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“I can't let you face this alone.”
When blacksmith Jackson Riley asks his friend Chase for help with his dating profile, their friendship stirs into more. Jackson wants a family tattoo and Chase's skilled hands can deliver. But when Chase asks him to forge a sword, Jackson worries: what could he need protection from?
Tattoo artist Chase MacLeod thought he’d escaped his abusive family, but one letter throws his world into disarray. He’s taking fencing lessons to grow more confident, but that’s not enough. New flame Jackson defends Chase, and even opens his home and heart to him. Chase just has to find the courage to face his past.
Chase wants to find a place to call home, and a family to call his own, but the enemy fights dirty… and his worst enemy might just be himself. With Jackson by his side, can he take on the world? Or will his scars forever close his heart?
Clang is the second book in The Riley Brothers, a low-angst series filled with brotherly banter and small-town smiles. This steamy, standalone gay romance novel can be enjoyed on its own, and promises a happily-ever-after ending.
When blacksmith Jackson Riley asks his friend Chase for help with his dating profile, their friendship stirs into more. Jackson wants a family tattoo and Chase's skilled hands can deliver. But when Chase asks him to forge a sword, Jackson worries: what could he need protection from?
Tattoo artist Chase MacLeod thought he’d escaped his abusive family, but one letter throws his world into disarray. He’s taking fencing lessons to grow more confident, but that’s not enough. New flame Jackson defends Chase, and even opens his home and heart to him. Chase just has to find the courage to face his past.
Chase wants to find a place to call home, and a family to call his own, but the enemy fights dirty… and his worst enemy might just be himself. With Jackson by his side, can he take on the world? Or will his scars forever close his heart?
Clang is the second book in The Riley Brothers, a low-angst series filled with brotherly banter and small-town smiles. This steamy, standalone gay romance novel can be enjoyed on its own, and promises a happily-ever-after ending.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2015
74 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
About the author
E. Davies
130 books726 followersE. Davies writes feel-good, low-angst romance that never fades to black when the going gets good! Born in Canada, after 16 moves and counting, Ed has finally put down roots in north London.
He emerges from his writing nest to coo over fuzzy animals, flee from cute guys, dance through the streets with his chosen family, put together fierce looks, and—most of all—befriend local flowers.
Newsletter: edaviesbooks.com/subscribe
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/edavies
He emerges from his writing nest to coo over fuzzy animals, flee from cute guys, dance through the streets with his chosen family, put together fierce looks, and—most of all—befriend local flowers.
Newsletter: edaviesbooks.com/subscribe
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/edavies
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 25, 2016
LOT of sex, plain plot and ZERO chemistry.
(One of the MC had sex with another character several times, once just RIGHT AFTER a beautiful date with Jackson) NONSENSE.
Total disappointment. Jackson was a pretty good character and deserves better.
November 4, 2020
Another enjoyable episode in E. Davies Riley Brothers series, Clang has a bit more drama to it. Chase is running from an ultra religious family who are actively trying to bring him home. Chase's story definitely needs a happy ending, and I hope we see more of him as this series progresses.
Audio by Michael Dean who does a lovely job with the characters in this book.
an audiobook copy of Clang was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
Audio by Michael Dean who does a lovely job with the characters in this book.
an audiobook copy of Clang was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
December 28, 2015
Listen…sometimes you just have to applaud and author for their consistency. Was there insta-love, yes. A ridiculous unnecessary conflict that was resolved quickly, yes. A buff alpha male coupled with a “beautiful” willowy (author used this term not me) male, yes. Did the alpha male have a super masculine job (forger…um yeah) while the “willowy” guy had a more artsy job…absolutely. Was there descriptive sexual acts almost every chapter…what do you think. So yeah…consistent. Will I be reading the next one…of course. In my defense it’s probably the last of the series since there is only one single brother left.
2.5 rounded up.
2.5 rounded up.
December 24, 2022
E. Davies has a way of writing on difficult subjects with a light and deft touch. This is the Second book in the Riley Brothers series and we see Cam and Noah from book 1 a lot and also find out more about his surgery for Cam's Heart condition. Jackson and Chase are the Couple in this series and We get to see this story from multiple point of views. Chase has been emotionally abused by his family and has the attendant issues that brings and Jackson is looking for love in the wrong places and they hit it off. True Love never run smooth and Jackson and Chase have problem which they overcome when they join forces the combination is truly more powerful than the two individual making up the pairing.
August 12, 2023
Perfectly fine book,
but not super compelling.
Read better books next.
but not super compelling.
Read better books next.
May 15, 2023
Something told him it was going to be hot at the forge, and he couldn’t wait.
3.5 stars. I found myself in the mood for some cute, low conflict romance, and this delivered all of the cute, mellow, small town vibes I could have wanted, with some added protectiveness on the side. Jackson, who we met in the first book, has been friends with Chase for a few months, and now that he's ready to start seriously dating, he finds himself wanting to take that friendship somewhere further. Chase is used to random hookups and not allowing himself to feel, but he starts realising that he and Jackson are the perfect fit. The secondary plot involves Chase's estranged and very religious family, as well as Jackson's close knit relationship with his brothers. I think I've decided I really like how the author is structuring these books. The prologue begins with a spicy snippet of the couple beginning their relationship, and then we go back to the beginning to see how we get there. In the first book, Cam's book, we had the occasional Jackson chapter; now, in Jackson's book, we had the occasional Thomas chapter. It's a good way of letting us get to know all the brothers and getting us ready for their books. Usually I don't like random third POVs in my romances, but it works here. Especially since I know I'll be eventually reading the entire series.
Like the first book, this honestly got a bit TOO low conflict for me, and the relationship moved so fast it really made me incredulous. But I did really really love Jackson and Chase together, even more than the couple in the first book, and I guess that made all the difference. It helped that they've known each other for a few months, and I'm always so soft for friends to lovers. They were also so intense and smitten with each other, it made me blush a little. Also like Jackson makes Chase a sword?? Chase gives Jackson his first tattoo?? That's my kinda love language my dudes.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Michael Dean, which was great as always; I especially liked his Chase voice. I'm pretty excited for Thomas' book, so maybe I'll read that sooner than I thought.
Content warnings:
He’d done his grieving a long time ago. Now, he was running into Jackson’s arms, and Jackson was reaching out to pull him close at every turn.
October 15, 2017
The love story between Jackson and Tate is super sweet. I love how awkward they are with each other about making sure each likes the other before making a move.
The romance is hot too. I like that two artist fall in love with each other. Chase has an awful family that gets dealt with in this book and Jackson has a wonderful one.
It is a very good mellow circle of friends romance. A wonderful way to pass the day.
The romance is hot too. I like that two artist fall in love with each other. Chase has an awful family that gets dealt with in this book and Jackson has a wonderful one.
It is a very good mellow circle of friends romance. A wonderful way to pass the day.
September 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this sweet and hot story about Chase and Jackson! Chase has had a tough life due to past and the people he wants to leave where they belong...in the past! Unfortunately, the past is still haunting him but with the help of his friendship with Floyd and his soon-to-be more friendship with Jackson, he's starting to be more than just the pain and fear of his past has made him. Jackson is just a big softy, but oh so hot!!! When he decides he wants a relationship not just a hook up he turns to his friend Chase for help, not knowing his attraction for the other man is mutual. I highly recommend this series and can't wait to read about Thomas and Alex in book 3!
January 14, 2016
2.5 Stars
It's not bad for a sophomore effort, but I expected more.
The bones are there, but there was too much time building up Chase's past for the paltry explanation and climax it had.
I liked Jackson, but frankly didn't feel like I really got to know him, which is weird because his is one of the POVs of the book.
All in all, it was okay, but I wanted more depth and history, and I wasn't really sold on their insta-love. Also, the way both the first and now this book abruptly end is not at all gratifying.
I've already bought the last book in the series, Swish, so I'll continue and see if they all tie together.
Hey, they were $.99 each so I'm not too upset. :-P
It's not bad for a sophomore effort, but I expected more.
The bones are there, but there was too much time building up Chase's past for the paltry explanation and climax it had.
I liked Jackson, but frankly didn't feel like I really got to know him, which is weird because his is one of the POVs of the book.
All in all, it was okay, but I wanted more depth and history, and I wasn't really sold on their insta-love. Also, the way both the first and now this book abruptly end is not at all gratifying.
I've already bought the last book in the series, Swish, so I'll continue and see if they all tie together.
Hey, they were $.99 each so I'm not too upset. :-P
November 17, 2020
As with any E. Davies story, here you get a super sweet romance full of loving family, a great community, and some truly steamy scenes. However, here we also got a little darker side, as Chase did not have a good family and it had affected his entire life and how he viewed relationships. I loved watching him grow and realize he is deserving of love and thought Jackson was the perfect choice for him. Michael Dean is a trusted narrator and as always his narration definitely delivered!
January 7, 2018
Ugh! Wifi just went down! Will post review later... dang sub-zero temperatures!
February 17, 2018
Sometimes you find a book that just sings to you. Clang was just such a book. I passed it up a few times because of the reviews. Won't do that again! Mr. Davies did a good job with Chase and Jackson's romance. My heart bled for Chase and all his family shit. I know that is a common theme but this time it got to me. Although the plot was simple, Mr. Davies brought it on full force. Bravo!
September 5, 2016
3 Stars
Now this was almost a DNF for me, unfortunately. It started off good, and I felt it was a step up from the first book, then one of the MC's did something that in my eyes was not cool and I just went off him completely.
I found it hard to connect to their relationship there on out and just finished it to be done with it.
Now this was almost a DNF for me, unfortunately. It started off good, and I felt it was a step up from the first book, then one of the MC's did something that in my eyes was not cool and I just went off him completely.
I found it hard to connect to their relationship there on out and just finished it to be done with it.
June 1, 2018
This book, while having great potential, did suffer from the flaws of the first book in the way it dragged in parts and glossed over others. It's more a matter of balancing all the different plot elements.
Jackson and Chase are interesting characters, they have a lot of promise and I love tattoo artists as characters in general so I was very exited for this story. I was a bit disappointed that I did not get to know Jackson as much as I felt I got to know Chase and his past. You do get the sense that each one brings something the others needs in a sort of puzzle piece way but the story just doesn't pick up the pacing when it needs to. It did focus heavily on their physical relationship, and at times I would have rather had them doing something else to strengthen their emotional bond.
Narration was great like always, Michael Pauley Is a wonderful narrator that can really improve any book with his narration so this was a nice read all in all despite the issues I had with the story.
Jackson and Chase are interesting characters, they have a lot of promise and I love tattoo artists as characters in general so I was very exited for this story. I was a bit disappointed that I did not get to know Jackson as much as I felt I got to know Chase and his past. You do get the sense that each one brings something the others needs in a sort of puzzle piece way but the story just doesn't pick up the pacing when it needs to. It did focus heavily on their physical relationship, and at times I would have rather had them doing something else to strengthen their emotional bond.
Narration was great like always, Michael Pauley Is a wonderful narrator that can really improve any book with his narration so this was a nice read all in all despite the issues I had with the story.
July 15, 2023
I'm listening to the Audible version of the entire series. This book is better than the first one. Still a bit predictable and trope-y but there were things I really liked. Chase's backstory is interesting and believable. This relationship was even more insta-love than the one in the first book. Not a fan of insta-love and it helps if you can suspend disbelief. Michael Dean is not one of my favorite narrators but he's growing on me. 3 solid stars
February 22, 2021
I loved this book. Ed Davies you outdid yourself. The narration by Michael Dean just brought it up more. I’ve read a lot of books by Ed Davies and I’ve enjoyed them all. This has to be one of my favorites. Chase and Jackson were great characters. I can’t wait to read the next book.
August 2, 2020
Title ⤵️
Clang
Author ⤵️
E. Davies
Rating ⤵️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thoughts ⤵️
A consistent, sexy narrative that hits all the right notes.
Clang
Author ⤵️
E. Davies
Rating ⤵️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thoughts ⤵️
A consistent, sexy narrative that hits all the right notes.
June 16, 2025
This book left me going, "huh...that was it?" For all the buildup of this abusive family in Chase background the climax of this book was very anti-climatic really. Overall this story was just very surface for me. I liked Chase and Jackson well enough, but the most interesting thing about the story for me was the jobs. Jackson's a blacksmith and I loved the parts of the story that got into his work. Chase is a talented tattoo artist and their art connection made their relationship more believable. But it never really felt like it went all that deep. Very insta-lovey and when you know you know, despite Chase never really dating previously.
I don't know, I didn't dislike it, but there wasn't anything that left me wanting to know more.
I don't know, I didn't dislike it, but there wasn't anything that left me wanting to know more.
April 2, 2016
*** In book two, E. Davies gives us Jackson and Chase. ***
This amazing relationship came with it's struggles. Sweet man,
Chase has been beaten, and beaten down by his bible wielding family
and he's hiding from them.
He and Jackson met at the art show, both are artists,
with Chase drawing and tattooing, and Jackson is a blacksmith, the art of forge and metal. The large muscled smithy has a huge heart, and a tender spot for slender, tattooed Chase. Several storylines are included and there isn't a dull moment. We get the brother's new homes being renovated, the evil family showing up, Thomas is a mystery, and the men have plans for all of it.
Chase needs to help himself gain confidence and joins a fencing class. It turns out to be just what he needed to learn boundaries, awareness, and strength. The goal wasn't to fight anyone, but to gain inner strength. It came in handy later in this beautiful tale of overcoming troubles and opening up to a bright future. Jackson has wanted a "family" tattoo of some kind, to represent how important his relatives (clan) were to him, so the men work out a trade.
OMG ! The sex scenes are scorching !!!!
I liked that Jackson had solid strength, never flew off the handle when he could have, and that he moved on, plus his understanding and acceptance were amazing. Chase gained his own strength and made himself a better man. I could go on and on, there is so much more to this.
I highly recommend this M/M love story to everyone. ENJOY !!!
----------------------------------------------
This amazing relationship came with it's struggles. Sweet man,
Chase has been beaten, and beaten down by his bible wielding family
and he's hiding from them.
He and Jackson met at the art show, both are artists,
with Chase drawing and tattooing, and Jackson is a blacksmith, the art of forge and metal. The large muscled smithy has a huge heart, and a tender spot for slender, tattooed Chase. Several storylines are included and there isn't a dull moment. We get the brother's new homes being renovated, the evil family showing up, Thomas is a mystery, and the men have plans for all of it.
Chase needs to help himself gain confidence and joins a fencing class. It turns out to be just what he needed to learn boundaries, awareness, and strength. The goal wasn't to fight anyone, but to gain inner strength. It came in handy later in this beautiful tale of overcoming troubles and opening up to a bright future. Jackson has wanted a "family" tattoo of some kind, to represent how important his relatives (clan) were to him, so the men work out a trade.
OMG ! The sex scenes are scorching !!!!
I liked that Jackson had solid strength, never flew off the handle when he could have, and that he moved on, plus his understanding and acceptance were amazing. Chase gained his own strength and made himself a better man. I could go on and on, there is so much more to this.
I highly recommend this M/M love story to everyone. ENJOY !!!
----------------------------------------------
August 12, 2016
Again, as with the first in the series, this book is okay. The premise is good, the background characters work well and the three brothers are an interesting set up to be writing about.
But, once again everything happens massively quickly, there's huge issues going on which bring in angst to complicate matters and there's shedloads of sex at the drop of a hat everywhere.
However, I do like that Davies doesn't drop the people he's written about previously but keeps them interwoven into what's happening in each new book.
But, once again everything happens massively quickly, there's huge issues going on which bring in angst to complicate matters and there's shedloads of sex at the drop of a hat everywhere.
However, I do like that Davies doesn't drop the people he's written about previously but keeps them interwoven into what's happening in each new book.
January 27, 2016
Was this a brilliant work of literature? No.
Did I expect it to be? No.
Did I enjoy the book anyways? Definitely.
Sometimes it's nice to read a book that is free of angst and excessive drama, and just enjoy the characters and story. This book totally satisfied that need for me.
Looking forward to book 3!
Did I expect it to be? No.
Did I enjoy the book anyways? Definitely.
Sometimes it's nice to read a book that is free of angst and excessive drama, and just enjoy the characters and story. This book totally satisfied that need for me.
Looking forward to book 3!
May 13, 2017
This is what I consider to be a phenomenal book, worth 5 out of 5 stars. The initial relationship between the two main characters were such a perfect blend of unexpected and sweet, a casual friendship that turned into unbearable sexual tension. And the sex scenes had me panting out loud, they were so hot!
But as much as I love scorching hot sex scenes, it takes much more to make a book great, and this book had greatness in spades: a flowing, well-paced story with the perfect blend of anxiety and drama, romance and hotness; two characters that were well developed, deep, and relatable; and of course an easy “author voice” that faded into the background as the story took centre stage.
I always try to give a balanced review with good things as well as bad, but honestly? I can't think of a single bad thing to say about the book. Sure Chase had baggage and maybe he shouldn't have agreed to the whole dating thing as quickly as he did, but the author sold it well enough that it didn't bother me. And maybe Jackson was *too* perfect. For example, he kept saying how he's a real hothead, yet he was the most patient saint ever no matter what Chase did. See? These are the best “bad” things I could come up with! Jackson being too perfect, really? *roll eyes* Yeah, I'm being ridiculous I know. So let me tell you about all the things I loved instead
I loved how effortlessly the narrative flowed and how deeply it made me feel—I laughed, I swore, I (almost) cried, I came. Speaking of, I loved how much the sex scenes turned me on. I loved how their relationship creeped up on them, how they were both so busy looking for something else that they didn't noticed their growing attraction, and I loved that the author didn't try to up-play the sexual tension before their Aha! moment; it made that moment of realization so much sweeter. I loved that Jackson is an honest to God “good guy” and yet he is sexy as hell and perfect for Chase—there are more than enough bad boys and not nearly enough good guys in Romance, so thank you E Davies for giving us such an awesome specimen. I loved how, despite all the crap Chase had in his past and although he clearly suffered from it, the story never got weighed down with drama or those irritating “misunderstandings” authors use to force the characters into separations that could easily have been prevented with a bit of communication. I loved how there were also dark moments, and that they resulted in character growth instead of lumpy heaviness in the narrative. I loved that Chase is a tattoo artist. I loved how mature and understanding Jackson was about Chase’s insecurities and short comings… yeah, I know I kinda complained about how he’s too perfect, but secretly I loved it so. Damn. Much. *shrugs*
All in all, I can see this book becoming a comfort read that I'll come back to over and over. I can say with unequivocal certainty, I loved this book.
But as much as I love scorching hot sex scenes, it takes much more to make a book great, and this book had greatness in spades: a flowing, well-paced story with the perfect blend of anxiety and drama, romance and hotness; two characters that were well developed, deep, and relatable; and of course an easy “author voice” that faded into the background as the story took centre stage.
I always try to give a balanced review with good things as well as bad, but honestly? I can't think of a single bad thing to say about the book. Sure Chase had baggage and maybe he shouldn't have agreed to the whole dating thing as quickly as he did, but the author sold it well enough that it didn't bother me. And maybe Jackson was *too* perfect. For example, he kept saying how he's a real hothead, yet he was the most patient saint ever no matter what Chase did. See? These are the best “bad” things I could come up with! Jackson being too perfect, really? *roll eyes* Yeah, I'm being ridiculous I know. So let me tell you about all the things I loved instead
I loved how effortlessly the narrative flowed and how deeply it made me feel—I laughed, I swore, I (almost) cried, I came. Speaking of, I loved how much the sex scenes turned me on. I loved how their relationship creeped up on them, how they were both so busy looking for something else that they didn't noticed their growing attraction, and I loved that the author didn't try to up-play the sexual tension before their Aha! moment; it made that moment of realization so much sweeter. I loved that Jackson is an honest to God “good guy” and yet he is sexy as hell and perfect for Chase—there are more than enough bad boys and not nearly enough good guys in Romance, so thank you E Davies for giving us such an awesome specimen. I loved how, despite all the crap Chase had in his past and although he clearly suffered from it, the story never got weighed down with drama or those irritating “misunderstandings” authors use to force the characters into separations that could easily have been prevented with a bit of communication. I loved how there were also dark moments, and that they resulted in character growth instead of lumpy heaviness in the narrative. I loved that Chase is a tattoo artist. I loved how mature and understanding Jackson was about Chase’s insecurities and short comings… yeah, I know I kinda complained about how he’s too perfect, but secretly I loved it so. Damn. Much. *shrugs*
All in all, I can see this book becoming a comfort read that I'll come back to over and over. I can say with unequivocal certainty, I loved this book.
March 21, 2025
3.75 rounded up for this one.
The plot was okay, but not especially interesting, and I never any tension or desire to turn the next page.
I don't know if this is universal, but for me, if an MC has sex with someone before getting together with the other MC, I don't want to have every freaking minute of the act documented. I get that there is exposition going on, and that is great. The encounter, and its significance, can be recounted with enough detail to make the point without going step by step through every detail of the act. It felt kind of oogey, even though the other participant was clearly a really nice guy.
The relationship was sweet after that. Jackson (the blacksmith) was pretty much perfect, in a lovable, super hunky, wear-his-heart-on-his-sleeve, refreshing way. He was appealingly protective of Chase, though his tendency to fantasize about beating the crap out of the antagonist was a bit off-putting. There was some family drama that was resolved in a satisfying way, and there was some very non-angsty moving through the development of their relationship, all while giving us contact with the other brothers for whom the series is named.
As with the first book, I felt like the spicy scenes were generic and just plain too numerous. They didn't move the plot or the MC's relationship forward. For many of them, they felt gratuitous. I actually skipped some of them.
All that being said, the book is worth a lighthearted read, but not, in my opinion, worth spending a lot of $ on. I got it as part of a boxed set on Audible.
Audiobook: Michael Dean was good with character voices and basic narration. His narration of the sex scenes was over the top to me, though far better than the narrators who read sex scenes like they were reading a recipe book. He did fade into the background in a good way, so I could be immersed in the book, and that is no small thing. And again, 6.5 books in a bundle on Audible, so definitely worth it!
The plot was okay, but not especially interesting, and I never any tension or desire to turn the next page.
I don't know if this is universal, but for me, if an MC has sex with someone before getting together with the other MC, I don't want to have every freaking minute of the act documented. I get that there is exposition going on, and that is great. The encounter, and its significance, can be recounted with enough detail to make the point without going step by step through every detail of the act. It felt kind of oogey, even though the other participant was clearly a really nice guy.
The relationship was sweet after that. Jackson (the blacksmith) was pretty much perfect, in a lovable, super hunky, wear-his-heart-on-his-sleeve, refreshing way. He was appealingly protective of Chase, though his tendency to fantasize about beating the crap out of the antagonist was a bit off-putting. There was some family drama that was resolved in a satisfying way, and there was some very non-angsty moving through the development of their relationship, all while giving us contact with the other brothers for whom the series is named.
As with the first book, I felt like the spicy scenes were generic and just plain too numerous. They didn't move the plot or the MC's relationship forward. For many of them, they felt gratuitous. I actually skipped some of them.
All that being said, the book is worth a lighthearted read, but not, in my opinion, worth spending a lot of $ on. I got it as part of a boxed set on Audible.
Audiobook: Michael Dean was good with character voices and basic narration. His narration of the sex scenes was over the top to me, though far better than the narrators who read sex scenes like they were reading a recipe book. He did fade into the background in a good way, so I could be immersed in the book, and that is no small thing. And again, 6.5 books in a bundle on Audible, so definitely worth it!
October 21, 2018
3,5 heart audiobook review by PizzyGirl
STORY REVIEW:
Hmmmm….. I struggled with this one. On the one hand I really liked the pairing and totally fell for the romance, even if it was a bit too fast for me.
I liked both men and instantly wanted them to be happy. They made such cute friends and then when it turned into more they were HOT together. I liked that even when they messed up, they owned it and talked about it. Chase had secrets but my heart broke constantly for how he had been treated in the past. I so wanted Jackson to show him love. And he did in a very slow but meaningful way.
On the other hand, Chase’s backstory and the big angst issue didn’t really gel for me. For all the build up, it was very anticlimactic and Jackson was just toooooo perfect in his acceptance. Maybe I needed a bit more explanation of the past to really understand the familial behaviors. Or maybe I needed the conflict to be harder to overcome based on what I had already expected with the backstory that was provided. Or maybe it was just me putting unrealistic expectations on the story based on my assumptions while reading. IDK. But in the end, something just didn’t sit right with me.
I do want to end on a positive note. I am so hooked on these brothers and OMG can we have Thomas’s story on audio ASAP because I NEED IT NOW! I mean, yes, I can cheat and read the book, but that’s no fun!
NARRATION REVIEW:
I love Michael Pauley as a narrator for highly emotional and highly sexual books. It is just perfect for his style and he really did bring this story to life. I sincerely hope he continues to narrate the remainder of this series even if he did switch up some voices this time so that they didn’t quite match with the first book. This was a very enjoyable
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
STORY REVIEW:
Hmmmm….. I struggled with this one. On the one hand I really liked the pairing and totally fell for the romance, even if it was a bit too fast for me.
I liked both men and instantly wanted them to be happy. They made such cute friends and then when it turned into more they were HOT together. I liked that even when they messed up, they owned it and talked about it. Chase had secrets but my heart broke constantly for how he had been treated in the past. I so wanted Jackson to show him love. And he did in a very slow but meaningful way.
On the other hand, Chase’s backstory and the big angst issue didn’t really gel for me. For all the build up, it was very anticlimactic and Jackson was just toooooo perfect in his acceptance. Maybe I needed a bit more explanation of the past to really understand the familial behaviors. Or maybe I needed the conflict to be harder to overcome based on what I had already expected with the backstory that was provided. Or maybe it was just me putting unrealistic expectations on the story based on my assumptions while reading. IDK. But in the end, something just didn’t sit right with me.
I do want to end on a positive note. I am so hooked on these brothers and OMG can we have Thomas’s story on audio ASAP because I NEED IT NOW! I mean, yes, I can cheat and read the book, but that’s no fun!
NARRATION REVIEW:
I love Michael Pauley as a narrator for highly emotional and highly sexual books. It is just perfect for his style and he really did bring this story to life. I sincerely hope he continues to narrate the remainder of this series even if he did switch up some voices this time so that they didn’t quite match with the first book. This was a very enjoyable
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
December 6, 2025
Didn’t like it as much as the first (and that one was only okay)
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 5/10
Normally I divide my reviews into pros and cons, but I honestly don’t have much to say on the positive side here. The guys are fine; the romance is fine; the ending is fine. The supportive family dynamic first mentioned in Buzz is still here in the sequel, and it’s still sweet.
Overall, everything in the book feels too easy and undeveloped. The guys meet and fall for each other immediately. They move in together and everything goes swimmingly. Even the issue with Chase’s bigoted family—which I was sort of excited about, because I hoped it would give the characters some depth and provide a chance for them to bond through adversity—was frustratingly brushed-over. Chase’s difficult relationship with his parents and uncle is such a big deal in the first half of the book (Will they find him? Is he in danger? Will he have to live the rest of his life in constant fear?), and then the whole issue is resolved after a single (not very exciting) encounter. It’s very anticlimactic.
The only things lovingly described here are the sex scenes. But I found even the sexual aspect of the story frustrating. I don’t want to read detailed sex scenes between one of the main characters and someone besides his love interest. He had a one-night-stand with another guy… okay, but at least fade to black at that part.
I purchased this entire 6-book series on Audible with a single credit, and I’m going to finish them. But so far I’m not impressed.
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 5/10
Normally I divide my reviews into pros and cons, but I honestly don’t have much to say on the positive side here. The guys are fine; the romance is fine; the ending is fine. The supportive family dynamic first mentioned in Buzz is still here in the sequel, and it’s still sweet.
Overall, everything in the book feels too easy and undeveloped. The guys meet and fall for each other immediately. They move in together and everything goes swimmingly. Even the issue with Chase’s bigoted family—which I was sort of excited about, because I hoped it would give the characters some depth and provide a chance for them to bond through adversity—was frustratingly brushed-over. Chase’s difficult relationship with his parents and uncle is such a big deal in the first half of the book (Will they find him? Is he in danger? Will he have to live the rest of his life in constant fear?), and then the whole issue is resolved after a single (not very exciting) encounter. It’s very anticlimactic.
The only things lovingly described here are the sex scenes. But I found even the sexual aspect of the story frustrating. I don’t want to read detailed sex scenes between one of the main characters and someone besides his love interest. He had a one-night-stand with another guy… okay, but at least fade to black at that part.
I purchased this entire 6-book series on Audible with a single credit, and I’m going to finish them. But so far I’m not impressed.
November 21, 2020
**Audio Review**
I enjoyed Jackson and Chase's romance, but this wasn't my favorite story overall. I'm not sure what the intent of the prologues in this series are, but this is now the second time I've been confused about when those events are taking place. That aside, I did find it fun to catch up with the Riley brothers and see another one of them meet their match. Chase wasn't the man I expected Jackson to fall for, but their chemistry was incredible and they always seemed to enjoy each other's company. Despite Chase's difficult family situation, I found it hard to connect with him as this story progressed. He kept so many of his feelings hidden that it was sometimes difficult for me to tell what his intentions were. Also, he hooked up with another guy while he and Jackson were dating, and despite how honest he was about it I was still uncomfortable. Even with my reservations about Chase, their romance was undeniably sweet. There wasn't a ton of plot going on in the background, but I did like that Chase finally got some closure with his family. Michael Dean did a pretty decent job narrating, though I'll admit that I sometimes can't tell the characters apart when he narrates.
**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
I enjoyed Jackson and Chase's romance, but this wasn't my favorite story overall. I'm not sure what the intent of the prologues in this series are, but this is now the second time I've been confused about when those events are taking place. That aside, I did find it fun to catch up with the Riley brothers and see another one of them meet their match. Chase wasn't the man I expected Jackson to fall for, but their chemistry was incredible and they always seemed to enjoy each other's company. Despite Chase's difficult family situation, I found it hard to connect with him as this story progressed. He kept so many of his feelings hidden that it was sometimes difficult for me to tell what his intentions were. Also, he hooked up with another guy while he and Jackson were dating, and despite how honest he was about it I was still uncomfortable. Even with my reservations about Chase, their romance was undeniably sweet. There wasn't a ton of plot going on in the background, but I did like that Chase finally got some closure with his family. Michael Dean did a pretty decent job narrating, though I'll admit that I sometimes can't tell the characters apart when he narrates.
**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 28, 2017
Unfortunately Book 2 was a quick read. Story, sex scene thumb thumb, more story, yet another sex scene thumb thumb, story, rinse and repeat. Done.
It is disappointing that so many writers of gay lit feel that their characters have to be physically perfect with flat stomachs, perfect pecs and the inevitable green eyes. Couple that with lengthy sex scenes and the lines between gay lit with sex scenes, soft porn and porn get pretty fuzzy. Gay "Sex in the City" type of thing.
(One thing I really like about Mark Roeder's rich gay universe is the physical variety of his many many characters. Gay characters don't have to be "gay" as in would be hot in the bar scene. Davies' writing would gain much, I think, by dropping the physical stereotypes in future novels. He does portray a broad range of occupational and behavioural attributes while successfully avoiding stereotypes. There's room for growth, balance.)
The story is really interesting: Who is the the mysterious-cliffhanger-ending-stranger hook into Book 3? I can't wait to find out. Good thing cuz I already bought the whole series ;)
======
The province of Ontario has its own police force : Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). There is no Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) contract policing.
Pandering to American readers with "huh" instead of "eh" is getting annoying. Up Canada!
It is disappointing that so many writers of gay lit feel that their characters have to be physically perfect with flat stomachs, perfect pecs and the inevitable green eyes. Couple that with lengthy sex scenes and the lines between gay lit with sex scenes, soft porn and porn get pretty fuzzy. Gay "Sex in the City" type of thing.
(One thing I really like about Mark Roeder's rich gay universe is the physical variety of his many many characters. Gay characters don't have to be "gay" as in would be hot in the bar scene. Davies' writing would gain much, I think, by dropping the physical stereotypes in future novels. He does portray a broad range of occupational and behavioural attributes while successfully avoiding stereotypes. There's room for growth, balance.)
The story is really interesting: Who is the the mysterious-cliffhanger-ending-stranger hook into Book 3? I can't wait to find out. Good thing cuz I already bought the whole series ;)
======
The province of Ontario has its own police force : Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). There is no Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) contract policing.
Pandering to American readers with "huh" instead of "eh" is getting annoying. Up Canada!
November 7, 2020
Overall: 4 Stars
Performance: 4 Stars
Story: 3.5 Stars
"Clang" is a friends-to-lovers story between blacksmith and Riley brother Jackson and new-to-town tattoo artist Chase. It has considerably more angst than the first Riley Brothers book, courtesy of Chase and his difficult past - I was expecting an abusive ex, so being on the run from his family was surprising and didn't make much sense given his age and the situation. In any case, the story is still largely fluffy and not short on sexy times and with the immediate threat of Chase's family resolved, the couple finds a comfortable HEA. Narrator Michael Dean delivers another solid performance here.
This story totally works as a standalone, although Book 1 provides some setup for the series. Like Book 1, "Clang" has two MCs but three POVs - the third being Jackson's brother Thomas, which didn't really add or take away anything from Jackson and Chase's story. That said, I'm looking forward to reading Thomas's story next. I received this free review copy audio book by request and have left this honest review voluntarily.
Performance: 4 Stars
Story: 3.5 Stars
"Clang" is a friends-to-lovers story between blacksmith and Riley brother Jackson and new-to-town tattoo artist Chase. It has considerably more angst than the first Riley Brothers book, courtesy of Chase and his difficult past - I was expecting an abusive ex, so being on the run from his family was surprising and didn't make much sense given his age and the situation. In any case, the story is still largely fluffy and not short on sexy times and with the immediate threat of Chase's family resolved, the couple finds a comfortable HEA. Narrator Michael Dean delivers another solid performance here.
This story totally works as a standalone, although Book 1 provides some setup for the series. Like Book 1, "Clang" has two MCs but three POVs - the third being Jackson's brother Thomas, which didn't really add or take away anything from Jackson and Chase's story. That said, I'm looking forward to reading Thomas's story next. I received this free review copy audio book by request and have left this honest review voluntarily.
January 29, 2018
This series, the character, the writing...just really isn't working for me. Same as with the first book, there are 3 POVs. I prefer one, so three was a little hard to enjoy. I didn't care for the characters. If it weren't for the frequent explicit sex scenes, I would have thought this book was written for a much younger audience, as the plot is a bit juvenile and the characters act like they are 15 and 17, not 25 and 27. E. Davies is unfortunately not a writer whose other works I'll be pursuing.
And might I add, the fact that it was never touched on how Chase was tracked to Fredericton was never explained. Did they hire PIs in every city across Canada? This alone bothered me even to throw in the towel on this series.
And might I add, the fact that it was never touched on how Chase was tracked to Fredericton was never explained. Did they hire PIs in every city across Canada? This alone bothered me even to throw in the towel on this series.
July 1, 2019
The theme in this book that resonated with me was the artist and artistry in both Chase and Jackson. They were each more comfortable creating with their respective crafts than creating relationships with people. It made for an easy friendship that became a slow burn -- sweet, meaningful, bitter at times (particularly when past hurts came calling), earnest, and sexy. The artistry they exchanged with each other became an extension of how they came to feel about one another, and it made me feel simply happy. There is a community within this series that is easy to identify with and fall into. I had a wonderful time feeling, well, cozy...while reading this book.
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