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The Truth About Riley
Riley Aylworth’s life has been completely devoid of intimate contact since a fire left him with horrific facial scarring, so when he finds an ad for a phone sex service, he decides to give it a call. Except that the number is not a phone sex service—it’s the revenge Cameron Kirkwood’s ex-boyfriend took on him after an acrimonious split. Needless to say, Cameron is at the end of his tether and ends up yelling at his fortieth caller. What he doesn’t expect is for Riley to hit redial and yell right back.
The yelling is cathartic for both of them, and the pair end up talking. Cam explains how he landed in this bizarre situation, encouraged by Riley’s understanding and calming tones, and they continue their conversations long after Cam changes his number. From this decision springs a friendship that, over time, grows into a gentle romance—all over the phone, because Riley is too scared to meet Cam in person. Showing a potential boyfriend his disfigured face is the fastest way to get rejected, right?
The yelling is cathartic for both of them, and the pair end up talking. Cam explains how he landed in this bizarre situation, encouraged by Riley’s understanding and calming tones, and they continue their conversations long after Cam changes his number. From this decision springs a friendship that, over time, grows into a gentle romance—all over the phone, because Riley is too scared to meet Cam in person. Showing a potential boyfriend his disfigured face is the fastest way to get rejected, right?
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2013
14 people are currently reading
1001 people want to read
About the author
Henrietta Clarke
10 books121 followersHenrietta Clarke is a quirky Yorkshire lass who had the misfortune to discover the path she was actually meant to take in life three days into an intensive postgraduate course. Now free from the hell of law study, she divides her time between working as a lunchtime supervisor in a primary school, training as a fiction editor, and writing her own stories. When she’s not working, Henrietta can usually be found in the kitchen, hanging out with her parents and eccentric dogs or baking cupcakes. Every remaining second is spent reading or sleeping—sometimes simultaneously.
A hopeless romantic who is as much in love with the English language as with all the delicious fictional men it creates, Henrietta suffers from abibliophobia and has a serious book-buying addiction as a consequence. The day there are no unread items on her Kindle will be the day the Earth stops turning. Her other addictions include bad TV and chilli in any form, and she collects everything from books and DVDs to china elephants, keyrings and photo frames—most of which stay empty far too long. She has a minor obsession with rainbows, and plots everything in purple Sharpie.
A hopeless romantic who is as much in love with the English language as with all the delicious fictional men it creates, Henrietta suffers from abibliophobia and has a serious book-buying addiction as a consequence. The day there are no unread items on her Kindle will be the day the Earth stops turning. Her other addictions include bad TV and chilli in any form, and she collects everything from books and DVDs to china elephants, keyrings and photo frames—most of which stay empty far too long. She has a minor obsession with rainbows, and plots everything in purple Sharpie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
September 1, 2014
Wow, I think I loved this book more than most. It was so incredibly romantic that I got chills while reading it towards the end. My first book by this author and I'm beyond impressed!
At first I didn't know exactly what to make of this book. The number of times that these characters run into each other in a city as large as New York is unfathomable. However, all of the sudden while I was reading, it hit me: This is the phone, M/M version of "You've got mail". Once I viewed this book as kind of like a classic movie romance, all the pieces clicked into place for me.
And I literally could not put this book down all day long.
Some people found the long, drawn-out, sort of mundane phone conversations to be boring. I found them to be key to building up this romance that felt absolutely epic. I knew these guys were in love because I watched them fall in love, piece by piece, bit by bit. It felt 100% authentic. I understood the trust that it took to get Riley to give even an inch of himself. He had been rejected (by others) and deemed unworthy (by himself) for so long that if this romance had happened any quicker it would have read as false. I thought it was beautiful and horribly, gorgeously romantic.
Maybe it's just me but that scene in the movie theater brought me to tears.
I was a bit surprised by the abrupt ending (I didn't realize that this was going to be a two-part series) but I felt so emotionally satisfied that I couldn't even bring myself to knock down 1/2 a star.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
At first I didn't know exactly what to make of this book. The number of times that these characters run into each other in a city as large as New York is unfathomable. However, all of the sudden while I was reading, it hit me: This is the phone, M/M version of "You've got mail". Once I viewed this book as kind of like a classic movie romance, all the pieces clicked into place for me.
And I literally could not put this book down all day long.
Some people found the long, drawn-out, sort of mundane phone conversations to be boring. I found them to be key to building up this romance that felt absolutely epic. I knew these guys were in love because I watched them fall in love, piece by piece, bit by bit. It felt 100% authentic. I understood the trust that it took to get Riley to give even an inch of himself. He had been rejected (by others) and deemed unworthy (by himself) for so long that if this romance had happened any quicker it would have read as false. I thought it was beautiful and horribly, gorgeously romantic.
Maybe it's just me but that scene in the movie theater brought me to tears.
I was a bit surprised by the abrupt ending (I didn't realize that this was going to be a two-part series) but I felt so emotionally satisfied that I couldn't even bring myself to knock down 1/2 a star.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
July 29, 2022
This book has been on my favorites shelves for years. I've read it too many times to count. But for some reason I didn't enjoy it as much this time around. Could be I've read it too often?
------------------------
This was simply beautiful.
I love it when my books have more character than plot. Make the characters interesting enough and I want to crawl inside and live in it.
Riley is so lonely he calls the number of an ad for phone sex. Cameron is the one who answers, but it turns out his number was listed as a prank from his ex.
It turns out the guys hit it off anyway and they start calling each other regularly. After calling each other every day for several weeks, it is clear they are both attracted to each other, even though they have yet to meet.
Because Riley was scarred by a fire 3 years ago, he feels too insecure about the scars on his face to meet Cameron. Cameron keeps trying to convince Riley that he thinks Riley is beautiful no matter what he looks like.
But what Riley and Cameron don’t know is that they have been seeing each other from a distance for some time now. And Cameron cannot get the cute scarred blond he keeps seeing at the coffee shop out of his mind.
Riley was incredibly sweet. So insecure about his looks, but damn, he was a funny guy! I loved the conversations between Riley and Cam. Not once was I bored.
And Cameron, I loved how patient he was with Riley. He was willing to wait forever if necessary.
When the guys do meet it is without Cameron seeing Riley. It was so incredibly romantic.
“Do I get a goodnight kiss?” Cam asked finally, voice low and full of hope.
“Close your eyes,” Riley murmured. Their breaths were intermingling as their lips inched closer and closer, finally brushing together just barely enough to convince Cam that this was really happening. His hand went to Riley’s back, pulling his man closer, and he deepened the kiss just slightly. His cheeks were damp, and he didn’t know if the tears were his or Riley’s. Riley’s lips were moving against his again, forming words.
“Don’t give up on me. Please.” A thumb brushed across his cheek, swiping at the moisture there, and then his arms were empty before his reflexes could kick in to hold Riley there forever. Their hands parted last, arms outstretched in true movie style, and when Riley let go, Cam could almost feel his heart ache with the loss.
“Never,” he whispered.
It does take some time for them to finally meet, so if you are the impatient kind, beware. Because they talked on the phone all the time, it was never a problem for me.
The end was rather abrupt and I was a bit surprised, but I was so happy to read there would be a sequel. But alas, she never wrote one...
------------------------
This was simply beautiful.
I love it when my books have more character than plot. Make the characters interesting enough and I want to crawl inside and live in it.
Riley is so lonely he calls the number of an ad for phone sex. Cameron is the one who answers, but it turns out his number was listed as a prank from his ex.
It turns out the guys hit it off anyway and they start calling each other regularly. After calling each other every day for several weeks, it is clear they are both attracted to each other, even though they have yet to meet.
Because Riley was scarred by a fire 3 years ago, he feels too insecure about the scars on his face to meet Cameron. Cameron keeps trying to convince Riley that he thinks Riley is beautiful no matter what he looks like.
But what Riley and Cameron don’t know is that they have been seeing each other from a distance for some time now. And Cameron cannot get the cute scarred blond he keeps seeing at the coffee shop out of his mind.
Riley was incredibly sweet. So insecure about his looks, but damn, he was a funny guy! I loved the conversations between Riley and Cam. Not once was I bored.
And Cameron, I loved how patient he was with Riley. He was willing to wait forever if necessary.
When the guys do meet it is without Cameron seeing Riley. It was so incredibly romantic.
“Do I get a goodnight kiss?” Cam asked finally, voice low and full of hope.
“Close your eyes,” Riley murmured. Their breaths were intermingling as their lips inched closer and closer, finally brushing together just barely enough to convince Cam that this was really happening. His hand went to Riley’s back, pulling his man closer, and he deepened the kiss just slightly. His cheeks were damp, and he didn’t know if the tears were his or Riley’s. Riley’s lips were moving against his again, forming words.
“Don’t give up on me. Please.” A thumb brushed across his cheek, swiping at the moisture there, and then his arms were empty before his reflexes could kick in to hold Riley there forever. Their hands parted last, arms outstretched in true movie style, and when Riley let go, Cam could almost feel his heart ache with the loss.
“Never,” he whispered.
It does take some time for them to finally meet, so if you are the impatient kind, beware. Because they talked on the phone all the time, it was never a problem for me.
The end was rather abrupt and I was a bit surprised, but I was so happy to read there would be a sequel. But alas, she never wrote one...
December 28, 2013
Anke and I are going to buddy read this one. ( her with an ebook and I'm going to read *gasp* the paperback)
Anyone who would like to join us is more than welcome. :)
Ok, we have a whole gang reading this one..just come over and join in. Here's the link to the BR thread.
http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/1...
I very much enjoyed this author's Inspiration so when I met her at the UKMeet and saw she had a new story out I actually bought the paperback. *cue feeling nostalgic*
I really enjoyed this story. It was unique and different than most of the stories out there, as in the whole relationship develops over the phone and a rare email.
Riley was a typical good looking fun loving young man until a fire scared him three years ago.
He has withdrawn a lot and is so very lonely. He had some friends and he has a great family and of course an adorable pooch but he misses the touch and the love of another person.
Cameron is lonely too, although I think it takes him a while to realize it. He had a boyfriend for a few years, but now without him and looking at his life a little differently he sees that he is actually pretty much alone too. Oh he has co-workers, but no family and no love.
I know that some people found the long drawn out telephone conversations and Riley's refusal to meet Cam in person tedious, but I didn't. Not at all, although I can see how some people would feel that way.
It helped me see why Cam was willing to wait and have such patience with Riley and his hang-ups and fears, even when Cam had no idea what Riley's reasons for not giving him more were.
I loved how they talked about everyday, mundane and even boring things, they got to know each other without all the pressure on Riley about his scars and it gave them both a friend, I think they needed that even more than a lover.
The calls were the highlight of their day and they came to rely on them.
I understood Riley's fears of losing Cam if he finally gives in and meets him, or that Cam would look at him differently and maybe only pity him, so I wasn't impatient with Riley at all and I loved how Cam, even in his frustration, was willing to give Riley all the time he needed.
Riley sees himself in a far harsher light than those around him, he sees himself as a monster and unworthy or undeserving of love, and I appreciated Cam taking the time and making the effort to try and change that perception, and all of that on the phone, with only words.
I have to say, I melted into a pile of Mandy-goo at the scene in the movie theater.
*sniffs and pats eyes dry*
So sweet and touching and I felt so sad and so happy for both of them at that point, but it was also there that I just knew it was all going to be alright.
Now as much as this story was about Riley overcoming his demons, I wasn't convinced he did, oh, he made progress and the last lines in the book totally made me believe he was right where he needs to be to really get on with his life, but it was Cameron that I felt really really changed, matured and developed as a man.
Finally seeing that his work and that he himself is not the most important thing, and to put someone else's well being and happiness first and his decision to learn from his mistakes with Chris. I loved seeing Cam like that and I was so glad he got his birthday wish. He deserved it.
The ending...well, can't say I loved it, I mean I did love the scene, but not that it ended there, but again, it left me confidant and hopeful.
I will read the next one. ( if I remember that is, someone feel free to poke me and tell me when it's out).
The supporting characters like Drew and Riley's mother great and I would love Drew to get his man in the sequel.
The author also put in a few little nods to the m/m genre that made me smile. I have a dog named Bella too, but the story of how she got her name wasn't as cute as Riley's ( I am also a huge fan of that book) and the little nod to other authors like Augusta Li ( I got to meet her Manchester) added a little bit of that 'extra' for me.
Anyone who would like to join us is more than welcome. :)
Ok, we have a whole gang reading this one..just come over and join in. Here's the link to the BR thread.
http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/1...
I very much enjoyed this author's Inspiration so when I met her at the UKMeet and saw she had a new story out I actually bought the paperback. *cue feeling nostalgic*
I really enjoyed this story. It was unique and different than most of the stories out there, as in the whole relationship develops over the phone and a rare email.
Riley was a typical good looking fun loving young man until a fire scared him three years ago.
He has withdrawn a lot and is so very lonely. He had some friends and he has a great family and of course an adorable pooch but he misses the touch and the love of another person.
Cameron is lonely too, although I think it takes him a while to realize it. He had a boyfriend for a few years, but now without him and looking at his life a little differently he sees that he is actually pretty much alone too. Oh he has co-workers, but no family and no love.
I know that some people found the long drawn out telephone conversations and Riley's refusal to meet Cam in person tedious, but I didn't. Not at all, although I can see how some people would feel that way.
It helped me see why Cam was willing to wait and have such patience with Riley and his hang-ups and fears, even when Cam had no idea what Riley's reasons for not giving him more were.
I loved how they talked about everyday, mundane and even boring things, they got to know each other without all the pressure on Riley about his scars and it gave them both a friend, I think they needed that even more than a lover.
The calls were the highlight of their day and they came to rely on them.
I understood Riley's fears of losing Cam if he finally gives in and meets him, or that Cam would look at him differently and maybe only pity him, so I wasn't impatient with Riley at all and I loved how Cam, even in his frustration, was willing to give Riley all the time he needed.
Riley sees himself in a far harsher light than those around him, he sees himself as a monster and unworthy or undeserving of love, and I appreciated Cam taking the time and making the effort to try and change that perception, and all of that on the phone, with only words.
I have to say, I melted into a pile of Mandy-goo at the scene in the movie theater.
*sniffs and pats eyes dry*
So sweet and touching and I felt so sad and so happy for both of them at that point, but it was also there that I just knew it was all going to be alright.
Now as much as this story was about Riley overcoming his demons, I wasn't convinced he did, oh, he made progress and the last lines in the book totally made me believe he was right where he needs to be to really get on with his life, but it was Cameron that I felt really really changed, matured and developed as a man.
Finally seeing that his work and that he himself is not the most important thing, and to put someone else's well being and happiness first and his decision to learn from his mistakes with Chris. I loved seeing Cam like that and I was so glad he got his birthday wish. He deserved it.
The ending...well, can't say I loved it, I mean I did love the scene, but not that it ended there, but again, it left me confidant and hopeful.
I will read the next one. ( if I remember that is, someone feel free to poke me and tell me when it's out).
The supporting characters like Drew and Riley's mother great and I would love Drew to get his man in the sequel.
The author also put in a few little nods to the m/m genre that made me smile. I have a dog named Bella too, but the story of how she got her name wasn't as cute as Riley's ( I am also a huge fan of that book) and the little nod to other authors like Augusta Li ( I got to meet her Manchester) added a little bit of that 'extra' for me.
April 5, 2019
reRead May/2014
GOD I love Riley and Cam.
Sigh
5 STARS
5 STARS
5 STARS
DID YOU HEAR ME??????
5 OMG I WANT TO CRAWL INSIDE THIS BOOK AND NEVER EVER EVER LEAVE IT STARS
THIS BOOK MADE ME..... IT MADE ME FEEL SOO MUCH! FEEL SOO MUCH FEELINGS... I FELT EVERYTHING.
EVERY.SINGLE.SOLITARY.FEELING.
Riley is scarred, damaged, burnt, scared, alone. So when he finds a # for a sex line he calls and what he gets is way more than he could have ever imagined.
Cam is alone, a workaholic, funny, charismatic
The chance encounters made my heart weep.... weep. With joy, with hurt, with pain, with love, with want, with anticipation. IT MADE ME FEEL HOPE
"Ah, but that's the thing about hope, Riley-it can survive in the face of absolutely abysmal odds.. It has no rhyme or reason, and you have no control over my hope. The only person who can dash my hope is me, when I decide to give up on you. So you can hang up on me right now and tell me never to call you again, and I'll keep on hoping.
BUTTERFLIES.FROM.PAGE.1.TILL.THE.END
I COULD NOT READ ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS ONE. I NEEDED A BIT TO COME TO GRIPS WITH THE FACT THAT THE RIDE WAS OVER.... FOR NOW.... BUT I WILL GET TO THAT
THE WORDS WRITTEN IN THIS BOOK, THE CONVERSATIONS, THE INTIMACY, WILL EAT AT YOUR SOUL. EAT.AT.IT
"There's something about lying in the dark with someone baring your soul, you know? I think, in a way, it's my safe place. If I've had this conversation, then when the walls start closing in, I can shut my eyes and I'm safe in the dark, knowing I'm not alone because there's someone else's voice right there with me. I don't think there's anything in this world more lonely than light and silence."
THEIR 1ST DATE, HANDS DOWN THE SWEETEST MOST AMAZING THING EVER. EVER. EVER
THE FIRST KISS! OMG! THE FIRST KISS STOLE MY BREATH AWAY
"Close your eyes," he murmured, breath and words caressing Cam's ear, and Cam shuddered as he complied..... 'His hand went to Riley's back, pulling the man closer, and he deepened the kiss just slightly. Riley came willingly, opening under Cameron's mouth in a silent, sobbing desperation that called to Cam's own. His cheeks were damp, and he didn't know of the tears were his or Riley's. Maybe both. It didn't matter. All that mattered-all that existed-was the man in his armsm and if this was the only chance he would ever get to kiss Riley, then he never wanted to stop'
EPIC... EPIC.....FUCKING EPIC!!!!!!!
THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK WAS MY UNDOING. I WAS AT MY NEPHEW'S TOURNAMENT, WAITING FOR HIM TO FIGHT, AND I WAS SITTING ON THE GROUND WITH TEARS STREAMING DOWN MY FACE. STREAMING.DOWN.MY.FACE
IMAGINE FINALLY MAKING LOVE TO THE MAN OF YOUR DREAMS, YOUR WHOLE WORLD, WRAPPED UP IN HIM AND ALL YOU HAVE IN THE SENSE OF FEEL AND SMELL AND TOUCH. IMAGINE. THIS WAS WHERE I COMPLETELY AND UTTERLY FELL APART. IMAGINE LOVING A MAN SO MUCH THAT YOU WOULD DO ANYTHING FOR HIM, EVEN COVER YOUR EYES WHEN ALL YOU WANNA DO IS STARE IN THEM.
AND THEN..... IT HAPPENS.... AND THEN.... THE END
OMG OMG OMG I CANNOT BELIEVE IT ENDED THIS WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I.CANNOT.BELIEVE!
Henrietta, please be nice to me and make book 2 come in early 2014. PLEASE. HEAR MY PRAYERS
READ.THIS.BOOK.NOW
READ IT
Mare~Slitsread
GOD I love Riley and Cam.
Sigh
5 STARS
5 STARS
5 STARS
DID YOU HEAR ME??????
5 OMG I WANT TO CRAWL INSIDE THIS BOOK AND NEVER EVER EVER LEAVE IT STARS
THIS BOOK MADE ME..... IT MADE ME FEEL SOO MUCH! FEEL SOO MUCH FEELINGS... I FELT EVERYTHING.
EVERY.SINGLE.SOLITARY.FEELING.
Riley is scarred, damaged, burnt, scared, alone. So when he finds a # for a sex line he calls and what he gets is way more than he could have ever imagined.
Cam is alone, a workaholic, funny, charismatic
The chance encounters made my heart weep.... weep. With joy, with hurt, with pain, with love, with want, with anticipation. IT MADE ME FEEL HOPE
"Ah, but that's the thing about hope, Riley-it can survive in the face of absolutely abysmal odds.. It has no rhyme or reason, and you have no control over my hope. The only person who can dash my hope is me, when I decide to give up on you. So you can hang up on me right now and tell me never to call you again, and I'll keep on hoping.
BUTTERFLIES.FROM.PAGE.1.TILL.THE.END
I COULD NOT READ ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS ONE. I NEEDED A BIT TO COME TO GRIPS WITH THE FACT THAT THE RIDE WAS OVER.... FOR NOW.... BUT I WILL GET TO THAT
THE WORDS WRITTEN IN THIS BOOK, THE CONVERSATIONS, THE INTIMACY, WILL EAT AT YOUR SOUL. EAT.AT.IT
"There's something about lying in the dark with someone baring your soul, you know? I think, in a way, it's my safe place. If I've had this conversation, then when the walls start closing in, I can shut my eyes and I'm safe in the dark, knowing I'm not alone because there's someone else's voice right there with me. I don't think there's anything in this world more lonely than light and silence."
THEIR 1ST DATE, HANDS DOWN THE SWEETEST MOST AMAZING THING EVER. EVER. EVER
THE FIRST KISS! OMG! THE FIRST KISS STOLE MY BREATH AWAY
"Close your eyes," he murmured, breath and words caressing Cam's ear, and Cam shuddered as he complied..... 'His hand went to Riley's back, pulling the man closer, and he deepened the kiss just slightly. Riley came willingly, opening under Cameron's mouth in a silent, sobbing desperation that called to Cam's own. His cheeks were damp, and he didn't know of the tears were his or Riley's. Maybe both. It didn't matter. All that mattered-all that existed-was the man in his armsm and if this was the only chance he would ever get to kiss Riley, then he never wanted to stop'
EPIC... EPIC.....FUCKING EPIC!!!!!!!
THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK WAS MY UNDOING. I WAS AT MY NEPHEW'S TOURNAMENT, WAITING FOR HIM TO FIGHT, AND I WAS SITTING ON THE GROUND WITH TEARS STREAMING DOWN MY FACE. STREAMING.DOWN.MY.FACE
IMAGINE FINALLY MAKING LOVE TO THE MAN OF YOUR DREAMS, YOUR WHOLE WORLD, WRAPPED UP IN HIM AND ALL YOU HAVE IN THE SENSE OF FEEL AND SMELL AND TOUCH. IMAGINE. THIS WAS WHERE I COMPLETELY AND UTTERLY FELL APART. IMAGINE LOVING A MAN SO MUCH THAT YOU WOULD DO ANYTHING FOR HIM, EVEN COVER YOUR EYES WHEN ALL YOU WANNA DO IS STARE IN THEM.
AND THEN..... IT HAPPENS.... AND THEN.... THE END
OMG OMG OMG I CANNOT BELIEVE IT ENDED THIS WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I.CANNOT.BELIEVE!
Henrietta, please be nice to me and make book 2 come in early 2014. PLEASE. HEAR MY PRAYERS
READ.THIS.BOOK.NOW
READ IT
Mare~Slitsread
July 11, 2013
1.5 stars
Riley has a scar on his face. When he calls the number on a phone-sex ad, it turns out it belongs to Cameron, whose ex-boyfriend put in the ad as a revenge over their breakup. Soon, they start to talk everyday and have phone sex. They keep their identity secret, especially Riley who keeps declining to even give his last name. He is afraid that Cameron will leave him if he learns how Riley looks.
Meanwhile, Cameron is also attracted to a hot blond guy with scar he sees in coffee shop. Whom will he end up with? No Sherlock is needed to guess it.
The idea is not new. Little Store at the Corner and later You've Got Mail have similar plot: two persons develop a romantic relationship over a media (letters, emails, or in this case, phone). While the concept works for the other stories, at the end it fails here because the author allowed her story to be dragged.
Yes, we have 315 pages where majority of them are about the 2 MCs talking over the phone without any significant development. In a moderate amount, such plot works nicely. Too much, it goes south quickly, especially when it turns into ridiculous and unbelievable scenes.
To me it is very unfortunate since the idea is nice and the writing is smooth.
Riley has a scar on his face. When he calls the number on a phone-sex ad, it turns out it belongs to Cameron, whose ex-boyfriend put in the ad as a revenge over their breakup. Soon, they start to talk everyday and have phone sex. They keep their identity secret, especially Riley who keeps declining to even give his last name. He is afraid that Cameron will leave him if he learns how Riley looks.
Meanwhile, Cameron is also attracted to a hot blond guy with scar he sees in coffee shop. Whom will he end up with? No Sherlock is needed to guess it.
The idea is not new. Little Store at the Corner and later You've Got Mail have similar plot: two persons develop a romantic relationship over a media (letters, emails, or in this case, phone). While the concept works for the other stories, at the end it fails here because the author allowed her story to be dragged.
Yes, we have 315 pages where majority of them are about the 2 MCs talking over the phone without any significant development. In a moderate amount, such plot works nicely. Too much, it goes south quickly, especially when it turns into ridiculous and unbelievable scenes.
To me it is very unfortunate since the idea is nice and the writing is smooth.
July 16, 2015
I had problems getting into this book because I couldn’t stop my mind from wandering. Maybe it’s because the dynamics of the love story were slow in the beginning. So I needed to read more till I could really feel the story. I like the premise pretty much. And it’s funny because it reminded me of
But of course, there is a man in flesh at the other end, so, no worries ;) .
This book is different in a way. The MC don’t meet each other till the very end. And you could think…
Or maybe you wonder “What can you do with only phone calls?”.
So let’s see the plot for a second. Cam is a workaholic who has just broken up with his boyfriend after 4 years of no-future relationship. Riley has been 3 years in a forever-alone mood since that day he burnt his face and arms. Destiny comes and their paths cross when Riley in a very low moment calls a sex phone number, and at the receiving end Cam answers in a very rude way. What begins as a misunderstanding turns into a friendship and the very thing that seemed shallow and stupid changes into deep feelings and thoughts. Soon the everyday call is the most shining time of their lives and Riley is fine that way, but Cam is not.
Because Riley thinks this chemistry-without-pheromones is an illusion, and that this beautiful relationship will be erased the moment Cam sees his face. So, he prefers Cam as a friend in safe way than the uncertainty of a love story together. And he believes that will be enough, but of course, it’s not.
It’s very romantic. In an old-school way. Like falling in love by letters. Like falling in love centuries ago, when the hand was the most you touched from that person. Falling in love with someone you have never touched. Falling in love with his voice, his wits, his personality, his way of thinking… It’s true love. It felt so real I hurt with them both. Because Riley is not ready to come into the light, and Cam is dying for him to do it.
The dialogues are superb, it's amazing the topics you can talk about or the things you can do together without knowing the other person's face, right? ;) I loved the humor and the jokes. But that's nothing if we compare those with some beautiful scenes, like the one in the theatre. Like the happy-birthday one. Not much angst but yes about love, cute and sweet and sincere.
The end was perfect for me. I’ve read opinions saying it was very abrupt, but it didn’t feel that way for me. It felt natural, epic and true. And it makes you wonder about their future together. So a book finishing in a open way but with no loose ends.
October 6, 2016
Sin duda, uno de los libros más románticos que he leído. La premisa de una pareja que primero se conoce por teléfono y donde uno tiene serios problemas de seguridad en sí mismo por la apariencia, prometía mucho, y todo lo que fue prometido es lo que el libro ofreció. Mucho romanticismo, mucha conversación, mucho suspiro.
La autora hace que la relación evolucione hasta su punto culminante de la mejor manera posible, con mucha emoción. Pero, algo falla, el libro necesita un editado, le sobran páginas y a algunas conversaciones les falta mucho ritmo. Está fenomental que sepamos que los protagonistas juegan al Monopoly por teléfono, pero no es necesario que nos cuente cada vez que compra una calle, too much information y no de la mejor. Le sobran algunas páginas y también algún momento en el que la azúcar se sale un poco de madre, sobre todo con la madre de Riley.
Pero, aun con todos los defectos, una historia muy bonita. Solo una cosa más, Henrietta, eso que haces con el final es una putada al lector, y de las gordas. Podríamos decir que el libro sí tiene un final, pero te deja con ganas de mucho más y con un mensaje diciendo que en el 2014 saldrá la segunda parte. Esa segunda parte no llegó, y dudo que ya lo haga, no sé las causas, pero de verdad, lo que os digo, una putada.
Cuando tengáis ganas de una tarde con mucho amor, es un libro estupendo para ello.
La autora hace que la relación evolucione hasta su punto culminante de la mejor manera posible, con mucha emoción. Pero, algo falla, el libro necesita un editado, le sobran páginas y a algunas conversaciones les falta mucho ritmo. Está fenomental que sepamos que los protagonistas juegan al Monopoly por teléfono, pero no es necesario que nos cuente cada vez que compra una calle, too much information y no de la mejor. Le sobran algunas páginas y también algún momento en el que la azúcar se sale un poco de madre, sobre todo con la madre de Riley.
Pero, aun con todos los defectos, una historia muy bonita. Solo una cosa más, Henrietta, eso que haces con el final es una putada al lector, y de las gordas. Podríamos decir que el libro sí tiene un final, pero te deja con ganas de mucho más y con un mensaje diciendo que en el 2014 saldrá la segunda parte. Esa segunda parte no llegó, y dudo que ya lo haga, no sé las causas, pero de verdad, lo que os digo, una putada.
Cuando tengáis ganas de una tarde con mucho amor, es un libro estupendo para ello.
August 4, 2022
3.5 Stars
This is literally the tale of a courtship by conversation.
If you're ok with a slow burn romance that shows how two people fall in love without being encumbered first by looks, and second by visual cues such as body language, then come read this!
I admit at times it might have been a bit slow in some parts but one can empathize with Riley in his insecurity. One can also empathize in Cameron's understandable frustration as well. With palpable angst in the form of want and doubt, the taut UST between these two kept me on edge as their relationship progressed. And as their relationship progressed the emotional turmoil also rose. You could feel Riley's fears. You could feel Cameron's yearning. Once Riley acknowledges the possibility of being with Cameron, this is where the book takes off.
Of course there's a happy ending - it's the journey that made it worth getting there!
This is literally the tale of a courtship by conversation.
If you're ok with a slow burn romance that shows how two people fall in love without being encumbered first by looks, and second by visual cues such as body language, then come read this!
I admit at times it might have been a bit slow in some parts but one can empathize with Riley in his insecurity. One can also empathize in Cameron's understandable frustration as well. With palpable angst in the form of want and doubt, the taut UST between these two kept me on edge as their relationship progressed. And as their relationship progressed the emotional turmoil also rose. You could feel Riley's fears. You could feel Cameron's yearning. Once Riley acknowledges the possibility of being with Cameron, this is where the book takes off.
Of course there's a happy ending - it's the journey that made it worth getting there!
October 30, 2016
The Truth about Riley by Henrietta Clarke
Wow impressive story...it made me laugh and cry it had everything.
Two standing characters that's what this story us about.
The interactions between Riley and Cameron.
The first time Cameron hears Riley's voice he is very annoyed because this is his fortieth phone call from a guy who wants phonesex...wrong number off course. Cameron's ex final action.
Cameron is rude and shouts and disconnect the call. He doesn't know it took Riley a while to finally make the call because Riley is lonely, deeply hurt, scarred and desperate.
In a gust he calls again to set things straight about Cameron behavior.
They talk and the like each other. And they grow to each other. Cameron want to meet him in person but Riley doesn't give in he won't show his scarred face.
What follows is an unbelievable sweet, funny, witty and sensual interaction, the dialogue between two men.......on the phone......
The feelings are all over the floor. We get to know the two guys not just... but their whole life.
And that is the power of this story....the phone calls....they getting to know each other....looking out to their next call. They live for the calls.
We learn to know them and their background and Riley's family special Riley's mom....she is the queen of this story my god I loved her so much. The monumental moment at the Coffee House when she stands up and.....well.....read it yourself.....
Cameron is getting desperate to see Riley and Riley can't give in...the feeling being ugly and the moment Cameron will realize how he looks like and how disgusted he will be.
Heartbreaking and it did make me cry several times.
It's a very sensitive story, well developed, but I must say at some moments a wanted to grab them both by the heads and put them together like 'here you go, stop fooling around' but it had no dull moment.
Original concept and it really worked well.
Wow impressive story...it made me laugh and cry it had everything.
Two standing characters that's what this story us about.
The interactions between Riley and Cameron.
The first time Cameron hears Riley's voice he is very annoyed because this is his fortieth phone call from a guy who wants phonesex...wrong number off course. Cameron's ex final action.
Cameron is rude and shouts and disconnect the call. He doesn't know it took Riley a while to finally make the call because Riley is lonely, deeply hurt, scarred and desperate.
In a gust he calls again to set things straight about Cameron behavior.
They talk and the like each other. And they grow to each other. Cameron want to meet him in person but Riley doesn't give in he won't show his scarred face.
What follows is an unbelievable sweet, funny, witty and sensual interaction, the dialogue between two men.......on the phone......
The feelings are all over the floor. We get to know the two guys not just... but their whole life.
And that is the power of this story....the phone calls....they getting to know each other....looking out to their next call. They live for the calls.
We learn to know them and their background and Riley's family special Riley's mom....she is the queen of this story my god I loved her so much. The monumental moment at the Coffee House when she stands up and.....well.....read it yourself.....
Cameron is getting desperate to see Riley and Riley can't give in...the feeling being ugly and the moment Cameron will realize how he looks like and how disgusted he will be.
Heartbreaking and it did make me cry several times.
It's a very sensitive story, well developed, but I must say at some moments a wanted to grab them both by the heads and put them together like 'here you go, stop fooling around' but it had no dull moment.
Original concept and it really worked well.
July 17, 2013
Maybe this book went on a bit too long, and it drew out the frustration with Riley near the breaking point, as other readers have suggested, but I guess I'm a sucker, because I adored nearly every word.
This is a true SLOW burn romance, and had I known that "the end" wasn't going to be the end, but really, the beginning of a story to be continued next year, I probably wouldn't have read it yet, but I am so glad I didn't know that. This book pulled me in in a way that no book has in a while.
Riley was scarred three years ago in a fire, and apparently, has only met shallow people who recoiled at the mere sight of his scars. Understandably, Riley is lonely and very very wary. When he and Cam strike up a phone only relationship, he has a very hard time trusting in Cam.
The phone calls were at turns funny, sexy, moving, and sad, and I spent my night/morning alternating between laughs and tears.
My heart broke over and over for both of these men, so loveable in their own ways, and I can't wait to see how it goes now that they have finally really met face to face.
This is a true SLOW burn romance, and had I known that "the end" wasn't going to be the end, but really, the beginning of a story to be continued next year, I probably wouldn't have read it yet, but I am so glad I didn't know that. This book pulled me in in a way that no book has in a while.
Riley was scarred three years ago in a fire, and apparently, has only met shallow people who recoiled at the mere sight of his scars. Understandably, Riley is lonely and very very wary. When he and Cam strike up a phone only relationship, he has a very hard time trusting in Cam.
The phone calls were at turns funny, sexy, moving, and sad, and I spent my night/morning alternating between laughs and tears.
My heart broke over and over for both of these men, so loveable in their own ways, and I can't wait to see how it goes now that they have finally really met face to face.
October 10, 2016
Me ha gustado mucho^^
No pensé que iba a resultar una lectura tan bonita, la parte central del libro es tediosa (claramente necesita algo de edición) y me hizo replantearme si continuar o no. Visto lo visto, mereció la pena!!!!!
Leedlo, es romántico hasta decir basta y aunque parece que va a ser un cliché detrás de otro, para nada, la autora se la juega y gana, resuelve el puzzle de forma fantástica.
Cam y Riley son AMORRRRRRRRRRR
No pensé que iba a resultar una lectura tan bonita, la parte central del libro es tediosa (claramente necesita algo de edición) y me hizo replantearme si continuar o no. Visto lo visto, mereció la pena!!!!!
Leedlo, es romántico hasta decir basta y aunque parece que va a ser un cliché detrás de otro, para nada, la autora se la juega y gana, resuelve el puzzle de forma fantástica.
Cam y Riley son AMORRRRRRRRRRR
August 26, 2013
This was a rather disappointing read. It started out quite nicely but didn't really make it to a realistic romance. It was part sappy fairy tale and part boring dialogue.
I appreciate that the author tried to show and not only tell how the MCs fell in love over their phone conversations. But the dialogues were just not that good. Riley came across as obsessed with his looks - which didn't make him more fascinating, but left me at a loss. Yes, I can imagine that what happened to him and his encountering insensitive people must have been hard. But the fact that he was only concerned about what people might think about his look make him appear incredible shallow. Basically the superficial pretty party boy who lost his only means for confidence: his looks.
And for Cameron: I didn't dig the "wouldn't date him if he was over-weight" line - that is utter bullsh*t, if the messagge is supposed to be falling in love with someone based on great conversations. The logic that overweight is worse than a badly scarred face is quite strange and doesn't endear Cameron to me (although he didn't know about the scars at this point).
I didn't like that in Cam's point of view Riley would be okay to date, because he was slim enough to wear skinny jeans. Wow. That is so shallow.
It made the whole pretense of this novel pointless for me.
Don't get me wrong: I am absolutely fine with people who say they have a type and that type can be slim, brunet, tall or curvy - whatever. BUT if the "special" thing about this romance is how two guys fall in love over the phone a little less obsession with looks would have been nice. This way it felt to me like it was only ok for them to fall in love because they were both gorgeous and the only problem really was that Riley was insecure because of his scars (but in reality he was still beautiful because of his incredible bone structure, hot body etc.).
I appreciate that the author tried to show and not only tell how the MCs fell in love over their phone conversations. But the dialogues were just not that good. Riley came across as obsessed with his looks - which didn't make him more fascinating, but left me at a loss. Yes, I can imagine that what happened to him and his encountering insensitive people must have been hard. But the fact that he was only concerned about what people might think about his look make him appear incredible shallow. Basically the superficial pretty party boy who lost his only means for confidence: his looks.
And for Cameron: I didn't dig the "wouldn't date him if he was over-weight" line - that is utter bullsh*t, if the messagge is supposed to be falling in love with someone based on great conversations. The logic that overweight is worse than a badly scarred face is quite strange and doesn't endear Cameron to me (although he didn't know about the scars at this point).
I didn't like that in Cam's point of view Riley would be okay to date, because he was slim enough to wear skinny jeans. Wow. That is so shallow.
It made the whole pretense of this novel pointless for me.
Don't get me wrong: I am absolutely fine with people who say they have a type and that type can be slim, brunet, tall or curvy - whatever. BUT if the "special" thing about this romance is how two guys fall in love over the phone a little less obsession with looks would have been nice. This way it felt to me like it was only ok for them to fall in love because they were both gorgeous and the only problem really was that Riley was insecure because of his scars (but in reality he was still beautiful because of his incredible bone structure, hot body etc.).
August 3, 2013
This was a nice story about two men falling for each other and although I enjoyed it and will read the next in the series I found this a hard book to finish at times and had to push myself to complete it. There's a very slow build up and lots of Riley's backstory isn't addressed, I'm assuming that will be fleshed out in book 2.
Riley has a lot of issues due to his scars but it took a really long time for him to trust Cameron and I found that frustrating to the point of almost DNFing the read. I'm glad I kept on, the payoff is a good one and I do like the characters and the unique way they fall in love.
A good read if you're looking for a slow burn romance with sweet characters and a straight forward pretty angst light storyline.
Riley has a lot of issues due to his scars but it took a really long time for him to trust Cameron and I found that frustrating to the point of almost DNFing the read. I'm glad I kept on, the payoff is a good one and I do like the characters and the unique way they fall in love.
A good read if you're looking for a slow burn romance with sweet characters and a straight forward pretty angst light storyline.
July 25, 2013
3.75* Buddy read with my awesome GR friends July 2013
I'm a bit on the fence with this book. I can't deny I enjoyed it, it was very endearing but I did get a little bored at the beginning when the two of them are constantly on the phone. I know ... I know, that's the whole idea and its a great idea but for me it just dragged itself out a little too long. Most of the conversations were cute and funny, some poignant because of the circumstances and to be fair never boring, although I did find the movie ' watching ' scene whilst on the phone a bit twee, they just took up a bit too much of the story for little old me.
Riley and Cam were extremely endearing and I'd have been quite happy to see them keep that dance going for say 50%/ 60% of the book but after that I started getting a little antsy waiting for that final face to face meeting. I understood Riley's reluctance but I also thought Cam was VERY patient at times! Possibly a little bit more interaction in between those conversations to balance it out would have helped. .
There are a couple of lovely sigh worthy moments, and I think anyone who reads it will know the ones I mean and of course you get some woohoo phone sex to liven things, and I must say that was pitched just right, because Henrietta could have gone the route of overdoing it to compensate but she didn't, so that's why I finished it feeling more happy than not. I think I might even read it through again sometime, I have a feeling a second time around might give me a better perspective on it all because I did have a few interruptions that made it less of a smooth read. My bad not the story's. It's very easy to read and I do like Henrietta's writing style.
I also grew very fond of Drew and I'd be very happy to read his story but at the moment I'm not sure about the follow up to Riley and Cam. I thought the ending was a bit odd. I know there is going to be a sequel but even so it didn't feel quite right, it felt too abrupt considering the scene that preceded it. Having been made to wait sooo long for that particular moment it just took an edge off... I wanted more and I wanted it then!
So its just under the 4 star rating for myself, nearly but not quite there. However its rounded up because of all the positives I got from it and there were enough of those to keep me smiling.
I'm a bit on the fence with this book. I can't deny I enjoyed it, it was very endearing but I did get a little bored at the beginning when the two of them are constantly on the phone. I know ... I know, that's the whole idea and its a great idea but for me it just dragged itself out a little too long. Most of the conversations were cute and funny, some poignant because of the circumstances and to be fair never boring, although I did find the movie ' watching ' scene whilst on the phone a bit twee, they just took up a bit too much of the story for little old me.
Riley and Cam were extremely endearing and I'd have been quite happy to see them keep that dance going for say 50%/ 60% of the book but after that I started getting a little antsy waiting for that final face to face meeting. I understood Riley's reluctance but I also thought Cam was VERY patient at times! Possibly a little bit more interaction in between those conversations to balance it out would have helped. .
There are a couple of lovely sigh worthy moments, and I think anyone who reads it will know the ones I mean and of course you get some woohoo phone sex to liven things, and I must say that was pitched just right, because Henrietta could have gone the route of overdoing it to compensate but she didn't, so that's why I finished it feeling more happy than not. I think I might even read it through again sometime, I have a feeling a second time around might give me a better perspective on it all because I did have a few interruptions that made it less of a smooth read. My bad not the story's. It's very easy to read and I do like Henrietta's writing style.
I also grew very fond of Drew and I'd be very happy to read his story but at the moment I'm not sure about the follow up to Riley and Cam. I thought the ending was a bit odd. I know there is going to be a sequel but even so it didn't feel quite right, it felt too abrupt considering the scene that preceded it. Having been made to wait sooo long for that particular moment it just took an edge off... I wanted more and I wanted it then!
So its just under the 4 star rating for myself, nearly but not quite there. However its rounded up because of all the positives I got from it and there were enough of those to keep me smiling.
June 27, 2016
4.5 stars - charming and very different read!
In The Turth About Riley, Henrietta Clarke shows in a very impressive way how powerful words can be. Riley has been scarred during a fire and hasn't been dating since - due to the fear of being rejected. When calling an ad for phone sex, he meets Cameron who became victime of his ex-boyfriends weird sense of vengeance.
After clearing the misunderstanding, one phone call leads to another and soon a wunderful friendship starts to develop. I was charmed by the way Cam and Riley interacted during their conversations, how well I got to know them solely through their talks. I couldn't believe what people can do without seeing each other - having dates, playing Monoploy and much more.
I have to admit that it was a very slow-burn, but it felt very credible and I couldn't wait for these two to finaly meet each other and start their happy-ever-after. I was a little frustrated by Riley's relucance towards the end, but I really enjoyed this special tale about the power of words and their importance in a relationship.
The author hinted that their might be a sequel, but there doesn't seem to be one yet and I'm not even sure if this story really needs one. I felt very satisfied at the end and I can only rate this book with 4.5 stars!
In The Turth About Riley, Henrietta Clarke shows in a very impressive way how powerful words can be. Riley has been scarred during a fire and hasn't been dating since - due to the fear of being rejected. When calling an ad for phone sex, he meets Cameron who became victime of his ex-boyfriends weird sense of vengeance.
After clearing the misunderstanding, one phone call leads to another and soon a wunderful friendship starts to develop. I was charmed by the way Cam and Riley interacted during their conversations, how well I got to know them solely through their talks. I couldn't believe what people can do without seeing each other - having dates, playing Monoploy and much more.
I have to admit that it was a very slow-burn, but it felt very credible and I couldn't wait for these two to finaly meet each other and start their happy-ever-after. I was a little frustrated by Riley's relucance towards the end, but I really enjoyed this special tale about the power of words and their importance in a relationship.
The author hinted that their might be a sequel, but there doesn't seem to be one yet and I'm not even sure if this story really needs one. I felt very satisfied at the end and I can only rate this book with 4.5 stars!
April 5, 2016
Sweet, and romantic, but Riley got on my nerves twoards the end. I understand his issues, but it got old; like it had been dragged out just a bit too long. I really liked the supporting cast, and I'm hoping that Drew gets his own book in the future. I quite liked his part in the story, and wish that Riley had taken his advice a bit sooner.
Want to read
June 24, 2013I have. *claps hands excitedly*
Tee-hee
July 25, 2013
This book is gorgeous. It is a heart-felt story of how one man's love finally convinces another of his beauty.
Through a series of telephone conversations and over a period of months, Cameron and Riley share their thoughts and feelings and develop a deep connection. It is so easy to like both Cameron and Riley. Through conversations we learn that both men are intelligent and witty and kind.
But Riley is a haunted by his own face in the mirror and can't believe anyone would be able to see past his scars. It is so sad and heartbreaking to read of him referring to himself as a monster. However this made it even more beautiful when Riley finally starts to understand how Cameron sees him..."You're just the same as everyone else, Cam's voice said in his head. You're not a freak, not an outcast. You just need to find the right person to walk through life with. Your load may be heavier, but you don't have to carry it alone."
I appreciated the slow journey of the relationship, sure it was frustrating for the two to take so long to meet, but it made their final getting together so much more meaningful.
There are some very special romantic moments in the story and some beautiful 'firsts' - first touch, first kiss - but the most romantic element to me was towards the end of the book where Cam used songs to send special messages to Riley, messages about love, support and inner beauty. Click here for the songs
The ending was wonderful as the trust and love shown by Cameron ensures Riley finally realises the truth and what is really important to him.
The author closes the book with mention of a continuation of Cam and Riley's story in 2014 so something to look forward to! Yes, I would like to see more of them, particularly as they are now actually in the same room together! But I do feel that this book can be read very much as a standalone. The ending didn't leave me feeling that anything was missing or unresolved.
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
Through a series of telephone conversations and over a period of months, Cameron and Riley share their thoughts and feelings and develop a deep connection. It is so easy to like both Cameron and Riley. Through conversations we learn that both men are intelligent and witty and kind.
But Riley is a haunted by his own face in the mirror and can't believe anyone would be able to see past his scars. It is so sad and heartbreaking to read of him referring to himself as a monster. However this made it even more beautiful when Riley finally starts to understand how Cameron sees him..."You're just the same as everyone else, Cam's voice said in his head. You're not a freak, not an outcast. You just need to find the right person to walk through life with. Your load may be heavier, but you don't have to carry it alone."
I appreciated the slow journey of the relationship, sure it was frustrating for the two to take so long to meet, but it made their final getting together so much more meaningful.
There are some very special romantic moments in the story and some beautiful 'firsts' - first touch, first kiss - but the most romantic element to me was towards the end of the book where Cam used songs to send special messages to Riley, messages about love, support and inner beauty. Click here for the songs
The ending was wonderful as the trust and love shown by Cameron ensures Riley finally realises the truth and what is really important to him.
The author closes the book with mention of a continuation of Cam and Riley's story in 2014 so something to look forward to! Yes, I would like to see more of them, particularly as they are now actually in the same room together! But I do feel that this book can be read very much as a standalone. The ending didn't leave me feeling that anything was missing or unresolved.
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
July 24, 2013
Buddy read 7/22 - Thanks, guys!
First, let me say how much I enjoyed this slow buildup telephonic romance. It was very different from any other I've read, and I loved how they got to know each other and rely on their conversations. It did take a wee bit of getting used to, but I ended up not minding them at all. I did get a smidgen frustrated with Riley's insistence on Cam never seeing him, but I really enjoyed the way they found ways around that via the telephone dates. One of my favorite scenes was the movie theater date which was just super sweet and had me holding my breath.
I never would have thought I would enjoy reading so many phone sex scenes! But, each one had such a different feel, and you could tell how much they were feeling about each other. I was thrilled when Riley finally gave in to the first one.
I was sad that we never really got the details behind Riley's scarring, other than that he was in a fire. I was hoping he would have explained some of it to Cam at one point or another. There are a lot of sweet moments in this story, and the ending is no exception. While I enjoyed the scene itself, after the way the rest of the story was drawn out, the way it ended just seemed a little abrupt.
I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what direction the next book takes and how Riley and Cam are doing.
First, let me say how much I enjoyed this slow buildup telephonic romance. It was very different from any other I've read, and I loved how they got to know each other and rely on their conversations. It did take a wee bit of getting used to, but I ended up not minding them at all. I did get a smidgen frustrated with Riley's insistence on Cam never seeing him, but I really enjoyed the way they found ways around that via the telephone dates. One of my favorite scenes was the movie theater date which was just super sweet and had me holding my breath.
I never would have thought I would enjoy reading so many phone sex scenes! But, each one had such a different feel, and you could tell how much they were feeling about each other. I was thrilled when Riley finally gave in to the first one.
I was sad that we never really got the details behind Riley's scarring, other than that he was in a fire. I was hoping he would have explained some of it to Cam at one point or another. There are a lot of sweet moments in this story, and the ending is no exception. While I enjoyed the scene itself, after the way the rest of the story was drawn out, the way it ended just seemed a little abrupt.
I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what direction the next book takes and how Riley and Cam are doing.
July 12, 2015
4.5 Stars
Last night when choosing a new book to read, I was in the mood for something a bit different than my norm. The Truth About Riley fit the bill nicely.
Riley is a man who is scarred from a fire three years ago. He's beautiful, though he no longer sees that and he's faced a fair amount of rejection since trying to come back out of his shell. Before the fire, Riley was more than a little vain and definitely not in the market for anything resembling a relationship. He was young and was going to enjoy the ride as long as he could.
Unfortunately, that fire took that away from him and now, after being alone for so long, he would love nothing more than some actual intimacy. Someone he could call 'boyfriend'. Someone to love and to love him. Some of that is undoubtedly age and some loneliness. Fate can be a cruel bitch sometimes, yeah? The thing is, though, Riley is smart, funny and, even though he doesn't believe it and doesn't see it, beautiful. Yeah, the scars are prominent, but they don't take away from who he really is.
In a moment of desperation, Riley responds to an add in a gay magazine regarding phone sex. Turns out, the add was the product of a vindictive ex-boyfriend of the man behind the phone number. Cameron is an advertising executive and over the last couple of days he has answered 40 calls for this phone sex line. Beyond frustrated with it, when number 40 called, Cam yelled at the poor guy and hung up. Riley (number 40), called back and did some yelling of his own. And they talk and become friends.
The vast majority of this book takes place with Riley and Cameron talking to each other on the phone. Riley doesn't want to meet, because he fears rejection. Cameron exercises the patience of something I'm pretty sure doesn't exist and no matter how frustrated Cam gets, he really likes Riley and respects his need for time. They don't even have phone sex for weeks (and when they finally do, it is hot). They simply spend time actually getting to know one another. And, though there are so many ways this could go wrong, in this story, it goes right.
"You cannot be expected to see the painting when you are standing inside it."
There's a lesson here in this story that I think most of us could benefit from. No matter how many flaws we see in ourselves, someone who is worthy of us will see past them. But we also have to have the courage to overcome our own fears and see that we are also worthy. There were points in this story that were so beautiful, they brought tears to my eyes. And a few that made my heart break a little. Also, I want Riley's mother for my own. She was all kinds of awesome.
In short (too late), I highly recommend this book. It's really beautiful.
Last night when choosing a new book to read, I was in the mood for something a bit different than my norm. The Truth About Riley fit the bill nicely.
Riley is a man who is scarred from a fire three years ago. He's beautiful, though he no longer sees that and he's faced a fair amount of rejection since trying to come back out of his shell. Before the fire, Riley was more than a little vain and definitely not in the market for anything resembling a relationship. He was young and was going to enjoy the ride as long as he could.
Unfortunately, that fire took that away from him and now, after being alone for so long, he would love nothing more than some actual intimacy. Someone he could call 'boyfriend'. Someone to love and to love him. Some of that is undoubtedly age and some loneliness. Fate can be a cruel bitch sometimes, yeah? The thing is, though, Riley is smart, funny and, even though he doesn't believe it and doesn't see it, beautiful. Yeah, the scars are prominent, but they don't take away from who he really is.
In a moment of desperation, Riley responds to an add in a gay magazine regarding phone sex. Turns out, the add was the product of a vindictive ex-boyfriend of the man behind the phone number. Cameron is an advertising executive and over the last couple of days he has answered 40 calls for this phone sex line. Beyond frustrated with it, when number 40 called, Cam yelled at the poor guy and hung up. Riley (number 40), called back and did some yelling of his own. And they talk and become friends.
The vast majority of this book takes place with Riley and Cameron talking to each other on the phone. Riley doesn't want to meet, because he fears rejection. Cameron exercises the patience of something I'm pretty sure doesn't exist and no matter how frustrated Cam gets, he really likes Riley and respects his need for time. They don't even have phone sex for weeks (and when they finally do, it is hot). They simply spend time actually getting to know one another. And, though there are so many ways this could go wrong, in this story, it goes right.
"You cannot be expected to see the painting when you are standing inside it."
There's a lesson here in this story that I think most of us could benefit from. No matter how many flaws we see in ourselves, someone who is worthy of us will see past them. But we also have to have the courage to overcome our own fears and see that we are also worthy. There were points in this story that were so beautiful, they brought tears to my eyes. And a few that made my heart break a little. Also, I want Riley's mother for my own. She was all kinds of awesome.
In short (too late), I highly recommend this book. It's really beautiful.
July 24, 2013
Where to beginn? The blurb was very interesting, I liked the cover, I bought it. Then my good friend Mandy asked about doing a BR. Great!
Overall it was a nice book; the idea was great and I really like the writing style of this author. Sadly there were several things bothering me. First, the blurb is about 80% of the story. I thought that there would be about 60% following the end of the blurb, sadly that wasn't so. Second, I liked the idea of getting to know each other and in the end falling for each other over the phone. It didn't disturb me in the least that they talked about all the mundane stuff happening.
But - and this is a big but, I was waiting for their actual meeting far too long. I think this whole part could have been shorten significantly without taken away from the story. I especially lost my patience when Riley still refused to meet Cam although both finally knew who the other was. There were two very nice scenes until finally they had their 'real' meeting in the end. Which gets me to my last big but, the ending, or better the no ending. I don't like it when authors end their books with a cliffhanger or construct the end of their story to force the reader to buy the next one. In this case now, the final scene wasn't finished. Might be, it's a fitting end for some readers, not for this one. It's only missing a few pages or some kind of epilogue. As it is now, I'm not sure I will buy the next book.
4 stars for the idea and the wonderful writing style, minus 1 star for unnecessary drawing out.
Overall it was a nice book; the idea was great and I really like the writing style of this author. Sadly there were several things bothering me. First, the blurb is about 80% of the story. I thought that there would be about 60% following the end of the blurb, sadly that wasn't so. Second, I liked the idea of getting to know each other and in the end falling for each other over the phone. It didn't disturb me in the least that they talked about all the mundane stuff happening.
But - and this is a big but, I was waiting for their actual meeting far too long. I think this whole part could have been shorten significantly without taken away from the story. I especially lost my patience when Riley still refused to meet Cam although both finally knew who the other was. There were two very nice scenes until finally they had their 'real' meeting in the end. Which gets me to my last big but, the ending, or better the no ending. I don't like it when authors end their books with a cliffhanger or construct the end of their story to force the reader to buy the next one. In this case now, the final scene wasn't finished. Might be, it's a fitting end for some readers, not for this one. It's only missing a few pages or some kind of epilogue. As it is now, I'm not sure I will buy the next book.
4 stars for the idea and the wonderful writing style, minus 1 star for unnecessary drawing out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2016
This was awesome makes you realize there's so much to talk about over the phone with people you never met. The way they opened up to each other is just heart warming.
the funny topics, the little fights, the jealousy and the intimacy the sexiness!! HOT HOT!! well they did everything through phone calls.
That scene in the movie theater was SOMETHING I shed some tears there. my heart cracked a little for them. but there was still hope right.
OMG The emails with the songs were just... <3
the birthday that was really hot and trusting.
the story is amazing but I'm not gonna say no to a sequel ...
the funny topics, the little fights, the jealousy and the intimacy the sexiness!! HOT HOT!! well they did everything through phone calls.
That scene in the movie theater was SOMETHING I shed some tears there. my heart cracked a little for them. but there was still hope right.
"...But in case you didn’t realize from my reaction to the incredible photos you sent, I’m a very visual and tactile guy. Having a relationship with someone I can’t see or touch, although rewarding, because I really like you, is . . . well, it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done."
OMG The emails with the songs were just... <3
the birthday that was really hot and trusting.
the story is amazing but I'm not gonna say no to a sequel ...
August 9, 2015
I was really looking forward to this book, but unfortunately, I didn't like it as much as I thought I would. I did enjoy the idea of the book, and some other aspects, but it the end, I was left unsatisfied. Bummer.
The good:
• The dialogue: Dialogue is fantastic when done well. This book is 90% made up of dialogue, and i have to say the author did a good job of keeping the conversations between the MCs interesting.
• Cam: This guy is utterly sweet, and he has the patience of a saint. I felt so bad for him at times, because he was very supportive and he just kept being pushed away for his efforts. Deep down a lonely guy in need of love, Cam would do anything for Riley and wait however long it took for Riley to meet him face to face.
• Riley's Italian mamma: I seriously adored this woman! She was there for her son without fail and she offered great advice. Also, I loved how she accepted Cam without a second thought and made him feel like he could have a mother, too.
The in-between:
• Riley: Well, how I feel about him is a little hard for me to explain. First of all, I understood why he was so insecure, and he was entitled to feel that way, after everything he went through. I got why it took him a long time to be able to come out of his shell and accept love. Still, he also frustrated me endlessly, because I–the reader–already knew Cam had liked his looks for a long time before Riley found out. So, I wanted to be as patient with him as Cam, but at times I couldn't.
The bad:
• The length: This book was way too drawn out, and I think it could have benefited if 50-100 pages were cut. I mean, I liked the conversations, but some were boring. I mean the Monopoly scene, for example... That game bores me to death in real life, so I was not happy to have to read about it while it was played over the phone...
• The ending: Now this pissed me off. The whole book, I felt this sense of anticipation, of tension building up, and the end was supposed to be this big, explosive scene, y'know... Well, imagine my disappointment when it ended so abruptly that I had to do a double take... What's more, there's no sequel in sight...
So, three stars it is. I think that will suffice.
The good:
• The dialogue: Dialogue is fantastic when done well. This book is 90% made up of dialogue, and i have to say the author did a good job of keeping the conversations between the MCs interesting.
• Cam: This guy is utterly sweet, and he has the patience of a saint. I felt so bad for him at times, because he was very supportive and he just kept being pushed away for his efforts. Deep down a lonely guy in need of love, Cam would do anything for Riley and wait however long it took for Riley to meet him face to face.
• Riley's Italian mamma: I seriously adored this woman! She was there for her son without fail and she offered great advice. Also, I loved how she accepted Cam without a second thought and made him feel like he could have a mother, too.
The in-between:
• Riley: Well, how I feel about him is a little hard for me to explain. First of all, I understood why he was so insecure, and he was entitled to feel that way, after everything he went through. I got why it took him a long time to be able to come out of his shell and accept love. Still, he also frustrated me endlessly, because I–the reader–already knew Cam had liked his looks for a long time before Riley found out. So, I wanted to be as patient with him as Cam, but at times I couldn't.
The bad:
• The length: This book was way too drawn out, and I think it could have benefited if 50-100 pages were cut. I mean, I liked the conversations, but some were boring. I mean the Monopoly scene, for example... That game bores me to death in real life, so I was not happy to have to read about it while it was played over the phone...
• The ending: Now this pissed me off. The whole book, I felt this sense of anticipation, of tension building up, and the end was supposed to be this big, explosive scene, y'know... Well, imagine my disappointment when it ended so abruptly that I had to do a double take... What's more, there's no sequel in sight...
So, three stars it is. I think that will suffice.
July 14, 2013
I love romances with a disabled/underdog character and I bought this on the basis of the blurb alone (though the cover is very nice too). I love the plot concept(a guy with burn scars gets in a relationship over the phone with a guy and is afraid to meet him) and both characters were compelling and likable. The additional characters, such as Riley's mom, were good too.
The story was, however, too long. There were many phone conversations between the two that weren't very interesting and didn't advance the plot in any way. And playing Monopoly is boring enough in real life, much less to read about 2 guys playing it over the phone. ;-) The story would have benefited from being tightened by cutting about 100 of the 300-some pages.
However, I did find myself compelled to keep reading because I wanted to finally see Riley give in and meet Cameron. I loved the movie scene (very touching) and the birthday night. The ending was very satisfying. So if you like stories with this trope, and aren't an impatient reader, you'll probably enjoy this book.
The story was, however, too long. There were many phone conversations between the two that weren't very interesting and didn't advance the plot in any way. And playing Monopoly is boring enough in real life, much less to read about 2 guys playing it over the phone. ;-) The story would have benefited from being tightened by cutting about 100 of the 300-some pages.
However, I did find myself compelled to keep reading because I wanted to finally see Riley give in and meet Cameron. I loved the movie scene (very touching) and the birthday night. The ending was very satisfying. So if you like stories with this trope, and aren't an impatient reader, you'll probably enjoy this book.
November 17, 2016
La premisa argumental promete, pero no sé si es por cómo está escrito, por el ritmo de la historia, o porque no me ha pillado en buen momento, el caso es que no me ha llegado al corazón.
Riley me ha gustado mucho, Cam por su parte no termina de cobrar vida.
De todas formas, es una lectura agradable, con algunos momentos realmente tiernos.
Riley me ha gustado mucho, Cam por su parte no termina de cobrar vida.
De todas formas, es una lectura agradable, con algunos momentos realmente tiernos.
July 31, 2016
Gift from my awesome Secret Santa chica Marcie!
Thank you, honey! That was great.
Thank you, honey! That was great.
July 10, 2014
5++ stars
So glad I stumbled across this gem, thanks to my persistent effort to scrutinize all GR's recommendations for me and all listopia for LGBT genre, checked it one by one, from one book to another. :D
If you read the summary on the cover, you can see the plot is not so original, but imho sometimes we need an injection of cliche stuff in our life, when our mood/hormones make us crave for it, lol.
However, not all cliche can work well...and this book is one of the exception for me, especially when the author know so well how to deliver it. :)
The story can be a bit too perfect (Cameron's characters, Riley's family, and all that coincidences), so movie-like (you know, only happened in movie etc like "You've Got Mail") and can be unrealistic for some people, but hell...it works for me! :D and I love it! ;) Because I'm pretty sure it can really happens in our real life. :)
Some readers may find it frustrating and boring when the author makes you following MC's conversations and 'dates' worth 4 months over the phone, but I beg to differ. I believe we need that long (318 pages exactly and I'm kinda happy Clarke didn't make it into 500-600 pages. ;p), boring and slow journey to build a realistic love between two strangers that completely clueless of each other's last name, face, address.
Fast pace (several pages for conversations and jump to sex immediately) would only made it really unrealistic. I know fast pace can do well for another story, but just not this one, imo.
And of course, the snail development just made their final getting together became so much more meaningful.
Their first 'real' date and their first kiss in the movie theatre was one of the most romantic scene that I had ever read. And I was sobbing really hard towards the end of book when I read Cameron's romantic, love-and-support-for-inner-beauty messages for Riley, attached with a song in every messages.
As you can see from all my updates while reading this book, there are sooo many nice quotes can be found in this book. Thought that it'll spoil your fun when I copy all of them in this post, so you'd better check it out yourself. ;)
I'm glad that Riley can finally realized something important from their first lovemaking. It took such a long time to moving forward, but can't blame this poor guy for his insecurities, after all that bad experiences for years... We can never understand how it really feels until we walk in his shoes.
He just can't bear it if Cameron shrieks and dumps him the moment he glances (closely) at Riley's scar, and it just shows how much important Cameron is to him... Not to mention, it's his first relationship too, so that's just doubling all the anguish inside him. Poor guy. :(
I hope Riley can keep his confidence up so he can always let Cameron sees him eye to eye and face to face in the next book. Oohh, I'm sooo eager to read the sequel, it should be out early 2014, as the author stated at the end of the book. Past the halfway 2014 now, and where is the damn book??? x___x I need more of their lovey-dovey time, or when they finally live together or when they meet Riley's family and Cameron's friends. :)
Last but not least, I think Heather K, Bitchie (M/M addict) and Mandy*reads obsessively* described what I felt perfectly as I'm completely agree with everything in their review. :)
So glad I stumbled across this gem, thanks to my persistent effort to scrutinize all GR's recommendations for me and all listopia for LGBT genre, checked it one by one, from one book to another. :D
If you read the summary on the cover, you can see the plot is not so original, but imho sometimes we need an injection of cliche stuff in our life, when our mood/hormones make us crave for it, lol.
However, not all cliche can work well...and this book is one of the exception for me, especially when the author know so well how to deliver it. :)
The story can be a bit too perfect (Cameron's characters, Riley's family, and all that coincidences), so movie-like (you know, only happened in movie etc like "You've Got Mail") and can be unrealistic for some people, but hell...it works for me! :D and I love it! ;) Because I'm pretty sure it can really happens in our real life. :)
Some readers may find it frustrating and boring when the author makes you following MC's conversations and 'dates' worth 4 months over the phone, but I beg to differ. I believe we need that long (318 pages exactly and I'm kinda happy Clarke didn't make it into 500-600 pages. ;p), boring and slow journey to build a realistic love between two strangers that completely clueless of each other's last name, face, address.
Fast pace (several pages for conversations and jump to sex immediately) would only made it really unrealistic. I know fast pace can do well for another story, but just not this one, imo.
And of course, the snail development just made their final getting together became so much more meaningful.
Their first 'real' date and their first kiss in the movie theatre was one of the most romantic scene that I had ever read. And I was sobbing really hard towards the end of book when I read Cameron's romantic, love-and-support-for-inner-beauty messages for Riley, attached with a song in every messages.
As you can see from all my updates while reading this book, there are sooo many nice quotes can be found in this book. Thought that it'll spoil your fun when I copy all of them in this post, so you'd better check it out yourself. ;)
I'm glad that Riley can finally realized something important from their first lovemaking. It took such a long time to moving forward, but can't blame this poor guy for his insecurities, after all that bad experiences for years... We can never understand how it really feels until we walk in his shoes.
He just can't bear it if Cameron shrieks and dumps him the moment he glances (closely) at Riley's scar, and it just shows how much important Cameron is to him... Not to mention, it's his first relationship too, so that's just doubling all the anguish inside him. Poor guy. :(
I hope Riley can keep his confidence up so he can always let Cameron sees him eye to eye and face to face in the next book. Oohh, I'm sooo eager to read the sequel, it should be out early 2014, as the author stated at the end of the book. Past the halfway 2014 now, and where is the damn book??? x___x I need more of their lovey-dovey time, or when they finally live together or when they meet Riley's family and Cameron's friends. :)
Last but not least, I think Heather K, Bitchie (M/M addict) and Mandy*reads obsessively* described what I felt perfectly as I'm completely agree with everything in their review. :)
January 6, 2014
For my honest and true view of this book, please read …MORE
Goodreads TOS-compliant review (I think, let me know when they tell us what the rules are):
"The book I just read is about two (or three) lovely people, written in beautiful language, by a very good and prolific author. I liked it very, very much.
It is for sale on Amazon.”
DISCLAIMER: My reviews now all have this pretty face, so that all and everyone on Goodreads can stay happy and beatific. I’ll let you know if I change my mind. See the real review above for my thoughts on this book.
2.5 stars, rounded up.
Goodreads TOS-compliant review (I think, let me know when they tell us what the rules are):
"The book I just read is about two (or three) lovely people, written in beautiful language, by a very good and prolific author. I liked it very, very much.
It is for sale on Amazon.”
DISCLAIMER: My reviews now all have this pretty face, so that all and everyone on Goodreads can stay happy and beatific. I’ll let you know if I change my mind. See the real review above for my thoughts on this book.
2.5 stars, rounded up.
September 18, 2013
Rating 3.75
a Sweet Beauty and the Beast type of read. (Even mentioned in the novel). Learning that physical appearance isn't nearly as important as we think.
Learning to deal life dealt you, and how to adjust your mind frame consequently.
The novel is almost entirely commenced through phone conversations. (Did drag a bit near the end). How one event can have devastating effects on our confidence and a glance from a stranger can seriously affect how you feel about yourself.
I loved the ex's revenge, and to a certain degree felt for him. It is hard when your feeling neglected. (Wondering if we will see his return in the sequel).
Wondering what the sequel is about, I felt this could be a perfect standalone.
a Sweet Beauty and the Beast type of read. (Even mentioned in the novel). Learning that physical appearance isn't nearly as important as we think.
Learning to deal life dealt you, and how to adjust your mind frame consequently.
The novel is almost entirely commenced through phone conversations. (Did drag a bit near the end). How one event can have devastating effects on our confidence and a glance from a stranger can seriously affect how you feel about yourself.
I loved the ex's revenge, and to a certain degree felt for him. It is hard when your feeling neglected. (Wondering if we will see his return in the sequel).
Wondering what the sequel is about, I felt this could be a perfect standalone.
November 13, 2014
I sat for a while trying to craft a review that would make justice to this story. But I couldn't, so I'll just say that this story moved me because it IS a love story. Romantic. Sweet. Witty. Tender and funny. And one that shouldn't be missed.
I love me some Riley and Cameron.
And for every judgmental, hateful, disgusting mother that we have read so frequently in mm romances, Momma Carlotta redeems motherhood and then some.
True, this story could have been tighter, but at the end, this story was so lovingly romantic that I didn't care. It's worth more than a re-read a time or two or more.
I love me some Riley and Cameron.
And for every judgmental, hateful, disgusting mother that we have read so frequently in mm romances, Momma Carlotta redeems motherhood and then some.
True, this story could have been tighter, but at the end, this story was so lovingly romantic that I didn't care. It's worth more than a re-read a time or two or more.
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