LOVE IS A CONTACT SPORT - Federick Smith
Bold Stroke Books
BUY
Brenda Larnell (A)
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
REVIEW: Reading this novel has marked a couple of “firsts” for me. It is the first time that I have read a story by Frederick Smith, and it is the first M/M romance that I have read. With that being said, I found this story to be a thoughtful exploration of M/M romance, built around the ever-compelling secret love trope. I think romance readers and book reviewers alike will find themselves drawn into the lives of its two central characters, Larenz “Renny” Ross and Brent D. King, as they navigate the complexities of love, identity, and reunion.
Renny Ross is portrayed as a rising star in the literary world—a famous author whose success is matched only by the emotional depth he brings to his relationships. Brent D. “BD” King, on the other hand, is an athletic director with a full family life. Brent’s wife, Macee, and their children, Bracee and L.B., add layers to his character, showing the push and pull between personal ambition and familiar responsibility. Brent and Macee’s marriage is at a cross-roads. Decisions have been made that will determine the outcome of a twenty-year marriage. With Brent, Macee, and their young adult children’s agreement to enter therapy together, the family’s journey toward understanding and acceptance becomes a powerful subplot.
The secret love trope is at the heart of the novel. Renny and Brent’s relationship began in college, shrouded in secrecy and longing. Mr. Smith skillfully uses flashbacks to reveal their college years, allowing readers to understand the foundation of their bond. These glimpses into the past make their present-day struggles and desires feel authentic and relatable. The flashback technique gives depth to the narrative and helps the reader connect emotionally with the characters.
The emotional centerpiece of the novel comes when Renny and Brent reunite at their alma mater, both honored for their achievements. The event brings their past and present together, forcing them to confront unresolved feelings and the choices they’ve made. The reunion is touching, filled with tension and hope, and it serves as a catalyst for the characters to reconsider what love means to them.
LOVE IS A CONTACT SPORT is a heartfelt, engaging read that tackles M/M romance and the secret love trope with nuance and empathy. I appreciated the emotional depth and the hopeful message about second chances and authenticity. Frederick Smith’s narrative is an honest exploration of relationship challenges making it a standout in its genre. Highly recommended for those seeking a thoughtful romance that doesn’t shy away from real-life complexity.
15th June 2026 | romcol@caribsurf.com | romcol1962@gmail.com
Renny Ross is portrayed as a rising star in the literary world—a famous author whose success is matched only by the emotional depth he brings to his relationships. Brent D. “BD” King, on the other hand, is an athletic director with a full family life. Brent’s wife, Macee, and their children, Bracee and L.B., add layers to his character, showing the push and pull between personal ambition and familiar responsibility. Brent and Macee’s marriage is at a cross-roads. Decisions have been made that will determine the outcome of a twenty-year marriage. With Brent, Macee, and their young adult children’s agreement to enter therapy together, the family’s journey toward understanding and acceptance becomes a powerful subplot.
The secret love trope is at the heart of the novel. Renny and Brent’s relationship began in college, shrouded in secrecy and longing. Mr. Smith skillfully uses flashbacks to reveal their college years, allowing readers to understand the foundation of their bond. These glimpses into the past make their present-day struggles and desires feel authentic and relatable. The flashback technique gives depth to the narrative and helps the reader connect emotionally with the characters.
The emotional centerpiece of the novel comes when Renny and Brent reunite at their alma mater, both honored for their achievements. The event brings their past and present together, forcing them to confront unresolved feelings and the choices they’ve made. The reunion is touching, filled with tension and hope, and it serves as a catalyst for the characters to reconsider what love means to them.
LOVE IS A CONTACT SPORT is a heartfelt, engaging read that tackles M/M romance and the secret love trope with nuance and empathy. I appreciated the emotional depth and the hopeful message about second chances and authenticity. Frederick Smith’s narrative is an honest exploration of relationship challenges making it a standout in its genre. Highly recommended for those seeking a thoughtful romance that doesn’t shy away from real-life complexity.
15th June 2026 | romcol@caribsurf.com | romcol1962@gmail.com
