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Rowdy Boy
Soft. Sissy. Switch hitter. Disappointment.
When I was younger, he used his fists to put me in my place. Now he uses words.
I spend my days chasing any Hanging out with my friends. Working at Clinton’s. Doing everything I can to tune him out.
I spend my nights trapped in my own Replaying his rejection. Witnessing his disgust. Remembering how it felt to be shoved back into the closet.
I told my dad everything and begged him to help.
He told me I was asking for it with my smart mouth and my tight jeans.
It won’t be like this forever. I just need to survive the next ten months under his roof.
I know who I am. I know what I’ve overcome. I know who I want to be.
The thing I don’t know? If I’ll ever be able shake off the hold he has on me.
Content Rowdy Boy is a new adult coming-of-age novella. It is the prequel to Jake Whitely’s full-length romance novel, Mr. Brightside. It is a complete story that does not end with a cliffhanger. Rowdy Boy contains content some may find triggering, including alcohol abuse, consenting MM and MF scenes, offensive language, emotional and psychological abuse from a parent, and flashbacks to attempted SA.
When I was younger, he used his fists to put me in my place. Now he uses words.
I spend my days chasing any Hanging out with my friends. Working at Clinton’s. Doing everything I can to tune him out.
I spend my nights trapped in my own Replaying his rejection. Witnessing his disgust. Remembering how it felt to be shoved back into the closet.
I told my dad everything and begged him to help.
He told me I was asking for it with my smart mouth and my tight jeans.
It won’t be like this forever. I just need to survive the next ten months under his roof.
I know who I am. I know what I’ve overcome. I know who I want to be.
The thing I don’t know? If I’ll ever be able shake off the hold he has on me.
Content Rowdy Boy is a new adult coming-of-age novella. It is the prequel to Jake Whitely’s full-length romance novel, Mr. Brightside. It is a complete story that does not end with a cliffhanger. Rowdy Boy contains content some may find triggering, including alcohol abuse, consenting MM and MF scenes, offensive language, emotional and psychological abuse from a parent, and flashbacks to attempted SA.
122 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2022
40 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
Abby Millsaps
23 books1,040 followersAbby Millsaps is an author and storyteller who's been obsessed with writing romance since middle school. In eighth grade, she failed to qualify for the Power of the Pen State Championships because all her submissions contained the same theme: young people falling in love. #LookAtHerNow
She's best known for writing unapologetically angsty romance that causes emotional damage for her readers. Abby prides herself in writing authentic characters while weaving mental health, chronic illness, and neurodiverse representation into the fabric of her stories.
Abby met her husband at a house party the summer before her freshman year of college. He had a secret pizza stashed in the trunk of his car that he was saving for a midnight snack—how was she supposed to resist that level of golden retriever energy and preparedness? When Abby isn't writing, she's reading, traveling, and raising her three daughters.
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Website: www.authorabbymillsaps.com
Instagram: @abbymillsaps
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/AbbyMillsaps
TikTok: @authorabbymillsaps
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorabbymi...
She's best known for writing unapologetically angsty romance that causes emotional damage for her readers. Abby prides herself in writing authentic characters while weaving mental health, chronic illness, and neurodiverse representation into the fabric of her stories.
Abby met her husband at a house party the summer before her freshman year of college. He had a secret pizza stashed in the trunk of his car that he was saving for a midnight snack—how was she supposed to resist that level of golden retriever energy and preparedness? When Abby isn't writing, she's reading, traveling, and raising her three daughters.
Newsletter sign up: https://authorabbymillsaps.myflodesk....
Website: www.authorabbymillsaps.com
Instagram: @abbymillsaps
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/AbbyMillsaps
TikTok: @authorabbymillsaps
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorabbymi...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
April 14, 2022
*** I received a complimentary copy of this book ***
I enjoyed this prequel for Jake Whitely's full length upcoming story. He has a complex backstory that was very heartbreaking to see all of his internal and external struggles. I enjoyed getting a glimpse into his mental state while he tried to navigate his difficult home life, while trying to embrace his true self.
Overall this was a great start to what I expect to be a great journey for his character and leaves me very excited for his full length story.
I enjoyed this prequel for Jake Whitely's full length upcoming story. He has a complex backstory that was very heartbreaking to see all of his internal and external struggles. I enjoyed getting a glimpse into his mental state while he tried to navigate his difficult home life, while trying to embrace his true self.
Overall this was a great start to what I expect to be a great journey for his character and leaves me very excited for his full length story.
May 6, 2022
3.5 ⭐️ - RTC
December 8, 2022
3.5 stars
Read
April 21, 2022Rowdy Boy is now LIVE!
This 31K word novella is full of MM and MF spice, reckless behavior, teenage angst, an unforgettable “you can watch but you can’t touch” hot tub scene, and a triumphant coming-of-age story arc.
Rowdy Boy is available on Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, and Barnes&Noble. It is the prequel novella to Jake’s full-length romance book, Mr. Brightside, which releases on May 5, 2022.
Here’s what you can expect from Rowdy Boy:
✖️ Coming of age story
✖️ Bi-confident spice
✖️ Found family
✖️ Themes of hope, healing, and resiliency
✖️ Prequel novella to Jake’s full length MM romance
💚 Read Now: geni.us/RowdyBoy
This 31K word novella is full of MM and MF spice, reckless behavior, teenage angst, an unforgettable “you can watch but you can’t touch” hot tub scene, and a triumphant coming-of-age story arc.
Rowdy Boy is available on Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, and Barnes&Noble. It is the prequel novella to Jake’s full-length romance book, Mr. Brightside, which releases on May 5, 2022.
Here’s what you can expect from Rowdy Boy:
✖️ Coming of age story
✖️ Bi-confident spice
✖️ Found family
✖️ Themes of hope, healing, and resiliency
✖️ Prequel novella to Jake’s full length MM romance
💚 Read Now: geni.us/RowdyBoy
April 12, 2022
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
If you have read Abby's Hampton Hearts series, then you undoubtably fell in love with Jake Whitely. Rowdy Boy is the prequel novella to Jake's full-length novel Mr. Brightside that comes out in May.
Rowdy Boy gives us baby Jake at only 18 years old. He is everything you already love about Jake but with the raw emotions I have come to love Abby for giving us. Being the black sheep of the family, he is treated as such by not only his father but his brothers as well.
His one saving grace, Rhett & Tori. You see the start of their friendship really start to grow in this novella and if you have read Hampton Hearts, you know all about the relationship these three share.
When things become too much for Jake to handle will he be able to trust the two people in his life he can count on or will he try to take the burden on his own.
Rowdy Boy is the perfect continuation of the Hampton Hearts series but it is also the perfect place to start if you are wanting to read Mr. Brightside. You will be in love with Jake Whitely before this book is halfway over and you will be wearing his struggles around your heart like I do.
This was such a tasty tease of Jake that I am dying for his full-length novel where we will see how Jake does at becoming the one thing he never expected, a husband.
If you have read Abby's Hampton Hearts series, then you undoubtably fell in love with Jake Whitely. Rowdy Boy is the prequel novella to Jake's full-length novel Mr. Brightside that comes out in May.
Rowdy Boy gives us baby Jake at only 18 years old. He is everything you already love about Jake but with the raw emotions I have come to love Abby for giving us. Being the black sheep of the family, he is treated as such by not only his father but his brothers as well.
His one saving grace, Rhett & Tori. You see the start of their friendship really start to grow in this novella and if you have read Hampton Hearts, you know all about the relationship these three share.
When things become too much for Jake to handle will he be able to trust the two people in his life he can count on or will he try to take the burden on his own.
Rowdy Boy is the perfect continuation of the Hampton Hearts series but it is also the perfect place to start if you are wanting to read Mr. Brightside. You will be in love with Jake Whitely before this book is halfway over and you will be wearing his struggles around your heart like I do.
This was such a tasty tease of Jake that I am dying for his full-length novel where we will see how Jake does at becoming the one thing he never expected, a husband.
May 10, 2022
This Family ... what a clusterfuck, hate them 😡😡😡
Jake is absolute perfect, can‘t wait to read the sequel.
Jake is absolute perfect, can‘t wait to read the sequel.
September 29, 2022
The good
+ The bond between Jake and Rhett
+ Jake's focus on his partners' pleasure
+ Jake's inner strength in standing up to his father
+
The neutral
o Jake was 18 already, so I don't really know why he had to stay with his father at all
The bad
- This book does not show the same Jake as Mr. Brightside. I read this before Mr. Brightside, like a good little reader, but the characters didn't match at all. Jake somehow unlearned all of his unhealthy coping mechanisms (without replacing them) in the handful of years until the next book starts. All these years of abuse are just glossed over in that book, so they're not even that important for the story. Basically, this prequel was very unnecessary and just forced me to read over a hundred pages of emotional abuse that turned out to be irrelevant to the story in Mr. Brightside
- Jake's father , which is fucking horrible on its own. But not once did Jake think about the fact that this could mean that girl did not consent to what they were doing together. He was really mad at her, without knowing the full story. Did she initially start by being paid, or was she blackmailed from the start? Because if it's the latter, she's just as much a victim in this as Jake was
- When Jake showed up after the final straw with his dad, Rhett and Tori didn't even spare him a glance. Too busy feeling each other up. Some friends they are...
This prequel was fine, aside from a few issues I had with this book on its own. However, when taking into account that it's a prequel to Mr. Brightside, this book suddenly loses its worth. It's basically over a hundred pages of emotional abuse that turns out to be almost irrelevant to the sequel, where it's glossed over and the important bits get mentioned anyway. And those important bits get mentioned in passing like they're unimportant anyway, so having this whole background story is completely unnecessary. Would not recommend.
+ The bond between Jake and Rhett
+ Jake's focus on his partners' pleasure
+ Jake's inner strength in standing up to his father
+
The neutral
o Jake was 18 already, so I don't really know why he had to stay with his father at all
The bad
- This book does not show the same Jake as Mr. Brightside. I read this before Mr. Brightside, like a good little reader, but the characters didn't match at all. Jake somehow unlearned all of his unhealthy coping mechanisms (without replacing them) in the handful of years until the next book starts. All these years of abuse are just glossed over in that book, so they're not even that important for the story. Basically, this prequel was very unnecessary and just forced me to read over a hundred pages of emotional abuse that turned out to be irrelevant to the story in Mr. Brightside
- Jake's father , which is fucking horrible on its own. But not once did Jake think about the fact that this could mean that girl did not consent to what they were doing together. He was really mad at her, without knowing the full story. Did she initially start by being paid, or was she blackmailed from the start? Because if it's the latter, she's just as much a victim in this as Jake was
- When Jake showed up after the final straw with his dad, Rhett and Tori didn't even spare him a glance. Too busy feeling each other up. Some friends they are...
This prequel was fine, aside from a few issues I had with this book on its own. However, when taking into account that it's a prequel to Mr. Brightside, this book suddenly loses its worth. It's basically over a hundred pages of emotional abuse that turns out to be almost irrelevant to the sequel, where it's glossed over and the important bits get mentioned anyway. And those important bits get mentioned in passing like they're unimportant anyway, so having this whole background story is completely unnecessary. Would not recommend.
Read
August 19, 2022So, I thought I loved Jake before but my goodness if this little insight into the struggles of high-school Jake didn’t pull at all my heartstrings.
Rowdy Boy is a prequel novella that deep dives into Jake Whitley’s high-school years, dealing with his sexuality, while struggling through one hell of a home life living with an abusive, bigot of a father and unsupportive brothers.
Jake has been a favorite of mine since the very beginning of Hampton Hearts series often times being the strength and rock solid foundation holding up Tori and Rhett throughout their tremulous relationship. Here though we get to see how early on the tables were turned and Rhett and Tori had been such a beautiful support system for Jake.
I absolutely devoured this loving every second of it even when it hurt. I didn’t think it was possible for me to be more invested in Jake’s inevitable and well deserved HEA in the upcoming release Mr. Brightside but I’m absolutely salivating for it.
Rowdy Boy is a prequel novella that deep dives into Jake Whitley’s high-school years, dealing with his sexuality, while struggling through one hell of a home life living with an abusive, bigot of a father and unsupportive brothers.
Jake has been a favorite of mine since the very beginning of Hampton Hearts series often times being the strength and rock solid foundation holding up Tori and Rhett throughout their tremulous relationship. Here though we get to see how early on the tables were turned and Rhett and Tori had been such a beautiful support system for Jake.
I absolutely devoured this loving every second of it even when it hurt. I didn’t think it was possible for me to be more invested in Jake’s inevitable and well deserved HEA in the upcoming release Mr. Brightside but I’m absolutely salivating for it.
April 14, 2022
Aww.. Jake, I have been waiting for you. 💚
I couldn’t love Jake Whitely much more if I tried. I fell in love with him in Abby’s Hampton Hearts series last year and was so excited when she said he was getting his own book! Then… she drops that he’s getting a novella BEFORE his full-length novel. Eeek!
This was so heartbreakingly beautiful, seeing how Rhett and Tori are his support system. We saw glimpses of it in their books, but we see how far they are willing to go for his happiness. (IYKYK!!)🔥
The rest had me mainly crying for him. Just how unfair his life is and how we never really know what is behind someone’s smile.
I’m going to use Abby’s word when I say that Jake’s tormentor is absolutely despicable. I’m not going to say more as I don’t want to add any spoilers.
I love Abby’s writing style and how she sucks you in very early on. It felt like seeing old friends again, which was lovely. She is extremely talented, and I will read anything she writes, literally anything. ♥️
BRING ON MR BRIGHTSIDE!💚
Thank you, Abby ♥️
I couldn’t love Jake Whitely much more if I tried. I fell in love with him in Abby’s Hampton Hearts series last year and was so excited when she said he was getting his own book! Then… she drops that he’s getting a novella BEFORE his full-length novel. Eeek!
This was so heartbreakingly beautiful, seeing how Rhett and Tori are his support system. We saw glimpses of it in their books, but we see how far they are willing to go for his happiness. (IYKYK!!)🔥
The rest had me mainly crying for him. Just how unfair his life is and how we never really know what is behind someone’s smile.
I’m going to use Abby’s word when I say that Jake’s tormentor is absolutely despicable. I’m not going to say more as I don’t want to add any spoilers.
I love Abby’s writing style and how she sucks you in very early on. It felt like seeing old friends again, which was lovely. She is extremely talented, and I will read anything she writes, literally anything. ♥️
BRING ON MR BRIGHTSIDE!💚
Thank you, Abby ♥️
April 26, 2022
Rating: 5/5 ✨
First off, the writing style was just *muah* so freaking good. It was somewhat satisfactory to read and so easy flowing, doesnt happen alot.
Second, this is my first full length Bi/MM romance, I have watched many but never read!! And will I continue read? Heck yes!!
(This is not full length, but compared to what I've read it is)
Jake, he is the best boy ever. I wanna wrap him up in a blanket and save him from all the bad things. I want him for me please. He is savage, ngl. But he was a kid and didnt deserve what his ass of a dad did to him.
His dad is the most infuriating person ever. Ugh I hate him. I wish I could fist bump his nose.
Rhett and Tori, the best friends anyone could ask for. The way they care for him, be there whenever he needs and when he doesnt know he needs them.
The hot tub scene, uhm excuse me.
Thank you Abby and Mel for the copy!! ♥️
First off, the writing style was just *muah* so freaking good. It was somewhat satisfactory to read and so easy flowing, doesnt happen alot.
Second, this is my first full length Bi/MM romance, I have watched many but never read!! And will I continue read? Heck yes!!
(This is not full length, but compared to what I've read it is)
Jake, he is the best boy ever. I wanna wrap him up in a blanket and save him from all the bad things. I want him for me please. He is savage, ngl. But he was a kid and didnt deserve what his ass of a dad did to him.
His dad is the most infuriating person ever. Ugh I hate him. I wish I could fist bump his nose.
Rhett and Tori, the best friends anyone could ask for. The way they care for him, be there whenever he needs and when he doesnt know he needs them.
The hot tub scene, uhm excuse me.
Thank you Abby and Mel for the copy!! ♥️
April 12, 2022
"I roll my eyes; this girl is all drama, all the time. But f*ck does she give good head."
Abby is a new author to me, but wow, I can't wait to read more from her; she definitely knows how to pull at your heartstrings, and she knows how to bring the SPICE!
Jake's father is a real piece of SH*T, and he abuses him both physically and mentally. He turns to alcohol and doesn't make the best decisions to deal with everything.
Rowdy Boy was a little glimpse into Jake's world, and I can't wait to read more of Jake's story in Mr. Brightside.
April 20, 2022
This is the background story to my favorite character of the Hampton Series. And after reading it I just wanna give him the biggest hug...naked🔥because I'm still me after all🤣 but I truly love Jake. The hot tub scene🥵🥵 This novella sheds some light on how he got to be our favorite man. His dad is a jackass! He made me so angry. I can't wait to see what happens and how he gets his HEA. Because if anyone deserves it, it's him. Although I still think it should be with me....just saying😏 I would have loved more than just the snippet of the flashback to the night with his dad. I wanted more of that scene. I'll just be patiently waiting for more Jake.
May 15, 2024
Bad boy needs love
He's loyal to his friends
His family is a whole other mess, and his father treats him like an annoyance.
This book is so full of heart, but you have to get thru the rough patches first.
He's loyal to his friends
His family is a whole other mess, and his father treats him like an annoyance.
This book is so full of heart, but you have to get thru the rough patches first.
Read
August 8, 2022DNF @ 33%
Just couldn't get into this at all...and it is a prequel leading up to the full length. I just did not care for the MC at all.
Just couldn't get into this at all...and it is a prequel leading up to the full length. I just did not care for the MC at all.
April 19, 2022
Rowdy Boy was everything I needed it to be. I was already in love with Jake Whitely, but I loved being able to go back and see what trials he had to go through as a young man to make him the amazing man I know and love. It was heart-breakingly perfect!
I am eagerly awaiting the release of his standalone, Mr.Brightside!!! Give me more Jake!! 💕
I am eagerly awaiting the release of his standalone, Mr.Brightside!!! Give me more Jake!! 💕
April 20, 2022
Full of Feels, 5+ stars!
When I find a book boyfriend that just won’t leave me alone, I have an insatiable need to find out all I can about him which usually means I will read every book he’s mentioned in. This time, he’s one low-riding sweatpants wearing, charming AF Jake Whitely.
He first graced the pages of the Hampton Hearts series by Abby Millsaps. It’s an angsty childhood friends to lovers story and when I wasn’t ripping my heart out over Rhett and Tori (and sometimes even when I should have been) I was completely smitten with Jake. He’s become one of my all-time favorite guys and honestly, I’m a little obsessed.
With a huge heart, loyalty for days and the deepest devotion to helping his best friends find their HEA, Jake impressed me every time. He supported them through a lot of emotional turmoil and always with so much love. That’s one of his best traits. He’s got so much love to give but has never met his match. Yet.
Rowdy Boy is Jake’s coming of age novella where we see how he became the bisexual back up husband every woman deserves. What experiences shaped him for the good, bad and the ugly. There’s lots of quality spice in here but I loved the emotional insight and being inside his thoughts the most. My hurt heart for Jake.
This It’s not a romance per se but an origin story about a much adored character before his full-length book, Mr. Brightside is released in May.
Meet the boy who will win your heart and get ready for the man you’ll never want to let go. Download this one today!
When I find a book boyfriend that just won’t leave me alone, I have an insatiable need to find out all I can about him which usually means I will read every book he’s mentioned in. This time, he’s one low-riding sweatpants wearing, charming AF Jake Whitely.
He first graced the pages of the Hampton Hearts series by Abby Millsaps. It’s an angsty childhood friends to lovers story and when I wasn’t ripping my heart out over Rhett and Tori (and sometimes even when I should have been) I was completely smitten with Jake. He’s become one of my all-time favorite guys and honestly, I’m a little obsessed.
With a huge heart, loyalty for days and the deepest devotion to helping his best friends find their HEA, Jake impressed me every time. He supported them through a lot of emotional turmoil and always with so much love. That’s one of his best traits. He’s got so much love to give but has never met his match. Yet.
Rowdy Boy is Jake’s coming of age novella where we see how he became the bisexual back up husband every woman deserves. What experiences shaped him for the good, bad and the ugly. There’s lots of quality spice in here but I loved the emotional insight and being inside his thoughts the most. My hurt heart for Jake.
This It’s not a romance per se but an origin story about a much adored character before his full-length book, Mr. Brightside is released in May.
Meet the boy who will win your heart and get ready for the man you’ll never want to let go. Download this one today!
May 23, 2022
The novella was the perfect start to Jake’s story for me. I’ve not read the Hampton series yet (it’s in my Kindle library) so I didn’t have any insight into him.
Jake had a horrible childhood due to a physically and emotionally abusive father, with the help of two very complacent and complicit brothers. The suicidal ideations and destructive behavior made perfect sense. Jake needed support and understanding. Instead he got judgement and lies. His father would stop at nothing to get what he wanted.
When Jake sought Joe’s support after the drugging and attempted sexual assault, Joe literally spit in his face.
Rhett and Tori did what they could but they were two teens as well. Thank god his grandmother showed up.
Jake had a horrible childhood due to a physically and emotionally abusive father, with the help of two very complacent and complicit brothers. The suicidal ideations and destructive behavior made perfect sense. Jake needed support and understanding. Instead he got judgement and lies. His father would stop at nothing to get what he wanted.
When Jake sought Joe’s support after the drugging and attempted sexual assault, Joe literally spit in his face.
Rhett and Tori did what they could but they were two teens as well. Thank god his grandmother showed up.
May 6, 2022
3.5 stars
This is a short coming off age story about Jake. We get to see him decides what he wants to do in life and coming to terms with the fact that he’s bisexual.
I really enjoyed this one. It was just a lot of fun to see how Jake came to terms with everything and I really enjoyed how he did that. I really enjoyed getting to know Jake and I already really enjoyed him as a character after this short story.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
This is a short coming off age story about Jake. We get to see him decides what he wants to do in life and coming to terms with the fact that he’s bisexual.
I really enjoyed this one. It was just a lot of fun to see how Jake came to terms with everything and I really enjoyed how he did that. I really enjoyed getting to know Jake and I already really enjoyed him as a character after this short story.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
August 10, 2024
REVIEW COMING SOON!
April 20, 2022
Details:
Rowdy Boy is a genre-defying, prequel novella giving us some backstory on Jake Whitely’s life before The Hampton Hearts series. It can absolutely be read as a stand-alone (so if you didn’t read Author Abby Millsaps’ first series, no worries!)
Now, for my review…*deep breath*
This novella was everything I wanted to know about Jake and so much more than I dared to dream for my favorite character. I fell in love with Jake the first time I met him in #WhenYoureHome and continued to do so with every page since. This novella carries some pretty heavy content warnings, but for me Jake was worth it. I super appreciate the transparency author Abby lays out before you even read a snippet of Rowdy Boy.
Jake’s coming of age story has some fantastic spice for this deliciously bisexual man. Unfortunately, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows for my main man… Jake struggles with his hateful, piece of shit, bigot of a father. (I DESPISE Joe Whitely and everything he stands for - 10/10 would punch him in real life) Jake doesn’t apologize for who he is, but we see him torn down repeatedly and his verbally abusive father makes no secret of his disgust for who Jake is as a person.
The juxtaposition to Jake’s dad is his two best friends, Tori & Rhett, and it’s wonderful to see the care with which they treat Jake. They call him on his reckless choices, but they’re always there when he needs them. (And sometimes a little extra willing to boost his spirits… that hot tub scene 🥵)
The struggle we see Jake try to wade through and the abuse he has to endure is absolutely heartbreaking, but the spice and tender moments balance this novella really well. Once again, Abby conveys emotions in such an honest and relatable way that you’ll be gasping in shock, trying to hold back tears and want to punch something as you turn the pages.
The emotions, the dangerous ‘coping’ and the shame that Jake is living through is articulated so well that if you can relate even a little, there are some lines that will be a sucker punch to the gut (in the best ‘someone put how I felt into words’ way). It’s not a traditional romance so there’s no happily ever after, but there’s no cliffhanger either and it sets up Jake’s full-length romance, Mr. Brightside, perfectly.
P. S. I know Jake’s not real, but I would put on a cheerleading uniform for this man ANY DAY. #iykyk
Rowdy Boy is a genre-defying, prequel novella giving us some backstory on Jake Whitely’s life before The Hampton Hearts series. It can absolutely be read as a stand-alone (so if you didn’t read Author Abby Millsaps’ first series, no worries!)
Now, for my review…*deep breath*
This novella was everything I wanted to know about Jake and so much more than I dared to dream for my favorite character. I fell in love with Jake the first time I met him in #WhenYoureHome and continued to do so with every page since. This novella carries some pretty heavy content warnings, but for me Jake was worth it. I super appreciate the transparency author Abby lays out before you even read a snippet of Rowdy Boy.
Jake’s coming of age story has some fantastic spice for this deliciously bisexual man. Unfortunately, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows for my main man… Jake struggles with his hateful, piece of shit, bigot of a father. (I DESPISE Joe Whitely and everything he stands for - 10/10 would punch him in real life) Jake doesn’t apologize for who he is, but we see him torn down repeatedly and his verbally abusive father makes no secret of his disgust for who Jake is as a person.
The juxtaposition to Jake’s dad is his two best friends, Tori & Rhett, and it’s wonderful to see the care with which they treat Jake. They call him on his reckless choices, but they’re always there when he needs them. (And sometimes a little extra willing to boost his spirits… that hot tub scene 🥵)
The struggle we see Jake try to wade through and the abuse he has to endure is absolutely heartbreaking, but the spice and tender moments balance this novella really well. Once again, Abby conveys emotions in such an honest and relatable way that you’ll be gasping in shock, trying to hold back tears and want to punch something as you turn the pages.
The emotions, the dangerous ‘coping’ and the shame that Jake is living through is articulated so well that if you can relate even a little, there are some lines that will be a sucker punch to the gut (in the best ‘someone put how I felt into words’ way). It’s not a traditional romance so there’s no happily ever after, but there’s no cliffhanger either and it sets up Jake’s full-length romance, Mr. Brightside, perfectly.
P. S. I know Jake’s not real, but I would put on a cheerleading uniform for this man ANY DAY. #iykyk
April 11, 2022
Rowdy Boy is the first book I have read by this Author and I was not disappointed! I loved the writing style and her ability to capture my attention in such a short time-span.
This is a prequel novella that introduces us to Jake Whitely, provides his backstory, and prepares us for his full-length book; Mr. Brightside.
In order for me to consider a book to be a fantastic read, I have to feel connected to the characters. I want to feel their emotions. That is rarely achieved in a novella. There just aren’t enough words to get me there.
The Author managed to pull me in and skyrocket my interest in Jake. I loved him and wanted more! I loved the dynamic between Jake, Rhett, and Tory (That hot tub scene…..just sayin’🔥).
Jake is confident on the outside, but struggling with insecurities on the inside and I wanted to hug him through out this story. Jake is thoughtful, selfless, and determined – and yes, reckless at times. I would have liked to have seen a little more interaction with Jake and Courtney toward the end to really close out that event. There is no cliff hanger. This novella leads us right up to the predicament Jake finds himself in, in Mr. Brightside.
Jake was first introduced as a side character in The Hampton Hearts Series and I have noticed many readers are already attached to him because of this. I have not read this series and still enjoyed Rowdy Boy very much. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything – so I don’t think it’s necessary to read it to catch up. However, after catching glimpses of Rhett & Tori – I may head on over to give it a try.
Can’t wait for Mr. Brightside to continue my Jake Journey!
This is a prequel novella that introduces us to Jake Whitely, provides his backstory, and prepares us for his full-length book; Mr. Brightside.
In order for me to consider a book to be a fantastic read, I have to feel connected to the characters. I want to feel their emotions. That is rarely achieved in a novella. There just aren’t enough words to get me there.
The Author managed to pull me in and skyrocket my interest in Jake. I loved him and wanted more! I loved the dynamic between Jake, Rhett, and Tory (That hot tub scene…..just sayin’🔥).
Jake is confident on the outside, but struggling with insecurities on the inside and I wanted to hug him through out this story. Jake is thoughtful, selfless, and determined – and yes, reckless at times. I would have liked to have seen a little more interaction with Jake and Courtney toward the end to really close out that event. There is no cliff hanger. This novella leads us right up to the predicament Jake finds himself in, in Mr. Brightside.
Jake was first introduced as a side character in The Hampton Hearts Series and I have noticed many readers are already attached to him because of this. I have not read this series and still enjoyed Rowdy Boy very much. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything – so I don’t think it’s necessary to read it to catch up. However, after catching glimpses of Rhett & Tori – I may head on over to give it a try.
Can’t wait for Mr. Brightside to continue my Jake Journey!
April 18, 2022
First, I want to say that I absolutely ADORE Jake Whitely. On many levels! I love his strength, even when he doesn’t know if he has it in him. I love his softer side which, I doesn’t show to many people. And, love his flirty/playful/troublemaker side.
Okay, now that I’ve gotten that out of my system, this novella was just perfect to tell us the origins of Jake and his Jake-ness. As Abby describes, this is his coming-of-age story. While he definitely knows who he is, I think he learns what he is capable of in this story. I’m not sure how else to describe the difference, but it somehow makes sense in my head! He has to endure some things that are just… you wouldn’t wish that on anyone really. And, while he may not have the most healthy ways of coping, he learns where his boundaries lie.
Uggghhh, his friendships with Tori and Rhett, ALL THE FEELS! I could go on for DAYS on this topic alone. But I will say this, it is absolutely heartwarming reading about how they protect him; to make sure he is safe and that he always has their support. No questions, no judgement, no pressure. It literally melted me.
Quick Notes
• Prequel novella, no cliffhanger though (Jake’s full-length story is coming soon!)
• MM & MF spicy scenes
• Read the TWs, there are topics that may be sensitive to some.
• Amazing friendships
• In love with Jake’s dirty talk
Ratings
💗💗💗💗💗
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was going to add some of my favorite quotes but, there were literally TOO many and I couldn’t choose just a few.
April 21, 2022
I have read Abby's Hampton Hearts series and fell in love with Jake and now he will be getting his own book. Rowdy Boy is a prequel/novella to Mr. Brightside and gives us an insight into Jake's past, his friendship with Tori and Rhett and why he is the way he is. Jake's story is gripping, steamy and spicy as well as heartbreaking and a joy to read. Abby knows just how to grab your attention and keeps you wanting more.
Jake is the black sheep of his family. His relationship with his father is strained if not full of hate. His brothers are no better and Jake is technically on his own. I can understand why he just wants to escape the life that he is living. The mental abuse that he lives with is heartbreaking. His two best friends, Tori and Rhett are the only people in his life who love him for who he truly is. They do not judge him and have always accepted him well, the aspects of his life that they are aware of.
Jake is one character that you will fall in love with if you haven't already. I just wanted to jump into the book and console him, wrap him in my arms and tell him that he is loved. Abby had me wanting Mr. Brighside in my hands right now. Grab this outstanding MM, MF romance that is emotionally charged and so well written that it has you sitting on the edge of your seat.
Jake is the black sheep of his family. His relationship with his father is strained if not full of hate. His brothers are no better and Jake is technically on his own. I can understand why he just wants to escape the life that he is living. The mental abuse that he lives with is heartbreaking. His two best friends, Tori and Rhett are the only people in his life who love him for who he truly is. They do not judge him and have always accepted him well, the aspects of his life that they are aware of.
Jake is one character that you will fall in love with if you haven't already. I just wanted to jump into the book and console him, wrap him in my arms and tell him that he is loved. Abby had me wanting Mr. Brighside in my hands right now. Grab this outstanding MM, MF romance that is emotionally charged and so well written that it has you sitting on the edge of your seat.
April 19, 2022
This is the prequel to Jake's story and omg it is definitely a must read. Wow Jake's story certainly took you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, pack's a punch and it was truly heart breaking when the person who is supposed to love, care and be there for you regardless is the one person that is making your life unbearable and I was in absolute tears reading this book but I still couldn't put it down and had to keep turning the pages and I felt like I was there with Jake going through and feeling everything with him. I was so glad that he had Rhett and Tori who were always there for him just as he was always there for them as Jake was such an amazing friend even when he was dealing with and going through so much himself and I can't wait to read Mr Brightside which will continue Jake's story. Abby Millsaps is an amazing author and writer she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and on the edge of their seats but also making you feel so much while reading her book's and that is what makes them a must read.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
April 22, 2022
“I’m okay when I’m with you.”- Jake
This is a novella prequel for our favorite rowdy bisexual back up husband. It absolutely can be read as a standalone, but I've lived & loved Hampton Hearts since day 1 so me and Jake go way back lol
Jake's home life is hell. His demons are external ones in the form of so called family and seeing his thoughts and emotions in words broke my heart. I just wanted to wrap him up in my arms and keep him safe, much like Tori does. It's amazing that he grew up to be the playful and compassionate man I know him to be. Having friends like Tori and Rhett definitely contributed to that, they accept and love him unconditionally.
We were told not to get attached to Bash... oops lol Their hookup was so hott!! Sexual bop it 😆😆 I hope his husband in Mr. Brightside cares for Jake the way it seemed Bash did.
Abby has become known for incorporating water into her spicy scenes and she did not disappoint us, adding a level of intimacy this time that I. Am. Here. For. (Anything involving my Golden Boy makes me happy 😊)
This is a novella prequel for our favorite rowdy bisexual back up husband. It absolutely can be read as a standalone, but I've lived & loved Hampton Hearts since day 1 so me and Jake go way back lol
Jake's home life is hell. His demons are external ones in the form of so called family and seeing his thoughts and emotions in words broke my heart. I just wanted to wrap him up in my arms and keep him safe, much like Tori does. It's amazing that he grew up to be the playful and compassionate man I know him to be. Having friends like Tori and Rhett definitely contributed to that, they accept and love him unconditionally.
We were told not to get attached to Bash... oops lol Their hookup was so hott!! Sexual bop it 😆😆 I hope his husband in Mr. Brightside cares for Jake the way it seemed Bash did.
Abby has become known for incorporating water into her spicy scenes and she did not disappoint us, adding a level of intimacy this time that I. Am. Here. For. (Anything involving my Golden Boy makes me happy 😊)
April 9, 2022
When I say I devoured this book…I got the email this morning with it and immediately loaded it onto my kindle and jumped right in, current read be damned.
This is what I’ve been hanging out for. Jake Whitely had me hooked since reading the Hampton Hearts series (which if you haven’t read yet, do it! It’s so worth it!)
Rowdy Boy gives us a look into Jake’s life at 18 and the spice that we get to enjoy…I was outside in the heat reading and was worried about getting heatstroke!
There’s a couple scenes that had me reaching for a fan…storage shed…hot tub. If you know, you know 😏🔥
Seeing Jake’s backstory was everything I needed. He’s got a wild side but also seeing the stuff he dealt with got to me. His dad…the stuff we see him do in this book. Not a fan. The only thing I’m grateful to him for is bringing our boy Jake into this world. But that’s where it stops because he is not nice.
But enough from me. Just, please go read it.
This is what I’ve been hanging out for. Jake Whitely had me hooked since reading the Hampton Hearts series (which if you haven’t read yet, do it! It’s so worth it!)
Rowdy Boy gives us a look into Jake’s life at 18 and the spice that we get to enjoy…I was outside in the heat reading and was worried about getting heatstroke!
There’s a couple scenes that had me reaching for a fan…storage shed…hot tub. If you know, you know 😏🔥
Seeing Jake’s backstory was everything I needed. He’s got a wild side but also seeing the stuff he dealt with got to me. His dad…the stuff we see him do in this book. Not a fan. The only thing I’m grateful to him for is bringing our boy Jake into this world. But that’s where it stops because he is not nice.
But enough from me. Just, please go read it.
April 19, 2022
I have been waiting for Jake’s book since we met him in When You’re Home. We are given such a great prologue to our boy that it feels like a teaser of its own.
Jake’s life at home is not something you bring someone to. Things are not good and he learns to cope in ways that aren’t quite the best, but then when you are bisexual and don’t feel like you can express that it makes things even harder.
As Jake moves back and forth between the fine line we are laid witness to all of the struggles. The shining light is he has the best of best friends in Rhett who is there right alongside him along with Rhett’s girlfriend Tori. Tori becomes a bright light and their friendship is pure. Watching the two of them become friends and showing Jake that he is more than what his father thinks of him will make you smile through the tears. I am beyond ready for Mr. Brightside now because I need so much more of Jake and what path he will end up taking.
Jake’s life at home is not something you bring someone to. Things are not good and he learns to cope in ways that aren’t quite the best, but then when you are bisexual and don’t feel like you can express that it makes things even harder.
As Jake moves back and forth between the fine line we are laid witness to all of the struggles. The shining light is he has the best of best friends in Rhett who is there right alongside him along with Rhett’s girlfriend Tori. Tori becomes a bright light and their friendship is pure. Watching the two of them become friends and showing Jake that he is more than what his father thinks of him will make you smile through the tears. I am beyond ready for Mr. Brightside now because I need so much more of Jake and what path he will end up taking.
April 27, 2022
This novella is well written and detailed despite the short length. It is full of information and insight I’m glad I read as a prequel to Mr. Brightside. The story is a quick and easy to read, yet not easy on the emotions. It was so tough to read at times as my heart broke repeatedly.
Jake’s life hasn’t been easy, his father disgusted me! I’m so happy that he has great friends and some others to go to for support, I just wish he would’ve spoken up sooner. Ho
wever, I also think the timeline and circumstances were realistic to someone in his situation. It was tough watching his story unfold and a lot of tears for me as I could feel the depth of his pain, but I think it is important to read it prior to the next book.
I can’t wait for Mr. Brightside I am looking forward to reading about Jake in this new chapter in his life. I do hope that there will be some insight into his journey over the last eight years as I can only imagine it’s been a very challenging, yet freeing journey.
Jake’s life hasn’t been easy, his father disgusted me! I’m so happy that he has great friends and some others to go to for support, I just wish he would’ve spoken up sooner. Ho
wever, I also think the timeline and circumstances were realistic to someone in his situation. It was tough watching his story unfold and a lot of tears for me as I could feel the depth of his pain, but I think it is important to read it prior to the next book.
I can’t wait for Mr. Brightside I am looking forward to reading about Jake in this new chapter in his life. I do hope that there will be some insight into his journey over the last eight years as I can only imagine it’s been a very challenging, yet freeing journey.
April 20, 2022
JAKE IS HERE 🙌🏻🙌🏻 if you have read the Hampton hearts series then you have been just like us over here dying for more of Jake and @abbymillsaps gave us what we wanted 🙌🏻🙌🏻 Rowdy Boy is the coming age, self discovery story of how our sweet pervy hot as sin Jake became the man we all love so much 🖤 you get a look into Jake’s past and man do you want to just grab our boy up and hug him & also beat some people beat along the way 🤣🤷🏼♀️ we get to go along the journey of exploring 😉 & man is it a hot fun ride 🥵🥵 also we get so much of the amazing friendship between Jake, rhett & tori 🖤🖤 these three really are each others family and being able to see how much they have each other’s backs even at a young age was amazing!! Jake is going to have you swooning, fanning yourself, your heart aching and falling more in love with him !! We can not wait for more Jake !!!
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