In Becca Steele's Dared, a captivating standalone M/M college romance, opposites attract in the vibrant setting of LSU. Gamer and football player, Jax and Leo, discover a surprising connection despite their contrasting personalities. Jax, outgoing and confident, befriends the shy computing student Leo, embarking on a mission to boost Leo's self-esteem through a series of dares. Their playful challenges lead to unexpected intimacy, blurring the lines between friendship and something more. This heartwarming story, part of the LSU series but fully standalone, explores the growth of self-acceptance, the power of friendship, and the thrilling uncertainty of first love. Prepare for a sweet and steamy tale of two young men finding themselves and each other.
Review Dared
Oh my goodness, "Dared" completely charmed me! From the very first page, I was captivated by Leo and his endearing shyness. Becca Steele masterfully portrays his social anxiety in a way that felt both authentic and relatable, making him instantly sympathetic and deeply lovable. I found myself completely rooting for him, wanting nothing more than to see him blossom and find happiness. And that's exactly what happens, thanks to the wonderful Finn.
Finn is the perfect counterpoint to Leo; outgoing and confident, but also incredibly patient, supportive, and understanding. Their connection felt so genuine and natural, evolving beautifully from a shared love of gaming to a deep friendship, and then, in the most heartwarming way, into something more. I loved how their relationship unfolded organically, without unnecessary drama or forced misunderstandings – just two people learning to trust and love each other at their own pace. The "dares" that Finn sets for Leo are a clever device that drives their story forward, gently pushing Leo out of his comfort zone while always respecting his boundaries. It's the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, a gentle progression that feels completely earned.
What truly resonated with me, though, was the depth of their connection beyond the romance. The way Finn embraces Leo's anxieties without trying to "fix" them, the unwavering support he provides, and the genuine affection he shows, really made their bond feel special. It's a testament to the power of accepting and celebrating someone for exactly who they are, flaws and all. And it's not just Finn who provides this support; the whole cast of characters surrounding them are brilliantly supportive and heartwarming. This strong sense of found family, extending even to Finn's own family welcoming Leo with open arms, made the story that much richer.
The writing itself is effortlessly engaging. Becca Steele's prose is easy to read and listen to, yet she manages to create such depth and nuance in her characters. You really get to know Leo and Finn, understand their motivations, and empathize with their struggles. There's a lovely pacing to the story, allowing the romance to develop naturally and authentically, without rushing the process. The slow burn is incredibly satisfying, building anticipation and creating a powerful emotional payoff.
In short, "Dared" is more than just a sweet MM romance; it's a story about self-discovery, overcoming insecurities, and the transformative power of love and friendship. It left me feeling warm, fuzzy, and deeply satisfied. If you're looking for a feel-good story with compelling characters, a heartwarming romance, and a dash of delightful hurt/comfort, then I wholeheartedly recommend you pick up "Dared." You won't regret it.
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.72 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 286
- Publication date: 2024
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