The Backup Boyfriend - Book Review

By River Jaymes

Synopsis

Professionally, Dr. Alec Johnson has almost reached his goals. As this year’s recipient of a humanitarian award with his ex, Dr. Tyler Hall, Alec’s work with the homeless is about to be recognized. Unfortunately, his personal life sucks because now he has to attend several events alongside Tyler—with his ex’s new boyfriend in tow. In an attempt to lift his mood and break out of his rut, Alec purchases a motorcycle he has no idea how to start.

Dylan Booth doesn’t have time for Dr. Clueless and his fickle 1964 Harley, but the cocky mechanic can’t say no to the request for help. Having spent his teen years on the streets, and losing his best friend to HIV, Dylan decides teaching the do-gooder how to ride is the least he can do. But watching Alec flounder in his ex’s company throws Dylan into protector mode, and the confirmed hetero introduces himself as Alec’s new boyfriend.

The ex suspects Dylan is lying.

Alec claims Dylan’s plan is insane.

And Dylan’s not sure he can fake being gay.

But Dylan’s a master bullshitter, and the phony PDA soon turns ultra-hot. Alec can’t afford to get attached, and Dylan’s learned everyone eventually leaves. Unfortunately, playing the backup boyfriend is starting to feel way too real…

Review

I read THE BACKUP BOYFRIEND a few years ago and it was one of those stories that would pop into my head from time to time, even though I couldn’t remember the title or the author. I was finally able to find it and re-read it to see if it was as good as I remembered. It was. I didn’t take a lot of notes, and it is slow moving with not a lot of action, but it was an enjoyable read.

Alec and Dylan are both very nice guys who have mutual friends, yet have never met. Alec is the sweet one who has known he was gay since he was a teen and loves being in a relationship. He comes across as the more sensitive and insecure of the two, but at the same time he loves topping Dylan. Dylan is the complete opposite of Alec. He’s straight, avoids commitment and is more rough around the edges than what Alec is used to. He’s surprised by his feelings for Alec, but I liked how he wasn’t afraid to embrace them—for the most part. I liked watching him grow and learn to accept the things he always thought he didn’t want.

THE BACKUP BOYFRIEND is told in dual POVs and while it’s part of a series, each book can be read as a stand-alone. It comes with a sweet epilogue and a HFN ending for Dylan and Alec.