What do you think?
Rate this book
Escape #1
Getaway
an alternate cover edition can be found here
I'm in love with my childhood best friend. The problem? He thinks I'm straight.
Up until recently, I did too. But something’s shifting in me. I don't have a word or label for it yet, but I can feel it. We tell each other everything, so I want to tell Cassius this. But how?
When I score an all-expenses-paid weekend getaway at a luxury resort, I figure it's the perfect time to do it. Sunny days, beautiful beaches, endless cocktails… But I'm scared.
Will telling Cassius my truth ruin our friendship, or could it be the start of a whole new relationship?
GETAWAY is part of the ESCAPE series. You can read the books in whatever order your heart desires!
I'm in love with my childhood best friend. The problem? He thinks I'm straight.
Up until recently, I did too. But something’s shifting in me. I don't have a word or label for it yet, but I can feel it. We tell each other everything, so I want to tell Cassius this. But how?
When I score an all-expenses-paid weekend getaway at a luxury resort, I figure it's the perfect time to do it. Sunny days, beautiful beaches, endless cocktails… But I'm scared.
Will telling Cassius my truth ruin our friendship, or could it be the start of a whole new relationship?
GETAWAY is part of the ESCAPE series. You can read the books in whatever order your heart desires!
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2021
300 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Casey Cox
56 books542 followersCasey writes MM romance with plenty of 💕, 🔥, 🤣, and of course 🍆 + 🍑.
Click the "+ Follow" button so you never miss a new release!
Click the "+ Follow" button so you never miss a new release!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
December 3, 2021
A fun bestest-bestest-friends to lovers story, with likeable characters, and quite a bit of humor.
[My take on Cass...]
[My take on Spencer...]
The goings on at the all-inclusive gay-male resort and "clothing optional" pool were... interesting. Those parts definitely held my attention.
The steam happened pretty late in the book, but it hit the mark on there not being either too many or too few sexy times.
My only real complaint was the VAST amount of internal monologuing from start to finish, lengthening the story to 352 pages (!!!!!!!!!!), which at times did drag on.
It felt like the story could've been cut down by 100 pages and still been as impactful and engaging. Just more concise.
The 180 degree did feel completely surreal, and more than a little unbelievable, which I could've done without, but the rest of the epilogue from 10 years on was nice.
3.5 stars.
-----------------------------------------------
All 3 books in the series are *FREE* with Kindle Unlimited membership.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
-----------------------------------------------
April 9, 2021
2.5 “You’re my option. My only option” stars
I will admit that is one is probably a case of it’s me not the book. I do not have the brain power to read books over 250-300 pages anymore, expecially romance books. I just start getting annoyed at every little details that isn’t how I wanted it to be and I just feel like they always overstay their welcome. I really wanted to read this book and I absolutely adore Casey Cox’s writing so I thought it wouldn’t be an issue, but it turns out I was wrong.
This was slow burn, friends to lovers, with a sexuality discovery which are all things that should have worked for me in theory but the execution of them just didn’t work for me here. And I am really disappointed about it because I really wanted to love this book.
I absolutely loved the first 70% of this book but the last 30% just didn’t work for me.
Brief summary: Cassius and Spencer are both 23 years old and they have been best friends since they were 6 years old. Cassius is a social worker and Spencer is in marketing. Spencer did a marketing job and as a result of his good work, he won a trip to an all-male resort in Florida. Him and Cassius go there for 4 days and realize that they might be more than just best friends.
The things I enjoyed about this book
First, I really enjoyed the set up of this book. I enjoyed both of the characters. Spencer loves order and he loves to have everything nicely organized while Cassius is more easy going, I liked he wasn’t bothered by the small things, but he hates change, he likes for his life to always stay the same. They were a really good match for the other and they worked really nicely together. I loved how they were so attentive to the other and how they knew everything about each other. I really enjoyed these guys together.
Second, I loved how Spencer’s sexual discovery was handled, he had one girlfriend in his entire life and he thought he waa straight but he started questionning his sexuality and he kept a spreedsheet to try to help him figure out his sexuality, it was really cute, I enjoyed it. I liked how there was a big focus on the fact that he didn’t need to find a label for his sexuality.
Third, I liked that the friends to lovers trope was handled. It was done so well and I loved how they moved from friends to lovers. I really loved how they discovered their feelings about the other. I liked all the little details about that, from Spencer being a little mad that Cassius called them just friends and not boyfriends to how touching each other made the other feel to how they got hard for the other and thought about them while jerking off to how Spencer did things he hated because Cassius loves them to how Cassius got jealous that Spencer was talking to another guy. All of it was done so brilantly, it was so nice to see their feelings for the other through these little scenes.
Fourth, I really enjoyed the vibes of the book, it kept making me wish that I was on a vacation in Florida too. I loved how detailed the resort was and all of the activities they did there.
Fifth, I have said it before and I will say it again, I absolutely loved Casey Cox’s writing. There was so many long descriptions in this, but none of them ever felt boring because his writing is really engaging.
What I enjoyed less about the book
First, the pacing was strange to me. The first 60% of the book was very slow burn and nothing much was happening and the last 40% very much felt like insta love and so many things happened, it just didn’t work for me. Nothing was happening in the book and then everything happened at once, it wasn’t a good balance. The two different parts of the book didn’t feel connected together, it felt like I was reading two different books.
Second, the build up to them getting together was really long and we barely got to see them together, I would have loved to see more of them together.
Third, Spencer and Cassius just didn’t read like their age, at all. I’m 24 years old and let me tell you, I could not relate to them at all. They sounded like people in their mid thirties. The way they acted and how their life was, it just didn’t read like their age, at all.
Fourth, the I love you were way too fast for me. When they said them, I could feel that there was a connection there, but I didn’t feel like they really were in love, at all. I would have likes for that moment to happen way later in the story. I also didn’t really enjoy how they got together, it didn’t work that well to me.
Fifth, everything was so easy, I would have liked a little bit more conflict in the book. Three conflicts happened and they were resolved in about 3 lines, which defeated the purpose of having any conflict, because the conflict didn’t change any thing in the book. Also, we are told that Spencer has a lot of issues in life because of how his mom acts and all of that was fixed and wrapped in a nice little box in one conversation, that really didn’t work for me.
Sixth, I waited so long for a sex scene to happen and when it did happen, it was such a let down. Spencer only ever had sex with one woman and he had never been with a man. But he sounded like an absolute god in bed and that really didn’t work for me. I wanted more awkward moments for their first times together and not the best sex of their lives. Nobody is that good at sex during their first time. For example, Spencer was able to deepthroat Cassius, the first time he ever sucked a dick. And we were told that Cassius has a big dick. There is no way he can just go from never having sucked a dick to deepthroat, expecially if the guy has a big dick. It kind of took me out of the story because it wasn’t realistic at all.
Seventh, I like epilogues that just show me how happy the couple is and how they’re still strong together, I really don’t like epilogues that sound like they’re talking about totally different characters, I don’t like my characters to suddently change in the epilogue. And it was the case here. It just didn’t work for me. It felt really disconnected from the rest of the book.
I really wish I liked this one more than I did but it was quite sweet and I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion
I will admit that is one is probably a case of it’s me not the book. I do not have the brain power to read books over 250-300 pages anymore, expecially romance books. I just start getting annoyed at every little details that isn’t how I wanted it to be and I just feel like they always overstay their welcome. I really wanted to read this book and I absolutely adore Casey Cox’s writing so I thought it wouldn’t be an issue, but it turns out I was wrong.
This was slow burn, friends to lovers, with a sexuality discovery which are all things that should have worked for me in theory but the execution of them just didn’t work for me here. And I am really disappointed about it because I really wanted to love this book.
I absolutely loved the first 70% of this book but the last 30% just didn’t work for me.
Brief summary: Cassius and Spencer are both 23 years old and they have been best friends since they were 6 years old. Cassius is a social worker and Spencer is in marketing. Spencer did a marketing job and as a result of his good work, he won a trip to an all-male resort in Florida. Him and Cassius go there for 4 days and realize that they might be more than just best friends.
The things I enjoyed about this book
First, I really enjoyed the set up of this book. I enjoyed both of the characters. Spencer loves order and he loves to have everything nicely organized while Cassius is more easy going, I liked he wasn’t bothered by the small things, but he hates change, he likes for his life to always stay the same. They were a really good match for the other and they worked really nicely together. I loved how they were so attentive to the other and how they knew everything about each other. I really enjoyed these guys together.
Second, I loved how Spencer’s sexual discovery was handled, he had one girlfriend in his entire life and he thought he waa straight but he started questionning his sexuality and he kept a spreedsheet to try to help him figure out his sexuality, it was really cute, I enjoyed it. I liked how there was a big focus on the fact that he didn’t need to find a label for his sexuality.
Third, I liked that the friends to lovers trope was handled. It was done so well and I loved how they moved from friends to lovers. I really loved how they discovered their feelings about the other. I liked all the little details about that, from Spencer being a little mad that Cassius called them just friends and not boyfriends to how touching each other made the other feel to how they got hard for the other and thought about them while jerking off to how Spencer did things he hated because Cassius loves them to how Cassius got jealous that Spencer was talking to another guy. All of it was done so brilantly, it was so nice to see their feelings for the other through these little scenes.
Fourth, I really enjoyed the vibes of the book, it kept making me wish that I was on a vacation in Florida too. I loved how detailed the resort was and all of the activities they did there.
Fifth, I have said it before and I will say it again, I absolutely loved Casey Cox’s writing. There was so many long descriptions in this, but none of them ever felt boring because his writing is really engaging.
What I enjoyed less about the book
First, the pacing was strange to me. The first 60% of the book was very slow burn and nothing much was happening and the last 40% very much felt like insta love and so many things happened, it just didn’t work for me. Nothing was happening in the book and then everything happened at once, it wasn’t a good balance. The two different parts of the book didn’t feel connected together, it felt like I was reading two different books.
Second, the build up to them getting together was really long and we barely got to see them together, I would have loved to see more of them together.
Third, Spencer and Cassius just didn’t read like their age, at all. I’m 24 years old and let me tell you, I could not relate to them at all. They sounded like people in their mid thirties. The way they acted and how their life was, it just didn’t read like their age, at all.
Fourth, the I love you were way too fast for me. When they said them, I could feel that there was a connection there, but I didn’t feel like they really were in love, at all. I would have likes for that moment to happen way later in the story. I also didn’t really enjoy how they got together, it didn’t work that well to me.
Fifth, everything was so easy, I would have liked a little bit more conflict in the book. Three conflicts happened and they were resolved in about 3 lines, which defeated the purpose of having any conflict, because the conflict didn’t change any thing in the book. Also, we are told that Spencer has a lot of issues in life because of how his mom acts and all of that was fixed and wrapped in a nice little box in one conversation, that really didn’t work for me.
Sixth, I waited so long for a sex scene to happen and when it did happen, it was such a let down. Spencer only ever had sex with one woman and he had never been with a man. But he sounded like an absolute god in bed and that really didn’t work for me. I wanted more awkward moments for their first times together and not the best sex of their lives. Nobody is that good at sex during their first time. For example, Spencer was able to deepthroat Cassius, the first time he ever sucked a dick. And we were told that Cassius has a big dick. There is no way he can just go from never having sucked a dick to deepthroat, expecially if the guy has a big dick. It kind of took me out of the story because it wasn’t realistic at all.
Seventh, I like epilogues that just show me how happy the couple is and how they’re still strong together, I really don’t like epilogues that sound like they’re talking about totally different characters, I don’t like my characters to suddently change in the epilogue. And it was the case here. It just didn’t work for me. It felt really disconnected from the rest of the book.
I really wish I liked this one more than I did but it was quite sweet and I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion
April 4, 2021
”The best thing in my life has been right in front of me the whole time, and I never even knew it.”
This book was a blast from start to finish. It is the classic ‘best friends falling for each other’ narrative but this time in a getaway setting in an all male resort. It was fun and campy with no unnecessary drama. When Cassius said that he and Spencer didn’t really fight because they always communicated with each other, well it shows. So many openings in this book if done poorly would have led them into fighting but no they sat down and talked their issues. Casey Cox’s writing was good for me because I found myself flying through the pages. It may have dragged a bit but I didn’t really much cared in the end. If you want something that is light, cheesy, and definitely romantic well this is it.
April 18, 2021
This was so cute!! Childhood friends to lovers is my absolute favorite romance trope next to enemies to lovers so of course I had to try this one for myself. The setting of Key West, Florida and the beautiful resort and scenery were a highlight for me. I so desperately wish that I was somewhere tropical, looking at a beautiful crystal clear ocean whilst having an endless breakfast buffet and the whole trip be completely complimentary but alas I will have to dream / read about it instead. Even though Cassius was my favorite character, I adored Spencer as well. Their BFF dynamic was a lot of fun. The part about finding the label that works for you and it can be whatever you want it to be was great. Or that you don't even ever have to choose one. It's your life and only you can decide. Cass and Spencer were supposedly both 23 idk maybe it's just me but they didn't seem(?) 23. I'm definitely nitpicking here but that threw me sometimes when I remembered their age. I'm 22 and it just didn't read like two 23 year old people. The side characters were lots of fun and felt so real and fully developed instead of just being there for the heck of it which I loved. Now I want stories about Ian, Leo, Hawk and Emery so very much. It's certainly a long one and can drag at some points but it was so lovely with excellent writing I didn't mind all that much. Getaway is very low steam, which personally doesn't bother me but I just wish we could have had a bit more development / realization of feelings that lead up to some great steam. I love when the tensions builds and builds and builds (and builds) so I was a little let down in that aspect. And speaking of said steam I was just a tiny bit disappointed when we got there. The next book in this series comes out in May according to the author's note at the end and I'll definitely be reading and being all I-wish-I-was-on-a-beach-vacay again!!!
did-not-finish
August 8, 2022DNF @ 5%
Holy info dump! This is going to be way too much telling. Nope.
Holy info dump! This is going to be way too much telling. Nope.
April 7, 2022
Full review to come but can I please pick up a book with less inner monologues now?
December 16, 2021
DNF ~55%
I really tried with this one, but I just couldn't do it. The writing was meh, the characterizations and relationship dynamics were odd, and the story was waaaaay too long. Cass felt more immature than his 24 years, while Spencer read far older/way more successful than 24. The build was clumsy at best, the setting of the gay resort felt forced, and I just didn't care at all about the characters separate or together. Pass.
I really tried with this one, but I just couldn't do it. The writing was meh, the characterizations and relationship dynamics were odd, and the story was waaaaay too long. Cass felt more immature than his 24 years, while Spencer read far older/way more successful than 24. The build was clumsy at best, the setting of the gay resort felt forced, and I just didn't care at all about the characters separate or together. Pass.
March 22, 2023
I don't think this series is for me, which is a shame because I really enjoy the Vet Shop Boys series!
This book managed to have two entirely unlikeable MCs who I just didn't buy as a couple whatsoever.
Spencer was odd but not in an endearing way, he was described as being physically like Fred from Scooby Doo so I couldn't get that image out of my head, and the way his laugh was described had me thinking about Muttley from Wacky Races. That combined with his weird personality of being ridiculously anal and uptight yet also losing his inhibitions at the drop of a hat just made me feel a bit ick about this character.
Then there was Cassius who was intellectually challenged to be polite, he literally knew nothing and not in a Jon Snow kind of way. He was also an absolute slob who was messy and hated personal hygiene and just grossed me out which is usually pretty hard to do. Not to mention he was constantly eating yet was miraculously able to have sex even though he ate enough for a small family at every meal and snack time.... Kinda felt unbelievable/unrealistic?
There was just no connection between the characters because they were so, so different - I know it's said opposites attract but this was extreme. I didn't even believe they were best friends let alone in love.
I won't be reading the other two books in the series which is rare for me because I like to complete series! But yeah I can't sit through two more books like this one!
This book managed to have two entirely unlikeable MCs who I just didn't buy as a couple whatsoever.
Spencer was odd but not in an endearing way, he was described as being physically like Fred from Scooby Doo so I couldn't get that image out of my head, and the way his laugh was described had me thinking about Muttley from Wacky Races. That combined with his weird personality of being ridiculously anal and uptight yet also losing his inhibitions at the drop of a hat just made me feel a bit ick about this character.
Then there was Cassius who was intellectually challenged to be polite, he literally knew nothing and not in a Jon Snow kind of way. He was also an absolute slob who was messy and hated personal hygiene and just grossed me out which is usually pretty hard to do. Not to mention he was constantly eating yet was miraculously able to have sex even though he ate enough for a small family at every meal and snack time.... Kinda felt unbelievable/unrealistic?
There was just no connection between the characters because they were so, so different - I know it's said opposites attract but this was extreme. I didn't even believe they were best friends let alone in love.
I won't be reading the other two books in the series which is rare for me because I like to complete series! But yeah I can't sit through two more books like this one!
April 1, 2021
I have to admit that I struggled getting through this book, because even though it's a theme and story I should love, it was WAY too long. It could have been a much stronger story with 100 fewer pages, and I think it wouldn't have felt so long.
There is just SO MUCH internal dialogue and thought processing, and a build-up to Spencer revealing that he is not 100% straight and is in fact in love with his best friend, that the pay off, I don't know - it didn't balance the build up, if that makes sense? They don't act on their feelings physically until about the 80% of the story.
Now, if you are looking for best friends to lover and you LOVE a slooooooooow burn, and you aren't necessarily looking for intense steam? This book might be perfect for you. And there are so very sweet moments in this story, and they make some great friends who I enjoyed reading about, too. It just felt like there was a lot of words for a 4 day trip.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
There is just SO MUCH internal dialogue and thought processing, and a build-up to Spencer revealing that he is not 100% straight and is in fact in love with his best friend, that the pay off, I don't know - it didn't balance the build up, if that makes sense? They don't act on their feelings physically until about the 80% of the story.
Now, if you are looking for best friends to lover and you LOVE a slooooooooow burn, and you aren't necessarily looking for intense steam? This book might be perfect for you. And there are so very sweet moments in this story, and they make some great friends who I enjoyed reading about, too. It just felt like there was a lot of words for a 4 day trip.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2021
I love a good best friends to lovers story. Add in the fact that Cassius and Spencer were childhood friends and this is basically a gay-for-you story? Oh yes, I am SO in.
Yes, this book was pretty long. It took me a little while to be fully into it but at about the 30% mark I couldn’t put it down.
I usually hate when characters don’t communicate their feelings so it made me ridiculously happy that Cass and Spencer always ended up talking about their feelings or what was going on with them in that moment. I was expecting a huge fight somewhere in this story... I thought it was coming during the party scene in fact, but it didn’t really go that far and I was super happy about it. Sometimes the drama and angst aren’t always needed and it’s refreshing.
I felt the love between Cassius and Spencer toward the middle and definitely the end but I was kinda missing something at the beginning. Maybe Cass was avoiding feeling anything besides platonic feelings for his best friend of 17 years just to be safe, but I felt like his actual feelings popped out of nowhere. And it was more feeding off of Spencer’s declaration of his feelings rather than Cass actually realizing he was in fact in love with his best friend. Something about the realization of both of their feelings was off for me... I kinda wanted it to creep up slowly rather than be like - BAM! I love him. If that makes any sense? I dunno.
The first time they had sex was also a bit awkward to me. I wanted it to be super steamy and just hot as fuck, but I was a bit disappointed. Their other sexy times were hotter than the actual first time sex... I mean that first kiss? Oooh. And the blowjob on the beach and THEN later on in their room? Oooh boy... *fans self*
The epilogue was cuuuuuute as fuck. I don’t want to spoil it but it was a possible full-circle moment that I absolutely loved. I’m a sucker for those moments, seriously.
Overall, I definitely enjoyed this and would recommend it. I will be continuing this series and I can’t wait for the next book! I’m also hoping that we get a book about Leo... ugh, he deserves some love too. ❤️
4⭐️
POV: Dual 1st person
Yes, this book was pretty long. It took me a little while to be fully into it but at about the 30% mark I couldn’t put it down.
I usually hate when characters don’t communicate their feelings so it made me ridiculously happy that Cass and Spencer always ended up talking about their feelings or what was going on with them in that moment. I was expecting a huge fight somewhere in this story... I thought it was coming during the party scene in fact, but it didn’t really go that far and I was super happy about it. Sometimes the drama and angst aren’t always needed and it’s refreshing.
I felt the love between Cassius and Spencer toward the middle and definitely the end but I was kinda missing something at the beginning. Maybe Cass was avoiding feeling anything besides platonic feelings for his best friend of 17 years just to be safe, but I felt like his actual feelings popped out of nowhere. And it was more feeding off of Spencer’s declaration of his feelings rather than Cass actually realizing he was in fact in love with his best friend. Something about the realization of both of their feelings was off for me... I kinda wanted it to creep up slowly rather than be like - BAM! I love him. If that makes any sense? I dunno.
The first time they had sex was also a bit awkward to me. I wanted it to be super steamy and just hot as fuck, but I was a bit disappointed. Their other sexy times were hotter than the actual first time sex... I mean that first kiss? Oooh. And the blowjob on the beach and THEN later on in their room? Oooh boy... *fans self*
The epilogue was cuuuuuute as fuck. I don’t want to spoil it but it was a possible full-circle moment that I absolutely loved. I’m a sucker for those moments, seriously.
Overall, I definitely enjoyed this and would recommend it. I will be continuing this series and I can’t wait for the next book! I’m also hoping that we get a book about Leo... ugh, he deserves some love too. ❤️
4⭐️
POV: Dual 1st person
dnf
November 24, 2021DNF @ 10%. Endless internal monologues, random tangents and repetitive narration made this book a total chore to read.
May 4, 2021
Okay Y’all! I really was hoping I’d love this more... and for about half of it, I did! Up until the last day of vacation, I was thinking Getaway was INCREDIBLE! But it was somewhere near the 30th time of them calling each other “Boyfriend” that my opinion started to shift. By the end, I had wished it ended about 100 pages earlier.
They are such a cute couple and their love was for sure fated, so I was rooting a long with all of the other readers that they would end up together. Their friendship with Hawk and Emry was my favorite portion, but there were some things that I thought served no purpose to the story.
• Spencer’s Laugh (The fact that he giggled “tee hee hee” behind his hand literally brought me out of the story while reading EVERY TIME!)
• Cassius’ Artwork (While I loved the bits with it, if it’s a hobby of his, it should have been focused on more often.)
• Friendship with Ian (While it showed Cass’s jealous side, it gave us nothing else. It just felt awkward.)
• Bringing up Leo’s dead ex (Unless he’s getting his own book, which I could see, that was left far too open for my taste.)
There were also words that I had to look up, which in a romance book, is really annoying. If a word means “to eat” just say TO EAT. When I have to search for an answer, it also brings me out of the world.
Will I read the second book? Probably, because I want more Hawk and Emry, but can we not give me 100 pages too many? THANK YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!
They are such a cute couple and their love was for sure fated, so I was rooting a long with all of the other readers that they would end up together. Their friendship with Hawk and Emry was my favorite portion, but there were some things that I thought served no purpose to the story.
• Spencer’s Laugh (The fact that he giggled “tee hee hee” behind his hand literally brought me out of the story while reading EVERY TIME!)
• Cassius’ Artwork (While I loved the bits with it, if it’s a hobby of his, it should have been focused on more often.)
• Friendship with Ian (While it showed Cass’s jealous side, it gave us nothing else. It just felt awkward.)
• Bringing up Leo’s dead ex (Unless he’s getting his own book, which I could see, that was left far too open for my taste.)
There were also words that I had to look up, which in a romance book, is really annoying. If a word means “to eat” just say TO EAT. When I have to search for an answer, it also brings me out of the world.
Will I read the second book? Probably, because I want more Hawk and Emry, but can we not give me 100 pages too many? THANK YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!
April 2, 2021
3.5 Stars for
Getaway is the first book in the Escape series by Casey Cox. I definitely enjoyed it, but I also struggled with some of it.
It's long and very detailed. It took me a while to fully be grabbed by it, as it takes a while for everything to fully click for the men. The first third of the book is very slow going. I understand that it's used to set some of the personalities and the scene for later, but it didn't need to be so detailed and so long.
Eventually, there's a sexual awakening for Spencer when he realizes he's in love with his best friend. It's definitely slow going for him, but I love when everything finally clicks for him.
Overall, I enjoy the way things unfold for these two. The best of friends, who are always so touchy feely with each other, becoming lovers, is awesome. And damn, they are hot together.
The men are complete opposites which makes for some funny moments. Just little things that made me chuckle. And omg, Cass's love of food definitely had me laughing.
I kind of wish Cass had been aware of his feelings sooner and with more of an intensity. I felt like I missed something. Heck, maybe I did. I also felt something was off with the declaration scene. Having the men hold off on talking definitely felt forced.
Their tale is one of first times and sexual exploration. It's a tale with plenty of nudity and bravery.
The vacation resort is a delightful setting for this adventure. I definitely enjoyed all the little resort/vacation details.
Overall, Getaway is a nice friends to lovers tale. This Casey Cox book is enjoyable and the ending is fabulous. I'm excited to see what else happens in this series.
Getaway is the first book in the Escape series by Casey Cox. I definitely enjoyed it, but I also struggled with some of it.
It's long and very detailed. It took me a while to fully be grabbed by it, as it takes a while for everything to fully click for the men. The first third of the book is very slow going. I understand that it's used to set some of the personalities and the scene for later, but it didn't need to be so detailed and so long.
Eventually, there's a sexual awakening for Spencer when he realizes he's in love with his best friend. It's definitely slow going for him, but I love when everything finally clicks for him.
Overall, I enjoy the way things unfold for these two. The best of friends, who are always so touchy feely with each other, becoming lovers, is awesome. And damn, they are hot together.
The men are complete opposites which makes for some funny moments. Just little things that made me chuckle. And omg, Cass's love of food definitely had me laughing.
I kind of wish Cass had been aware of his feelings sooner and with more of an intensity. I felt like I missed something. Heck, maybe I did. I also felt something was off with the declaration scene. Having the men hold off on talking definitely felt forced.
Their tale is one of first times and sexual exploration. It's a tale with plenty of nudity and bravery.
The vacation resort is a delightful setting for this adventure. I definitely enjoyed all the little resort/vacation details.
Overall, Getaway is a nice friends to lovers tale. This Casey Cox book is enjoyable and the ending is fabulous. I'm excited to see what else happens in this series.
April 4, 2021
easy and sweet story... good characters and made me smile and happy. it was a good story with fun characters. i liked it
March 27, 2021
Pretty enjoyable with some laugh out loud moments.
Spencer was a bit of a conundrum. Half of his behaviour at the resort was out of character as the uptight, redefining his sexuality, one of the pair.
Cassius had some "quirks" that Spencer liked, (or maybe was just used to) that were pretty unattractive.
So they shouldn't have worked but somehow did. The chemistry between them built.
Loved all the side characters and would love books about them
Spencer was a bit of a conundrum. Half of his behaviour at the resort was out of character as the uptight, redefining his sexuality, one of the pair.
Cassius had some "quirks" that Spencer liked, (or maybe was just used to) that were pretty unattractive.
So they shouldn't have worked but somehow did. The chemistry between them built.
Loved all the side characters and would love books about them
May 10, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
This is a sweet friends-to-lovers story, but I will be honest that it went on too long. Cass’ silliness got overwhelming; coupled with his weird grooming hang-ups and juvenile food combinations, he read way younger than his 20s. His aversion to change, and his reaction to Spencer making a friend, also felt extremely immature. Spencer is far more emotionally mature, and I relished his courage in this story. I was glad that he finally could tell Cass his truth, but I was frustrated as a reader with how long he procrastinated. He had chance after chance, and they even had some intimacy, but Spencer still couldn’t get the truth out until very late.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
3 stars
This is a sweet friends-to-lovers story, but I will be honest that it went on too long. Cass’ silliness got overwhelming; coupled with his weird grooming hang-ups and juvenile food combinations, he read way younger than his 20s. His aversion to change, and his reaction to Spencer making a friend, also felt extremely immature. Spencer is far more emotionally mature, and I relished his courage in this story. I was glad that he finally could tell Cass his truth, but I was frustrated as a reader with how long he procrastinated. He had chance after chance, and they even had some intimacy, but Spencer still couldn’t get the truth out until very late.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
April 2, 2021
Funny, sweet, and romantic friends-to-lovers story—the perfect getaway from reality! I fell completely in love with these two characters! I positively swooned reading how absolutely crazy Spencer and Cash are about each other. I adored how Spencer orchestrated their trip, and how he handled figuring out his own sexuality. He seems quite fearless and manages to surprise Cass a number of times. Cass is a sweetheart, very idealistic, and not the neatest person, which I heartily approve of—#lifegoals. They are such close friends and truly appreciate who the other is, so when they fall in love—or, more accurately, realize the depth of their feelings—the resulting butterflies are the sparkliest, happiest, and most steadfast butterflies ever! There’s a tiny bit of delicious angst, and a smidgen of jealousy when they don’t yet know exactly where they stand, but I loved how all of that was written. Every word and action between these two feels genuine… Another thing I loved was the setting of the story … location, location, location ;-) And the secondary characters are a blast, endearing and intriguing, and in need of their own story pronto. Please, pretty please? The story is beautifully written, in a very engaging and easy-to-read style. Can’t wait to read more by this author.
April 21, 2021
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I really enjoyed this book. I seem to be gravitating towards friends to lovers books lately and this one was good. Cassius and Spencer were so good together. This was a super sweet, low angst book that once I got into I didn't want to stop until I finished. The setting, the story, the sex (besides that one awkward time) and oh the epilogue, highly recommend and look forward to the next book.
I really enjoyed this book. I seem to be gravitating towards friends to lovers books lately and this one was good. Cassius and Spencer were so good together. This was a super sweet, low angst book that once I got into I didn't want to stop until I finished. The setting, the story, the sex (besides that one awkward time) and oh the epilogue, highly recommend and look forward to the next book.
November 12, 2021
Sweet and wonderful
Loved this story of lifelong friends who finally come to grips with how they feel about each other. Loved the opposites attract dichotomy between the characters. Want to read more books by this author.
Loved this story of lifelong friends who finally come to grips with how they feel about each other. Loved the opposites attract dichotomy between the characters. Want to read more books by this author.
January 30, 2022
DNF at 12%
I love a good pining for the best friend story, especially one sided. But I really wasn't feeling that in the setup, and so many other things were annoying me that I had to kick this.
1. death by internal monologue
There's just so much internal monologuing by both characters, and it's repetitive. So repetitive, it felt like the same paragraph was rephrased three times in a row. I get it, whatshisface is in soulless marketing and has money, and it's so tragic that otherguy is in social work but makes peanuts, blahblahblah.
2. infodumpy yet about the weirdest things?
The prologue. Honestly. What even. Was that whole chapter an overly detailed way - did I really need the tragic backstories of all these random children - to say "wow idk why people think I'm dating my best (straight) friend!!" please
3. Cass
Cass is supposed to be a go with the flow type hippie I think, and yet he is apparently extremely resistant to change or surprises. As far as I can tell, what is being called "laid back" is in fact living and acting like a 14yo boy, and being okay with living in filth based on the description of his apartment. Even his eating habits are inexplicably immature, and the juxtaposition of Spencer - taking care of his health and body - is bizarre. With that kind of diet, Cass should be like 400lbs. Too far for me to not notice it.
4. Spencer
Actually, I was interested in Spencer as a character. Spreadsheet man, to the point he charts his own sexuality crisis? Sold. Probably the only bright spot.
5. Sudden inexplicable attraction to the best friend, except it's not the one having the identity crisis?
This drove me up a wall. The setup, I thought, was that Spencer realizes he's not straight, and has a mad crush on Cass. Yet we get the "why am I suddenly checking out my best friend??" from Cass, out of nowhere. Unsubstantiated, and ruins the tension. Also "meaty ass" pls no
6. endless pop culture references
This always, always dates a book, and makes it hard to read. So many references to various musicians, and others I didn't recognize...it takes me out of the story.
Overall, a solid miss for me on many counts.
I love a good pining for the best friend story, especially one sided. But I really wasn't feeling that in the setup, and so many other things were annoying me that I had to kick this.
1. death by internal monologue
There's just so much internal monologuing by both characters, and it's repetitive. So repetitive, it felt like the same paragraph was rephrased three times in a row. I get it, whatshisface is in soulless marketing and has money, and it's so tragic that otherguy is in social work but makes peanuts, blahblahblah.
2. infodumpy yet about the weirdest things?
The prologue. Honestly. What even. Was that whole chapter an overly detailed way - did I really need the tragic backstories of all these random children - to say "wow idk why people think I'm dating my best (straight) friend!!" please
3. Cass
Cass is supposed to be a go with the flow type hippie I think, and yet he is apparently extremely resistant to change or surprises. As far as I can tell, what is being called "laid back" is in fact living and acting like a 14yo boy, and being okay with living in filth based on the description of his apartment. Even his eating habits are inexplicably immature, and the juxtaposition of Spencer - taking care of his health and body - is bizarre. With that kind of diet, Cass should be like 400lbs. Too far for me to not notice it.
4. Spencer
Actually, I was interested in Spencer as a character. Spreadsheet man, to the point he charts his own sexuality crisis? Sold. Probably the only bright spot.
5. Sudden inexplicable attraction to the best friend, except it's not the one having the identity crisis?
This drove me up a wall. The setup, I thought, was that Spencer realizes he's not straight, and has a mad crush on Cass. Yet we get the "why am I suddenly checking out my best friend??" from Cass, out of nowhere. Unsubstantiated, and ruins the tension. Also "meaty ass" pls no
6. endless pop culture references
This always, always dates a book, and makes it hard to read. So many references to various musicians, and others I didn't recognize...it takes me out of the story.
Overall, a solid miss for me on many counts.
dnf
August 12, 2022Unreadable. The writing style was terrible. Things a couple of sentences apart made no sense. Cassius took people on a hike but then stayed behind when they all left. Not sure Cox knows what a modest house is the implication made was that it wasn't a great place but that's actually not what a modest house is. This was all in the first chapter and I didn't even get into what I disliked about the writing style.
May 13, 2021
All I wanted to do was escape the entire time I read this
June 7, 2021
This story was just ok for me… I felt like there were a bunch of unrealistic things that kept pulling me out of the story, and it made it harder to enjoy. There were some really random things that just made me be like ????? Like bringing 4 pieces of luggage on a 4 night trip - I mean, I’m notorious in my family for overpacking and wanting to have options, but that’s one piece of luggage per night? Are you trying to tell me someone who plans every second of his life can’t plan out his outfits for a few days? How do you even handle 4 pieces of luggage through an airport without a huge fuss? And Cass’s food options - like, I’m sorry but that man should be morbidly obese with what you’re telling me he’s eating every day. I actually loved the scene when he talks about his guilt-free eating mentality theory, but I just didn’t understand why he needed to eat SO MUCH FOOD to emphasize it… Like I said, my thoughts on some of these random things kept pulling me out of the story.
The dialogue fell flat at times. It was cute that they had little things that only they knew what they were talking about, but some of the time it just came off kind of cringey and didn’t sound the way I would expect people to actually talk. And just some of their personality characteristics didn’t always seem like they fit… I felt like Spencer seemed like this total control freak with his spreadsheets and all, but then he comes off as super chill with everyone new he meets. Whereas Cass from the beginning seemed like this chill hippie dude who doesn’t like to do chores or shower, and who’s great at making fun of himself to help others feel better (like with his LGBTQ hiking crew), but then ends up being like pretty socially anxious. And I get that some of this was leading to the characteristics rubbing off on each other later but it didn’t really work for me. I felt like I was missing some of their connection some of the time too, I felt their friendship, but the romance didn’t always feel super authentic… they kind of just said they were in love but I didn’t really feel it or see it happen.
On the other hand, there were definitely some good points too - I liked the side characters at the resort, and and that conflicts and misunderstandings weren’t drawn out unnecessarily. Their communication was pretty good, I liked that that was the pillar of their friendship. And the LGBTQ+ content was well done, I appreciated that Spencer had his spreadsheet to help him figure himself out,
The dialogue fell flat at times. It was cute that they had little things that only they knew what they were talking about, but some of the time it just came off kind of cringey and didn’t sound the way I would expect people to actually talk. And just some of their personality characteristics didn’t always seem like they fit… I felt like Spencer seemed like this total control freak with his spreadsheets and all, but then he comes off as super chill with everyone new he meets. Whereas Cass from the beginning seemed like this chill hippie dude who doesn’t like to do chores or shower, and who’s great at making fun of himself to help others feel better (like with his LGBTQ hiking crew), but then ends up being like pretty socially anxious. And I get that some of this was leading to the characteristics rubbing off on each other later but it didn’t really work for me. I felt like I was missing some of their connection some of the time too, I felt their friendship, but the romance didn’t always feel super authentic… they kind of just said they were in love but I didn’t really feel it or see it happen.
On the other hand, there were definitely some good points too - I liked the side characters at the resort, and and that conflicts and misunderstandings weren’t drawn out unnecessarily. Their communication was pretty good, I liked that that was the pillar of their friendship. And the LGBTQ+ content was well done, I appreciated that Spencer had his spreadsheet to help him figure himself out,
April 9, 2021
As Emry would say - O to the M to the G, this was so cute! It was an incredibly sweet and funny story about two guys that just needed a little Getaway to see what was right in front of them and get something amazing out of it!
Both main characters are so adorable! Cassius was such a goofball, but in the most adorable way possible, like even his faults were totally adorable! And he was so funny (even when he wasn't trying to be), it was a delight to get to know him! Spencer was also adorable, but differently in his neurotic, definitely OCD way. He was so cute and sweet, and so nice and understanding and just so..Spencer-y (it is totally a word now). I loved him! They are the epitome of what the perfect friendship looks like and when they actually realized they could be more? Yes, please! Obviously, I am in the fan club of the side characters too. Emry and Hawk were just so amazing, each in their own way - Emry with his "out there", loud, lovable personality and Hawk with his quiet assertions and stability. Sigh. I hope we get a story with those two finding their HAE too. Oh and Ian! Ian was so cute in his shy, quiet way. Please, please can we have Ian's story too?
Not to mention the location. I haven't of such a place existing, but if it does? Daaaaamn, I want a vacation. It was certainly something else and it sounded so wonderful! And not just because of Florida's sunny beaches, hot naked guys and dirty sounding cocktails, but because of the whole atmosphere that was set and people who were so nice and uninhibited and so exactly who they are... I always love a good story where characters are true to themselves and this was a perfect setting to let their personalities and true selves blossom. It just has this ambience that makes you want to come back again and again, and again. Basically - give me more stories like this one, I am all ears!
This was an absolutely wonderful and sweet slow- burn romance, with amazing characters and an unusual, but great setting. It is sweet, funny and everything else that a "feel-good" story needs and I will be definitely watching out for the next story in this series. Thank you for the book, Casey, and keep these guys coming, they are magnificent :)
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
Both main characters are so adorable! Cassius was such a goofball, but in the most adorable way possible, like even his faults were totally adorable! And he was so funny (even when he wasn't trying to be), it was a delight to get to know him! Spencer was also adorable, but differently in his neurotic, definitely OCD way. He was so cute and sweet, and so nice and understanding and just so..Spencer-y (it is totally a word now). I loved him! They are the epitome of what the perfect friendship looks like and when they actually realized they could be more? Yes, please! Obviously, I am in the fan club of the side characters too. Emry and Hawk were just so amazing, each in their own way - Emry with his "out there", loud, lovable personality and Hawk with his quiet assertions and stability. Sigh. I hope we get a story with those two finding their HAE too. Oh and Ian! Ian was so cute in his shy, quiet way. Please, please can we have Ian's story too?
Not to mention the location. I haven't of such a place existing, but if it does? Daaaaamn, I want a vacation. It was certainly something else and it sounded so wonderful! And not just because of Florida's sunny beaches, hot naked guys and dirty sounding cocktails, but because of the whole atmosphere that was set and people who were so nice and uninhibited and so exactly who they are... I always love a good story where characters are true to themselves and this was a perfect setting to let their personalities and true selves blossom. It just has this ambience that makes you want to come back again and again, and again. Basically - give me more stories like this one, I am all ears!
This was an absolutely wonderful and sweet slow- burn romance, with amazing characters and an unusual, but great setting. It is sweet, funny and everything else that a "feel-good" story needs and I will be definitely watching out for the next story in this series. Thank you for the book, Casey, and keep these guys coming, they are magnificent :)
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
April 5, 2021
*4.5*
Getaway is this first book in Casey Cox's new Escape series. It focuses on Cassius and Spencer who have been best friends for years.
Whilst on holiday at a beautiful all male luxury resort, Spencer is determined to open up to Cassius about his recent revelations about himself. Whilst there and enjoying what the resort has to offer, they share in some new, unexpected experiences and it brings them even closer in ways that neither were expecting. Things definitely heat up between the two men, even as they are trying to come to terms with what they feel for each other.
Both men are total sweethearts and would do anything for each other. It's easy to feel the strong bond of friendship they share with such a long history together, how comfortable they are around each other and how well they know each other. That's one thing that makes these revelations harder for them as it's completely new feelings for them. Spencer's way of processing what he's going through is amazing, I can totally see someone with his personality and mindset working on spreadsheets. One of my favourite things about the MC's is how totally opposite they are, in pretty much every aspect of their lives and yet, they totally work together as friends and as a couple, balancing out each others.....quirks.
Two things really help boost this story. One, the setting. It's beautifully written and so easy to imagine the characters there enjoying the sun, sea and sexy times. Two, the side characters. Each one adds something to the story, whether it's fun, support or a little bit of drama, they all help to round out the story, adding to the entertainment value and a real welcoming vibe that the resort has.
This is a great start to a new series, one that I look forward to returning to. I love Casey's stories as they're not an intense, emotional ride but still has everything you need to fall into and enjoy the romance and plot of the book.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Getaway is this first book in Casey Cox's new Escape series. It focuses on Cassius and Spencer who have been best friends for years.
Whilst on holiday at a beautiful all male luxury resort, Spencer is determined to open up to Cassius about his recent revelations about himself. Whilst there and enjoying what the resort has to offer, they share in some new, unexpected experiences and it brings them even closer in ways that neither were expecting. Things definitely heat up between the two men, even as they are trying to come to terms with what they feel for each other.
Both men are total sweethearts and would do anything for each other. It's easy to feel the strong bond of friendship they share with such a long history together, how comfortable they are around each other and how well they know each other. That's one thing that makes these revelations harder for them as it's completely new feelings for them. Spencer's way of processing what he's going through is amazing, I can totally see someone with his personality and mindset working on spreadsheets. One of my favourite things about the MC's is how totally opposite they are, in pretty much every aspect of their lives and yet, they totally work together as friends and as a couple, balancing out each others.....quirks.
Two things really help boost this story. One, the setting. It's beautifully written and so easy to imagine the characters there enjoying the sun, sea and sexy times. Two, the side characters. Each one adds something to the story, whether it's fun, support or a little bit of drama, they all help to round out the story, adding to the entertainment value and a real welcoming vibe that the resort has.
This is a great start to a new series, one that I look forward to returning to. I love Casey's stories as they're not an intense, emotional ride but still has everything you need to fall into and enjoy the romance and plot of the book.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
April 9, 2021
I was so happy when I realized that Getaway is the first book in the new Escape series by Casey Cox, because it was SO MUCH FUN! I can't wait for more books!
Getaway is the story of Spencer and Cassius. Best friends since they were little kids, they've always had really clear boundaries around their friendship. Cassius is gay. Spencer is straight. Period. But Spencer has been questioning how straight he actually is for a while, and he's nervous about telling Cassius because he knows his friend doesn't adjust to change very well. When Spencer is gifted a fantastic getaway to a super-luxurious, all-men's, clothing-optional resort in Key West, he figures that will be an ideal time to tell Cassius how he's been feeling. But when they arrive at the resort they get distracted by how awesome it is, and a bunch of chances for them to talk slip away. Things get a bit weird when they end up sharing one very hot kiss BEFORE Spencer can tell Cass his news. So Cassius gets super confused, and it causes issues. Naturally, though, they are able to work things out, and the ride is awesome. The epilogue is especially fun since it takes us 10 years into the future to see how the happy couple is doing. And it's a little surprising!
I really enjoyed Getaway. Taking the stereotypes of gay and straight guys and flipping them was really fun. The gay guy being the fashion-challenged, disorganized, kind of slobby dude, while the straight guy being uptight, with amazing fashion sense, unbelievably hot body (from dieting and working out constantly) and planning their trip down to the minute using spreadsheets was super cute.
I didn't discover the teasers for the next books at the end of Getaway until a couple of days after I finished it, but you don't want to miss them. I really can't wait for them to come out, because Getaway is a light, fun and fluffy feel-good escape that was seriously perfect for this moment in time.
Getaway is the story of Spencer and Cassius. Best friends since they were little kids, they've always had really clear boundaries around their friendship. Cassius is gay. Spencer is straight. Period. But Spencer has been questioning how straight he actually is for a while, and he's nervous about telling Cassius because he knows his friend doesn't adjust to change very well. When Spencer is gifted a fantastic getaway to a super-luxurious, all-men's, clothing-optional resort in Key West, he figures that will be an ideal time to tell Cassius how he's been feeling. But when they arrive at the resort they get distracted by how awesome it is, and a bunch of chances for them to talk slip away. Things get a bit weird when they end up sharing one very hot kiss BEFORE Spencer can tell Cass his news. So Cassius gets super confused, and it causes issues. Naturally, though, they are able to work things out, and the ride is awesome. The epilogue is especially fun since it takes us 10 years into the future to see how the happy couple is doing. And it's a little surprising!
I really enjoyed Getaway. Taking the stereotypes of gay and straight guys and flipping them was really fun. The gay guy being the fashion-challenged, disorganized, kind of slobby dude, while the straight guy being uptight, with amazing fashion sense, unbelievably hot body (from dieting and working out constantly) and planning their trip down to the minute using spreadsheets was super cute.
I didn't discover the teasers for the next books at the end of Getaway until a couple of days after I finished it, but you don't want to miss them. I really can't wait for them to come out, because Getaway is a light, fun and fluffy feel-good escape that was seriously perfect for this moment in time.
April 1, 2021
I might be swimming against the tide here as I am reading all the other enthusiastic reviews, but I just didn't connect with these characters. Throughout the reading, I tried to grasp what I was missing and I came up with the following conclusion: I am missing the heat, the attraction, the heart-blowing emotions.
Cass and Spencer have been friends forever, and it is wonderful that they manage to evolve and become boyfriends, but this development was based on spreadsheets full of information downloaded from the internet and happened during a getaway weekend carefully organized to the minute in sunny Florida, where one should, on the contrary, go with the flow and enjoy the time away from home and from the usual life.
The constant intellectual analysis of feelings that should have been on the contrary spontaneous just killed the romance for me. I like this author's writing style because it always feels like the MCs are directly talking to the reader, but this time I had the impression I was reading the story of a well-established couple on a getaway to rekindle their love and attraction, rather than of two 23-year-old men experiencing their first deep and serious relationship - where is the honeymoon phase? where are those awkward funny moments when you discover and bond over the other's character traits?
I agree with the concept that the basis of real love is friendship and it will save the relationship in the long run, but at least at the beginning of a relationship, there shall be also a strong physical attraction, loss of sleep because of trepidation, and so on - I think I made my point.
Conclusion: If you married your high school sweetheart, you will most probably love this book. If you look for a very low angst read, full of good feelings, nice people, a welcoming environment, and the sweetest HEA possible, than this is the book for you.
Cass and Spencer have been friends forever, and it is wonderful that they manage to evolve and become boyfriends, but this development was based on spreadsheets full of information downloaded from the internet and happened during a getaway weekend carefully organized to the minute in sunny Florida, where one should, on the contrary, go with the flow and enjoy the time away from home and from the usual life.
The constant intellectual analysis of feelings that should have been on the contrary spontaneous just killed the romance for me. I like this author's writing style because it always feels like the MCs are directly talking to the reader, but this time I had the impression I was reading the story of a well-established couple on a getaway to rekindle their love and attraction, rather than of two 23-year-old men experiencing their first deep and serious relationship - where is the honeymoon phase? where are those awkward funny moments when you discover and bond over the other's character traits?
I agree with the concept that the basis of real love is friendship and it will save the relationship in the long run, but at least at the beginning of a relationship, there shall be also a strong physical attraction, loss of sleep because of trepidation, and so on - I think I made my point.
Conclusion: If you married your high school sweetheart, you will most probably love this book. If you look for a very low angst read, full of good feelings, nice people, a welcoming environment, and the sweetest HEA possible, than this is the book for you.
March 31, 2021
I liked this book. It is an enjoyable read, with a lot of humor, dorky characters, and a lot of love.
Cassius is gay and best friends with Spencer since first grade. Spencer always thought he was straight, but realized in the last months that this might not be true. When Spencer does the Marketing for a male-only 5-star resort for his work and gets gifted an all-expense paid weekend stay at the said resort, he invites his best friend, Cassius, with the thought that he can tell his best friend that he is not straight. But soon he realizes that he might feel more than friendship for Cassius.
The characters of this story are amazing. Both have their quirks and are dorky as hell. And they could not be more different. Spencer has to have everything planned. His favorite tools are spreadsheets, where he has everything planned, even an internery for his vacation. Cassius is a pure chaot. He loves to wear stained clothes, eat the most disgusting mixes of food, and cannot clean up for his life. I don't know how they work together but somehow the author males they work.
But there was one thing that bothered me in this book. Both MCs were sometimes pretty naive (they want to talk at a party, even though they had spent the whole day together) and had huge trouble communicating. And not just one time or two, but the story is pretty much based on them not talking until the end. Sometimes, I was sitting in front of the book and just wanted to shake sense into the MCs, so that they finally talk and not go to bed without talking first.
But with this detail that bothered me, I found the story really funny and with adorable dorky characters.
A recommendation from my side!
*I received this book as an ARC. I chose to write an honest review.*
Cassius is gay and best friends with Spencer since first grade. Spencer always thought he was straight, but realized in the last months that this might not be true. When Spencer does the Marketing for a male-only 5-star resort for his work and gets gifted an all-expense paid weekend stay at the said resort, he invites his best friend, Cassius, with the thought that he can tell his best friend that he is not straight. But soon he realizes that he might feel more than friendship for Cassius.
The characters of this story are amazing. Both have their quirks and are dorky as hell. And they could not be more different. Spencer has to have everything planned. His favorite tools are spreadsheets, where he has everything planned, even an internery for his vacation. Cassius is a pure chaot. He loves to wear stained clothes, eat the most disgusting mixes of food, and cannot clean up for his life. I don't know how they work together but somehow the author males they work.
But there was one thing that bothered me in this book. Both MCs were sometimes pretty naive (they want to talk at a party, even though they had spent the whole day together) and had huge trouble communicating. And not just one time or two, but the story is pretty much based on them not talking until the end. Sometimes, I was sitting in front of the book and just wanted to shake sense into the MCs, so that they finally talk and not go to bed without talking first.
But with this detail that bothered me, I found the story really funny and with adorable dorky characters.
A recommendation from my side!
*I received this book as an ARC. I chose to write an honest review.*
March 24, 2021
This is a charming, fun romance about two friends who realize they are meant for each other. Spencer and Cassius have been friends since forever, and people have a funny habit of mistaking them for boyfriends. When Spencer questions his sexuality, he decides to cook up the perfect atmosphere to broach the subject with Cassius. Cassius is gay, so Spencer isn’t worried his friend won’t accept him so much as Cassius isn’t great with change and Spencer doesn’t know how he’ll react. As part of his plans, Spencer takes Cassius on a vacation to an all-male luxury resort in Florida called Elysian.
Now, Spencer and Cassius were perfect for each other, and I really enjoyed their slow burn romance. That being said, my favorite aspect of the book was the setting. There are some romances where the setting itself is practically another character! That was the case for me here. The descriptions of Elysian really brought it to life— the sunshine, the parties, the naked men by the pool. I was a huge fan of the side characters. I actually thought this aspect was thoughtful and really well done. It emphasized that there is no one way to be gay or define sexuality, as well as including those who may be coming out later in life and feel self conscious about the way they look.
A lot of plot points and conflicts are resolved really easily, so don’t choose this book if you want something super realistic or angsty. Read it if you want a lighthearted and fun MM romance. I really enjoyed it!
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
Now, Spencer and Cassius were perfect for each other, and I really enjoyed their slow burn romance. That being said, my favorite aspect of the book was the setting. There are some romances where the setting itself is practically another character! That was the case for me here. The descriptions of Elysian really brought it to life— the sunshine, the parties, the naked men by the pool. I was a huge fan of the side characters. I actually thought this aspect was thoughtful and really well done. It emphasized that there is no one way to be gay or define sexuality, as well as including those who may be coming out later in life and feel self conscious about the way they look.
A lot of plot points and conflicts are resolved really easily, so don’t choose this book if you want something super realistic or angsty. Read it if you want a lighthearted and fun MM romance. I really enjoyed it!
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
April 21, 2021
Check out our full post for GETAWAY on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
3.5 stars
GETAWAY is the first book in the Escape series.
GETAWAY is a friends-to-lovers, gay-for-you read. Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes. Cassius and Spencer met when they were six and have been the best of friends ever since. Cass has been out while Spencer has been straight through their seventeen-year friendship. While on vacation at an all-male clothing optional resort, Spencer has some big revelations all filled out on his spreadsheets that he wants to share with Cassius. Cassius and Spencer are polar opposites but something about that is pulling them together.
GETAWAY was a very sweet read, and I loved the relationship between Cassius and Spencer BUT it was agonizingly slow. The buildup was most of the book and as soon as the big revel happened, it was a race to the finish. I was invested in the characters, but the pace definitely was a hurdle for me.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews