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It's All You
When your secret admirer is hiding in plain sight.Gavin
I've been in love with my childhood best friend since forever. But he's straight and married and lives halfway across the country, so all I can do is try to get on with my life. Until he shows up on my doorstep one day, jobless and newly divorced.
Beau
My life has fallen apart and there's only one place in the world I want to with my best friend. But Gavin's being all weird and cagey and I'm suddenly feeling things I shouldn't be feeling.
I came to him because he's safe and familiar, and now we're standing on the cusp of something new and terrifying. We'll always be best friends, but do we have the courage to be more?
It's All You is a friends to lovers, bi-awakening, low angst MM romance between a workaholic who's harbored a secret love for years and his oblivious childhood best friend who is trying to piece his life back together. Expect couch cuddles, stumbling on ice skates, a packed subway car, and a kiss cam mishap. It's All You is the prequel to the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a stand-alone.
It's All You was previously published in the Candy Hearts charity anthology. No changes have been made.
I've been in love with my childhood best friend since forever. But he's straight and married and lives halfway across the country, so all I can do is try to get on with my life. Until he shows up on my doorstep one day, jobless and newly divorced.
Beau
My life has fallen apart and there's only one place in the world I want to with my best friend. But Gavin's being all weird and cagey and I'm suddenly feeling things I shouldn't be feeling.
I came to him because he's safe and familiar, and now we're standing on the cusp of something new and terrifying. We'll always be best friends, but do we have the courage to be more?
It's All You is a friends to lovers, bi-awakening, low angst MM romance between a workaholic who's harbored a secret love for years and his oblivious childhood best friend who is trying to piece his life back together. Expect couch cuddles, stumbling on ice skates, a packed subway car, and a kiss cam mishap. It's All You is the prequel to the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a stand-alone.
It's All You was previously published in the Candy Hearts charity anthology. No changes have been made.
103 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 12, 2024
Gavin & Beau
Rating: 3.0 ⭐
- Best Friends-to-Lovers
- Prequel Novella
- Divorced MC
- Forced Proximity
- Bi-awakening
- Roommates
- Couch Cuddles
- Kiss Cam Mishap
- Low Angst
This is the prequel to the Mars Fitness Series, where you meet Gavin and Beau. It's basically a quick friends-to-lovers erotica read, which was overall fun and steamy. It's a what do I do now with my life that I am divorced, left my home, have no job, and I'm starting to look at my best friend differently kind of read. They dance, they screw, they have a cute date and then open a gym together. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series to meet the other characters.
Now, I didn't rate this higher because I had a stumble at 55% in due to the authors choice of phrasing. For some unbeknownst reason, they decided to say "piss slit" instead of just "slit". This may trip you up as well, so I wanted to forewarn others. There's no waterworks kink in this book so I'm not sure why they even included it at all and I really don't need to hear about its primary function during sexy times, yeah nope. I stopped reading for a few hours to just process that and then came back to the book with no further issues. Deal with that how you will.
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
Ages: 28 & 28
Rating: 3.0 ⭐
- Best Friends-to-Lovers
- Prequel Novella
- Divorced MC
- Forced Proximity
- Bi-awakening
- Roommates
- Couch Cuddles
- Kiss Cam Mishap
- Low Angst
This is the prequel to the Mars Fitness Series, where you meet Gavin and Beau. It's basically a quick friends-to-lovers erotica read, which was overall fun and steamy. It's a what do I do now with my life that I am divorced, left my home, have no job, and I'm starting to look at my best friend differently kind of read. They dance, they screw, they have a cute date and then open a gym together. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series to meet the other characters.
Now, I didn't rate this higher because I had a stumble at 55% in due to the authors choice of phrasing. For some unbeknownst reason, they decided to say "piss slit" instead of just "slit". This may trip you up as well, so I wanted to forewarn others. There's no waterworks kink in this book so I'm not sure why they even included it at all and I really don't need to hear about its primary function during sexy times, yeah nope. I stopped reading for a few hours to just process that and then came back to the book with no further issues. Deal with that how you will.
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
Ages: 28 & 28
December 9, 2024
This is a sweet short story that is a prequel to Ripped. I wish I’d read it before the other books in the series, but I enjoyed it anyway. I really love the way Linden Bell writes. I’m so happy I found this author.
June 17, 2024
Note: This is a prequel story of sorts, featuring the owners of Mars Fitness, Gavin and Beau, but absolutely stands alone. It is not necessary to read this book prior to those, or at all, but it is a quick, spicy novella featuring best friends to lovers, pining, and bi-awakening.
First-person, present tense, dual POV
Gavin (28?)
Beau Patterson (28)
Yes, just yes! No notes!
This is a little teensy tiny bit angsty because the recently divorced and straight Beau takes a hot minute to recognized the UST between him and his best friend. With each activity they enjoy together and each passing moment they spend with one another their attraction builds and builds until neither is able to deny it. When they finally come together their chemistry is off the charts. As Gavin has been secretly in love with Beau for over a decade he doubts the longevity of Beau's newly discovered feeling for him but before long they find their happily ever after with each other. It feels so genuine and heartfelt and I found myself rooting for them the entire time.
The sexy times? *Fans self*
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
Note: This was first published in the Candy Hearts: Volume 1 anthology, which I also ARC read. I've read this contribution twice, once in late January 2024 prior to its release and again in early March 2024 before I read Ripped and Stacked (which I also had an ARC for).
Note 2: I feel some kind of way about bonus scenes/content that you have to jump though hoops to get, especially for a novella-length publication (that was not included in the charity anthology version). I very nearly removed a star from the rating because of it but refrained because I genuinely loved the story so much when I originally read it. I just wish this trend would die.
First-person, present tense, dual POV
Gavin (28?)
Beau Patterson (28)
Yes, just yes! No notes!
This is a little teensy tiny bit angsty because the recently divorced and straight Beau takes a hot minute to recognized the UST between him and his best friend. With each activity they enjoy together and each passing moment they spend with one another their attraction builds and builds until neither is able to deny it. When they finally come together their chemistry is off the charts. As Gavin has been secretly in love with Beau for over a decade he doubts the longevity of Beau's newly discovered feeling for him but before long they find their happily ever after with each other. It feels so genuine and heartfelt and I found myself rooting for them the entire time.
The sexy times? *Fans self*
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
Note: This was first published in the Candy Hearts: Volume 1 anthology, which I also ARC read. I've read this contribution twice, once in late January 2024 prior to its release and again in early March 2024 before I read Ripped and Stacked (which I also had an ARC for).
Note 2: I feel some kind of way about bonus scenes/content that you have to jump though hoops to get, especially for a novella-length publication (that was not included in the charity anthology version). I very nearly removed a star from the rating because of it but refrained because I genuinely loved the story so much when I originally read it. I just wish this trend would die.
June 14, 2024
This book was so cute. This is the beginning of Mars Fitness and follows Gavin & Beau. The most cutest couple ever and there story is cute. I love how we got a novella/prequel cause I’ve been so intrigued by these two. This author did such a great job with these two and bringing there story to life. I hope there is more!
December 14, 2024
Linden Bell is one of the new authors I've discovered this year, and I genuinely can't get enough. This is the prequel to the Mars Fitness series: Beau & Gavin's story. Holy hell, was it amazing.
Y'all know by now that I truly believe BESTIES TO LOVERS is the tip top trope, and Gavin and Beau really proved it. Again. *to be fair, I say this after every besties to lovers story I love, but it's true every single time*
I can't believe this was only a novella! Reading Gavin's POV made me feel like I was the one pining for my straight chikdhood best friend. ✨️sighs✨️ Gavin and Beau were so dreamy.
Gavin and Beau have been friends since childhood. Gavin has been in love LOVE with Beau, who happens to be straight, since high school.
When Beau suddenly goes through a divorce, he runs to his best friend. This really kicks everything off. Beau has no idea Gavin is pining. Then this chemistry is between them... it's magical.
That's all I'll say. They have so many moments. My heart. These two had me swooning hard. The romance: top tier. The spice: so nice. There are a couple of real hot moments, and I'm definitely not spoiling those.
I should have read this shortie FIRST.
All available now:
IT'S ALL YOU > Gavin and Beau
RIPPED > Donnie and Connor
STACKED > Sawyer and Preston
And now I'm off to start Logan's story. He's the hopeless romantic. After that, I'll be all caught up and anxiously awaiting Pumped & Santino.
Linden Bell is out here doing the Lord's work. Or maybe the Devil's. Either way, it's amazing. 🥰🥰
Y'all know by now that I truly believe BESTIES TO LOVERS is the tip top trope, and Gavin and Beau really proved it. Again. *to be fair, I say this after every besties to lovers story I love, but it's true every single time*
I can't believe this was only a novella! Reading Gavin's POV made me feel like I was the one pining for my straight chikdhood best friend. ✨️sighs✨️ Gavin and Beau were so dreamy.
Gavin and Beau have been friends since childhood. Gavin has been in love LOVE with Beau, who happens to be straight, since high school.
When Beau suddenly goes through a divorce, he runs to his best friend. This really kicks everything off. Beau has no idea Gavin is pining. Then this chemistry is between them... it's magical.
That's all I'll say. They have so many moments. My heart. These two had me swooning hard. The romance: top tier. The spice: so nice. There are a couple of real hot moments, and I'm definitely not spoiling those.
I should have read this shortie FIRST.
All available now:
IT'S ALL YOU > Gavin and Beau
RIPPED > Donnie and Connor
STACKED > Sawyer and Preston
And now I'm off to start Logan's story. He's the hopeless romantic. After that, I'll be all caught up and anxiously awaiting Pumped & Santino.
Linden Bell is out here doing the Lord's work. Or maybe the Devil's. Either way, it's amazing. 🥰🥰
June 21, 2024
So glad this was published outside of the original Anthology. I’ve been wanting their story since reading Ripped and Stacked! I love the Mars Fitness world. Gavin and Beau were so sweet. I love how all of Linden’s books are light without being overly fluffy. This was exactly what I expected. Short, sweet, and a little bit spicy!
June 14, 2024
4 stars
Gavin and Beau, owners of Mars Fitness gym, finally have their own story.
I always liked how in love they seemed in the previous books, so it has been very nice to get to know them and how they got together.
Beau shows up at Gavin's doorstep right after signing the divorce papers. He doesn't have any kind of plan for his life, he only needs to be close to his best friend.
Gavin is conflicted: he's happy to have his best friend in New York, but, at the same time, he knows he has to protect his heart: for over a decade, in fact, Gavin has been in love with him.
A forced proximity situation and a kiss cam during a hockey game will push Beau to face a side of his sexuality he didn't know: he feels more and more attracted to Gavin and he's confused about what that means.
I really appreciated that Beau is never interested in experimenting with Gavin: his attraction to him runs deeper and I loved how he was adamant to prove him he was serious.
i gave 4 stars just because this story is a little too short, I would have loved to see more about them in their first days together and how friends and family reacted back in Georgia. Moreover, the epilogue was a little bit rushed.
Anyway this is a very nice addiction to Mars Fitness Universe, I liked how it all started (Donnie also makes a little appearance).
If loved Ripped, Stacked and Under The Radar, you can't miss this one.
Recommended.
I haven't read this book when it was release in the Candy Hearts Anthology, so I don't know if there are any changes.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
Gavin and Beau, owners of Mars Fitness gym, finally have their own story.
I always liked how in love they seemed in the previous books, so it has been very nice to get to know them and how they got together.
Beau shows up at Gavin's doorstep right after signing the divorce papers. He doesn't have any kind of plan for his life, he only needs to be close to his best friend.
Gavin is conflicted: he's happy to have his best friend in New York, but, at the same time, he knows he has to protect his heart: for over a decade, in fact, Gavin has been in love with him.
A forced proximity situation and a kiss cam during a hockey game will push Beau to face a side of his sexuality he didn't know: he feels more and more attracted to Gavin and he's confused about what that means.
I really appreciated that Beau is never interested in experimenting with Gavin: his attraction to him runs deeper and I loved how he was adamant to prove him he was serious.
i gave 4 stars just because this story is a little too short, I would have loved to see more about them in their first days together and how friends and family reacted back in Georgia. Moreover, the epilogue was a little bit rushed.
Anyway this is a very nice addiction to Mars Fitness Universe, I liked how it all started (Donnie also makes a little appearance).
If loved Ripped, Stacked and Under The Radar, you can't miss this one.
Recommended.
I haven't read this book when it was release in the Candy Hearts Anthology, so I don't know if there are any changes.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
June 16, 2024
It's All You: An MM Best Friends to Lovers Romance is a short and super sweet read about two best friends finding their way into love. Gavin has loved his best friend, Beau, for at least a decade and always figured he'd never have a chance with his supposedly straight friend.
When Beau shows up at Gavin's door in New York after an unhappy divorce back in their hometown in Georgia, the two friends are pushed together in ways that force Beau to acknowledge the feelings for his buddy as seen in a different light. Once Gavin's latent feelings are revealed, Beau knows that he's truly always felt the same, but didn't know what it was he had been feeling.
I was incredibly surprised how fast the story went, but it was sweet and fun to see the MCs figure out what they wanted from one another. The story had surprisingly few side characters to interact with as well, but that allowed us to step into Gavin & Beau's relationship as if we were part of it.
Compared to the fast-paced novel I read previously from Linden Bell (Under the Radar), this story was peaceful and delightful. A pleasant read for a calming bit of time in your day.
And I had no idea until I finished it that it's the prequel to the Mars Fitness series and its origination.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
When Beau shows up at Gavin's door in New York after an unhappy divorce back in their hometown in Georgia, the two friends are pushed together in ways that force Beau to acknowledge the feelings for his buddy as seen in a different light. Once Gavin's latent feelings are revealed, Beau knows that he's truly always felt the same, but didn't know what it was he had been feeling.
I was incredibly surprised how fast the story went, but it was sweet and fun to see the MCs figure out what they wanted from one another. The story had surprisingly few side characters to interact with as well, but that allowed us to step into Gavin & Beau's relationship as if we were part of it.
Compared to the fast-paced novel I read previously from Linden Bell (Under the Radar), this story was peaceful and delightful. A pleasant read for a calming bit of time in your day.
And I had no idea until I finished it that it's the prequel to the Mars Fitness series and its origination.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
June 14, 2024
When I learned that I would have the chance to read Linden Bell’s prequel short to the Mars Fitness series, I immediately signed up. ‘It’s All You’ was originally published as part of the Candy Heart Charity Anthology.
Overworked and stressed out with his life, Gavin has been living in New York for ten years already. He left home to escape the love that he feels towards his straight best friend Beau. But when Beau shows up at his door, freshly divorced and emotionally broken, he doesn’t hesitate to welcome him with open arms. He knows no matter what he does, he cannot escape hurt … whether he will try to stay away from Beau or be as close to him as possible, either way, he’ll be the one with the broken heart at the end. But living with Gavin, Beau starts to have unexpected feelings and he only has Gavin to guide him, he is truly the only one Beau can rely on. I loved the gentleness and honesty between these two friends, there was no end to how much they were willing to give each other, and that made their relationship beautiful while it transformed into something so much more. I loved Gavin’s dirty talk and Beau’s willingness to try all things new. While this is a very short story, it does not feel incomplete as we got a cute happy ending. I’m looking forward to seeing much more of both Gavin and Beau in the Mars Fitness books.
Friends to Lovers
Bi Awake
Low Angst
Steamy
I was fortunate to have received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
Overworked and stressed out with his life, Gavin has been living in New York for ten years already. He left home to escape the love that he feels towards his straight best friend Beau. But when Beau shows up at his door, freshly divorced and emotionally broken, he doesn’t hesitate to welcome him with open arms. He knows no matter what he does, he cannot escape hurt … whether he will try to stay away from Beau or be as close to him as possible, either way, he’ll be the one with the broken heart at the end. But living with Gavin, Beau starts to have unexpected feelings and he only has Gavin to guide him, he is truly the only one Beau can rely on. I loved the gentleness and honesty between these two friends, there was no end to how much they were willing to give each other, and that made their relationship beautiful while it transformed into something so much more. I loved Gavin’s dirty talk and Beau’s willingness to try all things new. While this is a very short story, it does not feel incomplete as we got a cute happy ending. I’m looking forward to seeing much more of both Gavin and Beau in the Mars Fitness books.
Friends to Lovers
Bi Awake
Low Angst
Steamy
I was fortunate to have received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
June 18, 2024
ARC
This is book 0,5 of Mars Fitness and Thea twoooooo🥵😍 they made my heart melt so hooootttt🫠
We finally get into how Mars Fitness Gym was established and I couldn’t be happier with the story!
Beau, heterosexual Beau, runs from Georgia right to his best friend’s home in New York, finally escaping from the life he thought he wanted and from a married life that didn’t suit him.
Gavin, gay and very in love with Beau since the dawn of time, welcomes him with open arms and a struggling heart.
During a snuggle session after a movie on the sofa, things start happening and neither B nor G are ready for it so the classic awkwardness ensues😂🫠 but little by little things start changing…😏
These two are SO SEXY🥵 so good and hot together that you might wanna have a tall glass of iced water in your hand while reading🌶️
I love how good a 💡sexual discovery💡 can be when there’s no pressure and you’re free to express your feelings cause everyone is accepting and you’re actually falling in love with your very gay (and very already in love with you) best friend😍🤤
As always, I love these characters! Sometimes you really need a light read to brighten up your days🥰🔥
ALSO! That bonus scene????😍🥵🤩
This is book 0,5 of Mars Fitness and Thea twoooooo🥵😍 they made my heart melt so hooootttt🫠
We finally get into how Mars Fitness Gym was established and I couldn’t be happier with the story!
Beau, heterosexual Beau, runs from Georgia right to his best friend’s home in New York, finally escaping from the life he thought he wanted and from a married life that didn’t suit him.
Gavin, gay and very in love with Beau since the dawn of time, welcomes him with open arms and a struggling heart.
During a snuggle session after a movie on the sofa, things start happening and neither B nor G are ready for it so the classic awkwardness ensues😂🫠 but little by little things start changing…😏
These two are SO SEXY🥵 so good and hot together that you might wanna have a tall glass of iced water in your hand while reading🌶️
I love how good a 💡sexual discovery💡 can be when there’s no pressure and you’re free to express your feelings cause everyone is accepting and you’re actually falling in love with your very gay (and very already in love with you) best friend😍🤤
As always, I love these characters! Sometimes you really need a light read to brighten up your days🥰🔥
ALSO! That bonus scene????😍🥵🤩
June 11, 2024
Arc Review
Gavin and Beau have been best friends in forever.
Beau turns up on Gavin’s doorstep, after signing his divorce papers and the only company he needs is his best friend.
Gavin has been in love with Beau since high school, and seeing as Beau is straight and newly divorced it will never be reciprocated.
If you have read Ripped and Stacked by Linden Bell, you will know Gavin and Beau own Mars Fitness, but here we will find out that came to life. If you have not yet read the other books in this series i urge you to, you will love them. This was originally written for Candy Hearts Anthology, but has now been given its own paperback.
As with Linden’s other books, the story flows easily and you instantly fall in love with Gavin and Beau. Linden can do no wrong in my eyes. I cannot wait for Pumped, which will be the next instalment in this series.
“He brings his mouth back to me and our tongues dance to the same rhythm as our bodies, slow ams sweet and heart-wrenchingly good. Beau’s ruined me for other men. He’s devastated me”.
Gavin and Beau have been best friends in forever.
Beau turns up on Gavin’s doorstep, after signing his divorce papers and the only company he needs is his best friend.
Gavin has been in love with Beau since high school, and seeing as Beau is straight and newly divorced it will never be reciprocated.
If you have read Ripped and Stacked by Linden Bell, you will know Gavin and Beau own Mars Fitness, but here we will find out that came to life. If you have not yet read the other books in this series i urge you to, you will love them. This was originally written for Candy Hearts Anthology, but has now been given its own paperback.
As with Linden’s other books, the story flows easily and you instantly fall in love with Gavin and Beau. Linden can do no wrong in my eyes. I cannot wait for Pumped, which will be the next instalment in this series.
“He brings his mouth back to me and our tongues dance to the same rhythm as our bodies, slow ams sweet and heart-wrenchingly good. Beau’s ruined me for other men. He’s devastated me”.
June 12, 2024
3.9 stars
ARC review
It’s All You is the prequel to the Mars Fitness series that follows Gavin and Beau. It’s pretty much low angst to no angst. I’m a sucker for best friends-friends to lovers tropes. However, I didn’t really feel the vibe with Gavin and Beau. Meaning, I didn’t feel the “best friends” vibe of it. Beau runs to Gavin’s aid after divorcing his wife, and of course Gavin had his arms wide open after seeing his best friend in a state. I didn’t really like how Gavin would distant himself after Beau showed up. I understand he was in love, and it was hard to be near Beau again, but please USE YOUR WORDS. COMMUNICATE. Beau still needed his best friend. I wanted Beau to leave and show Gavin how he was treating him—well, was hurting him. I wanted a little drama specifically for that, lol. That aside, this was a fun read. Gavin thought Beau wasn’t serious after their kiss, but Beau proved him wanted Gavin and Gavin only. From the beginning, I knew they were meant to be together.
ARC review
It’s All You is the prequel to the Mars Fitness series that follows Gavin and Beau. It’s pretty much low angst to no angst. I’m a sucker for best friends-friends to lovers tropes. However, I didn’t really feel the vibe with Gavin and Beau. Meaning, I didn’t feel the “best friends” vibe of it. Beau runs to Gavin’s aid after divorcing his wife, and of course Gavin had his arms wide open after seeing his best friend in a state. I didn’t really like how Gavin would distant himself after Beau showed up. I understand he was in love, and it was hard to be near Beau again, but please USE YOUR WORDS. COMMUNICATE. Beau still needed his best friend. I wanted Beau to leave and show Gavin how he was treating him—well, was hurting him. I wanted a little drama specifically for that, lol. That aside, this was a fun read. Gavin thought Beau wasn’t serious after their kiss, but Beau proved him wanted Gavin and Gavin only. From the beginning, I knew they were meant to be together.
June 17, 2024
"He’s my heartbeat and my very breath. He’s my everything."
Finally I get this story.
I have been so curious about Beau & Gavin since I started the Mars Fitness series and it was just as good as I thought it would be.
Gavin & Beau are so sweet after it all that it could give you a tooth ache but it would hurt so good.
Gavin you sneaky sneak you with that mouth, phew!
Beau just goes for it and embraces that new new and it's only because it's the one person who has always been there for him. His best friend.
I always love the trope of I've been in love with you for years but.. there's just something about it that makes me so happy. Of course with this one we get a little doubt and I got it 100% because yeah that just doesn't happen without there being a little hurt with it.
For a quick read these two had me sitting still until I got to the very end and I wanted more but then again we get to see them in the other books from this world so there is that.
Leave it to Linden to give us this book that is so damn cute but also we get them spicy moments and it takes it up a notch cause why not.
It wouldn't be the same Beau & Gavin who run a gym that provides condoms in the lockers then right? 😏 IYKYK
Now who is next for Mars Fitness? Hmm..
Finally I get this story.
I have been so curious about Beau & Gavin since I started the Mars Fitness series and it was just as good as I thought it would be.
Gavin & Beau are so sweet after it all that it could give you a tooth ache but it would hurt so good.
Gavin you sneaky sneak you with that mouth, phew!
Beau just goes for it and embraces that new new and it's only because it's the one person who has always been there for him. His best friend.
I always love the trope of I've been in love with you for years but.. there's just something about it that makes me so happy. Of course with this one we get a little doubt and I got it 100% because yeah that just doesn't happen without there being a little hurt with it.
For a quick read these two had me sitting still until I got to the very end and I wanted more but then again we get to see them in the other books from this world so there is that.
Leave it to Linden to give us this book that is so damn cute but also we get them spicy moments and it takes it up a notch cause why not.
It wouldn't be the same Beau & Gavin who run a gym that provides condoms in the lockers then right? 😏 IYKYK
Now who is next for Mars Fitness? Hmm..
June 22, 2024
I have not read the Mars Fitness series so I did not know about these characters before I read this book. It was a quick read as I do love the BF to lovers troupe.
Beau is suffering after his divorce and runs to Gavin his BF from childhood. I adore both characters straightaway. I liked that Beau just went with the flow, didn't think what it would do to his friendship, as soon as his brain clicked that he wanted Gavin, he went for it. Gavin was the cautious one. Being in love with Beau since school, he has bricked his heart up so not to get hurt.
With only a few minor characters mentioned, it felt that you were watching a love story on a screen, your mind focused on the 2 main characters and that nothing else mattered. Written from both their POV, the story flowed.
I would liked to have known more of the families reactions especially Lucy's but this did not stop me liking this story. Now when I read the series I know more about the guys
Beau is suffering after his divorce and runs to Gavin his BF from childhood. I adore both characters straightaway. I liked that Beau just went with the flow, didn't think what it would do to his friendship, as soon as his brain clicked that he wanted Gavin, he went for it. Gavin was the cautious one. Being in love with Beau since school, he has bricked his heart up so not to get hurt.
With only a few minor characters mentioned, it felt that you were watching a love story on a screen, your mind focused on the 2 main characters and that nothing else mattered. Written from both their POV, the story flowed.
I would liked to have known more of the families reactions especially Lucy's but this did not stop me liking this story. Now when I read the series I know more about the guys
June 16, 2024
Mars Fitness is a gym in NYC that caters to gay men. In this novella, we find out how it all started. Gavin lives in New York and works in some soul-numbing financial business after growing up in Georgia with his best friend, Beau. One day, Beau shows up on his doorstep, and Gavin is torn up. He's been in love with Beau forever, but Beau married a woman, so Gavin tries to get over it but can't. They start to talk, connect, and discover that Beau is not straight. It is one long, happy ending, as they have funny dates and love each other. Beau starts Mars Fitness, with Gavin working two jobs to help get it off the ground. Then we move on to the other Mars Fitness stories, all of which are sweet, sexy and lots of fun.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily and happily.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily and happily.
June 25, 2024
This is a short novella with the origin story of Gavin and Beau, childhood best friends to lovers, the founders of Mars Fitness.
Gavin fell in love with his best friend in high school and knew he had to squash that feeling as Beau had never given any indication of returning that feeling, so Gavin left for New York.
Years later and a divorce under his belt Beau goes to the one place he feels safe, his best friend, Gavin.
After spending weeks together Beau realizes that Gavin is more than just his best friend, but when the love of your life tells you “you’re mine” can Gavin believe him, or will Beau break his heart again but this time his own as well.
I have loved reading the books in this series. I was so glad to finally get a chance to read Gavin and Beau’s story and look forward to reading more from Mar’s Fitness family.
Gavin fell in love with his best friend in high school and knew he had to squash that feeling as Beau had never given any indication of returning that feeling, so Gavin left for New York.
Years later and a divorce under his belt Beau goes to the one place he feels safe, his best friend, Gavin.
After spending weeks together Beau realizes that Gavin is more than just his best friend, but when the love of your life tells you “you’re mine” can Gavin believe him, or will Beau break his heart again but this time his own as well.
I have loved reading the books in this series. I was so glad to finally get a chance to read Gavin and Beau’s story and look forward to reading more from Mar’s Fitness family.
June 8, 2024
I got the arc earlier today and couldn’t wait to start reading!
This is a novella (about 100 pages) following two best friends being reunited after one of them gets a divorce. Right from the start you can feel just how much they are about each other, just how important their friendship is. But when accidental sexy situations occurs and feelings gets in the way, these two realise they are perfect for each other as more than friends too.
My heart broke for Gavin who’s clearly trying to hide the nature of his feelings for Beau. But when Beau sets his mind on something (or on getting Gavin), he knows how to gets what he wants! You can expect sweet & steam & swoon for this introduction to the Mars Fitness séries!
Tropes :
🤍 BF to lovers
🤍 Bi awakening
🤍 Dancing 🥵
This is a novella (about 100 pages) following two best friends being reunited after one of them gets a divorce. Right from the start you can feel just how much they are about each other, just how important their friendship is. But when accidental sexy situations occurs and feelings gets in the way, these two realise they are perfect for each other as more than friends too.
My heart broke for Gavin who’s clearly trying to hide the nature of his feelings for Beau. But when Beau sets his mind on something (or on getting Gavin), he knows how to gets what he wants! You can expect sweet & steam & swoon for this introduction to the Mars Fitness séries!
Tropes :
🤍 BF to lovers
🤍 Bi awakening
🤍 Dancing 🥵
June 19, 2024
I loved this cute novella. It felt a little rushed but I usually find that is the case with novellas and is usually why I don't tend to read them. There was no way I could skip this one though. I am always excited to see new stories from my Mars Fitness boys and this was no exception. I was happy to finally see how Gavin and Beau's relationship started. While reading the Mars Fitness books I always felt like I was missing a part of the story and thankfully that is no longer the case. It was also fun to see how Mars Fitness was started. My only real complaint is that it was a novella. I really wish we got more with these two. Linden it's not too late, maybe a book later in the series doing a deeper dive with these two??!! Just kidding... sort of? LOL
June 5, 2024
Linden Bell's prequel gives me a whole new perspective of the beginning of Mars Fitness and the relationship between Gavin and Beau. Their story was full of angst and temptation. Knowing their future based on the rest of series, you anticipate the catalyst of the story that changes their relationship from "just friends" to something more. The back story was never fully presented in the rest of the series in much detail. After reading this prequel, you appreciate them that much more after this story. If you enjoy this story, I highly recommend the rest of the Mars Fitness series.
I received an ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2024
Gavin and Beau
This is a novella length prequel to the Mars Fitness series, and shows the story of best friends Gavin and Beau. Gavin has been in love with Beau since they were teenagers, but has always assumed
Beau is straight. Beau has just gone through a divorce when Gavin comes home to find Beau at his doorstep. Through discovery, Beau realizes he feels more for Gavin than just friendships.
This was a great addition to the Mars Fitness series! Sometimes, I feel like novella length stories struggle with fully showing a connection between the characters, but Linden Bell did a great job at portraying their journey. The spice was also really well done! I love this series!
This is a novella length prequel to the Mars Fitness series, and shows the story of best friends Gavin and Beau. Gavin has been in love with Beau since they were teenagers, but has always assumed
Beau is straight. Beau has just gone through a divorce when Gavin comes home to find Beau at his doorstep. Through discovery, Beau realizes he feels more for Gavin than just friendships.
This was a great addition to the Mars Fitness series! Sometimes, I feel like novella length stories struggle with fully showing a connection between the characters, but Linden Bell did a great job at portraying their journey. The spice was also really well done! I love this series!
June 5, 2024
It's All You by Linden Bell is a bi-awakening story between two best friends. One who has always had feelings for his friend and the other who wasn't aware until his marriage to his wife broke down. It's a novella so time moves quickly and feelings develop fast. I loved how Beau was not the one freaking out. Gavin had good reason to worry, his heart might not recover if Beau suddenly decided he was done experimenting. This story is the prelude of the Mars Fitness series, which I love, so made this story my favourite.
June 15, 2024
Lovely story about the owners of Mars Fitness
I’ve been curious about Gavin and Beau since reading the first book in the series and i’m so happy to finally have a backstory on them.
Gavin and Beau have been best friends all their lives and nothing changed between them until Beau gets a divorce and comes and stays with Gavin who has been in love with him since high school. Seeing Beau come into his Bi awakening was so sweet and once he got the idea that Gavin was his forever, he ran with it and it was so wonderful.
star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice level: 🌶️
I’ve been curious about Gavin and Beau since reading the first book in the series and i’m so happy to finally have a backstory on them.
Gavin and Beau have been best friends all their lives and nothing changed between them until Beau gets a divorce and comes and stays with Gavin who has been in love with him since high school. Seeing Beau come into his Bi awakening was so sweet and once he got the idea that Gavin was his forever, he ran with it and it was so wonderful.
star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice level: 🌶️
June 5, 2024
It’s All You by Linden Bell - I loved this prequel to the Mars Fitness series. Beau and Gavin make for a wonderful best friends to lovers romance. It’s blissfully low angst and super sweet. I loved how committed Beau was in exploring his new found attraction to his childhood best friend. He patiently gives Gavin the time to trust his intentions, these two are really lovely. I love friends to lovers stories and this one is excellent.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 18, 2024
I loved this story in the Candy Hearts anthology, and I loved it just as much as a standalone. Gavin and Beau were so sweet together. Gavin has fled his hometown after his best friend gets married years prior. Afraid to confess his feelings, and ruin the friendship, he stuffs down his feelings, never says anything.
When Beau winds up on his doorstep, divorced, and defeated, Gavin is made to confront all of these feelings. Especially now that it seems Beau may be reciprocating. All the while, Gavin is just waiting for that other shoe to drop. How can his best friend, who has always been straight, suddenly have feelings for him?
Watching the two navigate a romantic relationship after all these years is a combination of hot, romantic, and heartbreaking. Had Gavin said something all those years ago, could things have been different? Or did things happen as they were meant to?
I loved seeing these two get their happily ever after. I loved that Beau never questioned his feelings, that he was all in from the very beginning. I also understood Gavin being reluctant to go all in.
When Beau winds up on his doorstep, divorced, and defeated, Gavin is made to confront all of these feelings. Especially now that it seems Beau may be reciprocating. All the while, Gavin is just waiting for that other shoe to drop. How can his best friend, who has always been straight, suddenly have feelings for him?
Watching the two navigate a romantic relationship after all these years is a combination of hot, romantic, and heartbreaking. Had Gavin said something all those years ago, could things have been different? Or did things happen as they were meant to?
I loved seeing these two get their happily ever after. I loved that Beau never questioned his feelings, that he was all in from the very beginning. I also understood Gavin being reluctant to go all in.
June 14, 2024
story of Beau and Gavin
This is a best friends to lovers romance, featuring Beau and Gavin and is a prequel novella to the Mars Fitness series.
This is such a sweet prequel, as it gives the backstory of Beau and Gavin, the owners of Mars Fitness. it’s a quick read, with details of how Beau went through his bi-awakening with his best friend. I’ve read all of Linden Bell’s books, love them all.
This is a best friends to lovers romance, featuring Beau and Gavin and is a prequel novella to the Mars Fitness series.
This is such a sweet prequel, as it gives the backstory of Beau and Gavin, the owners of Mars Fitness. it’s a quick read, with details of how Beau went through his bi-awakening with his best friend. I’ve read all of Linden Bell’s books, love them all.
August 21, 2024
Insta-love bi-awakening
I feel like this was a fever dream or something - let’s just make someone’s wish come true. What if your best friend was in love with you and you realize you are too? You thought you were straight but whatever, you’re not - you’re in love with you best friend instead.
That’s what this book is. If you like a book that moves at an incredibly fast pace, then this is the one for you.
This was not for me though.
I feel like this was a fever dream or something - let’s just make someone’s wish come true. What if your best friend was in love with you and you realize you are too? You thought you were straight but whatever, you’re not - you’re in love with you best friend instead.
That’s what this book is. If you like a book that moves at an incredibly fast pace, then this is the one for you.
This was not for me though.
December 13, 2024
4.75 stars.
Not much to say, this was amazing (,,>﹏<,,) I loved Beau's love and yearning for Gavin, I loved how much comfort he took in him, I loved their chemistry, it was incredible ( ˘ ³˘)♥︎ As usual with Linden Bell, the writing in my opinion was wonderful, it flowed so well and conveyed so much emotion and warmth, the smut scenes were so intimate and well-done, and I just love feeling like I've found a new romance author whose work I can love and look forward to (∩˃o˂∩)♡
Not much to say, this was amazing (,,>﹏<,,) I loved Beau's love and yearning for Gavin, I loved how much comfort he took in him, I loved their chemistry, it was incredible ( ˘ ³˘)♥︎ As usual with Linden Bell, the writing in my opinion was wonderful, it flowed so well and conveyed so much emotion and warmth, the smut scenes were so intimate and well-done, and I just love feeling like I've found a new romance author whose work I can love and look forward to (∩˃o˂∩)♡
June 14, 2024
4.5⭐️
3🌶️
This was soooooo sweet. I don't know how Linden was able to fit so much swoony goodness in so few pages but wow🤩
The pacing of this was phenomenal and considering it's so short, the whole love story felt realistic and did not feel rushed at all.
The pining from Gavin made my heart hurt in all the best ways, I adore when an MC gets the love they've been dreaming of for so long, it was so beautiful. And Beau was so sweet in how easily and freely he gave his love to Gavin, once he realised he wasn't quite so straight.
Now I just want more of these two cuties - and more of the rest of the series! I can't wait for all the future books🥰
100% worth the quick read - to fill your heart and brighten your day🫶🏼
3🌶️
This was soooooo sweet. I don't know how Linden was able to fit so much swoony goodness in so few pages but wow🤩
The pacing of this was phenomenal and considering it's so short, the whole love story felt realistic and did not feel rushed at all.
The pining from Gavin made my heart hurt in all the best ways, I adore when an MC gets the love they've been dreaming of for so long, it was so beautiful. And Beau was so sweet in how easily and freely he gave his love to Gavin, once he realised he wasn't quite so straight.
Now I just want more of these two cuties - and more of the rest of the series! I can't wait for all the future books🥰
100% worth the quick read - to fill your heart and brighten your day🫶🏼
June 11, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I loved this ARC by @authorlindenbell 😍
Gavin and Beau are absolutely adorable. Beau being persistent after his bi-awakening and Gavin being hesitant because duh - straight best friend catching feelings? Not a chance.
The kiss cam was so funny and ice skating 😍
I would have loved to read another 100 pages about them. ❤️
I loved this ARC by @authorlindenbell 😍
Gavin and Beau are absolutely adorable. Beau being persistent after his bi-awakening and Gavin being hesitant because duh - straight best friend catching feelings? Not a chance.
The kiss cam was so funny and ice skating 😍
I would have loved to read another 100 pages about them. ❤️
June 14, 2024
This cute little novella was originally published in the candy hearts anthology and is a prequel to the Mars fitness universe; a little look at how it came to be. The owners, Beau and Gavin, find their own little slice of happily ever after together and it could not be anymore perfect 🥹 100 pages of bestfriends to lovers, bi awakening, fluffy smutty goodness. I could not get enough!
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