Reviews tagging 'Homophobia'

On Guard by J.R. Gray, Andi Jaxon

7 reviews

crystalmackey's review

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emotional fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0


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reiziger1962's review against another edition

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challenging emotional funny medium-paced

3.5

Isaac Becker found himself estranged from his parents, who deemed his choices aligned with the Devil's path, contradicting their beliefs. Now, a destitute college student, Isaac faces financial hardship and isolation. However, his circumstances shift when a mysterious stranger presents him with an offer: $1,000 in exchange for 24 hours of unrestricted freedom. 
Upon discovering Isaac is a virgin, the stranger offers him <i>“Three thousand dollars for twenty-four hours.”</i>. With no alternative, Isaac reluctantly agrees, selling his virginity for the sum, embarking on an entirely unfamiliar journey.

Oliver Godfrey, the fencing team's captain, embodies American royalty, with a name that wields influence and disrupts empires. Amidst opulence, he finds himself fixated on a newcomer, questioning why this encounter lingers in his mind beyond a single night. Initially intended as a fleeting liaison, the allure of the encounter ignites Oliver's desire for more.

Confident and assertive, Oliver is keenly aware of his identity and desires, particularly when it comes to Isaac upon their first meeting. Although he grapples with unfamiliar emotions, Oliver is accustomed to having his desires fulfilled, a trait ingrained in him since childhood. And now he has set his mind on  <i>“Isaac is mine, and I’ll destroy anyone who interferes.”</i>

Despite appearing meek and impressionable at first glance, Oliver demonstrates a surprising resilience and assertiveness when the situation demands it. Throughout the narrative, his gradual character development is astonishing, observing his journey towards self-assurance despite grappling with the lingering effects of religious trauma.
liver embodies wealth, attractiveness, and an alpha demeanour, yet his most compelling aspect is his growth throughout the story. Despite his possessiveness, he emerges as Isaac's protector, revealing a depth of compassion and a large heart. 


The second instalment of the series delves into the dynamic between Oliver's twin, Owen, and Isaac's roommate, Colin. Despite their identical appearance, Owen and Oliver possess distinct personalities, fostering a delightful and unique relationship filled with camaraderie and mutual respect. 
Colin, with his refreshing perspective on family and wealth, adds depth to the narrative, making their story one I eagerly anticipate reading.

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queenbee_of_hearts's review

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medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.5


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wildatheart1339's review

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3.5


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lovelyinnature's review

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adventurous funny medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

It gives what it set out to give and I love both the boys actually. 

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r1vana's review

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emotional funny hopeful tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.75


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_bookish_lauren's review

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emotional funny lighthearted reflective tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Overall: 4/5
Spice level: 3/5
Tropes: fling to forever, virgin, sports, college, opposites attract 

Representation: MMCs are gay and bisexual 

CW: Religious trauma, homophobia, family violence

I'm a fan of Gray's work, though this was my first venture into Jaxon's. The co-authoring was a great pairing. The chemistry between Oliver and Isaac was explosive, and there was a very unique aspect to how Isaac decided to offer his virginity up. Literally an offer he couldn't refuse.

The plot pacing worked pretty well, although there were spots where the dialogue was fairly repetitive within the same scene, along with actions of the characters. But overall, the book was great. Please make sure you check the trigger warnings on this story because there is some violence toward a character at the hands of his family in more than one scene. 

Without spoiling too much, I did also feel that their ending came a little quick for people their age, especially Isaac. It fit the direction of the story itself, but I'd hoped it would've been put in a far out epilogue versus being within the main storyline.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Oliver and Isaac were a great match and I really loved the supporting characters they had around them. Isaac's roommate and Oliver's siblings. They were amazing. 

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