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Never Have I Ever #3
Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate
How could one kiss change everything between me and my best friend?
Jax has been my best friend since the day we met. We not only share our passion for baseball, but we train together, play on the same team, hang out together, even sleep in the same bed half the time.
I feel safe with him, and he gets me like no one else. Yeah, he’s gay and I’m straight, but that doesn’t matter.
Until it does.
Until one stupid dare to kiss each other leads to the most amazing, epic kiss of my life.
Until I suddenly can’t stop thinking about him, about what he awakens in me.
Until all I want is him.
Our bromance evolves into something much deeper, something that neither of us can define. I explore new territory with him and discover sides of myself I never knew I had.
But with not only our future in baseball on the line but also our friendship, how can this thing between us ever be more than temporary? A bromance between besties doesn’t have to change anything, right?
Matt and Jax’s story is a best friends-to-lovers romance between teammates who discover that a bromance between besties is exactly what they’ve always wanted but never thought they could have. Expect lots of bff banter, some serious steam, and tons of sweetness as these two oblivious jocks navigate the line between boyfriends and bros. It is the third novel in the exciting Never Have I Ever series but can be read as a standalone.
Jax has been my best friend since the day we met. We not only share our passion for baseball, but we train together, play on the same team, hang out together, even sleep in the same bed half the time.
I feel safe with him, and he gets me like no one else. Yeah, he’s gay and I’m straight, but that doesn’t matter.
Until it does.
Until one stupid dare to kiss each other leads to the most amazing, epic kiss of my life.
Until I suddenly can’t stop thinking about him, about what he awakens in me.
Until all I want is him.
Our bromance evolves into something much deeper, something that neither of us can define. I explore new territory with him and discover sides of myself I never knew I had.
But with not only our future in baseball on the line but also our friendship, how can this thing between us ever be more than temporary? A bromance between besties doesn’t have to change anything, right?
Matt and Jax’s story is a best friends-to-lovers romance between teammates who discover that a bromance between besties is exactly what they’ve always wanted but never thought they could have. Expect lots of bff banter, some serious steam, and tons of sweetness as these two oblivious jocks navigate the line between boyfriends and bros. It is the third novel in the exciting Never Have I Ever series but can be read as a standalone.
332 pages, ebook
First published March 9, 2023
770 people are currently reading
4875 people want to read
About the author
Willow Dixon
23 books1,315 followersWhat can I say about myself? It’s kind of like being the new kid in school and being asked to tell everyone a bit about yourself. Anyone else forget everything they’ve ever liked, thought of, and even their name in those moments?
A few facts about me; I’m a veteran, I’m Canadian, and I love books! I’ve been writing my own stories since I was eight and wrote my first novel at sixteen. I’m the first to admit those attempts weren’t my best work, but they started me on a journey of creating stories that has led me to fulfilling my dream of becoming an author. I’ve written and published in several genres under different names, but MM is by far my favorite, and I’m so happy to be able to share my stories with people today.
I currently live on Canada’s east coast with my kiddo and my cats. I have a shoe collecting addiction, and I enjoy taking long walks, discussions with friends, and reading anything and everything I can get my hands on.
A few facts about me; I’m a veteran, I’m Canadian, and I love books! I’ve been writing my own stories since I was eight and wrote my first novel at sixteen. I’m the first to admit those attempts weren’t my best work, but they started me on a journey of creating stories that has led me to fulfilling my dream of becoming an author. I’ve written and published in several genres under different names, but MM is by far my favorite, and I’m so happy to be able to share my stories with people today.
I currently live on Canada’s east coast with my kiddo and my cats. I have a shoe collecting addiction, and I enjoy taking long walks, discussions with friends, and reading anything and everything I can get my hands on.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 643 reviews
August 17, 2025
4 Stars
I’m developing a seriously cozy spot in my heart for Willow Dixon’s brand of M/M romance.
I seem to click really well with Dixon’s writing style and her characters, particularly loving the way she blends humour, romance, and sex (hot, steamy, melt-my-panties right off, sex) with these profound moments of sincerity and thoughtfulness.
If you love friends-to-lovers, bi-awakenings, first-times, or jocks who are squishy gentle-giants, this story will work a treat for you.
If you appreciate positive mental health representation and thoughtful self-reflections and self-growth, spurred by men sharing their feelings and having deep conversations with their partners and their friends (swoon), then, again, this story will work a treat for you.
I’ve drifted away from friends-to-lovers stories over recent years—I can’t really pinpoint why—but this one won me over with ease. Something about Jax and Matt and their evolving relationship was deeply romantic in the way they easily and inevitably transitioned from besties to soulmates.
In a way, their dynamic and their alpha-ness reminded me a lot of Trent and Drew from Cambria Hebert’s #GearShark series, which, if you know me and my reading tastes, is the absolute highest compliment I could give this new M/M pair.
******************************
Never Have I Ever Series
Book 1 - Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card (4.5 Stars)
Book 2 - Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy (5 Stars)
Book 3 - Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate (4 Stars)
Book 4 - Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival (4 Stars)
I’m developing a seriously cozy spot in my heart for Willow Dixon’s brand of M/M romance.
I seem to click really well with Dixon’s writing style and her characters, particularly loving the way she blends humour, romance, and sex (hot, steamy, melt-my-panties right off, sex) with these profound moments of sincerity and thoughtfulness.
If you love friends-to-lovers, bi-awakenings, first-times, or jocks who are squishy gentle-giants, this story will work a treat for you.
If you appreciate positive mental health representation and thoughtful self-reflections and self-growth, spurred by men sharing their feelings and having deep conversations with their partners and their friends (swoon), then, again, this story will work a treat for you.
I’ve drifted away from friends-to-lovers stories over recent years—I can’t really pinpoint why—but this one won me over with ease. Something about Jax and Matt and their evolving relationship was deeply romantic in the way they easily and inevitably transitioned from besties to soulmates.
In a way, their dynamic and their alpha-ness reminded me a lot of Trent and Drew from Cambria Hebert’s #GearShark series, which, if you know me and my reading tastes, is the absolute highest compliment I could give this new M/M pair.
******************************
Never Have I Ever Series
Book 1 - Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card (4.5 Stars)
Book 2 - Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy (5 Stars)
Book 3 - Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate (4 Stars)
Book 4 - Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival (4 Stars)
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 8, 2023
"I trust you. I’m comfortable with you. I know that if I make a weird face or do something wrong or even go soft, you won’t judge me. You… you make me feel safe."
Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with Teammate was a sweet bi-awakening best friends-to-lovers story. We have Matt and Jax, who met when they were freshmen. They both clicked from day one and have been connected at the hips ever since. They are both jocks, D1-level baseball players aiming for the pros one day. Jax is openly gay, but Matt soon realizes that he might not be as straight as he thought when he gets a heated kiss from Jax during a drinking game.
This book had a totally different feel from Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy. Their story was low angst, very sweet and steamy. Matt has anxiety and panic attacks due to pressures from his father and future, and this has impacted his sex life as well. He has some performance anxiety and coupled with his newfound knowledge of his sexuality, he's scared. However, Jax provides him with a safe space to explore his sexuality. Jax is so understanding, attentive and caring - ugh my heart. Loved the moments of vulnerability between them. These two had such amazing chemistry from the get go, and adding sex, while it can complicate things just seemed like a natural transition for these two as it deepened their connection.
“You know what my favorite part of you is?” He stood and cupped my face in his hands. “What?” I whispered. “Your soul.”
“You’re gorgeous, no question, but it’s your soul I love the most. You’re beautiful, babe. Inside and out.”
I know some readers may not like the whole using a friendship as a way to explore one's sexuality but I didn't mind it and they communicated with one another and set boundaries. However, when feelings do evolve it can create complications.
Finally, I loved the found family aspect of this series. The roommates are all so wonderful, and I love how they are all there for each other. Different people have different friendship dynamics, but you know they have each other's backs. I can't wait for Eli's story; there's a lot to unravel and learn about that boy.
While I didn't enjoy the second book due to personal preferences, I really liked this one! Overall it was a great read! If you enjoy bi-awakening, best friends to lovers, lingerie kink, and college romance, I recommend it.
Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with Teammate was a sweet bi-awakening best friends-to-lovers story. We have Matt and Jax, who met when they were freshmen. They both clicked from day one and have been connected at the hips ever since. They are both jocks, D1-level baseball players aiming for the pros one day. Jax is openly gay, but Matt soon realizes that he might not be as straight as he thought when he gets a heated kiss from Jax during a drinking game.
This book had a totally different feel from Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy. Their story was low angst, very sweet and steamy. Matt has anxiety and panic attacks due to pressures from his father and future, and this has impacted his sex life as well. He has some performance anxiety and coupled with his newfound knowledge of his sexuality, he's scared. However, Jax provides him with a safe space to explore his sexuality. Jax is so understanding, attentive and caring - ugh my heart. Loved the moments of vulnerability between them. These two had such amazing chemistry from the get go, and adding sex, while it can complicate things just seemed like a natural transition for these two as it deepened their connection.
“You know what my favorite part of you is?” He stood and cupped my face in his hands. “What?” I whispered. “Your soul.”
“You’re gorgeous, no question, but it’s your soul I love the most. You’re beautiful, babe. Inside and out.”
I know some readers may not like the whole using a friendship as a way to explore one's sexuality but I didn't mind it and they communicated with one another and set boundaries. However, when feelings do evolve it can create complications.
Finally, I loved the found family aspect of this series. The roommates are all so wonderful, and I love how they are all there for each other. Different people have different friendship dynamics, but you know they have each other's backs. I can't wait for Eli's story; there's a lot to unravel and learn about that boy.
While I didn't enjoy the second book due to personal preferences, I really liked this one! Overall it was a great read! If you enjoy bi-awakening, best friends to lovers, lingerie kink, and college romance, I recommend it.
May 8, 2023
This was a really cute sweet and fun book! Really enjoyed reading it.
I will say though, this book is pretty short but felt long- towards the end I was getting a bit bored and ready for it to end.
Really excited for Eli's book,
I will say though, this book is pretty short but felt long- towards the end I was getting a bit bored and ready for it to end.
Really excited for Eli's book,
May 26, 2023
***3.5 rating***
"Something about his big, strong body was beyond comforting. Knowing he was there and feeling his warm skin against mine, hearing his steady heartbeat, grounded me."
This was really cute. Matt and Jax's friendship was the heart of this book. Their neediness and codependency was my favorite aspect of this book. However, the spark that I felt while reading Kai and Alex's story was missing for me in this book. Alex and Kai have my heart. Wonder what Eli's book will be like.
As for this book, it was enjoyable and cute but something still felt lacking for me. Idk. Maybe I have read too many friend-to-lovers books. It felt a bit predictable. Maybe that's what it was. I still, enjoyed it tho.
"Something about his big, strong body was beyond comforting. Knowing he was there and feeling his warm skin against mine, hearing his steady heartbeat, grounded me."
This was really cute. Matt and Jax's friendship was the heart of this book. Their neediness and codependency was my favorite aspect of this book. However, the spark that I felt while reading Kai and Alex's story was missing for me in this book. Alex and Kai have my heart. Wonder what Eli's book will be like.
As for this book, it was enjoyable and cute but something still felt lacking for me. Idk. Maybe I have read too many friend-to-lovers books. It felt a bit predictable. Maybe that's what it was. I still, enjoyed it tho.
March 3, 2023
I’d never had a bromance before, especially with a teammate, but we were rock solid, and I’d never wanted anyone the way I wanted him.
This is a wonderful friends to lovers book. This book has such a different vibe from the last one, but it is so good in its own way. It is really sweet and a little bit spicy.
“You haven’t lived until you’ve had a tongue on your hole.”
It was really enjoyable to read about Matt and see him come out of his shell and discovering new aspects to himself. I loved that he didn't and wouldn't let himself be held back by anyone else's opinions about what he was into. And Jax was an incredibly supportive best friend and partner.
I loved our easy banter, and the way he always knew exactly what to say or what to do when I got stuck in my head or needed some reassurance meant everything to me. He meant everything.
The praise that Jax gives Matt is truly incredible. The trust they have with each other is amazing. I love how Jax supports Matt both in exploring new kinks and experiencing those kinks together. No kink shaming here!
“The promise of butt cuddles distracted me. I can’t be held responsible for a momentary lapse in judgment when I’m thinking about ass cuddles.”
Overall, this book feels a bit softer and sweeter than the last one. It is more feelings oriented since we are going from besties to lovers.
“You know what my favorite part of you is?” He stood and cupped my face in his hands. “What?” I whispered. “Your soul.”
*** I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion. ***
This is a wonderful friends to lovers book. This book has such a different vibe from the last one, but it is so good in its own way. It is really sweet and a little bit spicy.
“You haven’t lived until you’ve had a tongue on your hole.”
It was really enjoyable to read about Matt and see him come out of his shell and discovering new aspects to himself. I loved that he didn't and wouldn't let himself be held back by anyone else's opinions about what he was into. And Jax was an incredibly supportive best friend and partner.
I loved our easy banter, and the way he always knew exactly what to say or what to do when I got stuck in my head or needed some reassurance meant everything to me. He meant everything.
The praise that Jax gives Matt is truly incredible. The trust they have with each other is amazing. I love how Jax supports Matt both in exploring new kinks and experiencing those kinks together. No kink shaming here!
“The promise of butt cuddles distracted me. I can’t be held responsible for a momentary lapse in judgment when I’m thinking about ass cuddles.”
Overall, this book feels a bit softer and sweeter than the last one. It is more feelings oriented since we are going from besties to lovers.
“You know what my favorite part of you is?” He stood and cupped my face in his hands. “What?” I whispered. “Your soul.”
*** I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion. ***
![Profile Image for Megan [At The Cottage].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1634561405i%2F25103878._UY200_CR50%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 17, 2023
MM Romance
Best Friends To Lovers
2.5 Stars ⭐️
For a best friends to lovers book, this sure was boring and so was the sex. It was quite a disappointment because I loved the last book in this series and was looking forward to these two because of how cuddly they already were with each other. I liked their overall friendship and I thought their transition from friends to more was done well but it was just kind of repetitive and I had a lot of trouble figuring out whose POV I was in sometimes. They just sounded so alike and unless Matt was having a panic attack, I totally forgot who was who. There was a lot of Eli in this book and I just wasn’t very interested in him so I doubt I’ll read the next book.
And OMG the names!!! This is so fucking petty but WTF kind of names are *Paichynce* and *Paizleigh*. It took me entirely too long to realize their names were just “Patience & Paisley” but spelled really bad. Can you imagine being a kid and having to learn to spell your name and then later learning to read and realizing your parents spelled your name like THAT? 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️ The other chick was named Aspyn which isn’t as bad but still made me roll my eyes. “Megan” has a ton of different spellings and some have made me cringe over the years (Meiaghenn or Maygayn are the weirdest I’ve seen) but it’s hard to take anyone seriously with names like that. Oh and Paichynce & Paizleigh are twins🤣
I did however love the butt cuddles and how Jax helped Matt through his panic attacks.
Best Friends To Lovers
2.5 Stars ⭐️
For a best friends to lovers book, this sure was boring and so was the sex. It was quite a disappointment because I loved the last book in this series and was looking forward to these two because of how cuddly they already were with each other. I liked their overall friendship and I thought their transition from friends to more was done well but it was just kind of repetitive and I had a lot of trouble figuring out whose POV I was in sometimes. They just sounded so alike and unless Matt was having a panic attack, I totally forgot who was who. There was a lot of Eli in this book and I just wasn’t very interested in him so I doubt I’ll read the next book.
And OMG the names!!! This is so fucking petty but WTF kind of names are *Paichynce* and *Paizleigh*. It took me entirely too long to realize their names were just “Patience & Paisley” but spelled really bad. Can you imagine being a kid and having to learn to spell your name and then later learning to read and realizing your parents spelled your name like THAT? 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️ The other chick was named Aspyn which isn’t as bad but still made me roll my eyes. “Megan” has a ton of different spellings and some have made me cringe over the years (Meiaghenn or Maygayn are the weirdest I’ve seen) but it’s hard to take anyone seriously with names like that. Oh and Paichynce & Paizleigh are twins🤣
I did however love the butt cuddles and how Jax helped Matt through his panic attacks.
March 10, 2023
CUUUU-UUUUUUTEEEE!!!
Absolutely adorable. Minimal complaints. This is a warm hug of a book where Matt and Jax are respectful, tender, and kind to each other. They were awesome. I can take or leave best friends-to-lovers but this one was delightful.
The comments near the end of the book about having to hide their relationship in the future were a bummer to read even though I understand it was realistic.
EmilyReadsRomance noted that Jax stated, in regards to the resident homophobe, Chase, that he is homophobic because he’s an asshole, not because he’s closeted/suffering from Internalized homophobia. They were glad that happened, and although I do love a good redemption arc, I really appreciated that as well!
Absolutely adorable. Minimal complaints. This is a warm hug of a book where Matt and Jax are respectful, tender, and kind to each other. They were awesome. I can take or leave best friends-to-lovers but this one was delightful.
The comments near the end of the book about having to hide their relationship in the future were a bummer to read even though I understand it was realistic.
EmilyReadsRomance noted that Jax stated, in regards to the resident homophobe, Chase, that he is homophobic because he’s an asshole, not because he’s closeted/suffering from Internalized homophobia. They were glad that happened, and although I do love a good redemption arc, I really appreciated that as well!
April 21, 2023
So, this was an unexpected WINNER (ignore the cover completely... he doesn't resemble either of them AT ALL)
Rating: 5 stars ❤️🔥
Yes, that rating is correct. I went in expecting something light and cute and hopefully hot and this was so much more, in the best way.
I mean, the 💙LOVE💙 between these guys... be still my heart:
"I thought my ass was your favorite"
"It is." I chuckled..."
"You know what my favorite part of you is?"
He stood and cupped my face in his hands.
"What?" I whispered.
"Your soul." He brushed a kiss against my lips, the contact so fleeting it was barely even a kiss. "You're gorgeous, no question, but it's your soul I love the most. You're beautiful, babe. Inside and out."
These boys were impressively mature, but in a believable way. College athletes have a HUGE burden on their shoulders that can be difficult to understand and translate on page. Dixon did a great job with communicating the struggle without it being a real slog.
Jax and Matt truly make each other feel seen and understood ; they are each other's safe place, in the least cheesy of ways.
I have to say this is one of the most believable, tender, organic friends-to-lovers I've read in a while.
Oh, and it was sheets-on-fire hot. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 Holy smokes they absolutely tore it up in the bedroom (and the couch, and the shower, and and and... ).
Like, Matt’s roommates were afraid the dining room light fixture was going to come down at one point because they are two big guys and once the fuse was lit they went AT each other HARD 🤣🤣
I haven't come across a rim job scene that hot in a LONG. TIME. *applause* And there wasn't just one... 👀 🔥
"I like you like this. All spread out for me."
His tone was dark, possessive even. Usually Matt was the one who was a needy begging mess when we fooled around. The role reversal was bending my mind.
My stomach clenched at the sight of Matt between my spread legs. I dropped my head back down and breathed deep, sinking into the sensations while my best friend ate me out...
I'll just leave you with that lil starter...
I’m telling you, this one really came out of left field! I know… bad baseball pun… but when the
I don't have time to put down all my thoughts right now, additional details to come.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Other misc thoughts:
Favorite things
- Jax is a catcher. Oh my GOD I love catchers ❤️❤️❤️
- despite being the catcher in his Baseball role, Jax is a TOP. But... he's the kind of Top that once he's safe with Matt lets himself relax and enjoy some ass play (not being topped but fingers and one hell of a rim job)
- The way Jax takes care of Matt when he has panic attacks HAS MY WHOLE HEART. Omg, THIS is what you want in a partner. Yes, a friend can do this for you that is not your lover, but IMHO this is the kind of thing that makes an incredible SO
- rimming
- manties
- Jax's catcher's ass 🍑 ohh did it ever get the attention it deserved 🫠 did I mention the VERS rimming??! *fans self*
Annoyance
- that cover model looks nothing like these guys. NOTHING.
November 25, 2023
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
July 6, 2023
I think this is my favorite of the series so far.
I absolutely fell in love with Matt and Jax, two best friends who, after a dared kiss at a party, figure out they're more than just best friends to each other.
This was one of the best friends-to-lovers romances that I've read in awhile.
The chemistry between Matt and Jax was just so good, and I couldn't get enough of them. It bordered on too many sex scenes in this, even for me who loves them, but in the end I didn't care because I just loved these two so much, so each sex scene was so fun and hot to read.
Especially because Matt had thought he was straight before Jax, and so was exploring so many new things about having sex with a man. With his best friend in the whole world.
The angst was low and I was so thankful for that. They also talked when they needed to and we didn't have to go through any separation that was manufactured for drama or anything like that.
I think some might think this is too long, as not a ton happens, plot wise, but I didn't mind because the relationship was working so well and I loved all the characters, so I didn't mind the slightly weaker plot at all.
It just focused on these two realizing feelings, falling deeply in love, realizing maybe they've been in love the whole time, and navigating turning such a close friendship - a bromance, if you will ;) - into a relationship.
I definitely recommend this one. Matt and Jax just clicked from page one. Now I'm excited for less friend-to-lovers and more enemies-to-lovers-ish with Eli and his LI in the next book. It's finally time for Eli to get his HEA. He was so cute in this one, I can't wait to get the focus on him.
Onto the next! 😍
My Ratings for the Never Have I Ever Series:
💫 Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card: 5 stars (my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy: 4 stars ( my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate: 5 stars
💫 Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival: TBR
I absolutely fell in love with Matt and Jax, two best friends who, after a dared kiss at a party, figure out they're more than just best friends to each other.
This was one of the best friends-to-lovers romances that I've read in awhile.
The chemistry between Matt and Jax was just so good, and I couldn't get enough of them. It bordered on too many sex scenes in this, even for me who loves them, but in the end I didn't care because I just loved these two so much, so each sex scene was so fun and hot to read.
Especially because Matt had thought he was straight before Jax, and so was exploring so many new things about having sex with a man. With his best friend in the whole world.
The angst was low and I was so thankful for that. They also talked when they needed to and we didn't have to go through any separation that was manufactured for drama or anything like that.
I think some might think this is too long, as not a ton happens, plot wise, but I didn't mind because the relationship was working so well and I loved all the characters, so I didn't mind the slightly weaker plot at all.
It just focused on these two realizing feelings, falling deeply in love, realizing maybe they've been in love the whole time, and navigating turning such a close friendship - a bromance, if you will ;) - into a relationship.
I definitely recommend this one. Matt and Jax just clicked from page one. Now I'm excited for less friend-to-lovers and more enemies-to-lovers-ish with Eli and his LI in the next book. It's finally time for Eli to get his HEA. He was so cute in this one, I can't wait to get the focus on him.
Onto the next! 😍
My Ratings for the Never Have I Ever Series:
💫 Never Have I Ever: Punched My Roommate's V-Card: 5 stars (my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Submitted to My Enemy: 4 stars ( my review)
💫 Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate: 5 stars
💫 Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival: TBR
March 10, 2023
2.5
i liked the first part a lot. i am a sucker for friends to lovers and i usually like them.
however i find this kind of boring after a while. it felt like the same thing over and over again. there is a lot of sex and it didn’t bother me in the previous book because it was, well, hot as fuck. here it just was repetitive. so yeah. maybe it’s me, maybe it’s the book, who knows.
the baseball lingo nearly killed me. my european ass only knows that there is a ball and a bat involved. that’s it. it was confusing and i don’t know how to explain it but baseball sounds like a sport that elves might play. don’t ask for clarification.
i liked the first part a lot. i am a sucker for friends to lovers and i usually like them.
however i find this kind of boring after a while. it felt like the same thing over and over again. there is a lot of sex and it didn’t bother me in the previous book because it was, well, hot as fuck. here it just was repetitive. so yeah. maybe it’s me, maybe it’s the book, who knows.
the baseball lingo nearly killed me. my european ass only knows that there is a ball and a bat involved. that’s it. it was confusing and i don’t know how to explain it but baseball sounds like a sport that elves might play. don’t ask for clarification.
March 9, 2023
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
I really loved this low-angst best friends-to-lovers story. Every entry in this series is so wildly different in tone and story, which makes for such a fun, entertaining experience. I loved getting to see Matt and Jax's relationship. They were so adorably sweet together. They really do adore one another, which made for such a great read.
Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate focuses on the relationship between Matt and Jax, who after sharing a heated kiss unpack their feelings for one another. This exploration of feelings was so much fun, it was filled with many steamy moments, fun banter, and great heartfelt conversations.
I love getting to explore these characters, they make for such an entertaining read and I cannot wait to see more from Eli, who has quite an interesting backstory.
I really loved this low-angst best friends-to-lovers story. Every entry in this series is so wildly different in tone and story, which makes for such a fun, entertaining experience. I loved getting to see Matt and Jax's relationship. They were so adorably sweet together. They really do adore one another, which made for such a great read.
Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate focuses on the relationship between Matt and Jax, who after sharing a heated kiss unpack their feelings for one another. This exploration of feelings was so much fun, it was filled with many steamy moments, fun banter, and great heartfelt conversations.
I love getting to explore these characters, they make for such an entertaining read and I cannot wait to see more from Eli, who has quite an interesting backstory.
March 12, 2023
"I wanted to brand myself on him so it would be me he dreamed about. I wanted to be the only one who mattered."
Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate is the third book in the low angst, high steam, college MM romance series by the delightful Willow Dixon. They are all linked but can be read as standalones. I always suggest you read them in order though, for continuity and so as not to spoil the relationships that develop within the group of housemates.
This is Matt and Jaxon's story and I totally loved it; it's the perfect best friends to lovers read, with lots of first times, low kink, lace underwear, bi-awakening and with a perfect HEA thrown in for good measure. I can't wait for Eli's story in Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival up next!
Tropes:
❣️MM Best friends to lovers
❣️First times
❣️Bi-awakening
❣️Lace underwear
❣️Low angst
❣️Steamy
❣️HEA
Recommended.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate is the third book in the low angst, high steam, college MM romance series by the delightful Willow Dixon. They are all linked but can be read as standalones. I always suggest you read them in order though, for continuity and so as not to spoil the relationships that develop within the group of housemates.
This is Matt and Jaxon's story and I totally loved it; it's the perfect best friends to lovers read, with lots of first times, low kink, lace underwear, bi-awakening and with a perfect HEA thrown in for good measure. I can't wait for Eli's story in Never Have I Ever: Wanted My Brother's Rival up next!
Tropes:
❣️MM Best friends to lovers
❣️First times
❣️Bi-awakening
❣️Lace underwear
❣️Low angst
❣️Steamy
❣️HEA
Recommended.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 14, 2023
Unpopular opinion: it’s kind of nice, but boring and too long.
I actually forced myself to continue reading up to around 65%, but I stopped there. It’s too much bro-dude talk for me, too much silly competitiveness, and not enough real relationship building.
Yes, Jax and Matt are best friends, and team mates, and live in each other’s pockets. But I missed that ZING between them, even though we're told it’s there. It’s more best-friends-with-benefits, with Matt exploring his newfound bi-ness. And a kink that’s alluded to, but not yet explored (at least at 65%). And to be honest, seeing as I don’t feel their chemistry, I’m not really interested in it enough to imagine a ripped athlete wearing lingerie 😆
But I digress. If you like best-friends-to lovers, jocks and football talk, with a sprinkle of what I assume will be a confronting-parents-drama and dealing with an involuntary outing by a homophobic teammate, then go for it. If you’re looking for a bi awakening with a side of kink, there are better books out there (like the previous book from this series).
2 bored stars and an dnf from me, which is a shame, seeing as I was looking forward to reading this book.
I actually forced myself to continue reading up to around 65%, but I stopped there. It’s too much bro-dude talk for me, too much silly competitiveness, and not enough real relationship building.
Yes, Jax and Matt are best friends, and team mates, and live in each other’s pockets. But I missed that ZING between them, even though we're told it’s there. It’s more best-friends-with-benefits, with Matt exploring his newfound bi-ness. And a kink that’s alluded to, but not yet explored (at least at 65%). And to be honest, seeing as I don’t feel their chemistry, I’m not really interested in it enough to imagine a ripped athlete wearing lingerie 😆
But I digress. If you like best-friends-to lovers, jocks and football talk, with a sprinkle of what I assume will be a confronting-parents-drama and dealing with an involuntary outing by a homophobic teammate, then go for it. If you’re looking for a bi awakening with a side of kink, there are better books out there (like the previous book from this series).
2 bored stars and an dnf from me, which is a shame, seeing as I was looking forward to reading this book.
March 17, 2023
This is the 3rd book in the series and I love them all!! In this book we see Jax the catcher and Matt the pitcher 😂 they are baseball players get your head out the gutter!!! But also you are correct in your dirty mind 😂
Anyway I loved the banter, the connection they had being friends, the trust they put in each other as Matt was learning about his sexuality.
Jax was an openly gay man but Matt was straight, but when they are dared to kiss in a drinking game, Matt seems to have opened Pandoras box of feelings that he’s not sure what to do with. He opens up to his friend and Jax agrees to help him out.
I loved the cuddles in this book, it was a totally different vibe from book 2, this was low angst, sweet and spicy with all the feels.
I can’t wait for Eli’s book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book content-
💙Bff
💙Bromance
💙High heat
💙All the feels
💙Banter
💙Bi awakening
💙Baseball
Anyway I loved the banter, the connection they had being friends, the trust they put in each other as Matt was learning about his sexuality.
Jax was an openly gay man but Matt was straight, but when they are dared to kiss in a drinking game, Matt seems to have opened Pandoras box of feelings that he’s not sure what to do with. He opens up to his friend and Jax agrees to help him out.
I loved the cuddles in this book, it was a totally different vibe from book 2, this was low angst, sweet and spicy with all the feels.
I can’t wait for Eli’s book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book content-
💙Bff
💙Bromance
💙High heat
💙All the feels
💙Banter
💙Bi awakening
💙Baseball
August 20, 2024
Re-read on Aug-20th/24
I'm re-reading this series because I'm starting the Crimson Club series.
My rating goes from 3.9⭐ to full 4⭐.
___________________________
Original review on May-18th/23
3.9⭐ and I'm so excited about this series finally picking up!
This was a really good book. I'm happy to report that Matt and Jax's story did, in fact, deliver . Their love story is a steamy, heartfelt romance of two great friends finally turning that amazing friendship into love.
🟢 Best friends-to-lovers
🟣 Bi-awakening/gay
🟡 Secret pining, crush (small)
🔵 A very solid, close friendship
🌶️ Smut is very good; ass worship (yeah, it's pretty good) ; t/b (exclusive bottom, was offered to top, didn't want it)
❗ Some homophobia (a teammate)
Matt was having his bi-awakening with Jax when they were dared to kiss at a game and that kiss changed everything. That kiss was amazing!
I absolutely loved their close friendship, they were attached at the hip, always together, but not in a way where one would think they're just denying their mutual attraction.
They really cared for one another and shared everything, they played baseball together and even though Jax was secretly pining for Matt, but he never expressed it.
When Jax and Matt finally started hooking up, it was pretty damn amazing and I loved how Matt was obsessed with Jax's ass, he was butt-cuddling - it's the first time I've read this to such an extent in a book, you could feel the love for that ass. 😄
I very much appreciate the very descriptive sex scenes, the big hands, the thick fingers, I mean, this was heaven.
Matt and Jax had a very solid foundation, they accepted each other, were emotionally supportive of one another, there was no awkwardness when their friendship went to another level and Matt was more than willing to explore everything with Jax.
They just had a really good, beautiful relationship and it was a pleasure to read about it.
There was still some explaining going on, but was very reduced compared to previous installments.
In the last third of the book the dialogues occasionally do get stiff, I think the book could be a bit shorter - it would definitely have a greater impact and the side characters are welcome, but I think Eli occupied too many pages.
I'm really looking forward to Eli's book, his book is out today and since he's a really interesting character, I can't wait to read it.
I'm re-reading this series because I'm starting the Crimson Club series.
My rating goes from 3.9⭐ to full 4⭐.
___________________________
Original review on May-18th/23
3.9⭐ and I'm so excited about this series finally picking up!
This was a really good book. I'm happy to report that Matt and Jax's story did, in fact, deliver . Their love story is a steamy, heartfelt romance of two great friends finally turning that amazing friendship into love.
🟢 Best friends-to-lovers
🟣 Bi-awakening/gay
🟡 Secret pining, crush (small)
🔵 A very solid, close friendship
🌶️ Smut is very good; ass worship (yeah, it's pretty good) ; t/b (exclusive bottom, was offered to top, didn't want it)
❗ Some homophobia (a teammate)
Matt was having his bi-awakening with Jax when they were dared to kiss at a game and that kiss changed everything. That kiss was amazing!
I absolutely loved their close friendship, they were attached at the hip, always together, but not in a way where one would think they're just denying their mutual attraction.
They really cared for one another and shared everything, they played baseball together and even though Jax was secretly pining for Matt, but he never expressed it.
When Jax and Matt finally started hooking up, it was pretty damn amazing and I loved how Matt was obsessed with Jax's ass, he was butt-cuddling - it's the first time I've read this to such an extent in a book, you could feel the love for that ass. 😄
I very much appreciate the very descriptive sex scenes, the big hands, the thick fingers, I mean, this was heaven.
Matt and Jax had a very solid foundation, they accepted each other, were emotionally supportive of one another, there was no awkwardness when their friendship went to another level and Matt was more than willing to explore everything with Jax.
They just had a really good, beautiful relationship and it was a pleasure to read about it.
There was still some explaining going on, but was very reduced compared to previous installments.
In the last third of the book the dialogues occasionally do get stiff, I think the book could be a bit shorter - it would definitely have a greater impact and the side characters are welcome, but I think Eli occupied too many pages.
I'm really looking forward to Eli's book, his book is out today and since he's a really interesting character, I can't wait to read it.
October 14, 2025
"How does he look at me?"
"Like you're the only thing in focus and the rest of the world is just background noise."
This is a huge part of this cute romance - two best friends being clueless about how the other feels for them, when it's obvious for everyone else and sundry.
And that's my main negative about this 3rd in the series - it just felt a little predictable.
It's starts with a sweet and comfortable friendship - albeit slightly unbelievable how they practically lived in each other's presence, slept in the same bed and then suddenly were attracted to each other out of nowhere? Yeah nah. 😉
It was still an enjoyable sweet read. Just missing the 'oomph' of the previous 2 stories. I did like Dixon's exploration of mental health issues such as anxiety, but it wasn't delved into as much here as her other books.
One kink that was a pleasant surprise, as I haven't read many stories about it, was the idea of men wearing lingerie. I particularly liked the overlap of him enjoying wearing it and choosing to do so for himself, not because his partner liked it, which was a beautiful analogy for him needing to choose his own future, and not what was expected of him.
The banter was cute. The mild jealousy was cute.The reference to Golden retriever energy likewise. But I think the highlight was the building of the side character Eli, which is the protagonist in the 4th book. Which I'm off to read now. 😍
"Like you're the only thing in focus and the rest of the world is just background noise."
This is a huge part of this cute romance - two best friends being clueless about how the other feels for them, when it's obvious for everyone else and sundry.
And that's my main negative about this 3rd in the series - it just felt a little predictable.
It's starts with a sweet and comfortable friendship - albeit slightly unbelievable how they practically lived in each other's presence, slept in the same bed and then suddenly were attracted to each other out of nowhere? Yeah nah. 😉
It was still an enjoyable sweet read. Just missing the 'oomph' of the previous 2 stories. I did like Dixon's exploration of mental health issues such as anxiety, but it wasn't delved into as much here as her other books.
One kink that was a pleasant surprise, as I haven't read many stories about it, was the idea of men wearing lingerie. I particularly liked the overlap of him enjoying wearing it and choosing to do so for himself, not because his partner liked it, which was a beautiful analogy for him needing to choose his own future, and not what was expected of him.
The banter was cute. The mild jealousy was cute.The reference to Golden retriever energy likewise. But I think the highlight was the building of the side character Eli, which is the protagonist in the 4th book. Which I'm off to read now. 😍
Read
March 11, 2023I don’t know what to rate this yet. I ♥️ Matt and Jax and their BFF dynamic but it was super repetitive (inner monologue that was the same every time, some banter, sex scene, repeat). Skimmed a lot after 50%.
Interested to see Eli’s book.
Interested to see Eli’s book.
October 11, 2023
They were not my favourite 😭
3.5 Stars 🌟
3.5 Stars 🌟
March 13, 2023
Tropes:
- best friends to lovers
- bisexual awakening
- sports (baseball)
- low angst
I’ve been waiting for Matt and Jax’s story since their characters were introduced, and I was not disappointed!
- best friends to lovers
- bisexual awakening
- sports (baseball)
- low angst
I’ve been waiting for Matt and Jax’s story since their characters were introduced, and I was not disappointed!
April 12, 2023
Friends to lovers, bi awakening, and baseball.
Two best friends kiss on a dare and one of them is suddenly questioning his sexuality. Of course, the only person he can imagine experimenting with is his gay best friend. The first 40% of this book was absolutely scorching. So damn good.
The characters were sweet, adorable, and really fun to read. I especially liked the depiction of anxiety in this story. I thought it was handled really well and felt accurate to me. I really connected with that depiction and appreciated it. That same MC also finds out he has a lingerie kink that was hot and cute all at once. It also came at a time when the book was really dragging too.
Unfortunately, this book really did start to drag pretty early on and there were multiple conversations with side characters that were unnecessary. Way too much telling for me to be entertained at all. I think this could have been an almost perfect book if we had skipped the high school friend convos and excessive roommate scenes. It wouldn’t have been so bad if it was one or two scenes, but these were multiple chapters and it honestly felt like it was a fifth of the book. I almost DNF’d, but I’m glad I didn’t because the surprisingly low angst ending was perfect.
Two best friends kiss on a dare and one of them is suddenly questioning his sexuality. Of course, the only person he can imagine experimenting with is his gay best friend. The first 40% of this book was absolutely scorching. So damn good.
The characters were sweet, adorable, and really fun to read. I especially liked the depiction of anxiety in this story. I thought it was handled really well and felt accurate to me. I really connected with that depiction and appreciated it. That same MC also finds out he has a lingerie kink that was hot and cute all at once. It also came at a time when the book was really dragging too.
Unfortunately, this book really did start to drag pretty early on and there were multiple conversations with side characters that were unnecessary. Way too much telling for me to be entertained at all. I think this could have been an almost perfect book if we had skipped the high school friend convos and excessive roommate scenes. It wouldn’t have been so bad if it was one or two scenes, but these were multiple chapters and it honestly felt like it was a fifth of the book. I almost DNF’d, but I’m glad I didn’t because the surprisingly low angst ending was perfect.
May 9, 2023
I always enjoy friends to lovers and this did that really well. It reminded me of Beck and Jacobs for any CU fans out there. The relationship development was quite lovely, romantic and gentle with nice bi-awakening scenes. I think it needed to be trimmed down in terms of sex scenes and also general other ramblings, I did skim a little at times but mostly this was a good read. The sports romance element comes through more in the second half, it broke up the relationship stuff which was starting to drag. I also found their voices and identities not particularly distinct - I often wasn’t sure who I was reading and by the end didn’t bother double checking because it didn’t really affect the story. It was however nice to read about baseball instead of football and hockey for once.
This could easily be read as a stand-alone, I’ve read the other books but I really couldn’t remember any of the other characters, except Eli. I’m looking forward to getting his book next, it was nice to read a bit more about him in this one.
This could easily be read as a stand-alone, I’ve read the other books but I really couldn’t remember any of the other characters, except Eli. I’m looking forward to getting his book next, it was nice to read a bit more about him in this one.
September 1, 2023
3.5 stars
March 23, 2023
* 4.5 Stars *
This is the third book of the series and, if you've read any of the previous stories, you already know Matt and Jax and how close their friendship is.
Now it's their turn to get their HEA, explore the relationship between them, and discover what their real feelings are.
Their story is low in angst and fun to read. They've been best friends, basically living in each other's pockets, since they met in their freshman year in college, but their relationship was always platonic. Then, a dare at a party made them start to question how deep the chemistry and the feelings between them really were.
What starts as a casual experiment between friends soon becomes a relationship in everything but name and they have to decide how they want to move forward.
There's some jealousy because of how undefined this thing between them is and they have to deal with a homophobic teammate, but they navigate everything together.
I like friends-to-lovers stories, especially when they start as something casual with the feelings entering slowly, as it happened here. Matt and Jax were both great characters with amazing chemistry and their move from friends to boyfriends seemed easy and natural.
I look forward to the last roommate getting his own HEA with someone.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
This is the third book of the series and, if you've read any of the previous stories, you already know Matt and Jax and how close their friendship is.
Now it's their turn to get their HEA, explore the relationship between them, and discover what their real feelings are.
Their story is low in angst and fun to read. They've been best friends, basically living in each other's pockets, since they met in their freshman year in college, but their relationship was always platonic. Then, a dare at a party made them start to question how deep the chemistry and the feelings between them really were.
What starts as a casual experiment between friends soon becomes a relationship in everything but name and they have to decide how they want to move forward.
There's some jealousy because of how undefined this thing between them is and they have to deal with a homophobic teammate, but they navigate everything together.
I like friends-to-lovers stories, especially when they start as something casual with the feelings entering slowly, as it happened here. Matt and Jax were both great characters with amazing chemistry and their move from friends to boyfriends seemed easy and natural.
I look forward to the last roommate getting his own HEA with someone.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
March 9, 2023
I liked this so much more than I was expecting to.
I had no interest in reading the last book in the series and can’t remember for the life of me what happened in the first book so I wasn’t sure how this was going to go but it was rather delightful.
The first few chapters and the set up were predictable and silly but then the heat turned up and the cute sports rom-com romance took off. It was bff-to-lovers, bi-awakening, high-steam, low-angst, found-family, everything-works-out, love-wins goodness.
The characters were perhaps a bit too mature for college kids and very lucky with how everything turned out but I’d rather a story err that way than have them acting like petulant children who have to flip the world on its head to finagle a happy ending.
The MCs were just like… nice and respectful to each other the whole book and their journey to the lovely epilogue was fun and cute. A happy steamy love story was just what I was in the mood for today.
Oh - something random I appreciated was Jax dispelling the potentially dangerous and damaging idea that every homophobe is secretly gay.
I think a lot of contemporary mm romances conflate homophobic behavior with internalized homophobia. Some people are just terrible and spew hate because that’s truly what lives in their hearts. Not every character deserves a redemption arc because not all humans have one.
I had no interest in reading the last book in the series and can’t remember for the life of me what happened in the first book so I wasn’t sure how this was going to go but it was rather delightful.
The first few chapters and the set up were predictable and silly but then the heat turned up and the cute sports rom-com romance took off. It was bff-to-lovers, bi-awakening, high-steam, low-angst, found-family, everything-works-out, love-wins goodness.
The characters were perhaps a bit too mature for college kids and very lucky with how everything turned out but I’d rather a story err that way than have them acting like petulant children who have to flip the world on its head to finagle a happy ending.
The MCs were just like… nice and respectful to each other the whole book and their journey to the lovely epilogue was fun and cute. A happy steamy love story was just what I was in the mood for today.
Oh - something random I appreciated was Jax dispelling the potentially dangerous and damaging idea that every homophobe is secretly gay.
I think a lot of contemporary mm romances conflate homophobic behavior with internalized homophobia. Some people are just terrible and spew hate because that’s truly what lives in their hearts. Not every character deserves a redemption arc because not all humans have one.
January 7, 2024
This was a really cute best friends to lover romance, complete with sexual discovery (keeping up with the series’ theme).
I adored Jax and Matt together.
❤️❤️❤️
I adored Jax and Matt together.
❤️❤️❤️
May 3, 2023
4.5 🌟
I'm a sucker for best-friends-to-lovers 🥰
I'm a sucker for best-friends-to-lovers 🥰
April 19, 2023
friends to lovers trope 🔝🤧💗
June 23, 2025
So, as delightful as this best friends to lovers book was...
...it was not a bromance
insert collective disappointed sigh gif à la Goodreads review
I still enjoyed this a lot and continue my quest for bromances!
Quotes
tags:
NSFW infos:
- identical size and build (6ft1 around 220lbs) except one has a butt the other is in love with and the other thicker arms
- MC is gay and out with green eyes (tops)
- MC thought he was straight and has always had fluttery feelings for his best mate, upon kissing for a dare realises there may be more there (bottoms)
- intercrural (with a short instance of 'just the tip' slipping in
- 69-ing
- Coming from making the other come
- sending the other MC a video of taking a dildo
- blowjobs in the car
- play wrestling
- waking up with a blowjob (light somnophilia)
- frotting
- lingerie kink
- coming hands-free while bottoming
Nickname:
Babe
...it was not a bromance
insert collective disappointed sigh gif à la Goodreads review
I still enjoyed this a lot and continue my quest for bromances!
Quotes
"You're a cuddle bug, you know that, right?" The heat from his body seeped into my side, and a deep sense of calm settled in my chest." (p. 167)
"Nope. It's mine. Claimed." He dragged his tongue over my cheek. "There. Now you have my handprint and I licked it. Double claimed." (p. 208)
"When are you happy?"
"When I'm with..."
"Exactly,"
(p. 273)
tags:
NSFW infos:
- identical size and build (6ft1 around 220lbs) except one has a butt the other is in love with and the other thicker arms
- MC is gay and out with green eyes (tops)
- MC thought he was straight and has always had fluttery feelings for his best mate, upon kissing for a dare realises there may be more there (bottoms)
- intercrural (with a short instance of 'just the tip' slipping in
- 69-ing
- Coming from making the other come
- sending the other MC a video of taking a dildo
- blowjobs in the car
- play wrestling
- waking up with a blowjob (light somnophilia)
- frotting
- lingerie kink
- coming hands-free while bottoming
Nickname:
Babe
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