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A wilderness retreat meant to heal.
A rugged guide who turns heat into hunger.
A chemistry too hot to stay hidden.
As a financial advisor, Marlow Knight lives for the 9–5 grind—until his father’s sudden death forces him to confront his own mortality. Determined to get healthy, he signs up for a three-week wilderness vacation. How hard can hiking and white-water rafting be? Turns out, he should’ve read the fine print…
Blake Austin has spent five years pouring everything into Austin Adventures, trying to live up to his grandfather’s legacy. Between running the campground and supporting LGBTQ youth programs, he’s the definition of all work and no play. Until Marlow walks in—polished, out of his element, and impossible to ignore.
When danger strikes on the side of a mountain, will a brush with death finally push them both to face the truth about the future?
A rugged guide who turns heat into hunger.
A chemistry too hot to stay hidden.
As a financial advisor, Marlow Knight lives for the 9–5 grind—until his father’s sudden death forces him to confront his own mortality. Determined to get healthy, he signs up for a three-week wilderness vacation. How hard can hiking and white-water rafting be? Turns out, he should’ve read the fine print…
Blake Austin has spent five years pouring everything into Austin Adventures, trying to live up to his grandfather’s legacy. Between running the campground and supporting LGBTQ youth programs, he’s the definition of all work and no play. Until Marlow walks in—polished, out of his element, and impossible to ignore.
When danger strikes on the side of a mountain, will a brush with death finally push them both to face the truth about the future?
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2026
19 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Evie Riley
54 books25 followersEvie Riley believes too much time spent at the beach is barely enough. She enjoys spending time puttering in the garden, cooking yummy things for her family, and has a quirky personality, described by her partner as ranging from cute to deadly, depending on her blood-chocolate levels.
Evie crafts steamy gay male romance filled with all the edgy angst, or dark and gritty romantic suspense where her men must overcome difficult obstacles and may find love along the way while dishing out their own brand of justice.
Evie spends her nights writing bad boys in love, and her days wrangling the sweet boys she loves.
Evie crafts steamy gay male romance filled with all the edgy angst, or dark and gritty romantic suspense where her men must overcome difficult obstacles and may find love along the way while dishing out their own brand of justice.
Evie spends her nights writing bad boys in love, and her days wrangling the sweet boys she loves.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 1, 2026
I liked this one better than book 1, but the plot and character's development are still shallow imo and Marlow was getting a bit on my nerves, he had that "peaked in high school" vibes.
January 13, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Marlow (Billionaire Bad Boys & Blue Collar Men, Book 2) by Evie Riley
Marlow is a beautifully grounded, emotionally satisfying romance that blends personal growth, found-family warmth, and sizzling chemistry in a setting that feels both restorative and raw. Evie Riley delivers a story that’s as much about healing as it is about falling in love—and it absolutely shines.
Marlow Knight is a compelling protagonist: polished, driven, and quietly unraveling after the loss of his father. His decision to sign up for a wilderness retreat feels authentic—less about adventure and more about reclaiming his life. Watching him struggle, adapt, and slowly open himself up is deeply rewarding and relatable.
Blake Austin is the perfect counterbalance. Rugged, responsible, and carrying the weight of legacy and community on his shoulders, he’s the kind of hero who shows his heart through action. His dedication to his campground and LGBTQ youth programs adds real depth to his character, making him far more than just the “gruff outdoorsman” trope.
The chemistry between Marlow and Blake is undeniable—slow-burning, charged, and emotionally rich. Their connection builds naturally through shared challenges, vulnerability, and moments of quiet understanding. When danger strikes, it doesn’t feel like a gimmick—it serves as a powerful catalyst that forces both men to confront what they truly want and what they’re afraid to lose.
What really elevates Marlow is its balance. The romance is hot but heartfelt, the emotional arcs feel earned, and the wilderness setting enhances the story rather than overpowering it. Themes of grief, self-worth, and choosing happiness are woven seamlessly into the narrative.
This book is a standout in the series and works beautifully as a standalone, though it will absolutely make you want to read more. Emotional, sexy, and deeply affirming—Marlow is a must-read for fans of opposites-attract love stories, and characters who grow together in meaningful ways. 💙🌲.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marlow is a beautifully grounded, emotionally satisfying romance that blends personal growth, found-family warmth, and sizzling chemistry in a setting that feels both restorative and raw. Evie Riley delivers a story that’s as much about healing as it is about falling in love—and it absolutely shines.
Marlow Knight is a compelling protagonist: polished, driven, and quietly unraveling after the loss of his father. His decision to sign up for a wilderness retreat feels authentic—less about adventure and more about reclaiming his life. Watching him struggle, adapt, and slowly open himself up is deeply rewarding and relatable.
Blake Austin is the perfect counterbalance. Rugged, responsible, and carrying the weight of legacy and community on his shoulders, he’s the kind of hero who shows his heart through action. His dedication to his campground and LGBTQ youth programs adds real depth to his character, making him far more than just the “gruff outdoorsman” trope.
The chemistry between Marlow and Blake is undeniable—slow-burning, charged, and emotionally rich. Their connection builds naturally through shared challenges, vulnerability, and moments of quiet understanding. When danger strikes, it doesn’t feel like a gimmick—it serves as a powerful catalyst that forces both men to confront what they truly want and what they’re afraid to lose.
What really elevates Marlow is its balance. The romance is hot but heartfelt, the emotional arcs feel earned, and the wilderness setting enhances the story rather than overpowering it. Themes of grief, self-worth, and choosing happiness are woven seamlessly into the narrative.
This book is a standout in the series and works beautifully as a standalone, though it will absolutely make you want to read more. Emotional, sexy, and deeply affirming—Marlow is a must-read for fans of opposites-attract love stories, and characters who grow together in meaningful ways. 💙🌲.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Wow the energy these two have for one another super hot.
Marlo had decided that he needed to change so he had signed himself up for six weeks to a wilderness retreat. Silas didn’t believe that he would last a week so they made a bet. But once he got to the retreat he realised that he had signed up to a couples retreat so from day one causing issues. But that is when he met the director Blake. And the attraction was instant.
Blake had been running the wilderness retreat now for five years and felt that he had a good understanding of the company. He took over from his grandpa who built it up from nothing. And he was worried that he felt an instant attraction to a client. He decided that he would be his partner on outings so he wouldn’t feel out of place. And instantly the banter, the charm and the flirting from Marlow became an issue. So he would find ways to get out of the outings or to put another member of staff in his place.
And you know what? That’s all I’m gonna tell you because this Book starts off with a steady heartbeat but soon that attraction and the banter and the charm from Marlow was having a major effect on Blake. Marlow seemed to be able to read him like a book. Blake found it difficult to find a man that could satisfy his needs but he found that in Marlow. The passion that these two share, the kink that seems to complete them both. A great read
I cannot wait for Silas‘s book. I think he’s gonna be a tough cookie to give up that bachelorhood.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marlo had decided that he needed to change so he had signed himself up for six weeks to a wilderness retreat. Silas didn’t believe that he would last a week so they made a bet. But once he got to the retreat he realised that he had signed up to a couples retreat so from day one causing issues. But that is when he met the director Blake. And the attraction was instant.
Blake had been running the wilderness retreat now for five years and felt that he had a good understanding of the company. He took over from his grandpa who built it up from nothing. And he was worried that he felt an instant attraction to a client. He decided that he would be his partner on outings so he wouldn’t feel out of place. And instantly the banter, the charm and the flirting from Marlow became an issue. So he would find ways to get out of the outings or to put another member of staff in his place.
And you know what? That’s all I’m gonna tell you because this Book starts off with a steady heartbeat but soon that attraction and the banter and the charm from Marlow was having a major effect on Blake. Marlow seemed to be able to read him like a book. Blake found it difficult to find a man that could satisfy his needs but he found that in Marlow. The passion that these two share, the kink that seems to complete them both. A great read
I cannot wait for Silas‘s book. I think he’s gonna be a tough cookie to give up that bachelorhood.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2026
This is a Great Story to Read!! Marlow decides to take some time off and get away and experience what nature has to offer. Marlow signs up for the Austin Adventures deluxe package. When he arrives he is informed that he needs a partner to get the full experience but he decides to stick it out and see what he can do on his own. Blake is called down to the drop off area to straighten out the problem with Marlow. Blake has run Austin Adventures for the last five years, he would rather spend time with the Youth group that he has coming the following week instead of the adults. After going on the hike Blake goes back down to his office and works on paperwork. Marlow and Blake run into each other a few more times. Marlow goes White Water Rafting and ends up jumping into the water to help when one of his raft mates fell in. Blake spends the weekend in his office trying to get everything in order for the Youth to attend Camp the next week. Blake and Marlow spend time together talking. Blake gets ready to meet the Kids that are arriving for the Youth Camp, and Marlow gets ready for his overnight hike. On the hike Marlow falls over the side of a cliff. Blake has to go down and find Marlow. Will Marlow survive the fall??? What will happen to the relationship that was starting to form between Blake and Marlow????.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2026
Marlo signs himself up for a six‑week wilderness retreat determined to make a real change in his life. His friend Silas bets he won’t last a week — and honestly, Marlo starts to think Silas might be right when he arrives and discovers he’s accidentally joined a couples retreat. Awkward doesn’t even begin to cover it. Enter Blake, the retreat director. He’s been running the place for years and knows exactly how things should go… until Marlo walks in and throws his carefully controlled world off balance. The instant attraction between them is undeniable, and Blake’s attempts to stay professional only make their chemistry even more delicious to watch unfold. The banter is sharp, the charm is irresistible, and the slow build between them turns into something intense and deeply satisfying. Marlo sees Blake in a way no one else has, and Blake — who’s struggled to find someone who truly matches him — finally meets his match. Their connection is passionate, playful, and full of the kind of heat that keeps you turning pages. This story blends humor, vulnerability, and kink in a way that feels natural and compelling. It’s a great read from start to finish, and now I’m waiting for Silas book.
January 9, 2026
Take a pause! Marlow's Dad dies suddenly and unexpectedly. This is a heads up for Marlow to confront his physical mortality, his emotional desert and make physical healthy changes in his life. He decides to go on a 6 week wilderness adventure/vacation for which he's not really mentally prepared. He has an exuberant personality and thrives on being the life of the party. Blake, runs Austin Adventures, determined to live up to his GrandDad's legacy. He is committed, focused, dedicated to his business and meticulous. There is a bit of confusion with the registration and Blake and Marlow, have to adjust to the entire adventure. Marlow and Blake have 6 weeks to get to know each other and work within each others' quirks and limits. The author gives them challenges and adventures that let them get to know themselves and each other and do some out of the box relationship building. Great adventure, good flow, lots of fun. Blake and Marlow are delightful characters and family, friends and found family are fun, loving and supportive. Nicely done, good cover art! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
"Marlow" is Book two in the Billionaire Bad Boys & Blue Collar Men series by Evie Riley. I am loving this series. Marlow and Blake are great characters. I love how as much as he tries not to, Blake cannot resist the pull towards Marlow. And Marlow shamelessly enjoys pushing Blakes buttons. I was drawn in right from the preview in the previous book. I could not wait to get this book and I was not disappointed. I cannot wait for the next book!.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2026
Marlow signed up for a six week adventure course to escape his rut. Blake, a younger man owns the camp and Marlow flirts outrageously with him, igniting a strong reaction that is reciprocated. This is one hot, steamy book with the guys unable to keep their desire a secret. There is also danger and being forced to share their feelings to Silas and Avery from the Billionaire Bad Boys series. I really enjoyed this one! I received a copy of this through BookSprout and this is my voluntary opinion.
January 9, 2026
Marlow Knight a finance guru, didn’t want to end up like his father dead before his time. He signs up for an adventure camp, but he wasn’t expecting the adventure he got. First during white water rafting he ends up saving a fellow camper. Blake Austin is the camp director. He took over when his grandfather retired. There is definitely chemistry between these two men, both fall hard. This is the second book of the series Billionaire Bad Boys and Blue Collar Men. It is funny, with plenty of drama and danger, but romantic and steamy. Looking forward to see what happens to Silas.
January 9, 2026
You could not get more opposites. Marlow is an adrenaline junkie, while Blake is respectful, responsible and thinks through everything. When they meet the sparks fly. Marlow is a bachelor for life. He loves to be a loud mouth and very vivacious with everyone. He is such a flirt. Blake is reserved. I love this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2026
Wish we had gotten a little more of them learning about each other and building a connection before the accident. Also, more communication on kinks during sex. Spanking and tying people up and marking all deserve at least a brief conversation and stop of play if not brought up beforehand because Limits exist and should be respected.
January 11, 2026
This is book two of the Billionaire Bad Boys and Blue Collar Men series and this is Marlow and Blake’s story and it is a really great read, it has a bit of everything action and adventure with a bit of danger and plenty of chemistry and steam the story is well written and I’m really looking forward to reading Silas’s story next.
January 25, 2026
Marlow goes to a wilderness camp for six weeks. Blake is the owner of the wilderness camp and because of a mix up he ends up Marlow's partner. Marlow knows Blake is hiding who he truly is and Marlow is going to find the real Blake. The more he breaks down Blake's walls the more Marlow realizes the real Blake is who he wants. I really enjoyed this book.
January 11, 2026
Great chemistry between these two men. I really loved this book. It was very well written and I loved the way the story flowed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2026
Marlow is the second book in the Billionaire Bad Boys & Blue Collar Men series and I think is better enjoyed in order. This was another fantastic book in the series and I can't wait to see what we get next.
January 16, 2026
This book is a page turner and you don't want to miss anything. Marlow bites off more that he can chew but he's lucky Austin is there and has his back. Great book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews