In Becca Steele's Dared - Special Edition, a captivating standalone M/M college romance unfolds. Ethan, a confident football player, discovers his online gaming buddy is Leo, a shy computer science student at his university. Despite their contrasting personalities, a strong connection forms. Ethan embarks on a mission to boost Leo's confidence, daring him to step outside his comfort zone. The dares, however, lead to unexpected intimacy, blurring the lines of friendship. When Leo returns the favor with a daring challenge of his own – a kiss – their relationship takes an unforeseen turn. This heartwarming story, part of the LSU series but entirely self-contained, explores the power of connection, self-discovery, and the surprising path of love.
Review Dared - Special Edition
Oh my goodness, "Dared – Special Edition" was an absolute delight! From the moment I started reading, I was completely charmed by Finn and Leo's story. Becca Steele has a knack for creating characters you instantly connect with, and these two were no exception. Their opposites-attract dynamic was so refreshing; the outgoing football player and the shy computer whiz, seemingly worlds apart, yet sharing a bond that felt both genuine and heartwarming.
What really stood out for me was the beautiful evolution of their friendship. Finn’s unwavering support and gentle encouragement of Leo were truly touching. Those "dares" weren't just silly challenges; they were cleverly crafted acts of love, designed to help Leo blossom into the confident, amazing person he always was deep down. I literally LOL'd more times than I can count at Finn's antics – his attempts to push Leo outside his comfort zone were both hilarious and incredibly sweet. The swooning? Let's just say I had a permanent smile plastered on my face for a good portion of the book.
The way Finn navigated Leo's insecurities and helped him see his own worth was just breathtaking. It wasn't a forceful, pushy kind of support; it was patient, understanding, and completely respectful. The slow burn of their romance felt incredibly natural, building organically from their already strong foundation of friendship. It's the kind of relationship that makes you believe in the power of genuine connection and the beauty of finding love in unexpected places.
And let's not forget the supporting characters! Seeing familiar faces from previous LSU books added a delightful layer of warmth and familiarity. The way JJ and Niccolo rallied around Leo, their protective instincts shining through, was incredibly endearing. It further highlighted the close-knit community Becca Steele has built within this series. Even Finn's family's welcoming attitude towards Leo was a heartwarming touch, providing a stark contrast to Leo's difficult relationship with his own father. That contrast, in a way, added another layer of emotional depth to the story.
While the level of "spice" might be slightly less intense compared to some other books in the series (something mentioned in several reviews I've seen), the emotional connection between Leo and Finn more than made up for it. The sweetness, the tenderness, the sheer perfection of their bond – that's what truly resonated with me. It was a story about growth, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of love. The cover itself is adorable; it perfectly captures the essence of Finn and Leo's relationship – cute, charming, and full of unspoken affection. Overall, "Dared" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys heartwarming M/M romances with a touch of humor and a whole lot of heart.
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.73 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 290
- Publication date: 2024
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