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Devoted
“To have and to hold, in sickness and in health.”
“I can't do this alone.”
Russ Callaghan knew he was going to struggle after his wife’s death. He just never realized how much. As a single dad, he’s tried to balance paying the bills with making time for his son, Ryan. He’s been treading water for a long time and right now, his best friend, Jake, is the only thing keeping him afloat. But when his son needs major surgery, Russ isn’t sure anyone can save him from going under.
“I’d do anything for you. You know that.”
Jake Larson has been in love with Russ since college, but he knows they’ll never be more than friends. Even so, he can’t seem to stop himself from coming to Russ’ rescue. With Russ facing bankruptcy thanks to his terrible insurance, Jake concocts his most desperate plan yet: A sham marriage to get Ryan on his policy.
“You’re the only thing that feels real to me right now.”
It was supposed to be temporary, but when an insurance agent questions the validity of their marriage, Russ and Jake are forced to get a whole lot closer. Jake knows that once their time is up, they’ll go back to being friends regardless of what they’ve shared. But after having Jake as a partner both physically and emotionally, Russ isn’t ready to let go. Can they manage to turn their fake marriage into something real?
Devoted is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers.
“I can't do this alone.”
Russ Callaghan knew he was going to struggle after his wife’s death. He just never realized how much. As a single dad, he’s tried to balance paying the bills with making time for his son, Ryan. He’s been treading water for a long time and right now, his best friend, Jake, is the only thing keeping him afloat. But when his son needs major surgery, Russ isn’t sure anyone can save him from going under.
“I’d do anything for you. You know that.”
Jake Larson has been in love with Russ since college, but he knows they’ll never be more than friends. Even so, he can’t seem to stop himself from coming to Russ’ rescue. With Russ facing bankruptcy thanks to his terrible insurance, Jake concocts his most desperate plan yet: A sham marriage to get Ryan on his policy.
“You’re the only thing that feels real to me right now.”
It was supposed to be temporary, but when an insurance agent questions the validity of their marriage, Russ and Jake are forced to get a whole lot closer. Jake knows that once their time is up, they’ll go back to being friends regardless of what they’ve shared. But after having Jake as a partner both physically and emotionally, Russ isn’t ready to let go. Can they manage to turn their fake marriage into something real?
Devoted is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers.
262 pages, Paperback
First published March 14, 2016
106 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Sierra Riley
31 books453 followersSierra Riley was born and raised in a small town where she spent all her time reading under trees before she moved to the Bay area to pursue her own love story.
She writes the kinds of books she loves to read: rollercoaster rides with happily-ever-afters. She's rarely at a loss for ideas, and credits her wonderfully supportive friends with helping her stories actually make it onto the page, as well as her husband and kids for giving her the chance to follow her dreams.
When Sierra isn't busy writing, she enjoys knitting, traveling, listening to the Pet Shop Boys, or just curling up with her dogs and cats and devouring a good book.
She writes the kinds of books she loves to read: rollercoaster rides with happily-ever-afters. She's rarely at a loss for ideas, and credits her wonderfully supportive friends with helping her stories actually make it onto the page, as well as her husband and kids for giving her the chance to follow her dreams.
When Sierra isn't busy writing, she enjoys knitting, traveling, listening to the Pet Shop Boys, or just curling up with her dogs and cats and devouring a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
March 10, 2016
3.5 stars
I had just finished reading my first Sierra Riley book Guardian and was incredibly excited to read another book of hers. To add to the excitement, this blurb is absolutely killer, reminding me of Tere Michael's Faith, Love & Devotion series. While I did enjoy this book, it wasn't nearly as satisfying as Guardian and quite different from Faith, Love & Devotion.
OK, you need to suspend disbelief. Now. (Come on. You know that is sometimes necessary when reading M/M romances, especially when such strange circumstances are involved.)
Russ is a single father to 10 year-old Ryan. Russ's wife and Ryan's mother died in a plane crash during a routine flying run while on active duty with the US Air Force. She has been dead for 10 months when the story begins.
Jake is Russ's best friend and college buddy. He knew Russ and his wife Carrie during their college years and always accepted himself as their third wheel. He has also been in love with Russ for almost 20 years.
After a freak accident during a soccer game, Ryan requires surgery. Russ is heavily in credit card debt and because he has his own business, he has terrible insurance coverage and Ryan's surgery could bankrupt him.
Suspending disbelief #1: That the United States Air Force wouldn't continue to cover the family of an officer killed in the line of duty.
Suspending disbelief #2: Jake is a doctor with his own practice and can afford to pay for Ryan's surgery out-of-pocket. Russ won't even think about it. He is too proud to ask and doesn't want to be seen as weak and not able to take care of his family. Jake doesn't even offer because he knows how strongly Russ feels about charity.
Suspending disbelief #3: Russ won't ask his very wealthy parents (they drive a Rolls Royce) for help because he thinks it will be one more way his disapproving parents will try to run his and Ryan's lives.
Suspending disbelief #4: Russ believes the best solution to his financial problems is to marry Jake so he can be added to Jake's insurance coverage as a spouse.
The scene is now set up. Accept all of the above points to enjoy the story. Otherwise you will be irritated and not able to accept the marriage.
Jake is the poster boy for love-sick-puppy. He has pined after Russ for his entire adult life and believes he is the only one for him, even during all the years Russ was married to Carrie. He is sad and lonely and lives to be in Russ and Ryan's presence. He is a bright, handsome, successful doctor and I felt terrible for him.
Russ has been clueless that his best friend has a mad crush on him, but values his friendship and support above all else. He leans heavily on Jake during his times of distress.
When Russ finally has his "lightbulb moment" and realizes how Jake feels about him, he begins to return Jake's feelings. And that is where the fun begins.
Hot virgin gay sex, intense emotions, happy family times. Delightful.
Suspend disbelief and let yourself enjoy this tale of arranged marriage with a ridiculously joyous HEA. You'll be glad you did!
Galley copy of Devoted provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
I had just finished reading my first Sierra Riley book Guardian and was incredibly excited to read another book of hers. To add to the excitement, this blurb is absolutely killer, reminding me of Tere Michael's Faith, Love & Devotion series. While I did enjoy this book, it wasn't nearly as satisfying as Guardian and quite different from Faith, Love & Devotion.
OK, you need to suspend disbelief. Now. (Come on. You know that is sometimes necessary when reading M/M romances, especially when such strange circumstances are involved.)
Russ is a single father to 10 year-old Ryan. Russ's wife and Ryan's mother died in a plane crash during a routine flying run while on active duty with the US Air Force. She has been dead for 10 months when the story begins.
Jake is Russ's best friend and college buddy. He knew Russ and his wife Carrie during their college years and always accepted himself as their third wheel. He has also been in love with Russ for almost 20 years.
After a freak accident during a soccer game, Ryan requires surgery. Russ is heavily in credit card debt and because he has his own business, he has terrible insurance coverage and Ryan's surgery could bankrupt him.
Suspending disbelief #1: That the United States Air Force wouldn't continue to cover the family of an officer killed in the line of duty.
Suspending disbelief #2: Jake is a doctor with his own practice and can afford to pay for Ryan's surgery out-of-pocket. Russ won't even think about it. He is too proud to ask and doesn't want to be seen as weak and not able to take care of his family. Jake doesn't even offer because he knows how strongly Russ feels about charity.
Suspending disbelief #3: Russ won't ask his very wealthy parents (they drive a Rolls Royce) for help because he thinks it will be one more way his disapproving parents will try to run his and Ryan's lives.
Suspending disbelief #4: Russ believes the best solution to his financial problems is to marry Jake so he can be added to Jake's insurance coverage as a spouse.
The scene is now set up. Accept all of the above points to enjoy the story. Otherwise you will be irritated and not able to accept the marriage.
Jake is the poster boy for love-sick-puppy. He has pined after Russ for his entire adult life and believes he is the only one for him, even during all the years Russ was married to Carrie. He is sad and lonely and lives to be in Russ and Ryan's presence. He is a bright, handsome, successful doctor and I felt terrible for him.
Russ has been clueless that his best friend has a mad crush on him, but values his friendship and support above all else. He leans heavily on Jake during his times of distress.
When Russ finally has his "lightbulb moment" and realizes how Jake feels about him, he begins to return Jake's feelings. And that is where the fun begins.
Hot virgin gay sex, intense emotions, happy family times. Delightful.
Suspend disbelief and let yourself enjoy this tale of arranged marriage with a ridiculously joyous HEA. You'll be glad you did!
Galley copy of Devoted provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
May 3, 2016
Research. Please. Research.
This would probably have more stars if the basic premise held up. Russ has no insurance for his son's surgery so enters into a fraudulent marriage to gain the insurance benefits of his best friend (all to save 5000 and a lecture from his parents).
Yeah, about that. Um...but his wife was killed on active duty less than a year ago. As the widower of an active duty member, he would have Tricare for both himself and his son. He would have had the death gratuity, $100K also if she had SGLI insurance a possible additional $250K. He would have the death pension and a the basic housing allowance would have continued for a year too.
He had no reason whatsoever to need to enter into this marriage.
That actual research took me thirty seconds. Bad research makes me nuts and ruins too many books. Research your military details
This would probably have more stars if the basic premise held up. Russ has no insurance for his son's surgery so enters into a fraudulent marriage to gain the insurance benefits of his best friend (all to save 5000 and a lecture from his parents).
Yeah, about that. Um...but his wife was killed on active duty less than a year ago. As the widower of an active duty member, he would have Tricare for both himself and his son. He would have had the death gratuity, $100K also if she had SGLI insurance a possible additional $250K. He would have the death pension and a the basic housing allowance would have continued for a year too.
He had no reason whatsoever to need to enter into this marriage.
That actual research took me thirty seconds. Bad research makes me nuts and ruins too many books. Research your military details
September 19, 2016
This one was definitely better than Overboard, but I still didn't love it as much as I have done many other books by the author. The plot is good, but I didn't connect well with the MCs. I can't exactly articulate what was holding me back. Maybe I wanted Ryan to have more of a mark in it, or maybe I wanted the story to be more active and not so dreary, but something did hold me back from loving it all the way.
At least I know for a fact that the recent works have gotten a far sight better, gives me something to look forward to. :)
At least I know for a fact that the recent works have gotten a far sight better, gives me something to look forward to. :)
March 23, 2016
Sierra Riley can tell a good story, but this is the second book I've read of hers, and both times, the men are exactly the same. Same personality, same inner voice, nothing to really tell them apart. Don't even get me started on Jake, who has apparently been in love with his "straight" (really bi) best friend for nearly 20 years.
ETA: ok,I'm back to add more. By the end of the story, I had actually forgotten the really big plot hole from the beginning. Russ is a widower, a single father after his wife was killed while his wife was deployed, Air Force. I don't know a lot about how all that works, but I do know there are survivor's benefits, probably life insurance, and at the very least, the kid would be completely covered, Healthcare wise, so long as he's still in school. Pretty sure the spouse would be covered, too, but I'm not sure for how long. It would have been much better if the wife had been killed in a car accident or something. Hell, nothing was EVER said about military life. No mention of travel, or being separated, other than when the wife is killed. Her being in the service served no real purpose at all, to be honest. The more I think about it, I have to bump a star off my rating, too many silly reasons to justify the fake marriage.
ETA: ok,I'm back to add more. By the end of the story, I had actually forgotten the really big plot hole from the beginning. Russ is a widower, a single father after his wife was killed while his wife was deployed, Air Force. I don't know a lot about how all that works, but I do know there are survivor's benefits, probably life insurance, and at the very least, the kid would be completely covered, Healthcare wise, so long as he's still in school. Pretty sure the spouse would be covered, too, but I'm not sure for how long. It would have been much better if the wife had been killed in a car accident or something. Hell, nothing was EVER said about military life. No mention of travel, or being separated, other than when the wife is killed. Her being in the service served no real purpose at all, to be honest. The more I think about it, I have to bump a star off my rating, too many silly reasons to justify the fake marriage.
May 14, 2016
I hate don't have time to write propers review right now, but I will this weekend.
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Gay marriage always got me.
This is the story of Russ, A father that it's having problem with money after his wife died and his Best friend who is his stone and the only thing keeping him strong.
This was a really sweet story of Best Friends falling in love, it wasn't bad, but sometimes I just feel the situation was so surreal and everything developed really really fast but I was just looking something simple and low-angst and this book do the trick.
Just have present that if you want to read it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gay marriage always got me.
This is the story of Russ, A father that it's having problem with money after his wife died and his Best friend who is his stone and the only thing keeping him strong.
This was a really sweet story of Best Friends falling in love, it wasn't bad, but sometimes I just feel the situation was so surreal and everything developed really really fast but I was just looking something simple and low-angst and this book do the trick.
Just have present that if you want to read it.
March 16, 2016
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review...thanks Sierra Riley ;)
3,5 " fake marriage" stars :)
Russ and Jake have been friends for a long time. Jake has always had feelings for Russ, but he never did anything with about it and he has never told Russ. Along the way Russ marries Carrie, who is a friend of both of them.
Then tragedy strikes and Carrie dies, leaving Jake and his now 10 year old son Ryan alone. Russ and Jake grow closer…but misery loves company, so it’s no surprise when tragedy strikes Rus and his son again. Ryan is hurt playing soccer and needs medical treatment, that Jake can’t afford.
Not knowing (or wanting) any other option, the the two men decide to marry, so Ryan can be on Jake’s insurence. This fake marriage turns out to be a life safer. It also turns out not to be so fake, when feelings grow stronger and Russ starts to see Jake with different eyes.
This was a very sweet, “friends to lovers”, “gfy” story, with a nice steam level. I do have to say, that there could have been other ways, to pay for this medical bill instead of this fake marriage, but hey...I don't read books for the reality level !! The only thing that bothers me a little bit is that this one again started with a steamy sex scene. Now don't get me wrong...I love the steamy sex, but it already spoils a bit of what's gonna happen. Yes...I already knew the two would end up together..but still. I like to be surprised ;)
I enjoyed reading this one and I can’t wait to see what Sierra Riley has in store for us next ;)
3,5 stars :))
3,5 " fake marriage" stars :)
Russ and Jake have been friends for a long time. Jake has always had feelings for Russ, but he never did anything with about it and he has never told Russ. Along the way Russ marries Carrie, who is a friend of both of them.
Then tragedy strikes and Carrie dies, leaving Jake and his now 10 year old son Ryan alone. Russ and Jake grow closer…but misery loves company, so it’s no surprise when tragedy strikes Rus and his son again. Ryan is hurt playing soccer and needs medical treatment, that Jake can’t afford.
Not knowing (or wanting) any other option, the the two men decide to marry, so Ryan can be on Jake’s insurence. This fake marriage turns out to be a life safer. It also turns out not to be so fake, when feelings grow stronger and Russ starts to see Jake with different eyes.
This was a very sweet, “friends to lovers”, “gfy” story, with a nice steam level. I do have to say, that there could have been other ways, to pay for this medical bill instead of this fake marriage, but hey...I don't read books for the reality level !! The only thing that bothers me a little bit is that this one again started with a steamy sex scene. Now don't get me wrong...I love the steamy sex, but it already spoils a bit of what's gonna happen. Yes...I already knew the two would end up together..but still. I like to be surprised ;)
I enjoyed reading this one and I can’t wait to see what Sierra Riley has in store for us next ;)
3,5 stars :))
March 29, 2016
This book is almost a telenovela.
The first part of the book is really SAD!! They remember a lot stuff about the passed away wife, the big money problems, Ryan’s illness...
But then omg the hilarious idea of the fake marriage for getting Jake’s insurance comes and we have a really funny situation!!
I like it BUT maybe we needed a bit more time to process the relationship… I believe 100% on Jake. But Russ? Mmnnm… nope
So, this was not my fav but I still want to read more Sierra´s books :)!
The first part of the book is really SAD!! They remember a lot stuff about the passed away wife, the big money problems, Ryan’s illness...
But then omg the hilarious idea of the fake marriage for getting Jake’s insurance comes and we have a really funny situation!!
I like it BUT maybe we needed a bit more time to process the relationship… I believe 100% on Jake. But Russ? Mmnnm… nope
So, this was not my fav but I still want to read more Sierra´s books :)!
March 26, 2016
This was one of those classic situations where you absolutely love one of the MCs but the other... not so much. This is probably my fault to be honest, I don't like the mourning after trope, I hate it when one of the MCs has to compete against a ghost, although it was almost nonexistent on this one.
I didn't dislike Russ, oh well, I did want to hit him once or twice with a rock to help him see reason... Being in his head was frustrating, really, he was so blind I just wanted to scream at him.
I liked how once again there wasn't any kind of drama with Ryan about his dad's bisexuality.
Jake was obviously my favourite character here, I wanted to hug him so bad. Poor thing, so loyal and so in love, pining after Russ for 20 years.
He really earned that HEA!
I didn't dislike Russ, oh well, I did want to hit him once or twice with a rock to help him see reason... Being in his head was frustrating, really, he was so blind I just wanted to scream at him.
I liked how once again there wasn't any kind of drama with Ryan about his dad's bisexuality.
Jake was obviously my favourite character here, I wanted to hug him so bad. Poor thing, so loyal and so in love, pining after Russ for 20 years.
He really earned that HEA!
March 13, 2016
Jake loved Russ in college and through the next twenty years, including Russ' marriage to their friend, Carrie, the birth of his son, Ryan, and Carrie's later death. When Ryan needs an expensive surgery, Jake volunteers to marry Russ to provide (more) insurance coverage.
Okay, so. This story wasn't my favorite. I had a hard time getting past the fraud to save $5,000. Maybe I'm more rigid than I realized but it was challenging to see either man as a sympathetic romantic hero when it felt like they were both a little shady and willing to lie and cheat to benefit themselves. Ryan was the only character I could really root for in this story. Oh! And the couple who got married before them at City Hall.
The steamy bits were steamy, the HEA was solid, the angst meter was low. This book should have hit the boxes for an easy comfort read but I just couldn't really get past the basis for the relationship.
Please note that I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
Okay, so. This story wasn't my favorite. I had a hard time getting past the fraud to save $5,000. Maybe I'm more rigid than I realized but it was challenging to see either man as a sympathetic romantic hero when it felt like they were both a little shady and willing to lie and cheat to benefit themselves. Ryan was the only character I could really root for in this story. Oh! And the couple who got married before them at City Hall.
The steamy bits were steamy, the HEA was solid, the angst meter was low. This book should have hit the boxes for an easy comfort read but I just couldn't really get past the basis for the relationship.
Please note that I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
dnf
October 13, 2016DNF'ed at 15%
Ethics much? As other reviewers have pointed out, Russ had options ... he just didn't like them. But fraud is fraud. Entering into a sham marriage to obtain insurance benefits he wasn't entitled to? Dishonorable and soooo unattractive. Boo!!!
Ethics much? As other reviewers have pointed out, Russ had options ... he just didn't like them. But fraud is fraud. Entering into a sham marriage to obtain insurance benefits he wasn't entitled to? Dishonorable and soooo unattractive. Boo!!!
September 13, 2016
*** 2.5 Stars ***
I found the set up for this double whammy of a best-friends-to-lovers and fake boyfriend/husband tropefest to be a little irritating, but once things mellowed out about 30% into the story.
I found the set up for this double whammy of a best-friends-to-lovers and fake boyfriend/husband tropefest to be a little irritating, but once things mellowed out about 30% into the story.
June 12, 2016
I like the fake marriage aspect of the story, the gfy? Not so much. Russ' attraction to Jake was just too instalove for me. This wouldve been a four or a five if the romance was given time to grow.
March 9, 2019
3 para pasar el rato ESTRELLAS
No daré una reseña como las que suelo hacer.
Solo diré que estuvo interesante para pasar el rato pero que los personajes fueron un poco planos.
Jake le sugiere a su amigo Russ (del que está muy enamorado desde la universidad) casarse para poder agregarlo a su póliza de seguro y así poder pagar la operación Ryan, hijo de Russ de su primer matrimonio (su esposa murió en un accidente aéreo). Russ es un carpintero que apenas puede pagar las cuentas y no quiere ser dependiente de nadie pero la operación de su hijo sobresale mucho de su presupuesto y está desesperado. Acepta la propuesta pero entre ambos amigos empiezan a dejarse llevar por los sentimientos y las circunstancias. Con el temor de ser atrapados por la trampa con el seguro, ¿confesaran los sentimientos el uno por el otro?
Como dije, estuvo bien para algo simple. Russ y Jake fueron agradables de leer; el primero es un poco paranoico, con tendencias depresivas y se preocupa mucho por su hijo, aparte que quiere mucho a Jake pero tarde en darse cuenta de que lo ama también. Jake, por otro lado, siempre ha amado a Russ y hace todo, absolutamente todo por él.
La narración de la autora en simple pero no es la gran cosa. Sin embargo, nunca una escena de sexo me pareció tan latosamente larga y eso que solo se describen dos. Se siente como una ensalada: te alimenta pero no te llena. Aún con ello, me gustó, el personaje de Ryan, el hijo de nueve años de Russ, fue un amor y me gustó. Aparte debo darle el crédito a la autora y es que me sacó unas cuantas risas, eso se le aprecia mucho.
No daré una reseña como las que suelo hacer.
Solo diré que estuvo interesante para pasar el rato pero que los personajes fueron un poco planos.
Jake le sugiere a su amigo Russ (del que está muy enamorado desde la universidad) casarse para poder agregarlo a su póliza de seguro y así poder pagar la operación Ryan, hijo de Russ de su primer matrimonio (su esposa murió en un accidente aéreo). Russ es un carpintero que apenas puede pagar las cuentas y no quiere ser dependiente de nadie pero la operación de su hijo sobresale mucho de su presupuesto y está desesperado. Acepta la propuesta pero entre ambos amigos empiezan a dejarse llevar por los sentimientos y las circunstancias. Con el temor de ser atrapados por la trampa con el seguro, ¿confesaran los sentimientos el uno por el otro?
Como dije, estuvo bien para algo simple. Russ y Jake fueron agradables de leer; el primero es un poco paranoico, con tendencias depresivas y se preocupa mucho por su hijo, aparte que quiere mucho a Jake pero tarde en darse cuenta de que lo ama también. Jake, por otro lado, siempre ha amado a Russ y hace todo, absolutamente todo por él.
La narración de la autora en simple pero no es la gran cosa. Sin embargo, nunca una escena de sexo me pareció tan latosamente larga y eso que solo se describen dos. Se siente como una ensalada: te alimenta pero no te llena. Aún con ello, me gustó, el personaje de Ryan, el hijo de nueve años de Russ, fue un amor y me gustó. Aparte debo darle el crédito a la autora y es que me sacó unas cuantas risas, eso se le aprecia mucho.
April 8, 2016
Russ and Jake, this is what you did to me.
I have no idea what delusional powder these authors be sniffin' but I gotta say the shit is potent. Jake and Russ defined the words pathetic and annoying. 'Devoted' is basically a revamping of an exploited theme. Jake is gay, Russ is straight, they're best friends, the gay one is in love with the straight one, the straight one is oblivious until his cock stirs in the gay one's presence, then they catch feelings and disappointing sex happens (in my opinion). Therefore 200+ pages of "romance" is produced. By this point I'm convinced.....
Partially I am to blame. I knew, I just knew this wasn't going to impress me but I tried to give this author a chance. Fuck, why did I even bother. Maybe.......
Oh whatever.
It's a no.
The End.
I have no idea what delusional powder these authors be sniffin' but I gotta say the shit is potent. Jake and Russ defined the words pathetic and annoying. 'Devoted' is basically a revamping of an exploited theme. Jake is gay, Russ is straight, they're best friends, the gay one is in love with the straight one, the straight one is oblivious until his cock stirs in the gay one's presence, then they catch feelings and disappointing sex happens (in my opinion). Therefore 200+ pages of "romance" is produced. By this point I'm convinced.....
Partially I am to blame. I knew, I just knew this wasn't going to impress me but I tried to give this author a chance. Fuck, why did I even bother. Maybe.......
Oh whatever.
It's a no.
The End.
March 20, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
Oh Jake. He's been in love with his best friend for 20 years, but has done a great job not letting that bother him as Russ got married to his other friend Carrie and had a son, Ryan. We meet the guys 10 months after Carrie passes away and Russ is struggling with moving on with his life. When Ryan gets injured during a soccer game and needs surgery that isn't covered by Russ's insurance, Jake suggests that they get married temporarily for the benefits. Of course, Jake doesn't know that Russ has always had bi-tendencies and was attracted to Russ for many years (although in no way did this take away from his love for Carrie...he never acted on it or thought about it after getting married). Watching their friendship progress to lovers and seeing Russ come to the realization that Jake was perfect for him was beautiful. I really loved this story. There wasn't a lot of major angst (although we do have a great story of the insurance company questioning the validity of the marriage) and we got a fabulous HEA with a WONDERFUL epilogue.
Oh Jake. He's been in love with his best friend for 20 years, but has done a great job not letting that bother him as Russ got married to his other friend Carrie and had a son, Ryan. We meet the guys 10 months after Carrie passes away and Russ is struggling with moving on with his life. When Ryan gets injured during a soccer game and needs surgery that isn't covered by Russ's insurance, Jake suggests that they get married temporarily for the benefits. Of course, Jake doesn't know that Russ has always had bi-tendencies and was attracted to Russ for many years (although in no way did this take away from his love for Carrie...he never acted on it or thought about it after getting married). Watching their friendship progress to lovers and seeing Russ come to the realization that Jake was perfect for him was beautiful. I really loved this story. There wasn't a lot of major angst (although we do have a great story of the insurance company questioning the validity of the marriage) and we got a fabulous HEA with a WONDERFUL epilogue.
March 20, 2016
Jake Larson should be nominated for sainthood for his utter devotion to his best friend that spans decades.A devotion that borders on selfless obsession & sparkling of an eternal love that preserves despite Russ's marriage to Carrie & the birth of the son Ryan.
It is Carries death & Ryan's injury that slowly begins to remove the scales from Russ's eyes to the love that has been within his reach for years.Sierra has written a hot story that seems really believable as well so that the reader is instantly pulled into the book.
An ARC was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
It is Carries death & Ryan's injury that slowly begins to remove the scales from Russ's eyes to the love that has been within his reach for years.Sierra has written a hot story that seems really believable as well so that the reader is instantly pulled into the book.
An ARC was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
laters-baby
March 21, 2016I'm bit depressed reading this. Jake was so head over heels in love with his straight best friend. And Russ keep wallowing in grief because of his dead wife. One of my pet peeves is dead lover/partner.
The writing pace is so slow. And I don't really feel the chemistry between them. Oh well maybe it's just me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2016
Cute little read with a nice plot and two adorable MCs.
March 2, 2021
I’m loved the little “snippet” at the beginning of the book. Jake was a total sweetheart. And I liked that once Russ realized his true feelings for Jake he was all in.
April 29, 2016
Jake and Russ are lovable characters by Ryan stole the show. For a young boy of only 10 years he is a lot wiser then most adults give him credit for.
Jake and Russ have been best friends since College, they have been there for one another through good times and bad so when Russ looses his wife in a tragic military accident Jake is there to help him pick up the pieces. When Ryan is hurt during a soccer game and needs surgery Russ is torn on how to pay for it, ask his parents for a loan and never hear the end of it...or, give up his dream company and get a "real" job that would help pay the bills. Jake's answer to all of Russ' problems are "Marry Me" and then both Russ and Ryan would be covered by Jake's medical insurance.
This was a heartwarming story about two friends that have always loved one another, one was very aware of his feelings but kept them hidden while the other knew he felt something but wasn't quite sure what it was until recently, and, did I mention the adorable 10 year old that stole everyone's heart?
This game was used several times to settle bets:
Jake and Russ have been best friends since College, they have been there for one another through good times and bad so when Russ looses his wife in a tragic military accident Jake is there to help him pick up the pieces. When Ryan is hurt during a soccer game and needs surgery Russ is torn on how to pay for it, ask his parents for a loan and never hear the end of it...or, give up his dream company and get a "real" job that would help pay the bills. Jake's answer to all of Russ' problems are "Marry Me" and then both Russ and Ryan would be covered by Jake's medical insurance.
This was a heartwarming story about two friends that have always loved one another, one was very aware of his feelings but kept them hidden while the other knew he felt something but wasn't quite sure what it was until recently, and, did I mention the adorable 10 year old that stole everyone's heart?
This game was used several times to settle bets:
March 17, 2016
This was a good book. Not as good as Guardian but good. Two best friends marry for insurance benefits. Russell lost his wife about a year ago and is raising a 10 year old. Jake his best friend since college is there for him and comes up with the idea. Jake is gay and had also been in love with him for 20 years. The fake marraige turns real.
The issue I have with the book is that in order for the plot to work everything has to happen really fast. Russell also is a bit of a contradiction. At first he comes off as devestaded about his wife's death, then he gives indications he thought about Jake in college, then gets mad when a suggestion is made he should move on and remarry someday. A lot of effort by the author to make Russ not come off bad I guess but the wife is not mention again really once they hook up.
Anyway I enjoyed the book. It has a great epilogue and it was sweet. Not as sexy as the Guardian though. Firewall looks interesting so I'll read that when it comes out.
The issue I have with the book is that in order for the plot to work everything has to happen really fast. Russell also is a bit of a contradiction. At first he comes off as devestaded about his wife's death, then he gives indications he thought about Jake in college, then gets mad when a suggestion is made he should move on and remarry someday. A lot of effort by the author to make Russ not come off bad I guess but the wife is not mention again really once they hook up.
Anyway I enjoyed the book. It has a great epilogue and it was sweet. Not as sexy as the Guardian though. Firewall looks interesting so I'll read that when it comes out.
March 15, 2016
3.5 stars
An ARC was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
This is the third book released by Ms. Riley that I've been given the opportunity to read. It follows that same format of her first two, which if this was a series I'd like, however I'm not one for cookie cutter books. The story opens with a sneakpeek sex scene between the two main characters. By doing so the author ruined the suspense of the boys’ relationship.
What I did like was the honest emotions that were being shown through the writing. Several times I got a tightness in my chest and misty-eyed while reading. Ms. Riley also did an excellent job of keeping the men separate and distinct throughout the entire book.
The story’s predictability hurt it some, but I did enjoy a “tied up the loose ends” ending and the views several months and then several years later.
An ARC was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
This is the third book released by Ms. Riley that I've been given the opportunity to read. It follows that same format of her first two, which if this was a series I'd like, however I'm not one for cookie cutter books. The story opens with a sneakpeek sex scene between the two main characters. By doing so the author ruined the suspense of the boys’ relationship.
What I did like was the honest emotions that were being shown through the writing. Several times I got a tightness in my chest and misty-eyed while reading. Ms. Riley also did an excellent job of keeping the men separate and distinct throughout the entire book.
The story’s predictability hurt it some, but I did enjoy a “tied up the loose ends” ending and the views several months and then several years later.
May 23, 2016
Oh man talk about a slow burn....I'm talking like 65% into the book and we finally get a little action.
It was a ton of set up and not a lot of relationship experience. We learn about how Russ and Jake met, how they bonded and how they eventually got married and fell in love.
I really do enjoy Sierra Riley's books - with that I will say that nothing really stood out in Devoted for me. I liked how we saw Russ come to the realization that he loved Jake, but I just liked it, not loved it.
On to the next!
It was a ton of set up and not a lot of relationship experience. We learn about how Russ and Jake met, how they bonded and how they eventually got married and fell in love.
I really do enjoy Sierra Riley's books - with that I will say that nothing really stood out in Devoted for me. I liked how we saw Russ come to the realization that he loved Jake, but I just liked it, not loved it.
On to the next!
March 28, 2016
This was a nice read but I did find myself skimming a bit. I'd use adjectives such as lukewarm, pedestrian rather than the hot and exciting I'd hoped for.
June 13, 2025
A bit cliché but quite entertaining. It got me out of my reading slump, hence my rating. I liked the relationship between the main characters and the family dynamics. Ryan is a sweetheart. There was a bit of drama, but nothing too distressing. I would read it again in the future when I need something light and quick.
January 22, 2018
Two best friends that realize there is more between them than just friendship! Heart felt love story that will leave you smiling and in love!
April 11, 2020
Tengo un bloqueo lector horrible y ni siquiera se como fui capaz de llegar al final de este libro... Estuvo bien, para pasar el rato y nada mas
September 23, 2021
I came.
I read.
I did not conquer.
This was a disappointment from page one.
I love fake marriage tropes but the execution here just... #fail
I read.
I did not conquer.
This was a disappointment from page one.
I love fake marriage tropes but the execution here just... #fail
April 17, 2025
This was such a cute, sweet story. Single parent along with biawakening is always a favorite.
March 27, 2016
Title:Devoted
Author:Sierra Riley
Series:
Publisher:Createspace
Reviewer:Melissa
Release Date:March 18, 2016
Genre(s):M/M Contemporary Romance
Page Count:262
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
“Bound as tightly as they would ever be. And still he didn’t feel as if he had any right to say the words that raced through his mind; to tell Ryan that he loved him, too, and would do anything in the world for him.”
4 devoted stars!! Another great book by Sierra, I swear this woman could write anything and I’d read it!
Russ is trying to keep his head above water after losing his wife. He’s now a single dad, working and trying to maintain his house and be with his son Ryan. The only person who knows what he’s going through is his best friend Jake. Jake has been in love with Russ since college and he’s come to terms with knowing nothing more will ever happen between them. Then Russ is faced with bankruptcy due to crappy insurance his son needing a major surgery. Jake comes up with a great plan, Russ and Jake should get married, then Jake can add Russ and Ryan to his insurance. Perfect idea right? Not so much, when an insurance agent starts to get suspicious of these two. But as they fake their marriage, they start to get closer…. Will they want more, once their fake marriage is over? Is Jake the one Russ has been looking for??
What a great book! I loved the story, I loved Russ and Jake, and I loved the whole theme of the book! You really pull for these two to be together, even though they have so much working against them. There’s times where you’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll be questioning why these two weren’t together to begin with! Another fantastic book, Sierra!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
Author:Sierra Riley
Series:
Publisher:Createspace
Reviewer:Melissa
Release Date:March 18, 2016
Genre(s):M/M Contemporary Romance
Page Count:262
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
“I can't do this alone.”
Russ Callaghan knew he was going to struggle after his wife’s death. He just never realized how much. As a single dad, he’s tried to balance paying the bills with making time for his son, Ryan. He’s been treading water for a long time and right now, his best friend, Jake, is the only thing keeping him afloat. But when his son needs major surgery, Russ isn’t sure anyone can save him from going under.
“I’d do anything for you. You know that.”
Jake Larson has been in love with Russ since college, but he knows they’ll never be more than friends. Even so, he can’t seem to stop himself from coming to Russ’ rescue. With Russ facing bankruptcy thanks to his terrible insurance, Jake concocts his most desperate plan yet: A sham marriage to get Ryan on his policy.
“You’re the only thing that feels real to me right now.”
It was supposed to be temporary, but when an insurance agent questions the validity of their marriage, Russ and Jake are forced to get a whole lot closer. Jake knows that once their time is up, they’ll go back to being friends regardless of what they’ve shared. But after having Jake as a partner both physically and emotionally, Russ isn’t ready to let go. Can they manage to turn their fake marriage into something real?
Review:
“Bound as tightly as they would ever be. And still he didn’t feel as if he had any right to say the words that raced through his mind; to tell Ryan that he loved him, too, and would do anything in the world for him.”
4 devoted stars!! Another great book by Sierra, I swear this woman could write anything and I’d read it!
Russ is trying to keep his head above water after losing his wife. He’s now a single dad, working and trying to maintain his house and be with his son Ryan. The only person who knows what he’s going through is his best friend Jake. Jake has been in love with Russ since college and he’s come to terms with knowing nothing more will ever happen between them. Then Russ is faced with bankruptcy due to crappy insurance his son needing a major surgery. Jake comes up with a great plan, Russ and Jake should get married, then Jake can add Russ and Ryan to his insurance. Perfect idea right? Not so much, when an insurance agent starts to get suspicious of these two. But as they fake their marriage, they start to get closer…. Will they want more, once their fake marriage is over? Is Jake the one Russ has been looking for??
What a great book! I loved the story, I loved Russ and Jake, and I loved the whole theme of the book! You really pull for these two to be together, even though they have so much working against them. There’s times where you’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll be questioning why these two weren’t together to begin with! Another fantastic book, Sierra!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
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