Reviewed by Valerie
TITLE: Making Waves
SERIES: Franklin U #7
AUTHOR: Christina Lee
PUBLISHER: Self Published
LENGTH: 247 pages
RELEASE DATE: October 6, 2022
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Alex Larsen
Remy Duval was my high school crush and secret first kiss, but he’s also so much more. A painter, a tattoo artist, my best friend Bailey’s older brother…and Bailey’s sworn enemy. It was easier to keep my distance the past two years, but now that Bailey and I are attending Franklin University with him, I’m only drawn to Remy more. I should be loyal to my best friend, focus on classes and swim team, but the more I see Remy around campus, the harder it becomes to stay away.
Remy Duval
My brother hates me, but that’s no surprise. I’ll take the fall for ruining our family if it means doing the right thing. But as soon as my brother and his best friend show up on campus, I know I’m in trouble. Alex is all grown up, and I can’t help wanting him, especially when he’s in those tiny swim briefs that emphasize everything.
One kiss leads to more, and before we know it, we’re tumbling into secret, no-strings-attached hookups. But who knew Alex would understand me in ways few others have? And I think, just maybe, I understand him too.
I keep telling myself it’s temporary. Alex doesn’t want to disappoint his best friend, and after what my parents went through, I’m not looking to settle down. Making waves is nothing new, but the further I fall, the more I drag Alex in the deep end with me.
REVIEW:
Making Waves is the seventh book in the multi-author, shared universe, Franklin U series. It’s a sweet, college themed story with a best friend’s brother/brother’s best friend premise.
Unbeknownst to the other, Remy and Alex have had years long crushes on each other. They shared a kiss as teenagers and then Remy left for college. But neither ever forgot their crazy, special kiss – the first experience with a guy for either of them. Two years later, Alex and his best friend/Remy’s brother, Bailey, arrive at the same campus for their freshman year where Remy is now a junior art student. Bailey hates his brother with a passion, not wanting anything to do with him. He blames Remy for their parents’ divorce and the destruction of their family. The problem is, Alex wants to renew a friendship with Remy, or more accurately, pick up where they left off. Alex tries to stay neutral between the brothers but he knows Bailey would be shattered if he knew of Alex and Remy’s feelings for each other.
Remy and Alex try but can’t stay apart. They’re unable to resist the pull between them so they begin a casual, friends with benefits, sex-only arrangement. They’ll go back to being just friends when they grow tired of each other. Yup, like that’s gonna work.
Being together is effortless because of their childhood friendship. Alex feels seen by Remy in a way he never has from his own family. His parents’ time and efforts went into care for his sick sister. Remy feels grounded and centered by Alex, more comfortable in his own skin. Eventually they have to trust their instincts and admit there’s something more than a sexual relationship between them. They feel compelled to explore their intensifying feelings.
I enjoyed the flirty banter between the boys and the characters – primary and secondary – are well developed. As much as I liked Alex and Remy, I didn’t feel a strong connection between them. The pace felt a bit slow for my tastes, also. Despite that, I do recommend the book to those already enjoying the series or to Christina fans. Although part of a series, this can definitely be read as a standalone.
RATING: 
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