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Silver Foxes #1
Commitment Issues
From fake date to friends with benefits, commitment’s not an issue
Elliot
Freddie’s way too young. I’m twice his age and old enough to be his father. He’s an adorable mix of sexy, smart, sassy, shy and sweet. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to be forced into taking him as my fake date to my oldest friend’s wedding, just because my cheating ex will be there.
Freddie
Elliot’s everything I want in a man, he’s my ultimate silver fox fantasy. But I’ve had my heart ripped out by an older guy before, and I’ve vowed it’ll never happen again. So why have I let myself be talked into posing as Elliot’s arm candy at a posh wedding?
From fake date to friends with benefits, commitment’s not part of the deal. So where does falling in love fit in?
MM Romance.
Elliot
Freddie’s way too young. I’m twice his age and old enough to be his father. He’s an adorable mix of sexy, smart, sassy, shy and sweet. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to be forced into taking him as my fake date to my oldest friend’s wedding, just because my cheating ex will be there.
Freddie
Elliot’s everything I want in a man, he’s my ultimate silver fox fantasy. But I’ve had my heart ripped out by an older guy before, and I’ve vowed it’ll never happen again. So why have I let myself be talked into posing as Elliot’s arm candy at a posh wedding?
From fake date to friends with benefits, commitment’s not part of the deal. So where does falling in love fit in?
MM Romance.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2021
88 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
September 11, 2024
Freddie esta en una situación económica, digamos que un poco desesperada, así que cuando su amigo y compañero de piso le pide que ayude a un amigo de su primo acompañándolo como su "novio-falso" a una boda donde va a estar su ex, Freddie lo piensa, no solo por el incentivo "económico", ni por el fin de semana gratis en las costas de Francia, sino por el hombre en si. Sin embargo, no quiere entrar en una relación con otro hombre mayor, pero será capaz de ser un "falso-novio" sin ninguna de las ventajas? Que pasará cuando la química entre ellos se dispare? Serán capaces de dejar todo una vez regresen de París?
Es una bonita historia romántica sin mucho drama, y con diálogos divertidos. Un par de protas diferentes pero no tanto y un grupo de amigos que realmente los apoyan. Por supuesto, es una trama bastante trillada, como es la de "novios-falsos" en una boda, pero resulto suficientemente entretenida como para querer saber mas de esta serie (sobre todo de las relaciones de amigos), así que voy a continuar leyéndola.
Es una bonita historia romántica sin mucho drama, y con diálogos divertidos. Un par de protas diferentes pero no tanto y un grupo de amigos que realmente los apoyan. Por supuesto, es una trama bastante trillada, como es la de "novios-falsos" en una boda, pero resulto suficientemente entretenida como para querer saber mas de esta serie (sobre todo de las relaciones de amigos), así que voy a continuar leyéndola.
May 10, 2021
Fake date, friends with benefits, but commitment takes longer. Set in the UK, southern France, London, Suffolk and Devon.
Their well meaning friends set up a meet, so the two men can see each other and talk. It's on !
Freddie, 24, 6', blonde with hazel eyes,
is a gorgeous fellow, a student getting his PHD and needs the money. The plus is the silver fox is just what he likes.
Elliot, 52, 6', is best man at his friend's wedding,
and doesn't want to face his ex alone.
There is a getting ready phase, clothes, stories worked out, etc. and we see the men getting acquainted.
Then there's the trip to southern France and the weekend. The ex is a slimy creep, but Freddie has the perfect responses and he and Elliot are having fun.
The two end up scorching the sheets and having deeply passionate sex. Each wonders what will happen when they get home. I liked this different story, because of the characters. Each one is fascinating.
Each MC is down to earth and fit well together.
When the slimy creep makes his worst move, Freddie escapes to Suffolk and his Mum and Dad's.
That is where Elliot goes to bring him back.
Wonderfully written, keeps our attention, and the MC's feelings are relatable and draws us to root for them.
The author subtly shows us just how a sweet rescued dog, Jasper, can mean for the people in a home.
A lovely wrap up and epilogue, marvelous characters all around, and of course the hot sexiness we love.
ENJOY !
=====
Their well meaning friends set up a meet, so the two men can see each other and talk. It's on !
Freddie, 24, 6', blonde with hazel eyes,
is a gorgeous fellow, a student getting his PHD and needs the money. The plus is the silver fox is just what he likes.
Elliot, 52, 6', is best man at his friend's wedding,
and doesn't want to face his ex alone.
There is a getting ready phase, clothes, stories worked out, etc. and we see the men getting acquainted.
Then there's the trip to southern France and the weekend. The ex is a slimy creep, but Freddie has the perfect responses and he and Elliot are having fun.
The two end up scorching the sheets and having deeply passionate sex. Each wonders what will happen when they get home. I liked this different story, because of the characters. Each one is fascinating.
Each MC is down to earth and fit well together.
When the slimy creep makes his worst move, Freddie escapes to Suffolk and his Mum and Dad's.
That is where Elliot goes to bring him back.
Wonderfully written, keeps our attention, and the MC's feelings are relatable and draws us to root for them.
The author subtly shows us just how a sweet rescued dog, Jasper, can mean for the people in a home.
A lovely wrap up and epilogue, marvelous characters all around, and of course the hot sexiness we love.
ENJOY !
=====
May 12, 2021
4.5 stars story. Looking forward to the other books in this series.
August 3, 2021
Commitment Issues is a gentle, slow burn romance with two very likable heroes that I enjoyed. I'm a sucker for an age-gap/May-december romance, and I thought this book was a pretty good one.
BUT, for some reason it took me a long time to read and finish this book. I kept putting it down and walking away from the story, time and time again. I finished the book in almost four days. That is extremely unusual for me because I am a very fast reader and a what should have taken me a day to read... took me much longer.
I'm not sure why. I think the characters are well-written and I liked them. I liked the relationship that developed between Elliot and Freddie. I enjoyed the very British feel of the book. I liked the secondary characters and hated Elliot's ex. *just like I should've*
I think my problem was two things. First, I just came off a phenomenal series in really loved and so when I started this book, it was just such a sweet, gentle read I wasn't prepared for it. Second, I like a slow burn, but at times this story seemed to drag on longer than it should. There were times I gave into distractions, so much so, at one point almost gave up on it.
I'm glad I didn't. I liked it. I liked it enough to continue the series. I hope the next one picks up the pace a little more.
3.5 stars rounded up
BUT, for some reason it took me a long time to read and finish this book. I kept putting it down and walking away from the story, time and time again. I finished the book in almost four days. That is extremely unusual for me because I am a very fast reader and a what should have taken me a day to read... took me much longer.
I'm not sure why. I think the characters are well-written and I liked them. I liked the relationship that developed between Elliot and Freddie. I enjoyed the very British feel of the book. I liked the secondary characters and hated Elliot's ex. *just like I should've*
I think my problem was two things. First, I just came off a phenomenal series in really loved and so when I started this book, it was just such a sweet, gentle read I wasn't prepared for it. Second, I like a slow burn, but at times this story seemed to drag on longer than it should. There were times I gave into distractions, so much so, at one point almost gave up on it.
I'm glad I didn't. I liked it. I liked it enough to continue the series. I hope the next one picks up the pace a little more.
3.5 stars rounded up
March 17, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Commitment Issues is the first book in Ali Ryecart’s new Silver Foxes series. This is the first story I have read by Ryecart and I was really impressed by the author’s writing and style. The book takes on a popular trope with the fake relationship storyline, but Ryecart really brings a lot of depth into the story that moves it beyond a common plot device. While fake relationship stories are often on the lighter side, this book definitely has more weight to it and there is just a lovely intensity between Freddie and Elliot right from the start. They are both wary about getting into this situation, both sort of manipulated/coerced into going along with it. But once they let themselves go, they realize how much they enjoy each other’s company. The men have wonderful chemistry together, as well as a comfortable warmth that makes them just fit, even when they are casual friends.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Commitment Issues is the first book in Ali Ryecart’s new Silver Foxes series. This is the first story I have read by Ryecart and I was really impressed by the author’s writing and style. The book takes on a popular trope with the fake relationship storyline, but Ryecart really brings a lot of depth into the story that moves it beyond a common plot device. While fake relationship stories are often on the lighter side, this book definitely has more weight to it and there is just a lovely intensity between Freddie and Elliot right from the start. They are both wary about getting into this situation, both sort of manipulated/coerced into going along with it. But once they let themselves go, they realize how much they enjoy each other’s company. The men have wonderful chemistry together, as well as a comfortable warmth that makes them just fit, even when they are casual friends.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
never-finished
March 10, 2025DNF @ 68%, pg253, Ch 31
Honestly I enjoyed the first half of this book, the introductions of Freddie & Elliot were great. The glimpses of their attraction and finding comfort in one another, being charmed and getting to know each other.
I enjoyed the fake dating and the wedding weekend was entertaining. I adored the setting, the cottage, tea, dancing, swimming, suncream & Freddie's defense/support of Elliot was all lovely.
Sadly it all goes down hill from the moment they have sex and I could see it coming a mile away, especially with the fakedate & wedding being over at the 50% mark. I just knew it was probably going to start to annoy me.
It feels like right people, wrong time with these two as they're both still rather hung up on previous relationships. They're carrying pretty similar baggage, but while Freddie knows Elliott's.
Elliot has no idea about what Freddie went through, so the lack of communication starts between them and I just don't think I can bare it.
Also like considering both of them have been hurt due to previous partners lack of commitment. The whole friends with benefits thing seemed stupid in general as unfitting to what either of them want.
Oh and the friendships here are messy as heck, pretty chaotic & gave toxic vibes in points. I get trying to be supportive but Cosmo & James both put on a lot of pressure, repetitively ignore what Elliot & Freddie say. Lack understanding of different types of people.
Also the whole Andrew & Marcus, one of them being friends with each side in the Gavin & Elliot situation. Marcus lack of attempt to be civil, just being a huge dick - when Elliot isn't even the one to blame, Gavin's the one who cheated.
Anyway yeah I should have been prepared from the title, but I've simply lost interest in continuing this book. Still it's beautiful writing and the initial set up was wonderful, simply a case of not for me with where it's going.
Honestly I enjoyed the first half of this book, the introductions of Freddie & Elliot were great. The glimpses of their attraction and finding comfort in one another, being charmed and getting to know each other.
I enjoyed the fake dating and the wedding weekend was entertaining. I adored the setting, the cottage, tea, dancing, swimming, suncream & Freddie's defense/support of Elliot was all lovely.
Sadly it all goes down hill from the moment they have sex and I could see it coming a mile away, especially with the fakedate & wedding being over at the 50% mark. I just knew it was probably going to start to annoy me.
It feels like right people, wrong time with these two as they're both still rather hung up on previous relationships. They're carrying pretty similar baggage, but while Freddie knows Elliott's.
Elliot has no idea about what Freddie went through, so the lack of communication starts between them and I just don't think I can bare it.
Also like considering both of them have been hurt due to previous partners lack of commitment. The whole friends with benefits thing seemed stupid in general as unfitting to what either of them want.
Oh and the friendships here are messy as heck, pretty chaotic & gave toxic vibes in points. I get trying to be supportive but Cosmo & James both put on a lot of pressure, repetitively ignore what Elliot & Freddie say. Lack understanding of different types of people.
Also the whole Andrew & Marcus, one of them being friends with each side in the Gavin & Elliot situation. Marcus lack of attempt to be civil, just being a huge dick - when Elliot isn't even the one to blame, Gavin's the one who cheated.
Anyway yeah I should have been prepared from the title, but I've simply lost interest in continuing this book. Still it's beautiful writing and the initial set up was wonderful, simply a case of not for me with where it's going.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2021
The story started on a lighthearted premise, and it's not a new one. But the author developed the characters and their back stories so well that I was invested in them both from the start. Despite differences between them in age, background, current status, they sparkled together, sexually and romantically. Both were vivid and well-rounded, both deserving of happiness, both nitwits sometimes when they mistakenly held back from chasing that happiness! In the end, there was full emotional equality between the two men, though the author made them work hard for it. At times I laughed, then ached for their struggles, then cheered for the triumph of love. I appreciated a long, rewarding read, and the two men's company along the way.
March 4, 2021
Ali Ryecart has written a wonderful fake relationship turns friends with benefits story. It's really easy to feel the emotions that Freddie and Elliott experience along the way with them both still hurting from betrayals from ex boyfriends, strong attraction to each other but also mostly denying what they could possibly share as they only agreed to keep free of entanglements.
The fake relationship is established as support for Elliott when he has to go to a destination wedding as a best man with his ex being the other best man. It's felt that his support should come in the form of Freddie who, while a fair few years younger, is mostly wise beyond his years with his own heartbreak to heal from. They get along well straight away, putting each other at ease and find spending time with each other very easy. They only slightly mess it up when it comes to communication. This seems to be their sticking point throughout, especially when feelings become involved down the line as more time is spent together in their new roles of friends with benefits. It's a good thing their best friends, Cosmo and James are there to give strong words and a push in the right direction!
I enjoyed the development of the couple through the book and it was well paced as they go into each stage of their relationship. I'd recommend the story and look forward to the next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
The fake relationship is established as support for Elliott when he has to go to a destination wedding as a best man with his ex being the other best man. It's felt that his support should come in the form of Freddie who, while a fair few years younger, is mostly wise beyond his years with his own heartbreak to heal from. They get along well straight away, putting each other at ease and find spending time with each other very easy. They only slightly mess it up when it comes to communication. This seems to be their sticking point throughout, especially when feelings become involved down the line as more time is spent together in their new roles of friends with benefits. It's a good thing their best friends, Cosmo and James are there to give strong words and a push in the right direction!
I enjoyed the development of the couple through the book and it was well paced as they go into each stage of their relationship. I'd recommend the story and look forward to the next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
March 16, 2021
3.5 stars
So many tropes to love, such a great author, and two well crafted MC's should have all worked together to make this book sing. It carried a tune alright, but it wasn't what I hoped for though not a bad way to spend a couple/few hours.
Elliot and Freddie both needed one another platonically, but there was a whole lot of chemistry to work with as well. What bothered me about that was not how long it took them to get on the same page and between the sheets, it was the constant denial and restrained honesty of feelings that took up more than half of the book. Slow progress is still progress, but these men set up roadblock after roadblock. Add in the conniving nastiness that was Gavin and you may as well be in quicksand with how the men were moving forward together.
They did finally work it all out, it just took a long time to get there. I skimmed a lot of the inner monologuing that happened because it was differently worded reiterations of the same hesitations and denials again and again. Internal angst can really work, but this edged too far into the self-pitying "woe is me" stuff that wasn't depth of feeling or motivational.
While it's clear I had issues with some things, there were insightful friends, wonderful confessions, and a really sweet epilogue to help things along.
So many tropes to love, such a great author, and two well crafted MC's should have all worked together to make this book sing. It carried a tune alright, but it wasn't what I hoped for though not a bad way to spend a couple/few hours.
Elliot and Freddie both needed one another platonically, but there was a whole lot of chemistry to work with as well. What bothered me about that was not how long it took them to get on the same page and between the sheets, it was the constant denial and restrained honesty of feelings that took up more than half of the book. Slow progress is still progress, but these men set up roadblock after roadblock. Add in the conniving nastiness that was Gavin and you may as well be in quicksand with how the men were moving forward together.
They did finally work it all out, it just took a long time to get there. I skimmed a lot of the inner monologuing that happened because it was differently worded reiterations of the same hesitations and denials again and again. Internal angst can really work, but this edged too far into the self-pitying "woe is me" stuff that wasn't depth of feeling or motivational.
While it's clear I had issues with some things, there were insightful friends, wonderful confessions, and a really sweet epilogue to help things along.
March 14, 2021
A great start to a new series!
I have never been disappointed when I’ve read a book by Ali Ryecart and Commitment Issues didn’t change that. Age-gap stories aren’t typically my favorite romance trope but lately they’ve been growing on me and I loved this one. A trope that I do love is the economic-gap type story be it like Pretty Woman (rent-boy/wealthy client) or where one MC is wealthy and the other is not as with this book.
Freddie is a poor student working on his PHD. He’s working two jobs and still has trouble paying for food, let alone his rent. When the opportunity comes along to earn enough money to keep him going for several months, he doesn’t really have a choice but to grab it.
Elliot is a successful businessman who just ended a long relationship when he found his fiancé in bed with another man. One of his best friends is getting married and he knows his ex-fiancé will be there with another man. Another friend insists that Elliot should also take a date to the wedding.
So, it’s no spoiler to say that Freddie and Elliot end up being more than friends. What makes this story so good is the way that Ali Ryecart describes the places that Elliot and Freddie visit and the situations she puts these guys in. While Freddie is basically a shy guy, he surprises himself, and Elliot, with his ability to play the role of Elliot’s boyfriend. He has some of the best comebacks to throw at Gavin (Elliot’s ex) and his wit is quick and on point.
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing but I knew that Ali would give these two the HEA that they deserve and that I needed them to have. And she did indeed give us what we needed. 🥰
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
I have never been disappointed when I’ve read a book by Ali Ryecart and Commitment Issues didn’t change that. Age-gap stories aren’t typically my favorite romance trope but lately they’ve been growing on me and I loved this one. A trope that I do love is the economic-gap type story be it like Pretty Woman (rent-boy/wealthy client) or where one MC is wealthy and the other is not as with this book.
Freddie is a poor student working on his PHD. He’s working two jobs and still has trouble paying for food, let alone his rent. When the opportunity comes along to earn enough money to keep him going for several months, he doesn’t really have a choice but to grab it.
Elliot is a successful businessman who just ended a long relationship when he found his fiancé in bed with another man. One of his best friends is getting married and he knows his ex-fiancé will be there with another man. Another friend insists that Elliot should also take a date to the wedding.
So, it’s no spoiler to say that Freddie and Elliot end up being more than friends. What makes this story so good is the way that Ali Ryecart describes the places that Elliot and Freddie visit and the situations she puts these guys in. While Freddie is basically a shy guy, he surprises himself, and Elliot, with his ability to play the role of Elliot’s boyfriend. He has some of the best comebacks to throw at Gavin (Elliot’s ex) and his wit is quick and on point.
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing but I knew that Ali would give these two the HEA that they deserve and that I needed them to have. And she did indeed give us what we needed. 🥰
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
March 8, 2021
You know sometimes, you want a book you can just fall into? You can see everything coming at you like a train wreck, and you can't stop it? This book right here.
You know that Elliot and Freddie are going to have issues with the age gap (30 years) You know that the ex is going to cause problems. You know that both Freddie and Elliot's friends can see what they can't. And I just LOVED that I could see all that happening, right before my eyes! Sometimes, you do not need a long and complex history. Sometimes, you do not need a complicated plotline. Sometimes, my dear book people, you just need two people to fall in love, and see what is really in front of their eyes!
Wonderfully told from both Freddie and Elliot's point of view. They both have their say, and their say's are different and clear, befitting their different upbringings and backgrounds. I loved that although Elliot was loaded, his home was cozy and cute. And he has a dog, that is not a pedigree, and said dog is ugly (Elliot's words, not mine!) I loved that Jasper (said ugly dog) took to Freddie very quickly. They know things, these doggos!
I didn't think it overly explicit, there is steam and passion aplenty though! And apart from the ex doing what he does, there isn't much drama, as such. But this book really rips your heart out in places, how little these men think of themselves.
I loved the supporting cast! James is Elliot's best friend. Cosmo is James' cousin and Freddie's best friend. And there is Perry who is Elliot's assistant, who doesn't actually play much of a part here, but James does like to flirt with Perry and I would love to read a book with those two in! Especially given what we learn about James here. Cosmo too, needs a book and I would actually like to read Andrew and Marcus' book, if there is one. Theirs is the wedding Elliot and Freddie attend and they are somewhat mismatched. AND I didn't much like how Marcus treats Freddie here.
All in all, a wonderful, warm-and-fuzzies, too-stinking-cute book, with a side order of rip-your-heart-up (ohhh maybe I need a new shelf!)
5 wonderful stars.
Thank you, to Ms Ryecart for my copy.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere**
You know that Elliot and Freddie are going to have issues with the age gap (30 years) You know that the ex is going to cause problems. You know that both Freddie and Elliot's friends can see what they can't. And I just LOVED that I could see all that happening, right before my eyes! Sometimes, you do not need a long and complex history. Sometimes, you do not need a complicated plotline. Sometimes, my dear book people, you just need two people to fall in love, and see what is really in front of their eyes!
Wonderfully told from both Freddie and Elliot's point of view. They both have their say, and their say's are different and clear, befitting their different upbringings and backgrounds. I loved that although Elliot was loaded, his home was cozy and cute. And he has a dog, that is not a pedigree, and said dog is ugly (Elliot's words, not mine!) I loved that Jasper (said ugly dog) took to Freddie very quickly. They know things, these doggos!
I didn't think it overly explicit, there is steam and passion aplenty though! And apart from the ex doing what he does, there isn't much drama, as such. But this book really rips your heart out in places, how little these men think of themselves.
I loved the supporting cast! James is Elliot's best friend. Cosmo is James' cousin and Freddie's best friend. And there is Perry who is Elliot's assistant, who doesn't actually play much of a part here, but James does like to flirt with Perry and I would love to read a book with those two in! Especially given what we learn about James here. Cosmo too, needs a book and I would actually like to read Andrew and Marcus' book, if there is one. Theirs is the wedding Elliot and Freddie attend and they are somewhat mismatched. AND I didn't much like how Marcus treats Freddie here.
All in all, a wonderful, warm-and-fuzzies, too-stinking-cute book, with a side order of rip-your-heart-up (ohhh maybe I need a new shelf!)
5 wonderful stars.
Thank you, to Ms Ryecart for my copy.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere**
February 21, 2021
I love books that while breaking your heart, warm your heart. This sure qualifies as that for me. Two somewhat introverted men are brought together to save face for one. Elliot has been taken apart by an ex who was a cheater. He is to be best man at a wedding where his ex is also a best man. James is Elliot’s BFF. He decides Elliot needs to take a plus one with him to the wedding. At the same time James’s cousin Cosmo has decided his BFF Freddie is the perfect fit for Elliot. From there the entertainment begins. Freddie might be a little shy but not when he decides to protect Elliot. He is sassy and extremely patient. These two find a strong attraction and from there it is just how they will admit it. The author put together a story I just could not set down. The pace of the story is consistent. The characters are likable. And an important part to me is the ending is really well done. Not hurried and I’m happy for the characters. Now I’d like stories about James and Cosmo.
April 15, 2021
A good start as James tries to get his friend Elliot a hookup at a bar but more importantly a partner for the wedding. A great first meeting for Eliot and Freddie at Bernie's coffee shop. The story progresses and they jet of to the France wedding. Yah I totally didn't like Gavin in this. Freddie was great acting his role towards the slimy Ex, Gavin. Andrew is not one to have his eyes pulled over and soon sussed things out.
Includes fake boyfriends, friends to lovers, angst feelings, age gap, sexy scenes, swimming lessons and more. Both their pov's included for a great story.
Eliot 52 years was invited to be best man at his friends wedding, the downside of it was the Ex would be there.
Freddie was asked to attend a wedding with someone he didn't know by James. He was a student and financial help from his roommate's cousin, James would help.
Includes fake boyfriends, friends to lovers, angst feelings, age gap, sexy scenes, swimming lessons and more. Both their pov's included for a great story.
Eliot 52 years was invited to be best man at his friends wedding, the downside of it was the Ex would be there.
Freddie was asked to attend a wedding with someone he didn't know by James. He was a student and financial help from his roommate's cousin, James would help.
March 9, 2021
One of the first books in a while i could really get into. The plot with the fake boyfriend as company to a wedding isn’t anything new anymore, but it was fun and engaging with two lovely main characters and a great age difference.
New for me was, that about half the book was with the plot set after the “fake couple /marriage” which worked really well for me because it shows more about them in their daily routine and if/how a “real” relationship works out.
New for me was, that about half the book was with the plot set after the “fake couple /marriage” which worked really well for me because it shows more about them in their daily routine and if/how a “real” relationship works out.
February 28, 2021
This was such a good book, really enjoyed reading this well written fast reading romance the first in The Siver Foxes series by Ali Ryecart. Elliot is best man at one of his very good friends wedding but his ex is going to be there with his new guy. Elliot has had a hard time getting over their break up so another one of his friends convinces his cousin's friend Freddie to be his fake date and it starts a romance neither man expected, even through all the twist and turns it took trying to find their way to each other.
March 8, 2021
I really enjoyed the premise of this book and decided to give it a try - the author is also new to me. And I’m glad I did! Commitment Issues follows Elliot and Freddie’s story, how they met - by a set up from mutual friends - , as Elliot needs a date to his best friend's wedding - where he is best man with his ex fiance. And here is where I have to give this all the stars: both characters really get to know each other during the wedding, facing the ex, the grooms and the friends, and from there they start to build a friendship that later becomes more. Both have their issues to deal with, and even though they start to care for each other, there’s always that fear that things will crash sooner or later. The author took their time unravelling their feelings, until the point they had no other choice but to face them.
Like I said, glad I’ve picked this book and will definitely read the rest of the series. As always, some side characters pretty much beg for their own story here...
Like I said, glad I’ve picked this book and will definitely read the rest of the series. As always, some side characters pretty much beg for their own story here...
September 12, 2021
Ph.D. Student Freddie meets older Business owner Elliot as a setup from Freddie's friend Jasper and Elliot's friend James as a fake boyfriend for a wedding weekend. The fake turn to friends with benefits and we know how that goes. I really enjoyed this story and the way their relationship changed. I almost cried after the bookstore. I will definitely read more by this author
October 13, 2021
4 stars.
August 16, 2023
Una storia che ho letto molto volentieri. Ho adorato tantissimo il personaggio di Freddie.
September 16, 2021
British flavor
I should say “flavour” I guess. I do like romances set in the UK. The fake boyfriend scenario was done fairly well but played out a bit predictably. Serious age gap in this one but the characters were balanced well.
I should say “flavour” I guess. I do like romances set in the UK. The fake boyfriend scenario was done fairly well but played out a bit predictably. Serious age gap in this one but the characters were balanced well.
January 12, 2022
I quite enjoyed this (as long as I didn't think too hard about 24-52 and what that would mean in 25 years). Elliot is going to his friend's wedding and his buddy convinces him to take a date since his ex who he was with for 10 years is going to be the other best man. (split for 3 months) Buddy convinces Ph.D. student Freddie to do it for cash (but not in a pretty woman way). Freddie is desperate for money and has a thing for older guys but got his heart broken.
They get along and face the poisonous ex and about a month after returning decide to be FWB (we all know how that turns out in romance books). The fact that neither one of them does casual as a rule is wasted on none of their friends. But Freddie wins a prestigeous placement at a research institute in Oslo so Elliot starts pulling back figuring he needs to find his wings and then the ex crops back up spewing catty lies and it gets a bit messy at the end, but of course it all works out. Romance afterall.
My daughter is a similar age to Freddie. How would I react if her 52 year old boyfriend showed up at my house? Could I be as welcoming and friendly as Freddie's? Double standard I have there. ;-)
Still I quite enjoyed the story and while some of the drama could have been avoided at the end by the ever faithful talking, I could see it happening the way it did and Elliot was just as guilty as Freddie of not communicating.
Oh right, I knocked off a star because Elliot said he'd deal with is ex and the lies he told and then we never see that. I wanted a big confrontation or something to put that to rest once and for all.
They get along and face the poisonous ex and about a month after returning decide to be FWB (we all know how that turns out in romance books). The fact that neither one of them does casual as a rule is wasted on none of their friends. But Freddie wins a prestigeous placement at a research institute in Oslo so Elliot starts pulling back figuring he needs to find his wings and then the ex crops back up spewing catty lies and it gets a bit messy at the end, but of course it all works out. Romance afterall.
My daughter is a similar age to Freddie. How would I react if her 52 year old boyfriend showed up at my house? Could I be as welcoming and friendly as Freddie's? Double standard I have there. ;-)
Still I quite enjoyed the story and while some of the drama could have been avoided at the end by the ever faithful talking, I could see it happening the way it did and Elliot was just as guilty as Freddie of not communicating.
Oh right, I knocked off a star because Elliot said he'd deal with is ex and the lies he told and then we never see that. I wanted a big confrontation or something to put that to rest once and for all.
July 29, 2021
One and a half stars rounded up. Not a fan. This must be a it's-not-you-it's-me scenario (although really I'm pretty sure it's you, book) bc the rating for this is relatively sky high. I chose it based on its similarly high rating from the Joyfully Jay blog but man, I def don't see what the fuss is about. It started well enough but once the wedding was done, things moved downhill quickly. The pacing slowed to a downright snoozey crawl, there was little additional plot development, Gavin further cemented his status as a puppet bad guy in a most ridiculous and unbelievable fashion, and the MCs began frustrating me to no end. Freddie became a complete door mat sad sack, Elliot turned into an asshole, their sex life went inexplicably downhill, and most frustrating of all, they couldn't have a real conversation with each other to save their lives. Somehow I hung in there till 97% but once they oh-so-easily resolved their issues and moved onto monkey sex against the door of Freddie's childhood bedroom I had to tap out. SMH over what I missed that everyone else seemed to get but too happy to be moving on to care.
June 6, 2021
This one had moments, but for the most part didn’t work for me. While there were “commitment issues” due to the breakup of a 10-year relationship on Elliot’s part and the reasons for it, I felt like most of the internal drama in this book was “communication issues”. If the two just sat down like adults, being 52 and 24 respectively, and talked, most the angst here would never have existed. Elliot had to spill about his relationship woes due to the wedding situation, but Freddie never explained his situation to Elliot. I enjoyed the earlier section of the book when Freddie and Elliot were planning and attending his friend’s destination wedding, but after they returned, their relationship kind of jumped ahead a period of time where they had settled into “friends with benefits” situation that appeared to be stalled despite indications otherwise. I did enjoy the friendships in the book especially between Elliot and James, and Freddie and Cosmo.
July 20, 2021
The whole wedding business is done and over with by the 55% mark, and from there in it just reads like dragged out filler. For at least 25% of it, I couldn’t tell you anything of significance that occurs… just Freddie and Elliot hooking up and hanging out.
Outside of the sex scenes, there is substantially more telling than showing.
There really wasn’t much in the way of conflict. And the commitment issue didn’t seem like much of an issue.
I’ve enjoyed Ryecart in the past, but they’ve typically been shorter reads. This was just too bogged down with the unnecessarily. I admit that a very briefly scanned over the last 15% of this.
It felt like I was reading this forever… though 3 days is about 2 days longer than it should have taken. Had this book been even 1/4 shorter, I think it would have drastically improved the pacing of the book and lead to a much more enjoyable read.
I am undecided as to whether I shall continue with the series.
Outside of the sex scenes, there is substantially more telling than showing.
There really wasn’t much in the way of conflict. And the commitment issue didn’t seem like much of an issue.
I’ve enjoyed Ryecart in the past, but they’ve typically been shorter reads. This was just too bogged down with the unnecessarily. I admit that a very briefly scanned over the last 15% of this.
It felt like I was reading this forever… though 3 days is about 2 days longer than it should have taken. Had this book been even 1/4 shorter, I think it would have drastically improved the pacing of the book and lead to a much more enjoyable read.
I am undecided as to whether I shall continue with the series.
September 21, 2025
The chapter between Freddie and Cosmo was really well done imo. Felt like a natural conversation that also gave us info on Freddie's money issues + past romance snafu while characterizing Freddie, Cosmo, and James.
I liked Elliot and Freddie's meet-cute. Freddie believably embarrassed ehen Elliot initially rejected James' plan but then Elliot changing his mind. I liked how both men had clear and reasonable explanations for why they're going through with the fake dating scheme: Freddie because the money would help + he finds Elliot attractive and Elliot because he's responding to his ex's criticisms and he also finds Freddie attractive.
I really enjoyed the communication between them, particularly when Cosmo sent that text from Freddie's phone and Freddie didn't hide it despite being awkward and Elliot admitting that he was about to call out off.
The wedding was a decent showing of Freddie's effect on Elliot as well as showing Gavin's manipulative persona. I freaking hated Mitch though (but if Gavin was his best friend then it made sense that he was both an asshole and defending Gavin's honor)
I feel like there could've been more build up to the sex scene. There wasn't nearly enough tension between them for it to feel satisfying. And again when
I really disliked their miscommunication and reluctance to reveal how they were feeling about each other when they were about to head home. It was a very uncharacteristic considering neither of them had let shame or embarrassment stop them from communicating earlier, but I guess it was rectified when they talked about it a few chapters later.
Things post wedding felt kind of boring tbh. There wasn't any big, impending deadline that they had to get over. Yeah, Freddie was possibly going to have to leave for school but it's not like long-distance isn't a thing AND they knew Elliot was going to end up spending time in Norway too with his work, so there wasn't really any buildup of tension. There was also just a bit too much summarization and timelasping. Like we skipped over Elliot giving Freddie a key, or them getting domestic enough to ask for dinner, or seeing Elliot learn how to swim, or the month that was skipped after Cosmo confronted Freddie about Elliot. Having so many emotional scenes just relegated to the background was incredibly lazy. I read books to see the stories play out, not to have so many of them be implied.
I super super disliked the way Freddie believed that Elliot had gotten back together witb Gavin with only Gavin's words to take for it. Why did he buy it? Yeah it was plausible that Elliot had met with him in Spain but he knew that Gavin was a big liar and manipulator, so Freddie randomly believing him was incredibly dumb when Freddie already had his trauma with his ex primed and ready to use as the catalyst got their third act breakup (even if his issues with Paul had been woefully underdeveloped by that point)
I basically skimmed the last 15% because it was all based on dumb melodrama that shouldn't have affected Freddie given how he already knew about Gavin's BS.
TL;DR: Decent start and middle, but things go downhill after the wedding at around 50%. Rating a 2.5 rounded up.
I liked Elliot and Freddie's meet-cute. Freddie believably embarrassed ehen Elliot initially rejected James' plan but then Elliot changing his mind. I liked how both men had clear and reasonable explanations for why they're going through with the fake dating scheme: Freddie because the money would help + he finds Elliot attractive and Elliot because he's responding to his ex's criticisms and he also finds Freddie attractive.
I really enjoyed the communication between them, particularly when Cosmo sent that text from Freddie's phone and Freddie didn't hide it despite being awkward and Elliot admitting that he was about to call out off.
The wedding was a decent showing of Freddie's effect on Elliot as well as showing Gavin's manipulative persona. I freaking hated Mitch though (but if Gavin was his best friend then it made sense that he was both an asshole and defending Gavin's honor)
I feel like there could've been more build up to the sex scene. There wasn't nearly enough tension between them for it to feel satisfying. And again when
I really disliked their miscommunication and reluctance to reveal how they were feeling about each other when they were about to head home. It was a very uncharacteristic considering neither of them had let shame or embarrassment stop them from communicating earlier, but I guess it was rectified when they talked about it a few chapters later.
Things post wedding felt kind of boring tbh. There wasn't any big, impending deadline that they had to get over. Yeah, Freddie was possibly going to have to leave for school but it's not like long-distance isn't a thing AND they knew Elliot was going to end up spending time in Norway too with his work, so there wasn't really any buildup of tension. There was also just a bit too much summarization and timelasping. Like we skipped over Elliot giving Freddie a key, or them getting domestic enough to ask for dinner, or seeing Elliot learn how to swim, or the month that was skipped after Cosmo confronted Freddie about Elliot. Having so many emotional scenes just relegated to the background was incredibly lazy. I read books to see the stories play out, not to have so many of them be implied.
I super super disliked the way Freddie believed that Elliot had gotten back together witb Gavin with only Gavin's words to take for it. Why did he buy it? Yeah it was plausible that Elliot had met with him in Spain but he knew that Gavin was a big liar and manipulator, so Freddie randomly believing him was incredibly dumb when Freddie already had his trauma with his ex primed and ready to use as the catalyst got their third act breakup (even if his issues with Paul had been woefully underdeveloped by that point)
I basically skimmed the last 15% because it was all based on dumb melodrama that shouldn't have affected Freddie given how he already knew about Gavin's BS.
TL;DR: Decent start and middle, but things go downhill after the wedding at around 50%. Rating a 2.5 rounded up.
August 23, 2024
Decente finché non è finito il matrimonio, poi la noia, già latente nella prima metà, s'è intensificata fino a diventare ammorbante. E il matrimonio finisce a circa il 50%.
Il 99% del conflitto della seconda metà del libro (in realtà praticamente di tutto il libro) si poteva evitare con una semplice conversazione, ma ovviamente così l'autrice non sarebbe arrivata al traguardo delle parole e forse non aveva intenzione di pubblicare una novella. Davvero, mi sono ritrovato a pensare un'infinità di volte "Ma scusa, parlatene e risolvete, è così semplice" mentre leggevo le cavolate che spingevano questi due a non approfondire il rapporto.
La chimica tra loro due c'è, ma è una fiammella flebile, pronta a spegnersi al primo soffio di vento. Ero intrigato da questa dinamica 24enne con 54enne. Non avevo mai letto un age gap con una differenza d'età così corposa, ed essendo io stesso un "ammiratore" dell'uomo maturo, mi sono ritrovato intrigato. Ma l'età tra i personaggi è solo questo, età. Influisce poco e niente su come si rapportano tra di loro e viene continuamente usata come scusa per non avvicinarsi. Va bene una, va bene due, va bene anche tre volte, ma a una certa uno si rompe a leggere per l'ennesima volta "potrei essere suo padre".
Una cosa che ho assai detestato di tutta la storia, i personaggi, il mondo che l'autrice ci vuole narrare, è il fatto che chiunque coinvolto in queste pagine sia gay. Chiunque. Persino l'assistente di Elliot che spunta, sì e no, due volte in tutto il romanzo. Questa è una cosa che odio delle storie queer scritte da donne etero: non sanno creare un mondo realistico. O sono tutti gay o niente. Che poi, solo uomini gay. Sia mai ci sia una donna lesbica o delle persone non binarie o addirittura ancora, dio ce ne scampi, persone trans. No. Tutti uomini gay, sexy e col tipico carattere da macchietta offensiva da serie TV anni '80. Vabbé.
Il fatto è che sono rimasto con l'amaro in bocca. La storia aveva tanto potenziale e lo stile di scrittura dell'autrice è un sacco piacevole, mai eccessivo, conciso, colorato il giusto e scorrevole. Ma questo potenziale non è stato sfruttato. La storia si sarebbe potuta interrompere dopo il matrimonio; qualche capitolo per il conflitto e conseguente risoluzione finale, e tanti saluti. Invece no. È stata portata per le lunghe e ha rovinato tutto.
Peccato. Credo, però, che in futuro recupererò gli altri volumi.
Il 99% del conflitto della seconda metà del libro (in realtà praticamente di tutto il libro) si poteva evitare con una semplice conversazione, ma ovviamente così l'autrice non sarebbe arrivata al traguardo delle parole e forse non aveva intenzione di pubblicare una novella. Davvero, mi sono ritrovato a pensare un'infinità di volte "Ma scusa, parlatene e risolvete, è così semplice" mentre leggevo le cavolate che spingevano questi due a non approfondire il rapporto.
La chimica tra loro due c'è, ma è una fiammella flebile, pronta a spegnersi al primo soffio di vento. Ero intrigato da questa dinamica 24enne con 54enne. Non avevo mai letto un age gap con una differenza d'età così corposa, ed essendo io stesso un "ammiratore" dell'uomo maturo, mi sono ritrovato intrigato. Ma l'età tra i personaggi è solo questo, età. Influisce poco e niente su come si rapportano tra di loro e viene continuamente usata come scusa per non avvicinarsi. Va bene una, va bene due, va bene anche tre volte, ma a una certa uno si rompe a leggere per l'ennesima volta "potrei essere suo padre".
Una cosa che ho assai detestato di tutta la storia, i personaggi, il mondo che l'autrice ci vuole narrare, è il fatto che chiunque coinvolto in queste pagine sia gay. Chiunque. Persino l'assistente di Elliot che spunta, sì e no, due volte in tutto il romanzo. Questa è una cosa che odio delle storie queer scritte da donne etero: non sanno creare un mondo realistico. O sono tutti gay o niente. Che poi, solo uomini gay. Sia mai ci sia una donna lesbica o delle persone non binarie o addirittura ancora, dio ce ne scampi, persone trans. No. Tutti uomini gay, sexy e col tipico carattere da macchietta offensiva da serie TV anni '80. Vabbé.
Il fatto è che sono rimasto con l'amaro in bocca. La storia aveva tanto potenziale e lo stile di scrittura dell'autrice è un sacco piacevole, mai eccessivo, conciso, colorato il giusto e scorrevole. Ma questo potenziale non è stato sfruttato. La storia si sarebbe potuta interrompere dopo il matrimonio; qualche capitolo per il conflitto e conseguente risoluzione finale, e tanti saluti. Invece no. È stata portata per le lunghe e ha rovinato tutto.
Peccato. Credo, però, che in futuro recupererò gli altri volumi.
March 10, 2021
Sliver fox Elliot has a wedding to go to— a wedding his cheating ex-finance will also be attending. Twenty-something Freddie is drowning in debt as he works towards his graduate degree in Norse Studies. Elliot’s friend James and his nephew, Freddie’s friend Cosmo, have a plan: Elliot can hire Eddie as his fake boyfriend.
I did not love the way James and Cosmo strong-armed Elliot and Freddie into the fake boyfriend ruse— friends who think they know better, ignore your boundaries, and act “in your best interests” are a bit of a trigger for me, and for that reason, for me at least, the fake boyfriend premise started on a sour note. That said, I was quickly drawn into the story, which was engrossing, and, fair warning, absolutely the most angst-filled take I have ever read on what is usually a fairly lighthearted trope.
Elliot and Freddie have amazing chemistry, but Elliot has a long list of reasons to keep Freddie at emotional arms distance, even as they develop a physical relationship: the age gap, his own troubled past (Freddie has one too, but Elliot doesn’t really bother to investigate that until the very end of the novel) the age gap some more, Freddie’s career prospects in another city, the list is long, and both men do a lot of assuming and nobly sacrificing instead of just communicating their feelings. I had a lot more patience for Freddie here than I did for Elliot, who likes to think about how much older and further along life’s path he is, and yet who does a great job of soaking up all of the little loving gestures Freddie makes on his behalf: the dog sitting, the home cooked meals, the swimming lessons, while returning little more than mixed messages and hedging. Freddie is such a great character: funny, smart, relentlessly dedicated to (and defensive of) his desire for an academic career. I loved him from the start. And while frankly I often don’t get what he sees in Elliot, I do want him to be happy, and so I was all in on the rollercoaster of their relationship, up to and including the HEA.
As an added bonus, I must say that I love the author’s writing style. Characters are beautifully complex and the dialog is compelling and immersive: it’s easy to visualize and a pleasure to read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I did not love the way James and Cosmo strong-armed Elliot and Freddie into the fake boyfriend ruse— friends who think they know better, ignore your boundaries, and act “in your best interests” are a bit of a trigger for me, and for that reason, for me at least, the fake boyfriend premise started on a sour note. That said, I was quickly drawn into the story, which was engrossing, and, fair warning, absolutely the most angst-filled take I have ever read on what is usually a fairly lighthearted trope.
Elliot and Freddie have amazing chemistry, but Elliot has a long list of reasons to keep Freddie at emotional arms distance, even as they develop a physical relationship: the age gap, his own troubled past (Freddie has one too, but Elliot doesn’t really bother to investigate that until the very end of the novel) the age gap some more, Freddie’s career prospects in another city, the list is long, and both men do a lot of assuming and nobly sacrificing instead of just communicating their feelings. I had a lot more patience for Freddie here than I did for Elliot, who likes to think about how much older and further along life’s path he is, and yet who does a great job of soaking up all of the little loving gestures Freddie makes on his behalf: the dog sitting, the home cooked meals, the swimming lessons, while returning little more than mixed messages and hedging. Freddie is such a great character: funny, smart, relentlessly dedicated to (and defensive of) his desire for an academic career. I loved him from the start. And while frankly I often don’t get what he sees in Elliot, I do want him to be happy, and so I was all in on the rollercoaster of their relationship, up to and including the HEA.
As an added bonus, I must say that I love the author’s writing style. Characters are beautifully complex and the dialog is compelling and immersive: it’s easy to visualize and a pleasure to read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2021
This is a wonderful age gap romance between a PhD student and a wealthy businessman. The premise is, the student, Freddie, is convinced to accompany the older Elliot to a destination wedding. Elliot’s evil ex (who is a perfect villain, I so enjoyed hating him) will be at the wedding, and Elliot needs a buffer. It’s really entertaining because Freddie and Elliott’s friends basically push and con and “offer you can’t refuse” them into going together—in fact, the cast of characters is one of my favorite parts of this book. As they arrive at the wedding, Freddie realized that Elliot needs more than a fake boyfriend— he also needs a supportive friend and a staunch defender. Freddie steps up to fill that role, and it’s really kind of hilarious to see the sassy younger guy protecting and supporting the middle aged one. This isn’t the trope you typically see in age gaps, so it was also super refreshing. The second half of the book is focused on their relationship development.
You see the title of the book, “Commitment Issues,” and assume at least one of the characters is a commitment phobe— after all, this is a time honored trope in romance, from the rakes of regency romances to hookup culture in contemporary MM. However, that is not the case here. Both Freddie and Elliot are relationship types—“suburban,” as their friends call it—so the problem is more a combination of Elliot recently leaving a bad relationship, Freddie’s own baggage about dating older men, and mutual fears about heartbreak.
Did the book get a little long in the second half? Did I just want to smack Elliot sometimes for his treatment of Freddie? Well, yeah, but I think it’s worth sticking it out. Also, why in the world did Elliot keep insisting on attending that wedding? He kept saying what a great friend Andrew (one of the grooms) was, but I was super unimpressed in Andrew and Andrew’s fiancé, Marcus (who was super tight with Elliot’s evil ex). Sure they’re in love or whatever, but there’s no justification in my mind for the way Andrew let Marcus treat Elliot and Freddie, and honestly, if someone I was in a relationship with was best friends with a jerk like Elliot’s ex, I would so be out of there. Just saying. But the fact is, this all worked great for plot purposes, so I have no real complaints. I highly recommend this book! It’s funny, original, and romantic, and I really enjoyed reading it.
You see the title of the book, “Commitment Issues,” and assume at least one of the characters is a commitment phobe— after all, this is a time honored trope in romance, from the rakes of regency romances to hookup culture in contemporary MM. However, that is not the case here. Both Freddie and Elliot are relationship types—“suburban,” as their friends call it—so the problem is more a combination of Elliot recently leaving a bad relationship, Freddie’s own baggage about dating older men, and mutual fears about heartbreak.
Did the book get a little long in the second half? Did I just want to smack Elliot sometimes for his treatment of Freddie? Well, yeah, but I think it’s worth sticking it out. Also, why in the world did Elliot keep insisting on attending that wedding? He kept saying what a great friend Andrew (one of the grooms) was, but I was super unimpressed in Andrew and Andrew’s fiancé, Marcus (who was super tight with Elliot’s evil ex). Sure they’re in love or whatever, but there’s no justification in my mind for the way Andrew let Marcus treat Elliot and Freddie, and honestly, if someone I was in a relationship with was best friends with a jerk like Elliot’s ex, I would so be out of there. Just saying. But the fact is, this all worked great for plot purposes, so I have no real complaints. I highly recommend this book! It’s funny, original, and romantic, and I really enjoyed reading it.
September 3, 2021
Review by Taylin
Elliot is one of the best men at his best friend’s wedding. Unfortunately, the other one is his recent ex, who wasn’t his ex when the event was planned. Elliot’s role in the wedding means he can’t get out of going either. James, a friend of Elliot’s, puts Freddie in his path.
I’m going to start with the technicalities because I’m in gush mode – I absolutely loved this story.
Commitment Issues is told in the first person, present tense from Elliot and Freddie’s viewpoints. Other than that, nothing else on the grammatical front stood out. I was so engrossed in the story that I even forgot to make notes while I read.
Freddie and Elliot are both emerging from relationships where their hearts have been crushed. Neither is ready for any commitment, but the chemistry between them is palpable. Much of the story is taken up with a – they want to but won’t/will they-won’t they, scenario. Given what the two previously survived and that both Elliot and Freddie are thinking men, it is no wonder that head and heart are locked in battle, and their spoken agreement is the fallback position.
There is so much to love about this story. The setting is mainly in London, with the protagonists hailing from elsewhere in the UK. Local phrasing that I was familiar with was a pleasure to read alongside the British humor that not all nationalities get, but I was on home soil and lapped it up. I liked the up-front honesty between the men re their agreement too. Other than their true feelings, nothing was hidden. Oh, and when Freddie was Elliot’s arm candy/armory, the sarcasm was bloody brilliant.
Interactions with their friends were also excellent. Brutal honesty reined with a hefty dose of caring. Yet, underneath it all, there’s that element of insecurity and self-deprecation that was endearing.
The cast isn’t big, either, which made them memorable and, consequently, the story’s nuances easy to follow. The backgrounds of Elliot and Freddie also allowed for varied world-building and scenarios.
Yes – in a nutshell, this was a crackin story to read.
Elliot is one of the best men at his best friend’s wedding. Unfortunately, the other one is his recent ex, who wasn’t his ex when the event was planned. Elliot’s role in the wedding means he can’t get out of going either. James, a friend of Elliot’s, puts Freddie in his path.
I’m going to start with the technicalities because I’m in gush mode – I absolutely loved this story.
Commitment Issues is told in the first person, present tense from Elliot and Freddie’s viewpoints. Other than that, nothing else on the grammatical front stood out. I was so engrossed in the story that I even forgot to make notes while I read.
Freddie and Elliot are both emerging from relationships where their hearts have been crushed. Neither is ready for any commitment, but the chemistry between them is palpable. Much of the story is taken up with a – they want to but won’t/will they-won’t they, scenario. Given what the two previously survived and that both Elliot and Freddie are thinking men, it is no wonder that head and heart are locked in battle, and their spoken agreement is the fallback position.
There is so much to love about this story. The setting is mainly in London, with the protagonists hailing from elsewhere in the UK. Local phrasing that I was familiar with was a pleasure to read alongside the British humor that not all nationalities get, but I was on home soil and lapped it up. I liked the up-front honesty between the men re their agreement too. Other than their true feelings, nothing was hidden. Oh, and when Freddie was Elliot’s arm candy/armory, the sarcasm was bloody brilliant.
Interactions with their friends were also excellent. Brutal honesty reined with a hefty dose of caring. Yet, underneath it all, there’s that element of insecurity and self-deprecation that was endearing.
The cast isn’t big, either, which made them memorable and, consequently, the story’s nuances easy to follow. The backgrounds of Elliot and Freddie also allowed for varied world-building and scenarios.
Yes – in a nutshell, this was a crackin story to read.
August 5, 2021
Elliot is one of the best men at his best friend’s wedding. Unfortunately, the other one is his recent ex, who wasn’t his ex when the event was planned. Elliot’s role in the wedding means he can’t get out of going either. James, a friend of Elliot’s, puts Freddie in his path.
I’m going to start with the technicalities because I’m in gush mode – I absolutely loved this story.
Commitment Issues is told in the first person, present tense from Elliot and Freddie’s viewpoints. Other than that, nothing else on the grammatical front stood out. I was so engrossed in the story that I even forgot to make notes while I read.
Freddie and Elliot are both emerging from relationships where their hearts have been crushed. Neither is ready for any commitment, but the chemistry between them is palpable. Much of the story is taken up with a – they want to but won’t/will they-won’t they, scenario. Given what the two previously survived and that both Elliot and Freddie are thinking men, it is no wonder that head and heart are locked in battle, and their spoken agreement is the fallback position.
There is so much to love about this story. The setting is mainly in London, with the protagonists hailing from elsewhere in the UK. Local phrasing that I was familiar with was a pleasure to read alongside the British humor that not all nationalities get, but I was on home soil and lapped it up. I liked the up-front honesty between the men re their agreement too. Other than their true feelings, nothing was hidden. Oh, and when Freddie was Elliot’s arm candy/armory, the sarcasm was bloody brilliant.
Interactions with their friends was also excellent. Brutal honesty reined with a hefty dose of caring. Yet, underneath it all, there’s that element of insecurity and self-deprecation that was endearing.
The cast isn’t big, either, which made them memorable and, consequently, the story's nuances easy to follow. The backgrounds of Elliot and Freddie also allowed for varied worldbuilding and scenarios.
Yes – in a nutshell, this was a crackin story to read.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
I’m going to start with the technicalities because I’m in gush mode – I absolutely loved this story.
Commitment Issues is told in the first person, present tense from Elliot and Freddie’s viewpoints. Other than that, nothing else on the grammatical front stood out. I was so engrossed in the story that I even forgot to make notes while I read.
Freddie and Elliot are both emerging from relationships where their hearts have been crushed. Neither is ready for any commitment, but the chemistry between them is palpable. Much of the story is taken up with a – they want to but won’t/will they-won’t they, scenario. Given what the two previously survived and that both Elliot and Freddie are thinking men, it is no wonder that head and heart are locked in battle, and their spoken agreement is the fallback position.
There is so much to love about this story. The setting is mainly in London, with the protagonists hailing from elsewhere in the UK. Local phrasing that I was familiar with was a pleasure to read alongside the British humor that not all nationalities get, but I was on home soil and lapped it up. I liked the up-front honesty between the men re their agreement too. Other than their true feelings, nothing was hidden. Oh, and when Freddie was Elliot’s arm candy/armory, the sarcasm was bloody brilliant.
Interactions with their friends was also excellent. Brutal honesty reined with a hefty dose of caring. Yet, underneath it all, there’s that element of insecurity and self-deprecation that was endearing.
The cast isn’t big, either, which made them memorable and, consequently, the story's nuances easy to follow. The backgrounds of Elliot and Freddie also allowed for varied worldbuilding and scenarios.
Yes – in a nutshell, this was a crackin story to read.
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Love Bytes.
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