Alessandra Hazard’s Just a Bit Unhealthy (Straight Guys 3) is a provocative exploration of the complexities of human relationships, particularly those that defy conventional labels. This third installment in the Straight Guys series delves into the tangled web of emotions between Gabriel DuVal, a promising soccer star, and Jared Sheldon, his team physician. The narrative is a compelling examination of the blurred lines between friendship, dependency, and love, set against the backdrop of professional sports.

From the outset, Hazard sets the stage for a story that is anything but straightforward. Gabriel and Jared's relationship is characterized by a deep, almost obsessive connection that challenges the boundaries of traditional friendship. Gabriel, who identifies as straight and is in a committed relationship with his girlfriend, finds himself inexplicably drawn to Jared. This attraction is not merely physical but is rooted in an emotional dependency that Gabriel himself struggles to understand. The author skillfully portrays Gabriel's internal conflict, capturing the essence of a man torn between societal expectations and his own inexplicable desires.

Jared, on the other hand, is portrayed as a complex character who is acutely aware of his feelings for Gabriel. His role as the team physician adds an interesting dynamic to their relationship, as it blurs the lines between professional duty and personal desire. Jared's longing for Gabriel is palpable, and Hazard does an excellent job of illustrating the tension between what Jared wants and what he can realistically have. This tension is a driving force in the narrative, creating a sense of urgency and emotional depth that keeps readers engaged.

The theme of codependency is central to the novel, and Hazard explores it with nuance and sensitivity. The relationship between Gabriel and Jared is not portrayed as a typical romance but rather as a complex interplay of need and want. Gabriel's reliance on Jared goes beyond friendship, yet he struggles to reconcile this with his self-identified heterosexuality. This internal struggle is mirrored in Jared's own conflict, as he grapples with his desire for a man who may never fully reciprocate his feelings. The author’s exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and unsettling, challenging readers to reconsider their own perceptions of love and dependency.

One of the strengths of Just a Bit Unhealthy is its character development. Hazard has a keen eye for detail, and her characters are richly drawn and multi-dimensional. Gabriel is portrayed as a man caught between two worlds, his public persona as a soccer star and his private turmoil over his feelings for Jared. His journey is one of self-discovery, as he gradually comes to terms with the nature of his relationship with Jared. Jared, meanwhile, is depicted as a man of quiet strength, whose love for Gabriel is both his greatest joy and his deepest sorrow. The chemistry between the two is electric, and their interactions are charged with an intensity that is both captivating and poignant.

In terms of style, Hazard’s writing is both engaging and evocative. Her use of language is precise, and she has a talent for capturing the emotional nuances of her characters. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, and the pacing of the novel is well-balanced, allowing for moments of introspection as well as tension-filled exchanges. The steamy MM scenes are handled with care, adding to the overall intensity of the story without overshadowing the emotional core of the narrative.

While Just a Bit Unhealthy is a standalone novel, it benefits from being part of the Straight Guys series, which is known for its exploration of unconventional relationships. Fans of the series will appreciate the continuity and the way Hazard builds on themes introduced in previous books. However, new readers will also find it accessible, as the story is self-contained and does not rely heavily on prior knowledge of the series.

In comparison to other works in the genre, such as Him by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy, or Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, Hazard’s novel stands out for its darker, more introspective take on the gay-for-you trope. While those novels often focus on the lighter, more romantic aspects of same-sex relationships, Just a Bit Unhealthy delves into the psychological complexities and emotional turmoil that can accompany such relationships. This makes it a unique and compelling read for those interested in a more nuanced portrayal of love and desire.

Overall, Just a Bit Unhealthy (Straight Guys 3) is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that challenges readers to question their own assumptions about love, friendship, and identity. Alessandra Hazard has crafted a story that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you are a longtime follower of the Straight Guys series or a newcomer to Hazard’s work, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.