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If I Could
I never considered myself a selfish man until I met Lawrence “Ren” McKinley.
When pro baseball’s “would have been” becomes Exeter High’s newest coach, it takes one look of those flirty brown eyes and cocky smile before everything changes.
I thought I knew exactly what I wanted out of life until he walked into it.
Now, the only thing I know for sure is that I don’t want Lawrence McKinley to pay attention to anybody but me.
*If I Could is an M/M standalone romance featuring two characters from previous books
When pro baseball’s “would have been” becomes Exeter High’s newest coach, it takes one look of those flirty brown eyes and cocky smile before everything changes.
I thought I knew exactly what I wanted out of life until he walked into it.
Now, the only thing I know for sure is that I don’t want Lawrence McKinley to pay attention to anybody but me.
*If I Could is an M/M standalone romance featuring two characters from previous books
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2020
44 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
B. Celeste
41 books3,214 followersB. Celeste is a new adult and contemporary romance author that gives voices to raw, realistic characters with emotional storylines that tug on the heartstrings.
She was born and raised in upstate New York where she still resides with her four-legged feline sidekick Oliver “Ollie” Queen. Her love for reading and writing began at an early age and only grew stronger after getting a BA in English and an MFA in English & creative writing. When she’s not writing, she’s working out, binge-watching reality game shows, and spending time with her friends and family.
Email: bcdwrites@gmail.com
She was born and raised in upstate New York where she still resides with her four-legged feline sidekick Oliver “Ollie” Queen. Her love for reading and writing began at an early age and only grew stronger after getting a BA in English and an MFA in English & creative writing. When she’s not writing, she’s working out, binge-watching reality game shows, and spending time with her friends and family.
Email: bcdwrites@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 1, 2020
Genre: M/M Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
3.75 Stars
Lawrence (Ren) McKinley hoped his move to a new town would be a new beginning he craved. Befriending a fellow teacher Reece Nichols was an extra credit he welcomed. But their past might hinder a promise of their future.
This book is a lot milder than I thought it would be, which would be a good intro for first time MM readers. Personally, I needed more intensity and conflict for it to grab my attention.
Ren and Reece were good for each other. I liked how Ren was down to earth even with his cocky charm. I also liked their background stories.
If I Could is a story of owning one’s sexuality. It would appeal to readers who prefer an easy, light friends to lovers MM Romance.
🔸 ⚾️ 🔸 . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . 🔸 ⚾️ 🔸
For more reviews/interviews/promo visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
3.75 StarsLawrence (Ren) McKinley hoped his move to a new town would be a new beginning he craved. Befriending a fellow teacher Reece Nichols was an extra credit he welcomed. But their past might hinder a promise of their future.
This book is a lot milder than I thought it would be, which would be a good intro for first time MM readers. Personally, I needed more intensity and conflict for it to grab my attention.
“People see what they want to, but it’s our perception of ourselves that will break us if we let it.”
Ren and Reece were good for each other. I liked how Ren was down to earth even with his cocky charm. I also liked their background stories.
If I Could is a story of owning one’s sexuality. It would appeal to readers who prefer an easy, light friends to lovers MM Romance.
🔸 ⚾️ 🔸 . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . 🔸 ⚾️ 🔸
For more reviews/interviews/promo visit:
September 1, 2020
3.75 ★
Reece Nichols is an English teacher who tends to keep to himself. Though Reece’s choices are steeped in his past, the pain lingers causing his own repentance. New to town, Lawrence “Ren” McKinley is outgoing and ready to move forward in his new teaching position and as the football coach. When Reece befriends Lawrence, they forge a unique connection, as Ren gives Reece the space he needs to be himself.
Opposites in many ways, Reece and Ren balance each other without either feeling pressure or restrictions. With a slow but steady pace, their friendship is based on trust and respect and it continues to grow into a much deeper bond. With Ren’s flirtatiousness and Reece’s naiveté, the sexual tension is high.
With Reece, I liked how he was more of an introvert and sympathized with how he blamed himself for painful mistakes. Though Ren is gregarious, he also has a serious side especially when it comes to those he loves. Together, they are cute and their progression from friendship to relationship is heartwarming.
If I Could is a MM story about coming to terms with hurtful events and being true to oneself. This book would appeal to those looking for a tender and feel good coming out romance.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for a review*.
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Reece Nichols is an English teacher who tends to keep to himself. Though Reece’s choices are steeped in his past, the pain lingers causing his own repentance. New to town, Lawrence “Ren” McKinley is outgoing and ready to move forward in his new teaching position and as the football coach. When Reece befriends Lawrence, they forge a unique connection, as Ren gives Reece the space he needs to be himself.
“…I’m not broken from what I’ve gone through. Maybe I’m splintered with a permanent crack down the center of my heart, but I’m still standing.”
Opposites in many ways, Reece and Ren balance each other without either feeling pressure or restrictions. With a slow but steady pace, their friendship is based on trust and respect and it continues to grow into a much deeper bond. With Ren’s flirtatiousness and Reece’s naiveté, the sexual tension is high.
“I pick up sped, listening to our skin slapping and groan every time my sack hits his ass, giving it the perfect amount of pressure as his tightness suction cups my dick until it begs for release.”
With Reece, I liked how he was more of an introvert and sympathized with how he blamed himself for painful mistakes. Though Ren is gregarious, he also has a serious side especially when it comes to those he loves. Together, they are cute and their progression from friendship to relationship is heartwarming.
If I Could is a MM story about coming to terms with hurtful events and being true to oneself. This book would appeal to those looking for a tender and feel good coming out romance.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for a review*.
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
September 15, 2020
This slow-burn and swoony story was just the happy spot I needed. B. Celeste weaved such a beautiful and emotional tale that hit all my favorite MM marks. A definite must read!
September 8, 2020
An Intense AND Heartfelt Slow Burn Romance
*arc generously provided by the promo team in exchange for an honest review*
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
Standalone MM Romance. Ren previously appears in Color Me Pretty. Reece previously appears in Underneath The Sycamore Tree.
When I read Color Me Pretty, I wanted more of Ren. I felt like he had been kept in the background. A couple of weeks later, IF I COULD WAS ANNOUNCED and it all made sense! After finally reading this story, I can say that it was worth the wait. It was fast-paced plot-wise, but the relationship was deliciously slow-burn. It’s not an erotic romance, but it has its steamy moments that were just off the chains. These two characters have a lot of natural chemistry; it felt easy to fall for them separately and then when they finally united, it all made even more sense. They fit each other well. The story had hilarious moments, but it was also very emotional at times. I haven’t read Underneath The Sycamore Tree (BUT I REALLY HAVE TO NOW). The heart to heart in If I Could was everything you could wish for and our two leads are not only handsome but also very cute and adorable in their own tortured hero type of way. I was smitten with them!
I recommend this story to all the MM lovers. This was my first official MM romance! I can’t wait to discover more of the genre. All the lovers of slow-burn will find immense satisfaction with B. Celeste’s magic.
ORIGINAL COMMENT:
Around midway, it went off. Definitely slow burn. But once it went off, it was lovely and cute. I loved these two together. I liked Della and Theo's cameos, too. It was a sweet romance with lots of exploration. The relationship development amongst them was amazing. Full review coming soon.
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September 5, 2020
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
My girl B. Celeste is about to pop some MM romance cherries and I am so freaking proud of her for taking this leap to give her fans something completely different from her norm. If you are a fan of this author (i.e., you've been reading her since the beginning), then you will definitely recognize her two sexy leading men, Reece Nichols (Underneath the Sycamore Tree) and Lawrence “Ren” McKinley (from Color Me Pretty). Both of these characters intrigued me in their first appearances and I knew that I wanted more of them, but I never expected to get them both in the same book. They were so perfectly matched and that slow burn feel they had was EVERYTHING!
If I Could was a beautiful and emotional journey about two men finding their way towards happily ever after while discover themselves along the way. It was a slow and swoon-worthy romance that captured my heart and soul, leaving me utterly speechless as I devoured all the words of this epic tale. Reece and Ren were perhaps the cutest couple ever and I absolutely adored how their relationship grew throughout the story. Their chemistry was evident right from the beginning, but I loved that the author decided to give us a slow build up. They were friends first, forming a deep connection that led to them to an even deeper connection as lovers. Their romances was one of a kind and it gave me all the feels!
Whether you are a longtime fan of MM romance or this is your first taste, If I Could, is the PERFECT book for you!
My girl B. Celeste is about to pop some MM romance cherries and I am so freaking proud of her for taking this leap to give her fans something completely different from her norm. If you are a fan of this author (i.e., you've been reading her since the beginning), then you will definitely recognize her two sexy leading men, Reece Nichols (Underneath the Sycamore Tree) and Lawrence “Ren” McKinley (from Color Me Pretty). Both of these characters intrigued me in their first appearances and I knew that I wanted more of them, but I never expected to get them both in the same book. They were so perfectly matched and that slow burn feel they had was EVERYTHING!
If I Could was a beautiful and emotional journey about two men finding their way towards happily ever after while discover themselves along the way. It was a slow and swoon-worthy romance that captured my heart and soul, leaving me utterly speechless as I devoured all the words of this epic tale. Reece and Ren were perhaps the cutest couple ever and I absolutely adored how their relationship grew throughout the story. Their chemistry was evident right from the beginning, but I loved that the author decided to give us a slow build up. They were friends first, forming a deep connection that led to them to an even deeper connection as lovers. Their romances was one of a kind and it gave me all the feels!
Whether you are a longtime fan of MM romance or this is your first taste, If I Could, is the PERFECT book for you!
August 24, 2020
This my first time reading B. Celeste but as soon as I saw she was coming out with an MM romance I had to jump on it!!
MM is one of my favorite tropes and she did such a good job with these characters! I loved Ren and Reece so much! The build up of their relationship had me so excited for them. They have amazing chemistry and I would catch myself smiling so hard for them! They also were extremely hot together and Ren’s dirty mouth is my favorite!!
This was a good lighthearted read with just enough back story, emotion, steam and sweet moments. A more leveled, straight to the point story which I can appreciate sometimes! I’m glad I picked this one up and I look forward to reading more of her work!
* I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book
MM is one of my favorite tropes and she did such a good job with these characters! I loved Ren and Reece so much! The build up of their relationship had me so excited for them. They have amazing chemistry and I would catch myself smiling so hard for them! They also were extremely hot together and Ren’s dirty mouth is my favorite!!
This was a good lighthearted read with just enough back story, emotion, steam and sweet moments. A more leveled, straight to the point story which I can appreciate sometimes! I’m glad I picked this one up and I look forward to reading more of her work!
* I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book
September 7, 2020
I have never read a M/M book before and I wasn’t quite sure what I was getting into, but let me tell you that this book is
⭐️ AMAZING ⭐️
This book so beautifully tells the story of two people falling in love and how they help each other through some past trauma, but without all the unnecessary drama, which was refreshing.
You will fall so hard for Reece & Ren!! 📚❤️⚾️
⭐️ AMAZING ⭐️
This book so beautifully tells the story of two people falling in love and how they help each other through some past trauma, but without all the unnecessary drama, which was refreshing.
You will fall so hard for Reece & Ren!! 📚❤️⚾️
September 13, 2020
I'm going through a rough time with my books lately. I've DNF like 3 to 4 stories this week. This one I managed to finish, so I'll put my opinion over here.
"If I could" had a really great start, the background of the characters was really well explained and got me hyped up with the story, there were some secrets that kept me interested and the personalities were my cup of tea, so far so good.
Then I got to the middle wich felt educational, I don't know how to explain it accurately, but some books get this vibe that one of the characters helps the other with a lot of educational and long speeches about a subject, so nothing is really happening because the lectures repeat themselves over and over, it's just tiring.
I still got through it because some conversations were endearing and then... The end part came! 😱 I feel like the author didn't want to let anything in the air, kudos for that, but didn't know how to solve it. First we get the parents, check. Then the other parents, check. Then the sister, check, etc. And all is solved smoothly without issue, so it was not real and I just wanted to finish.
It had potential, it really did, but didn't happen. I need the book goddess to be on my side again, this is painful.
Until the next one!
"If I could" had a really great start, the background of the characters was really well explained and got me hyped up with the story, there were some secrets that kept me interested and the personalities were my cup of tea, so far so good.
Then I got to the middle wich felt educational, I don't know how to explain it accurately, but some books get this vibe that one of the characters helps the other with a lot of educational and long speeches about a subject, so nothing is really happening because the lectures repeat themselves over and over, it's just tiring.
I still got through it because some conversations were endearing and then... The end part came! 😱 I feel like the author didn't want to let anything in the air, kudos for that, but didn't know how to solve it. First we get the parents, check. Then the other parents, check. Then the sister, check, etc. And all is solved smoothly without issue, so it was not real and I just wanted to finish.
It had potential, it really did, but didn't happen. I need the book goddess to be on my side again, this is painful.
Until the next one!
September 1, 2020
M/M romance is my soft spot. I really love this genre and this author wrote a heart felt romance. This is a slow burn and a very sweet read.
I felt immediately drawn to the two characters and I really felt their connection.
Ren and Reece were two people with different characters but they connected from the first moment they met.
I loved their banter and the gradual development of their relationship. I would have loved some extra passion but I enjoyed it nontheless.
If it's your first time wanting to read an M/M book, I recommend this.
4 Stars!
I felt immediately drawn to the two characters and I really felt their connection.
Ren and Reece were two people with different characters but they connected from the first moment they met.
I loved their banter and the gradual development of their relationship. I would have loved some extra passion but I enjoyed it nontheless.
If it's your first time wanting to read an M/M book, I recommend this.
4 Stars!
September 21, 2020
The good people in your life will give you happiness, the worst ones will give you lessons, and the best ones will give you memories.
Lawrence "Ren" McKinley, 24, is excited to start a new chapter in his life. After a career-ending prognosis of severe arthritis in my shoulder and elbow in the MLB he packed up and took a teaching/coaching job at Exeter High.
Running into Reece Nichols, the English teacher, just made it all a bit more interesting.
Reece Nichols, 29, has had his fair share of horrible drama in his young life. Meeting Ren might just be what he needs to get out of his self-imposed solitary
Love has no gender. It has no ethnicity. It has no restrictions.
Both, Ren and Reece, have had influences in their lives that have shaped them. But Ren has refused to live his life for other people and decided to make the choices that will make him happy. And little by little he coaxes Reece to come out of his shelf, to also start making decisions that will make Reece happy.
This is a sweet story that is full of drama and heartache. It's a slow burn love between them, with a HEA after some serious hurdles.
“Have you ever kissed another guy before?
Have you ever thought about kissing me?”
September 16, 2020
Nie jestem fanką MM, ale ten, ten romans mnie zauroczył, bo najtrudniej jest zaakceptować kim się w głębi duszy. To takie normalne bać się i stawiać czoła życiu. Uwielbiam
August 31, 2020
This is Celeste’s first MM romance and I was so excited to read it, MM being one of my favourites to read.
If you have read ‘Color Me Pretty’ and ‘Underneath The Sycamore Tree’ our main characters are from these books. You don’t need to have read them though to enjoy this book.
Ren has just taken a teaching position at Exeter High and meets Reece, a fellow teacher on his first day, thinking he has met a new friend. He settles in and over time, thoughts and feelings towards each other change.
Ren is confident and knows who he is. I loved his flirtiness and how he tried to tell Reece he liked him more than friends but not wanting to scare him off. His patience totally warmed my heart with how he helped Reece accept his past and who he is and I loved how he just planted himself in Reece's life and that Reece couldn’t say no to him.
Reece is quiet by nature. Still suffering from a loss in his past. Just by being around Ren and seeing his confidence only made him want to be better for not only himself but Ren.
Although we have a little angst, this read is more slow burn, watching their friendship, them growing as a couple and then watching them fall in love and they certainly gave me all the warm fuzzy feels.
This story is heart warmingly beautiful and one I couldn’t put down. I was just so in love with their story and how they came together and although Ren and Reece are complete opposites, they work so well together.
A must-read for any MM fans but also a great starter book for those not read anything if this genre yet.
ARC received for an honest review.
____________________
Overall Ratings;
First Sex Scene - 79%
POV - Dual
Hero (Ren) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hero (Reece) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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If you have read ‘Color Me Pretty’ and ‘Underneath The Sycamore Tree’ our main characters are from these books. You don’t need to have read them though to enjoy this book.
Ren has just taken a teaching position at Exeter High and meets Reece, a fellow teacher on his first day, thinking he has met a new friend. He settles in and over time, thoughts and feelings towards each other change.
Ren is confident and knows who he is. I loved his flirtiness and how he tried to tell Reece he liked him more than friends but not wanting to scare him off. His patience totally warmed my heart with how he helped Reece accept his past and who he is and I loved how he just planted himself in Reece's life and that Reece couldn’t say no to him.
Reece is quiet by nature. Still suffering from a loss in his past. Just by being around Ren and seeing his confidence only made him want to be better for not only himself but Ren.
Although we have a little angst, this read is more slow burn, watching their friendship, them growing as a couple and then watching them fall in love and they certainly gave me all the warm fuzzy feels.
This story is heart warmingly beautiful and one I couldn’t put down. I was just so in love with their story and how they came together and although Ren and Reece are complete opposites, they work so well together.
A must-read for any MM fans but also a great starter book for those not read anything if this genre yet.
ARC received for an honest review.
____________________
Overall Ratings;
First Sex Scene - 79%
POV - Dual
Hero (Ren) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hero (Reece) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Free in KindleUnlimited
Follow me;
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Facebook - https://facebook.com/heareadsreviews/
October 18, 2020
My first ever B Celeste book. It was a great read.
A super cute and heartfelt MM romance.
A super cute and heartfelt MM romance.
August 23, 2020
If I Could is the tender, honest story of two men exploring and accepting their feelings for each other, despite the fear of rejection from the world. B. Celeste has written a tale of full of emotion and passion that will completely consume the reader. I found myself so immersed in Ren and Reece's story that I never wanted to leave their world. Every layer of the plot was executed in seamless detail. In true Celeste fashion, the prose is absolutely beautiful and poetic. Her abilities as an author are perfectly showcased in this book that grabbed my heart and filled me with joy. This book will be a forever favorite!
September 3, 2020
This was a great, heartfelt MM romance. I enjoyed the built-up relationship of the characters. This author has a beautiful way with words.
October 17, 2020
If I could by B. Celeste (2020/10/17)
Rating 3/5 Stars
Disclaimer: I received an ARC via Instagram giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
TW: Death Of A Loved One, Homophobic Slurs.
This story follows Lawrence McKinley who used to be a pro baseball athlete but then becomes after gaining arthritis in his shoulder he retires from the game to become Exeter High’s newest coach. On his first day of getting settled in for the school year he meets Reece Nichols who is an English teacher at the school and a friendship develops from there. Essentially this is a M/M standalone friends-to-lover romance.
I really liked the romance in this story. I found it to be really sweet and heartwarming. I liked how the relationship progressed and how the characters really got to know each other before being in a relationship.
I also like the friendship in the story and how supportive the friends were. A Lot of this story is focused on evolving as individuals whether it was sexuality or healing from trauma which I really enjoyed.
However, toward the middle of the story it started to drag for me, and I became very disinterested in the story. I felt like there were too many long speeches to the point where I was disconnected from the characters and their story.
I felt like the ending was rushed and that everything was wrapped up in a nice little bow. I felt like there were a few plot holes and there were certain things that just didn't really make much sense to me.
Overall, this was my first book from this author, and I am definitely interested in reading more from her.
Rating 3/5 Stars
Disclaimer: I received an ARC via Instagram giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
TW: Death Of A Loved One, Homophobic Slurs.
This story follows Lawrence McKinley who used to be a pro baseball athlete but then becomes after gaining arthritis in his shoulder he retires from the game to become Exeter High’s newest coach. On his first day of getting settled in for the school year he meets Reece Nichols who is an English teacher at the school and a friendship develops from there. Essentially this is a M/M standalone friends-to-lover romance.
I really liked the romance in this story. I found it to be really sweet and heartwarming. I liked how the relationship progressed and how the characters really got to know each other before being in a relationship.
I also like the friendship in the story and how supportive the friends were. A Lot of this story is focused on evolving as individuals whether it was sexuality or healing from trauma which I really enjoyed.
However, toward the middle of the story it started to drag for me, and I became very disinterested in the story. I felt like there were too many long speeches to the point where I was disconnected from the characters and their story.
I felt like the ending was rushed and that everything was wrapped up in a nice little bow. I felt like there were a few plot holes and there were certain things that just didn't really make much sense to me.
Overall, this was my first book from this author, and I am definitely interested in reading more from her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2020
I do not remember who recommended this book - but thank you! It was the right story for my mood.
First up, The love story part was effortless. Like they were the right fit. Meaning the author did a fantastic job of creating a story of showing the reader this connection and allowing it to grow. Ren and Reece were adorable together as friends and eventually lovers.
What worked for me: This was a story where both characters not looking but in the perfect place in life for a relationship. Each is carrying some baggage. It's watching not only the relationship but each character overcome their baggage together and supportively.
Things to consider: For what I considered a resolution story(character has baggage and lover helps recover from) I felt at times the story just surface skimmed emotions. I’d like some depth especially from Ren.
My recommendation: Read it!
First up, The love story part was effortless. Like they were the right fit. Meaning the author did a fantastic job of creating a story of showing the reader this connection and allowing it to grow. Ren and Reece were adorable together as friends and eventually lovers.
What worked for me: This was a story where both characters not looking but in the perfect place in life for a relationship. Each is carrying some baggage. It's watching not only the relationship but each character overcome their baggage together and supportively.
Things to consider: For what I considered a resolution story(character has baggage and lover helps recover from) I felt at times the story just surface skimmed emotions. I’d like some depth especially from Ren.
My recommendation: Read it!
September 2, 2020
‘If I Could’ is the second M/M romance that I have ever read, and was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book totally and utterly had my undivided attention, and I read it all in one sitting desperately wanting to get to end, and purely because I was totally and utterly transfixed with the two main characters REN and Reece.
Ren is the new history and sports teacher in Exeter, and as an athlete who almost went pro, he is something of a local celebrity. So when he initially starts, he immediately has fans, but one person catches his eye and that is Reece Nichols, the quiet and reclusive Literature teacher.
Reece has been through a lot in his life, and has a lot of skeletons and demons that he is battling. However, he does not allow those around him in easily, and everyone assumes they have him all figured out. However, when he locks eyes with Ren, he knows he’s in trouble. There’s something about the broad-shouldered ex baseball player that instantly draws him in, and with Ren’s charm and easy going nature, Reece finds himself opening up easily and allowing someone in.
This romance was truly beautiful, and made for a really compelling and powerful read. There’s some amazing quotes about love being love, and not about labels, and I genuinely wish everyone was as open-minded as Ren, and shared his views.
This book discusses the struggles of sexuality, and breaks the stereotypes that I personally have known on what people assume gay males are like. Ren and Reece’s romance is completely believable, has so much depth, and this romance truly put a lot of heterosexual romances to shame.
It was a well-written and incredibly moving romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’d recommend to all those wanting to perhaps try reading a M/M romance, or someone looking for a really good romance to delve into.
This book totally and utterly had my undivided attention, and I read it all in one sitting desperately wanting to get to end, and purely because I was totally and utterly transfixed with the two main characters REN and Reece.
Ren is the new history and sports teacher in Exeter, and as an athlete who almost went pro, he is something of a local celebrity. So when he initially starts, he immediately has fans, but one person catches his eye and that is Reece Nichols, the quiet and reclusive Literature teacher.
Reece has been through a lot in his life, and has a lot of skeletons and demons that he is battling. However, he does not allow those around him in easily, and everyone assumes they have him all figured out. However, when he locks eyes with Ren, he knows he’s in trouble. There’s something about the broad-shouldered ex baseball player that instantly draws him in, and with Ren’s charm and easy going nature, Reece finds himself opening up easily and allowing someone in.
This romance was truly beautiful, and made for a really compelling and powerful read. There’s some amazing quotes about love being love, and not about labels, and I genuinely wish everyone was as open-minded as Ren, and shared his views.
This book discusses the struggles of sexuality, and breaks the stereotypes that I personally have known on what people assume gay males are like. Ren and Reece’s romance is completely believable, has so much depth, and this romance truly put a lot of heterosexual romances to shame.
It was a well-written and incredibly moving romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’d recommend to all those wanting to perhaps try reading a M/M romance, or someone looking for a really good romance to delve into.
September 5, 2020
I completely SWOOOOONED over Ren & Reece!!!
It's not often I read a couple that are so perfect for each other they bring out the best in the other. I’m not a huge MM reader, I always like to point this out because to be able to read in a trope that you don’t particularly care for and to come out of the last page LOVING the story you just read is a testament to the authors writing skills. I’ve read a few MM before but never one where both guys were supportive of the other from the get go; one that was built from friendship first. A relationship where they helped each other overcome life obstacles and personal demons as friends first then lovers. AND OMG when these two collided physically I swear you could FEEL THE HEAT through the pages!
This is a complete standalone and you in no way need to read any other books. However if you’re a B Celeste fan and you probably remember Reece Nichols as Kaiden & Emery’s new teacher at Exeter High from Underneath the Sycamore Tree. Lawrence “Ren” McKinley was Della’s best friend in Color Me Pretty. You do not have to read either of these books in order to read this one but I find it pretty cool when authors crossover characters from different worlds.
It's not often I read a couple that are so perfect for each other they bring out the best in the other. I’m not a huge MM reader, I always like to point this out because to be able to read in a trope that you don’t particularly care for and to come out of the last page LOVING the story you just read is a testament to the authors writing skills. I’ve read a few MM before but never one where both guys were supportive of the other from the get go; one that was built from friendship first. A relationship where they helped each other overcome life obstacles and personal demons as friends first then lovers. AND OMG when these two collided physically I swear you could FEEL THE HEAT through the pages!
This is a complete standalone and you in no way need to read any other books. However if you’re a B Celeste fan and you probably remember Reece Nichols as Kaiden & Emery’s new teacher at Exeter High from Underneath the Sycamore Tree. Lawrence “Ren” McKinley was Della’s best friend in Color Me Pretty. You do not have to read either of these books in order to read this one but I find it pretty cool when authors crossover characters from different worlds.
September 6, 2020
4.5 STARS!
“With other guys, I wanted their bodies. With Reece, I want his time.”
Leave it to B. Celeste to pull me out of my week long book slump!
If I Could is one of the sweetest romances I’ve read all year. It’s a slow-burn M/M romance between two teachers, Lawrence McKinley and Reece Nichols. Their story was heartfelt, moving, passionate. My favorite part was I could FEEL how much these characters genuinely cared for one another. And the comfort and healing they brought to one another was breathtaking. They were each other’s opposite in so many ways, yet absolutely perfect together.
If I Could left my heart so full! ♥️
“With other guys, I wanted their bodies. With Reece, I want his time.”
Leave it to B. Celeste to pull me out of my week long book slump!
If I Could is one of the sweetest romances I’ve read all year. It’s a slow-burn M/M romance between two teachers, Lawrence McKinley and Reece Nichols. Their story was heartfelt, moving, passionate. My favorite part was I could FEEL how much these characters genuinely cared for one another. And the comfort and healing they brought to one another was breathtaking. They were each other’s opposite in so many ways, yet absolutely perfect together.
If I Could left my heart so full! ♥️
September 10, 2020
I absolutely love M/M books and B. Celeste knocks this one out of the park! I fell in love with Ren and his outlook on life, his don’t take any crap kind of attitude in Color MePretty. I’m so glad She wrote him his own book. For this being her first M/M book you would never know because it’s that well written.
Lawrence “Ren” McKinley had the perfect life laid out in front of him, a life anyone would be excited to have, only it’s not the life he saw for himself. Ren has always been a free spirit and wanted to be someone his parents where proud of.
Baseball was that thing his parents raved about, until he decided to walk away and ignore all the criticisms from people who didn’t understand that he wanted to do, what he wanted to do not what everyone else wanted.
Reece had had his own traumatic experience in life and was perfectly set with accepting that he was ment to be alone forever. Until the day that Ren McKinley walked into his life, and shows him that there is so much more to life than just going through the motions.
This story will give you all the feels these two are so sweet and you will fall in love with them.
Lawrence “Ren” McKinley had the perfect life laid out in front of him, a life anyone would be excited to have, only it’s not the life he saw for himself. Ren has always been a free spirit and wanted to be someone his parents where proud of.
Baseball was that thing his parents raved about, until he decided to walk away and ignore all the criticisms from people who didn’t understand that he wanted to do, what he wanted to do not what everyone else wanted.
Reece had had his own traumatic experience in life and was perfectly set with accepting that he was ment to be alone forever. Until the day that Ren McKinley walked into his life, and shows him that there is so much more to life than just going through the motions.
This story will give you all the feels these two are so sweet and you will fall in love with them.
September 2, 2020
5 BEAUTIFUL HEARTFELT STARS!! BEAUTIFUL, TOUCHING AND JUST PLAIN LOVING!! This book hit all my emotion buttons and this author has done a phenomenal job with these two. Their stories are powerful and held my attention all the way through. You must read this book.
September 1, 2020
3.5-4 Stars
I would say this book was PG - PG-13. Very wordy. Lots of internal thinking. Definitely a slow burn. If you've been thinking about reading a m/m book and wanted to dip your toes into this genre. I would say this book could be a good start. Only some kissing and touching here and there. With one sex scene With details. This book was more about connecting and trying to figure out how they feel about each other. And Reece overcoming something tragic in his past.
Reece was just living above the surface. He was punishing himself for something he had no control over. He felt like he couldn’t be happy because of what happened to someone he loved. He moved passed it just enough to live.
So when Ren showed up and started to hang around Reece. Ren slowly started to break down his walls around him. Bringing Reece out of his comfort zone.
I had a hard time with the pace of this book. At times I had to make myself power through it. I didn’t feel those butterfly feelings you get when you meet someone new with these main characters. The sex was very tame. And at times it's just mentioned and cuts to a new chapter/paragraph.
“My body is yours,” I tell him. And he shows me with his hands exactly what that means to him."
I would’ve liked to read and felt that passion from them in detail. I think it would’ve helped me to connect with them more. We only get that from the first time they have sex. Details. But still tame.
Overall... this was a ok read. I wish it could’ve been just a little more. The whole Sophia thing I thought was going to be more considering she was kinda a big part of Reece’s past. I'm a BIG m/m book reader and I feel kinda cheated on this book. I wanted to feel more from the main characters. I think the author defiantly played it safe for her m/f readers.
The epilogue was cute. Just wish it was years later and not just a year later.
*ARC provided for an honest review.*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account.)
I would say this book was PG - PG-13. Very wordy. Lots of internal thinking. Definitely a slow burn. If you've been thinking about reading a m/m book and wanted to dip your toes into this genre. I would say this book could be a good start. Only some kissing and touching here and there. With one sex scene With details. This book was more about connecting and trying to figure out how they feel about each other. And Reece overcoming something tragic in his past.
Reece was just living above the surface. He was punishing himself for something he had no control over. He felt like he couldn’t be happy because of what happened to someone he loved. He moved passed it just enough to live.
So when Ren showed up and started to hang around Reece. Ren slowly started to break down his walls around him. Bringing Reece out of his comfort zone.
I had a hard time with the pace of this book. At times I had to make myself power through it. I didn’t feel those butterfly feelings you get when you meet someone new with these main characters. The sex was very tame. And at times it's just mentioned and cuts to a new chapter/paragraph.
“My body is yours,” I tell him. And he shows me with his hands exactly what that means to him."
I would’ve liked to read and felt that passion from them in detail. I think it would’ve helped me to connect with them more. We only get that from the first time they have sex. Details. But still tame.
Overall... this was a ok read. I wish it could’ve been just a little more. The whole Sophia thing I thought was going to be more considering she was kinda a big part of Reece’s past. I'm a BIG m/m book reader and I feel kinda cheated on this book. I wanted to feel more from the main characters. I think the author defiantly played it safe for her m/f readers.
The epilogue was cute. Just wish it was years later and not just a year later.
*ARC provided for an honest review.*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account.)
August 23, 2020
This book! I loved it from page one. I have recently become quite the fan of m/m and this might just be one of my favorites. Not surprising, since I seem to love all B Celeste books.
Lawrence is just what Reece needs and Ren is perfect for Reece. These two really are a match made for each other. What Reece has gone through really made my heart hurt and it was nice to see him come out of his shell for Ren. I really liked that this book wasn't all about their sexual relationship, though there was some steamy sexy times! I also loved that we got a cameo of Della and Theo (still love them)!
I can admit I was worried If I Could was going to be that typical "I don't know I like boys so I'm going to fool around with you and get you to fall in love with me and then I'm going to decide I don't really like boys and totally break your heart" kinda book, but I should have known better. B Celeste does not do her characters like that. I am sure her characters, when they were younger, were curious and unsure, but at this point in their lives they pretty well knew what they wanted. Reece was still pretty nervous, but who isn't super nervous in the beginning of a new relationship? Isn't that part of the excitement? One of my very favorite things about Reece and Ren, though, is how super supportive they are of each other. It's serious #goals couples or otherwise.
All in all, this is a book that I am going to recommend to everyone who likes the m/m genre. It's a definite B Celeste happily ever after ending that is so well deserved and I absolutely loved it! 5 star read for me!
Lawrence is just what Reece needs and Ren is perfect for Reece. These two really are a match made for each other. What Reece has gone through really made my heart hurt and it was nice to see him come out of his shell for Ren. I really liked that this book wasn't all about their sexual relationship, though there was some steamy sexy times! I also loved that we got a cameo of Della and Theo (still love them)!
I can admit I was worried If I Could was going to be that typical "I don't know I like boys so I'm going to fool around with you and get you to fall in love with me and then I'm going to decide I don't really like boys and totally break your heart" kinda book, but I should have known better. B Celeste does not do her characters like that. I am sure her characters, when they were younger, were curious and unsure, but at this point in their lives they pretty well knew what they wanted. Reece was still pretty nervous, but who isn't super nervous in the beginning of a new relationship? Isn't that part of the excitement? One of my very favorite things about Reece and Ren, though, is how super supportive they are of each other. It's serious #goals couples or otherwise.
All in all, this is a book that I am going to recommend to everyone who likes the m/m genre. It's a definite B Celeste happily ever after ending that is so well deserved and I absolutely loved it! 5 star read for me!
September 12, 2020
Wow. Just..wow.
I am pretty speechless right now. This was the first MM story by this author and she nailed it!! MM books are one of my absolute favorites to read and I am shocked at how this author completely annihilated her first shot at this. My heart is so full after reading this.. Even while writing this review, I have these characters on my mind. I want to go back and read this all over again. Seconds after finishing. This was one of the BEST and sweetest MM stories I have read. And I have read plenty.
It was so heartwarming.
It was so angsty.
It was so emotional.
There were 2 or 3 times I had the sniffles. Which I have to admit is a hard thing to do with me. I am pretty tough.
I absolutely LOVED, & I mean I fell hard for Ren. He was such a ray of sunshine, always looking at the positives, loved who he was and got Reece to come out of his shell expertly. And speaking of Reece, I loved that sweet man so hard. He was the ying to Rens yang. I mean, who wouldnt love a timid, introverted book reading teacher? & that shy teacher falling in love with the out going football coach? It was a match made in heaven. It wasnt all fun and hot games though. It was deep, heartbreaking and brought out such utter sadness out of me.
I also LOVE the fact that this author merged two worlds from two completely different stories and made a new one.
I cannot promote this author enough. Every single book she writes is executed PERFECTLY. Without flaws. The imagination this woman has just blows me away. I have loved every single world she has written for us and I cannot possibly wait a second longer for her next book. * Also I would love it if maybe Jamie got a story? Even Red. I loved him!!!!*
5 stars as usual. It is so easy giving this author 5 stars every time because she takes me on a journey that not many authors can.
I am pretty speechless right now. This was the first MM story by this author and she nailed it!! MM books are one of my absolute favorites to read and I am shocked at how this author completely annihilated her first shot at this. My heart is so full after reading this.. Even while writing this review, I have these characters on my mind. I want to go back and read this all over again. Seconds after finishing. This was one of the BEST and sweetest MM stories I have read. And I have read plenty.
It was so heartwarming.
It was so angsty.
It was so emotional.
There were 2 or 3 times I had the sniffles. Which I have to admit is a hard thing to do with me. I am pretty tough.
I absolutely LOVED, & I mean I fell hard for Ren. He was such a ray of sunshine, always looking at the positives, loved who he was and got Reece to come out of his shell expertly. And speaking of Reece, I loved that sweet man so hard. He was the ying to Rens yang. I mean, who wouldnt love a timid, introverted book reading teacher? & that shy teacher falling in love with the out going football coach? It was a match made in heaven. It wasnt all fun and hot games though. It was deep, heartbreaking and brought out such utter sadness out of me.
I also LOVE the fact that this author merged two worlds from two completely different stories and made a new one.
I cannot promote this author enough. Every single book she writes is executed PERFECTLY. Without flaws. The imagination this woman has just blows me away. I have loved every single world she has written for us and I cannot possibly wait a second longer for her next book. * Also I would love it if maybe Jamie got a story? Even Red. I loved him!!!!*
5 stars as usual. It is so easy giving this author 5 stars every time because she takes me on a journey that not many authors can.
August 25, 2020
Ren and Reece were super cute together. Their book featured light drama and just two men trying to deal with life (but Reese is also working on over coming his past that broke my heart for him) and meeting each other and seeing that they were perfect for each other. I loved that it was light drama because that made it an easy read. So I haven’t read Color Me Pretty by this author yet but I know Ren was in it and I plan to go back and read it at some point. We saw a small look into the characters of that book and it intrigued me enough to move it up my TBR.
One thing I loved so much about this book was that a friendship bloomed before anything else. It make the romance aspect flow naturally and made it seamless. There was some steam but don’t go in thinking that it’s full of sex. These characters have a deeper connection. I will say that this book didn’t have this author signature angst that I’m use to from her other books. Maybe she was nervous to add too much since this is her first attempt at MM (which she did amazing), or what. That didn’t make it bad, just different from what I’m use to when reading her books. It was still a really good book and kept me hooked from start to finish. 4 stars #2OCCJD
One thing I loved so much about this book was that a friendship bloomed before anything else. It make the romance aspect flow naturally and made it seamless. There was some steam but don’t go in thinking that it’s full of sex. These characters have a deeper connection. I will say that this book didn’t have this author signature angst that I’m use to from her other books. Maybe she was nervous to add too much since this is her first attempt at MM (which she did amazing), or what. That didn’t make it bad, just different from what I’m use to when reading her books. It was still a really good book and kept me hooked from start to finish. 4 stars #2OCCJD
August 28, 2020
“With other guys, I wanted their bodies. With Reece, I want his time.”
Beautiful. Breath-Taking. Bold.
B Celeste has crafted a sweet but steamy read that completely captivated me. These characters and their stories are so broken but beautiful. There is pain in their pasts but watching them overcome the obstacles that have been laid out in front of them was inspiring.
Reece and Ren are a couple of my favorite characters that B Celeste has written and I’ve read every single book she’s released.
This story sheds light on so many problems we have in today’s world. All I wanted to do was reach into the pages and hug them both.
This was a great MM book that captivated me from the first page and held on to me until well after I finished.
“The people who spew hate are jealous of those who live life without limitations.”
Beautiful. Breath-Taking. Bold.
B Celeste has crafted a sweet but steamy read that completely captivated me. These characters and their stories are so broken but beautiful. There is pain in their pasts but watching them overcome the obstacles that have been laid out in front of them was inspiring.
Reece and Ren are a couple of my favorite characters that B Celeste has written and I’ve read every single book she’s released.
This story sheds light on so many problems we have in today’s world. All I wanted to do was reach into the pages and hug them both.
This was a great MM book that captivated me from the first page and held on to me until well after I finished.
“The people who spew hate are jealous of those who live life without limitations.”
September 6, 2020
If I Could was a sweet, heartwarming MM romance that held my interest from start to finish. Lawrence and Reece were two awesome characters I could not get enough of. The author gave us a story about two men finding themselves and each other.
Theirs was an emotional journey that was a slow burn and was also swoony. I loved seeing the development of their relationship from friends to so much more. Their chemistry was evident and their story will give you all the feels. These two were total opposites but were absolutely perfect for each other. IT was a beautiful story and I would recommend it to all lovers of MM romance.
Theirs was an emotional journey that was a slow burn and was also swoony. I loved seeing the development of their relationship from friends to so much more. Their chemistry was evident and their story will give you all the feels. These two were total opposites but were absolutely perfect for each other. IT was a beautiful story and I would recommend it to all lovers of MM romance.
August 29, 2020
‘One single look can show everybody what I haven’t verbally said already. That I’m lost in a man who walked into my life so unexpectedly, and confidently took my heart as his.’
If I Could by B. Celeste is a new adult, M/M romance that is told from duel POVs. Although this is considered a stand-alone, it’s does feature/mention characters from Underneath The Sycamore Tree and Colour Me Pretty.
This was my first M/M romance and to be honest I wasn’t sure what to expect, but in true B. Celeste style I think she nailed it.
This is a sweet, heartwarming, passionate and low angst romance about healing and exploring and accepting feelings for a person, despite the fear of what the rest of the world might think. I loved how well paced this story was and how naturally the characters developed throughout.
Thank you to B. Celeste for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If I Could by B. Celeste is a new adult, M/M romance that is told from duel POVs. Although this is considered a stand-alone, it’s does feature/mention characters from Underneath The Sycamore Tree and Colour Me Pretty.
This was my first M/M romance and to be honest I wasn’t sure what to expect, but in true B. Celeste style I think she nailed it.
This is a sweet, heartwarming, passionate and low angst romance about healing and exploring and accepting feelings for a person, despite the fear of what the rest of the world might think. I loved how well paced this story was and how naturally the characters developed throughout.
Thank you to B. Celeste for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2020
Okay.
I'm not sure I've ever adored a character more than Reece. I love how timid and bashful he is. I love all the blushing he does. He is the sweetest thing ever and I could just read stories about him forever. Ren was the complete counterpart that Reece needs.
The two of these guys together are perfection. Their chemistry was off the charts but more than that, I could actually FEEL the love they have for each other. The story was a compelling drama of past tragedies and being comfortable in your own skin. Of acceptance and moving on. <3
I'm not sure I've ever adored a character more than Reece. I love how timid and bashful he is. I love all the blushing he does. He is the sweetest thing ever and I could just read stories about him forever. Ren was the complete counterpart that Reece needs.
The two of these guys together are perfection. Their chemistry was off the charts but more than that, I could actually FEEL the love they have for each other. The story was a compelling drama of past tragedies and being comfortable in your own skin. Of acceptance and moving on. <3
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