Enemies to lovers
Second chance
You get introduced to Jace and Kieran during book 1. The first part of the book is from their past when they were in HS. I typically don’t like flashbacks cause I want to know what’s happening currently lol but you have to get their backstory.
Jace and Kieran have gone to school with each other since 3rd grade. Jace is your typically popular jock. However he’s always been pretty nice. Kieran is one of 3 out and gay kids at school but their junior year he decides to start wearing makeup as a form of expressing himself.
Jace clocks it day one and can’t let it go. He starts bullying Kieran trying to get him to stop being such a distraction.
The growth is phenomenal and basically Jace having to really dig into why he has such an issue with Kieran.
Them coming back 13 years later and having to relearn who the other person is (though Jace is a super fan 😆). I loved watching Jace break down Kieran’s walls. I love that Liv really pushed Kieran to reevaluate how he was feeling.
So many emotions. This book was amazing.
A
April Flores
December 12, 2025
MM Bully to Lovers Romance
The Reality of Wanting My Bully is book 2 of the Love Without Labels Series.
Jace and Kieran goodness these two. The first part of the book was heartbreaking.
Jace started bullying Kieran on their Junior Year of High School when Kieran decided to be his complete self and started wearing makeup. Kieran confused the hell out of Jace. Jace was a baseball player with a controlling father Jace couldn’t be his complete self. He was obsessed with Kieran and he didn’t understand it. So he would bully Kieran.
By their senior year things changed one hook up became more Jace could be himself around Kieran but by the end of the year one encounter left them heartbroken. And now 13 years later they both enter a reality show about finding love and end up with each other. Kieran is still angry and hurt. Jace has completely changed and has been living his true self. But he has never been able to move on from Kieran and when he realizes he is his match he will do whatever he can to earn his forgiveness and win his heart.
Loved every second of this book and I felt for both guys.
B
Beckireadsromance
April 12, 2026
Verified Purchase
Bully romance done really well
One of my favorite bully romances. The redemption is so well done. I loved them both! Really well crafted. The audiobook is incredible.
What A great concept for a reality television series.
The Reality Of Wanting My Bully by Lexi Amber and Bec Benson completely pulled me in from the start and did not let go. This book delivers an intense, emotional rollercoaster that goes far beyond a typical romance.
The storyline is bold and gripping, exploring the complicated dynamic between the main characters in a way that feels raw and real. The authors do an incredible job showing the emotional layers behind the relationship—pain, tension, vulnerability, and undeniable attraction—all woven together in a way that keeps you turning the pages.
What stood out most to me was the character development. You really get to see how both characters evolve, and the story doesn’t shy away from the difficult emotions that come with their past and present. It adds a depth that makes the romance feel earned rather than rushed.
The chemistry is intense, the tension is perfectly built, and there are plenty of moments that will have you feeling everything from frustration to hope. It’s one of those books that keeps you thinking even after you’ve finished the last page.
If you enjoy darker, emotionally driven romance with complex characters and a strong storyline, this book is definitely worth reading. I couldn’t put it down and will absolutely be looking for more from these authors!
Please note, This book contains mature content that can be triggering for some. Please be sure to visit the author’s website for a complete list of…
M
Mandy Pyfferoen
December 4, 2025
Loved it! We got a sneak peek into Kieran & Jace's story in book 1, so of course I was intrigued. I love that this one started with Jace's POV in the present time before we went back to high school to witness him bullying Kieran. It helped me not absolutely hate him. The authors wrote him in high school in such a way that we could maybe understand why he was such a douche canoe to K - it was important to get his POV here. I'm not excusing his behavior, it just makes it easier to love him later when you can understand why he was the way he was.
I just loved Kieran's confidence and refusal to let his sparkle be dimmed. It was great to watch them fall in love not knowing who the person on the other side was. And then when they finally met face to face - the evolution of that relationship was so beautiful. Their chemistry was undeniable and it was endearing how patient Jace was, how he was willing to go along with whatever Kieran wanted to prove a point.
I know there is more in this series coming, but I'm not sure about who and I'm excited!!