of them, and something that defines their personalities that neither of them would expect the other to give up - despite how much it's a sour after-thought. '.... but I’ll be the one who is left here with the memories, growing bitter in the wreckage.' So, I suppose it does work for me, because it's all about the yearning - that deep-rooted desire to act upon your feelings and just confess it all, damn the consequences, but still too afraid of what you can lose in the process. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 And while, it is a bit upsetting and roll-eyes-inducing that even at this stage in their lives, they're still dancing around their feelings and not talking it out, I didn't mind it so much. I was just rooting with all my heart that there would be a substantial conclusion that would benefit the both of them - rightfully so. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“You listen to me,” he growls, pulling me against him. “Don’t you ever say that again.”
His voice is shaking, and I stare at him. “What?”
“That I don’t care, and we’re going to end. We’re never going to fucking end.”
“Ivo -”
“When I die, I’ll have your name on my lips, and my last thought will be of you.”
Do you see that puddle over there? That's me, melting with all the feels. 🫠🫠 And that confession in the bathroom --- hahaha, it was sublime - angry outburst of admitting you love someone more than just a friend and just giving it your all in one fell-sweep. They were just everything in that one moment to me.
It was lovely to see the whole gang together again - Gabe and Dylan are such a special pair and will forever have my heart and just knowing that there is one more story before I bid them adieu makes me excited to get to them. I also really liked Silas; he was such a charming, confident older brother of an earl - forever lending an ear to both young'uns whenever he deemed fit - I'm really glad that he got a story of his own, because he definitely intrigued me. ☺️ The writing was also very solid; the letters exchanged between the two at the start of each chapter really highlighted just how meaningful and deep their relationship stems from and there were plenty of sweet intimate moments, along with that precious epilogue that gave me a toothache afterwards for how they had in each other 'a fierce and tender lover, a soulmate I share everything with because the sharing makes it better.' 🥰
I am glad that Lily Morton's writing never feels stilted or awkward, or that she uses phrases that would potentially irk my overall reading experience. She whisks you away to beautiful exotic locations, delivers refreshing banter, dishes out delicious spicy sexy times, and delights you with the unfolding of a beautiful relationship between characters that are so deserving of a happily ever after. It's nice to have a series that had such a wonderful balance of all this that makes you appreciate the message it aimed to achieve. 👍🏻 And with these two, this inherent trust and understanding and just knowing that with this one person who has seen you at your utmost worst and still at your best could love you - regardless of it all - it is a risk worth fighting for. 🥹
“That never ceases to amaze me, Hen. That you, of all people, could want just me is bloody amazing.” I open my mouth to argue, but he shakes his head.
“Are you happy? You waited for me for so long, had faith in me when no one else did. Are you happy? Because to me that’s the most important thing in the world.”
I smile at him, hoping my face shows the intense love that runs through my veins for the mercurial, fascinating man who will always be my best friend.
“You will always be worth the years I waited.”
Yes, I'm a hopeless romantic sap - let me have this, okay? 🩵 😅 🩵
“You’re sure you want to give us a go, even though we’re risking everything?”
“Are we risking our friendship?” I ask worriedly. “That’s my biggest worry. I don’t ever want to do that. I just don’t ever want to see a time when you aren’t in my life.”
“It won’t happen, ” he says steadily. “Even if this goes wrong I will always need you right where you are. At the centre of my life.”
“Well then,” I say softly. “Let’s see where this takes us.”
If there is one trope that will forever have my heart, it is friends to lovers and Risk Taker was all about that. The fact that I'm looking at my notes, and I highlighted so many passages, because all their confessions were just so naturally earnest, that despite how cheesy they may be to some, I really enjoyed them. Or well, maybe I just know what it's like to be the poster girl for unrequited love and longing crushes that I felt Henry and Ivo's love story so viscerally so. Granted, these two lovable fools took their sweet time getting there - too afraid to put their friendship at risk, but the final outcome was definitely worth the wait. 🩷🩷
“I think we’ll be friends,” he says suddenly, and I start.
“Oh, you do, do you?” I laugh.
“I’m never wrong,” he says calmly.”
Henry carried such a charming presence in the previous books that I really wanted him to find his happily ever after. I did not know it would come in the face of his once-stepbrother, now best friend forever Ivo, a talented photojournalist, whose career revolves around chasing down the wild stories and risking his life in dangerous situations - something that weighs heavily on Henry's heart at how callous he is with his life. It was one of those heartbreaking realizations that no matter how much he loves Ivo - it's not enough to keep him here and he would never ask him to give up his passion and career just to stay. It's that fierce tug-of-war in the heart of not knowing if it is worth the next step to lay your heart out to someone just to never watch them walk away. 😢 'Then I’ll be left alone again, and for what? Someone who means the world to me but for whom I can never be the same.' It was such a relatable feeling, watching him try to stave off his ever-present feelings for his best friend, and attempting different prospects for casual hook-ups, in the hopes one would leave an impression. But, somehow, it always comes back to Ivo - the one he'd always wait for, even when he's the one that he feared would always go away. 😔
Ivo is that soul that is so burdened by his father's shadow, that he's too afraid to make a commitment that will last; forever, living life on the edge, because he knows that if he ever would tie himself down it would be for Henry, the one person he cannot have. 'I will be the best friend he’ll ever have, but I have to stop pining for him.' 💔 It was hard for me to stomach seeing Ivo watch Henry go on all those dates - hoping and praying in his heart that none of these so-called dates would ever work out for the best. It was sad being in his head, knowing that he's seen the worst of life, and still trying to process that he can live a normal life. Henry was so calm and gentle with him, giving Ivo the space that he needed, a safe haven to express his artistic talent and still give him the comfort of being by his side. I loved seeing Ivo build up the courage to act upon his emotions - the reassurance of shedding his past for a present that was within his grasp. 🤍🤍
“Love is the biggest risk you can ever take, but like all the most dangerous ventures it comes with the biggest payout.”
Even before they took that next leap, I enjoyed all the little glimpses that we got into their relationship - how, since the day they met at the tender age of fifteen, they were forever each other's soul - mate - gravitating in each other's orbit, this forever bond that was entirely theirs, a connection no one else could understand. 🥺 Their chemistry was so sweet and genuine and so potent with a fierce longing - they felt and acted like two fools who were helplessly pining for the other, just too afraid to take that next step - at the risk of jeopardizing their precious friendship. Is it aggravating, yes? But, it happens in life - and it was so convincingly portrayed. And yet, even when they're finally together, 'He holds me tight, crooning nonsense into my ear, and I despair because I have never felt this connection. I’ve never felt so cherished.' 🥹🥹
For if it's not the hurdle of crossing the line of more than friends, then their biggest enemy is the fact that one of them will always be left behind because of the job. It's something that is a part of them, and something that defines their personalities that neither of them would expect the other to give up - despite how much it's a sour after-thought. '.... but I’ll be the one who is left here with the memories, growing bitter in the wreckage.' So, I suppose it does work for me, because it's all about the yearning - that deep-rooted desire to act upon your feelings and just confess it all, damn the consequences, but still too afraid of what you can lose in the process. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 And while, it is a bit upsetting and roll-eyes-inducing that even at this stage in their lives, they're still dancing around their feelings and not talking it out, I didn't mind it so much. I was just rooting with all my heart that there would be a substantial conclusion that would benefit the both of them - rightfully so. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“You listen to me,” he growls, pulling me against him. “Don’t you ever say that again.”
His voice is shaking, and I stare at him. “What?”
“That I don’t care, and we’re going to end. We’re never going to fucking end.”
“Ivo -”
“When I die, I’ll have your name on my lips, and my last thought will be of you.”
Do you see that puddle over there? That's me, melting with all the feels. 🫠🫠 And that confession in the bathroom --- hahaha, it was sublime - angry outburst of admitting you love someone more than just a friend and just giving it your all in one fell-sweep. They were just everything in that one moment to me.
It was lovely to see the whole gang together again - Gabe and Dylan are such a special pair and will forever have my heart and just knowing that there is one more story before I bid them adieu makes me excited to get to them. I also really liked Silas; he was such a charming, confident older brother of an earl - forever lending an ear to both young'uns whenever he deemed fit - I'm really glad that he got a story of his own, because he definitely intrigued me. ☺️ The writing was also very solid; the letters exchanged between the two at the start of each chapter really highlighted just how meaningful and deep their relationship stems from and there were plenty of sweet intimate moments, along with that precious epilogue that gave me a toothache afterwards for how they had in each other 'a fierce and tender lover, a soulmate I share everything with because the sharing makes it better.' 🥰
I am glad that Lily Morton's writing never feels stilted or awkward, or that she uses phrases that would potentially irk my overall reading experience. She whisks you away to beautiful exotic locations, delivers refreshing banter, dishes out delicious spicy sexy times, and delights you with the unfolding of a beautiful relationship between characters that are so deserving of a happily ever after. It's nice to have a series that had such a wonderful balance of all this that makes you appreciate the message it aimed to achieve. 👍🏻 And with these two, this inherent trust and understanding and just knowing that with this one person who has seen you at your utmost worst and still at your best could love you - regardless of it all - it is a risk worth fighting for. 🥹
“That never ceases to amaze me, Hen. That you, of all people, could want just me is bloody amazing.” I open my mouth to argue, but he shakes his head.
“Are you happy? You waited for me for so long, had faith in me when no one else did. Are you happy? Because to me that’s the most important thing in the world.”
I smile at him, hoping my face shows the intense love that runs through my veins for the mercurial, fascinating man who will always be my best friend.
“You will always be worth the years I waited.”
Yes, I'm a hopeless romantic sap - let me have this, okay? 🩵 😅 🩵
August 20, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Yet another meh book*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
The third book in the standalone series centers around family lawyer, Henry ‘Hen’ Ashworth (34) and his best friend who he's loved since they were fifteen (also his ex-stepbrother), photojournalist Ivo Robinson. Henry has kept Ivo at arms length when it came to 'in love' as Ivo's job make him gone more than being home and it breaks Henry every time Ivo leaves. This time around when Ivo gets home, he's benched for a while and Henry and Ivo is wondering if they can take the risk of taking their relationship further... Overall, the book was cute, yet very frustrating and predictable. Though it had a little more depth than the previous two in the series, it still was the least likable to me. I couldn't connect with the characters, nor the story. Things were too obvious and it sorta annoying me how long it was dragged out. I had actually expected more for the book than I thought.
“When I die, I'll have your name on my lips, and my last thought will be of you.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Can Be Read As A Standalone, Book Three.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Ivo Robinson?
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure, the previous two.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
November 24, 2018
3 stars
Lily Morton is an author I have come to adore and while I loved the first two books in this series, I just liked this one. Considering this is one of my least favorite tropes I am not at all surprised, I am not a friends to lovers fan. Never really have been. And while it worked in this one, very well..... it wasn't for me.
I look forward to reading more by Morton in the future, and I highly recommend anyone reading this review to pick up one of her books.
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Lily Morton is an author I have come to adore and while I loved the first two books in this series, I just liked this one. Considering this is one of my least favorite tropes I am not at all surprised, I am not a friends to lovers fan. Never really have been. And while it worked in this one, very well..... it wasn't for me.
I look forward to reading more by Morton in the future, and I highly recommend anyone reading this review to pick up one of her books.
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November 12, 2018
***4.5 Stars***
This book is why I love the friends to lovers trope so much!!
It seems that every quietly memorable part of my life has been spent nestled next to him.
Ivo and Henry made my heart SO DAMN FULL! Their friendship is built on unyielding unconditional love, plain and simple. A foundation of acceptance, support and the knowledge that you never need to be anything other than your true self.
I've never met anyone like him. I've never met anyone who I can be totally myself with. He's the person I've always been closest to throughout my life. He's the one I turn to for everything because I get everything back.
I swear, between the pining and the banter, I think I highlighted most of this book! I was so in love with these two. From the very first chapter, you absolutely feel the connection Ivo and Henry have. Yes, I'm not gonna lie, the stepbrothers situation creeped me out, and that didn't change any time it was mentioned. From the first page to the last, I cringed when it was brought up...but I pushed the feelings away, because this book was so much more than a brief couple of years in Ivo and Henry's life where that label applied.
"The smell of you is home to me."
I gobbled up the unbelievable yearning they have for each other and the crippling fear of ruining the most important relationship they have with anyone in their life. Everyone sees the inevitability of Ivo and Henry belonging together...but that fear, it's a tough hurdle to jump over.
"You're so busy standing back from him, you haven't seen that for the first time he's waiting for you to move forward. One tiny step and you'd see."
Lily Morton does a great job of skirting that line of frustration with Ivo and Henry. You want to throttle them to open their eyes, take the leap, yell and scream for one of them to just say something...and then she'll pivot and you'll understand where the fear is coming from, how crippling it can be and how ruined either man would be if he lost the other.
For anyone who's a fan of friends to lovers, I can't recommend this book enough! I could gush so much more and give you about 50 more quotes that I highlighted from this book....from the angst, to the heartfelt confessions, to the deep bond of friendship, to the outpouring of love, to the passion of primal desire and the intimacy of tender lovemaking....but all I'm gonna say is READ THE BOOK!!
There's so many things I'm leaving out of my review because I don't want to spoil anything. Just trust me when I tell you that this book will make you FEEL and it'll make you LAUGH and it'll make you fall in love with love.
Now I know that while I have my best friend, I also have so much more. A fierce and tender lover, a soulmate I share everything with because the sharing makes it better. A partner in crime and someone who matches me so perfectly it almost puzzles me.
Oh! I'd be a fool not to add that Lily Morton gives us an epilogue that is so damn wonderful, I didn't know if I wanted to cry because my heart was so full or smile because I was so happy...or do both.
All I know is when I closed this book, I let out a deep and satisfied sigh.
"If Groundhog Day was a real thing I would always choose you."
I do have to be honest and give one minor quibble...and this is ENTIRELY personal preference...but there are way too many British pop culture references in this book. The first couple of mentions I would stop and look up what I needed to know to understand the reference/joke...but then it became too much and I was finding I was spending more time researching and less time reading...and it was completely pulling me out of the moment. It's kind of like if someone has to explain a funny joke to you, it loses some of its humor.
And to be perfectly honest, if all the pop culture references were American, this little footnote would be revised to say there are too many American pop culture references in this book. A lot are used for comedic effect....A LOT. And after a while, the jokes and zings lost their humor and appeal.
But like I said, this is entirely personal preference. See above for all my gushing and my 4.5 star rating and you can see how much I'll remember this little quibble when I think back on this book. But I felt it was something that did at least need to be mentioned.
August 18, 2018
I finished! <--- That alone says a lot about this book since I haven't been doing a good job of finishing stories lately.
Lily Morton is an excellent writer. Her words and phrasing are so comfortable and easy to follow. The rich humor her characters embody is priceless. Reading is my happy place, so if an author can make me laugh as well as feel good, then that's a big bonus.
Risk Taker had a few moments of that hilarity that embues both previous books in this series. However, it did not have me ROTFLMAO. In fact, in the second half the story started to drag for me. So much so that I felt it was an accomplishment to actually get to the end of the book.
The best part for me was when the boys were young and passed notes to each other. They were hilariously bad kids. (in a "misbehaves" way, not in a "bad" way) The major part of the story, when they were adults, didn't work well for me. I'm not sure I can put my finger on why. I understood what the author was going for. One broken, damaged MC. Another MC pining for years for an unrequited love. It should have been sad and poignant. But it wasn't. It was funny in places. Boring in many. I just didn't connect with the adult characters.
The sad truth is that not every book works for me even when they're written by favorite authors. I still look forward to the next one.
Lily Morton is an excellent writer. Her words and phrasing are so comfortable and easy to follow. The rich humor her characters embody is priceless. Reading is my happy place, so if an author can make me laugh as well as feel good, then that's a big bonus.
Risk Taker had a few moments of that hilarity that embues both previous books in this series. However, it did not have me ROTFLMAO. In fact, in the second half the story started to drag for me. So much so that I felt it was an accomplishment to actually get to the end of the book.
The best part for me was when the boys were young and passed notes to each other. They were hilariously bad kids. (in a "misbehaves" way, not in a "bad" way) The major part of the story, when they were adults, didn't work well for me. I'm not sure I can put my finger on why. I understood what the author was going for. One broken, damaged MC. Another MC pining for years for an unrequited love. It should have been sad and poignant. But it wasn't. It was funny in places. Boring in many. I just didn't connect with the adult characters.
The sad truth is that not every book works for me even when they're written by favorite authors. I still look forward to the next one.
August 6, 2018
4.5 Stars!
This is really a great series.
Great banter. Great characters. Some nice steam.
This one wasn't my favorite. Like many others, I found the obliviousness of both Henry and Ivo to be a bit much. And it went on a bit too long.
But on the other hand I was thankful (and pleased) with how everything turned out subsequent.
It was so obvious (to everyone but them) that they belonged together.
Now who will be next? Silas? PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!!!!
This is really a great series.
Great banter. Great characters. Some nice steam.
This one wasn't my favorite. Like many others, I found the obliviousness of both Henry and Ivo to be a bit much. And it went on a bit too long.
But on the other hand I was thankful (and pleased) with how everything turned out subsequent.
It was so obvious (to everyone but them) that they belonged together.
Now who will be next? Silas? PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!!!!
July 28, 2018
"Love is the biggest risk you can ever take."
I have been looking forward to Henry's story since Rule Breaker and I'm so happy that he finally got his happy ending. It wasn't easy, of course. What we have in Risk Taker is two very stubborn MC's that almost didn't get out of their own way to find that happy ending they both wanted and deserved.
Henry is steadfast and loyal to a fault, but has always eschewed monogamy. In truth, he was just waiting for his Mr Right - Ivo Robinson - to figure out that they would be even more amazing as a couple than they were best friends. Henry has been in love with Ivo since they were teenagers but has started to lose hope. After his closest friends have settled down, Henry decides that maybe he needs to let go of his hopes for Ivo and find someone for himself.
Ivo is his father's son. He's an artist and a photojournalist who has always made sure to not get attached to people or places. Henry is the one exception. Henry is home. Henry is the one person that Ivo could never let go. Ivo feels he must take risks in his job, but not with his heart, because that can only end in disaster. Even though Ivo spends so much of his life on the road, he and Henry were still two halves of a whole. This is something that Henry always knew, but thought would never really be. Ivo took a lot longer to get there. Once he does, though...
These two men! I loved them both, and even though they were both a bit frustrating at first, for their sheer avoidance at having a conversation about their feelings, I loved them anyway, and once they finally got their heads out of their bums, oh lord were they on fire.
The steam level is high, the feels are plentiful and our boys get their happy! There's even some banter, though it is more muted than the previous books. The notes that appear at the start of each chapter, though, are brilliant.
Risk Taker is another quality addition to this series. I hope Silas is next!
-----------------
ARC of Risk Taker was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2022
[3.4~3.5] i loved Henry from the first time he was introduced, and i can’t tell you how excited i was for him to get his own HEA in a mutual-pining bffs/former stepbrothers-to-lovers romance (i did not see that second part of the trope equation coming into play at all) mixed with hurt/comfort 😍
there’s a lot to love about this pair (and their semi-public sex kink 😏), but i must say their lack of communication is capital-a Appalling.
Henry: i must talk to him about this! 😤
*IVO used SEX! It’s super effective! HENRY is distracted!*
……and vice-a-versa 🥴
now i have a higher tolerance for this in books, but as a warning, once again we have a character (Ivo) who is jealous that the object of their affection (Henry) keeps going off on dates and “disrupts” one or two in some way or another (not in the usual way you might be expecting but it’s still 🤔 worthy lol).
i adored the couple so much, but the execution of the story left me wanting. i seriously expected them to get together earlier on, and ngl the scene with Henry’s ex cut it real close with my patience, but Joel Leslie convinced me to generously round up despite my niggles because i’m easily swayed like that 🤣 book 2 still has my heart all the way, so if you can only read one book from this series, you already have my vote 😌
there’s a lot to love about this pair (and their semi-public sex kink 😏), but i must say their lack of communication is capital-a Appalling.
Henry: i must talk to him about this! 😤
*IVO used SEX! It’s super effective! HENRY is distracted!*
……and vice-a-versa 🥴
now i have a higher tolerance for this in books, but as a warning, once again we have a character (Ivo) who is jealous that the object of their affection (Henry) keeps going off on dates and “disrupts” one or two in some way or another (not in the usual way you might be expecting but it’s still 🤔 worthy lol).
i adored the couple so much, but the execution of the story left me wanting. i seriously expected them to get together earlier on, and ngl the scene with Henry’s ex cut it real close with my patience, but Joel Leslie convinced me to generously round up despite my niggles because i’m easily swayed like that 🤣 book 2 still has my heart all the way, so if you can only read one book from this series, you already have my vote 😌
July 26, 2018
Oh what an adorable book - from their first meeting as step brothers Henry & Ivo were hooked. Humor, sass and a deep love of each other kept these guys as best friends for such a long time. While Henry had been in love forever, Ivo took a while to realize his love for Henry had moved from platonic to sexual. Once this happened, and with the help of friends, the match making began. There were some funny moments and the letters between these two were hilarious. It was a joyful, fun book ❤️
July 27, 2018
3.5 stars
I was so looking forward to Henry's story but it ended up being my least favourite.
I loved Henry and Ivo as characters and I think they were perfect for each other.
Ever since they were fifteen, they have been best friends, sharing everything and talking about everything.
So where did it all go when they finally got together?
Suddenly there was no communication, they were both clueless when it came to their true feelings for each other and a lot of times the pacing of their relationship felt off. It didn't feel natural coming from two people who have always been so close.
There was also some unnecessary drama surrounding Ivo's job, when so many things were obvious at that point.
I did enjoy the writing though, the ending was great, there were some excellent dialogues and their letters to each other were beautiful. I also loved seeing the characters from previous books.
I was so looking forward to Henry's story but it ended up being my least favourite.
I loved Henry and Ivo as characters and I think they were perfect for each other.
Ever since they were fifteen, they have been best friends, sharing everything and talking about everything.
So where did it all go when they finally got together?
Suddenly there was no communication, they were both clueless when it came to their true feelings for each other and a lot of times the pacing of their relationship felt off. It didn't feel natural coming from two people who have always been so close.
There was also some unnecessary drama surrounding Ivo's job, when so many things were obvious at that point.
I did enjoy the writing though, the ending was great, there were some excellent dialogues and their letters to each other were beautiful. I also loved seeing the characters from previous books.
June 23, 2019
4.25 stars
I liked it but would've loved it if these two had extracted their heads outta their backsides a lot sooner. They drove me crazy with the non communication 🤯
I liked it but would've loved it if these two had extracted their heads outta their backsides a lot sooner. They drove me crazy with the non communication 🤯
November 10, 2021
i laughed, i cried, i swooned! so lovely💗
September 26, 2020
Thank goodness both men came to their senses around half way through the story. The tone for the most part was light and definitely Rom-Com style I would say, with quite a few chuckles but also some angst on Ivo's part because of the PTSD he suffers from as a photo journalist, chasing leads and stories in some harrowing situations world-wide ...and always Henry is there for him when he returns. 💜
Henry has loved him since they were step-brothers briefly back in their teens, and feels that the best way he can express his love for Ivo is to set him free from emotional chains and not tell him that he is the love of Henry's life. Of course, Henry is unaware - read clueless - that Ivo is also in love with him, but doesn't want to tie him down in case something goes wrong when he's away doing the work that his father sort of bequeathed to him.
Enjoyed this one and its characters much more than Deal Maker, was very happy with the ending AND the fact that the story was edited
Henry has loved him since they were step-brothers briefly back in their teens, and feels that the best way he can express his love for Ivo is to set him free from emotional chains and not tell him that he is the love of Henry's life. Of course, Henry is unaware - read clueless - that Ivo is also in love with him, but doesn't want to tie him down in case something goes wrong when he's away doing the work that his father sort of bequeathed to him.
Enjoyed this one and its characters much more than Deal Maker, was very happy with the ending AND the fact that the story was edited
July 9, 2018
4.5 stars.
I've been waiting for Henry's book since I met him in the first one and it's safe to say that I loved it a lot.
I also love me a good friends to lovers romance and this was done right. Full review to come.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I've been waiting for Henry's book since I met him in the first one and it's safe to say that I loved it a lot.
I also love me a good friends to lovers romance and this was done right. Full review to come.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2018
Friends to lovers + Lily Morton =
To say I was excited for Risk Taker by Lily Morton is an understatement.
Let's not rehash the blurb and get down to the nitty-gritty.
What I loved:
-Best friends to lovers are my crack. There's something about that emotional pull that just gets to me, and LM nailed it.
-UST. The pent-up sexual frustration was palpable. It's been building up for years and when it finally happens- it's something!
-Complex main characters.
-BANTER! I think LM has the best banter of any author I've read. It's funny and snarky without going over the line.
-Dual POVs
-Hurt/Comfort/Healing goodness.
-Unrequited love and push and pull made for some delicious angst.
-The end was perfection.
Lily Morton has become an auto-buy author for me and Risk Taker is an excellent addition to the Mixed Messages. I mean, who doesn't love a story that will make you cry, laugh, swoon, and fill you with happiness?
4 Stars
To say I was excited for Risk Taker by Lily Morton is an understatement.
Let's not rehash the blurb and get down to the nitty-gritty.
What I loved:
-Best friends to lovers are my crack. There's something about that emotional pull that just gets to me, and LM nailed it.
-UST. The pent-up sexual frustration was palpable. It's been building up for years and when it finally happens- it's something!
-Complex main characters.
-BANTER! I think LM has the best banter of any author I've read. It's funny and snarky without going over the line.
-Dual POVs
-Hurt/Comfort/Healing goodness.
-Unrequited love and push and pull made for some delicious angst.
-The end was perfection.
Lily Morton has become an auto-buy author for me and Risk Taker is an excellent addition to the Mixed Messages. I mean, who doesn't love a story that will make you cry, laugh, swoon, and fill you with happiness?
4 Stars
July 30, 2018
Algo decepcionante. El principal problema que he encontrado es que el Henry que nos presenta la autora en el libro 1 y 2 creo que no se corresponde con el Henry de su propio libro, parecía una persona totalmente distinta. La principal virtud, siempre según mis gustos, es que es un friends to lovers, y yo soy muy fan de esa trope.
Lo he dejado en tres estrellas porque hay cosas que me han gustado, Henry e Ivo se conocen desde niños y algunos momentos son muy tiernos, otros muy románticos y las escenas de sexo están bien. Y le doy tres estrellas porque hay otras cosas que no me han convencido nada, la relación de los personajes es un poco a trompicones, son muy amigos y les falta comunicación y fundamentalmente ese gran cambio en Ivo está cogido con pinzas por parte del autor, no hay una suficiente explicación para entender cómo él ve su vida de una manera y de repente cambia de parecer; es igual que cómo explica los sentimientos de Ivo hacia Henry, en un momento son de una manera y en otro son de otra totalmente ditinta, ¿por qué?
Entretenido, pero en cierta manera se queda en las intenciones, me esperaba algo más.
Lo he dejado en tres estrellas porque hay cosas que me han gustado, Henry e Ivo se conocen desde niños y algunos momentos son muy tiernos, otros muy románticos y las escenas de sexo están bien. Y le doy tres estrellas porque hay otras cosas que no me han convencido nada, la relación de los personajes es un poco a trompicones, son muy amigos y les falta comunicación y fundamentalmente ese gran cambio en Ivo está cogido con pinzas por parte del autor, no hay una suficiente explicación para entender cómo él ve su vida de una manera y de repente cambia de parecer; es igual que cómo explica los sentimientos de Ivo hacia Henry, en un momento son de una manera y en otro son de otra totalmente ditinta, ¿por qué?
Entretenido, pero en cierta manera se queda en las intenciones, me esperaba algo más.
December 1, 2018
4.5 Stars!
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