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Endless Stretch of Blue
Lorenzo Moretti and Damon Blackwell have never met, but they're tied together by the same tragedy. They were both there that night. They each lost someone they loved. They've been living as shells of their former selves ever since. Running into each other and realizing their shared pasts? Pure serendipity.Being together is a tingle at the base of Enzo's spine, a comfort that settles into Damon's bones. No one understands what they went through the night the club caught fire-until now. For the first time, they have someone to lean on, someone who knows all the right things to say and when to say nothing at all. Neither of them has been with another man before, but their shared connection grows from friendship and explodes into something more, something raw and desperate and real. Now, they're dealing not only with their pasts, but their new relationship, the one thing that calms their internal storms.Enzo and Damon might not know much else, but with every touch, with every word, and every night spent exploring each other's bodies, they know they're in love. They keep each other going, show each other what happiness really is.But love alone can't get them through. Damon and Enzo must decide if they really have what it takes to work through their trauma and fight for the happily ever after that's waiting just on the horizon.
284 pages, Paperback
First published July 21, 2019
554 people are currently reading
2523 people want to read
About the author
Riley Hart
118 books7,117 followersRiley Hart is the girl who wears her heart on her sleeve. She's a hopeless romantic. A lover of sexy stories, passionate men, and writing about all the trouble they can get into together. If she's not writing, you'll probably find her reading.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 450 reviews
February 10, 2025
By your side / You and I, do or die / Who am I? / Your reflection (Psilocybin - Jhené Aiko).
By now I’ve read several Riley Hart books and all of them feel completely different in the best kind of way. She has such a diverse catalogue, it's impressive! As for the story, we follow two strangers, Enzo and Damon, who are intertwined through the same tragedy of losing the people closest to them, as they just happened to be at the same club the night it burned down. I thought it was interesting how other than in their introduction chapters, most of the story is actually rather low-key, because most of the drama and conflict comes from these characters trying to come to terms with their shared trauma as well as navigating through the troubled waters that comes with their growing attraction to each other. It’s simple, yet complicated. I especially liked how Damon and Enzo don’t “fix” each other, but rather help each other get the help that they both need. It’s a relationship that’s built on the foundation of solidarity and safety rather than immediate attraction. Because the characters are a little older, it adds another layer to both of their respective coming out journeys. I particularly found Enzo's self-discovery to be really emotionally impactful and it was really sweet how this story showcased how it’s never really too late to explore your sexuality! The insecurity, the sexual awakenings, and the second chances; it's was all here, and handled masterfully. This was a wonderful book! Mostly due to the story's tender center that elevated the material more than what the somewhat deceptive cover would imply. This time I’m not lying when I say I read it for the plot!
“When you look out at the water, at that endless stretch of blue, makes you feel small doesn’t it? Small but somehow important. Like the ocean goes on forever and you’re just really damn lucky you get to see it, experience it. It’s so beautiful, it doesn’t feel real sometimes.”
By now I’ve read several Riley Hart books and all of them feel completely different in the best kind of way. She has such a diverse catalogue, it's impressive! As for the story, we follow two strangers, Enzo and Damon, who are intertwined through the same tragedy of losing the people closest to them, as they just happened to be at the same club the night it burned down. I thought it was interesting how other than in their introduction chapters, most of the story is actually rather low-key, because most of the drama and conflict comes from these characters trying to come to terms with their shared trauma as well as navigating through the troubled waters that comes with their growing attraction to each other. It’s simple, yet complicated. I especially liked how Damon and Enzo don’t “fix” each other, but rather help each other get the help that they both need. It’s a relationship that’s built on the foundation of solidarity and safety rather than immediate attraction. Because the characters are a little older, it adds another layer to both of their respective coming out journeys. I particularly found Enzo's self-discovery to be really emotionally impactful and it was really sweet how this story showcased how it’s never really too late to explore your sexuality! The insecurity, the sexual awakenings, and the second chances; it's was all here, and handled masterfully. This was a wonderful book! Mostly due to the story's tender center that elevated the material more than what the somewhat deceptive cover would imply. This time I’m not lying when I say I read it for the plot!
“When you look out at the water, at that endless stretch of blue, makes you feel small doesn’t it? Small but somehow important. Like the ocean goes on forever and you’re just really damn lucky you get to see it, experience it. It’s so beautiful, it doesn’t feel real sometimes.”
September 13, 2022
“No matter what happens,” Enzo replied, “I’m coming home to you.”
“No matter what happens, I’ll be right there waiting for you.”
I have not been compatible with this author. Skimming her books early on was not a problem for me, and it was difficult connecting with her characters. Her writing style was always easy to follow, but it never helped with the constant issues I kept finding. Yet, even after seven books failed to impress me, I kept going back because the blurbs of her books kept calling my name, whether fluffy or angsty. There were always tropes I love being used, and I happily gave in easily. They say the third time’s the charm, but here it was the eight. I know people have specific thoughts about why you should abandon an author after a second or third chance, but RH’s books always called to me somehow. And if I had given up on her now, I would have never come across this gem. This book had me crying and feeling very emotional. I felt so much for these characters, what they went through, their relationship, and their own feelings.
If I could go back in time and re-read this for the first time, I would take that opportunity without a second thought. It was emotional, angsty, heartfelt, raw, and aching, but also full of hope, second chances, and many firsts. To try and put into words how the two characters, Damon and Enzo, made me feel would be difficult. I feel honored, to say the least, that I was able to read a story like this. Emotional, gripping, and all around full of tension, the love within the pages speaks different volumes as it all builds up. I cannot emphasize how perfectly crafted the romance in this was. The tension, the confusion, the acceptance, the reassurance, the want, need, and longing all only added to the connection our two main characters build up. From strangers connecting through the same tragedy to a quick friendship formed with a few words to a routine made that starts feeling strangely familiar to a romantic and sexual relationship between two men who thought wrong about themselves their whole life.
While I’m not always a fan of any gay for you/bi for you stories, this was definitely one of the most beautiful, well-written, and perfect gfy/bi-awakening stories. I absolutely loved how Riley Hart wrote the relationship between Damon and Enzo and their progress. Not only do we see the beginning of a friendship first, but it was realistic, believable, and felt well-thought out as they began to feel a mutual attraction. A true friends to lovers story, it was difficult to not root for these two. The relationship felt practical. The way two people look at each other in a gazing way without realizing the building desire hidden in their eyes was the way Damon and Enzo’s relationship built. Even their first kiss was perfect in my eyes. It felt so real, vivid, and raw, full of emotional longing, painful agony, and confused want that neither character could address easily without talking through it.
Adding on to that, the transition from friendship to attraction to relationship flowed so naturally, and I loved how on board our two men were. Damon was more open to accepting the term “bisexual” from the get go, but Enzo struggled a little with labels, which was completely understandable. Even though he came to accept himself as such, he felt like labels weren’t important to him and he was just Enzo in love with Damon. Despite the confusing thoughts they had around the beginning, their hesitancy never wavered or added conflict to their relationship. Even with the confusion and hesitation, we see how the two don’t form any casual relationship and instead follow their hearts, seeing where it all takes them. Not only that, but I also thought adding the small hesitant steps that later became more confident really showed how new everything was for both men. For example, how Damon ends up buying some e-books that not only talks about gay sex, but also male sexuality, the LGBTQ+ community, and how to approach this new discovery. I thought this was so cute and sweet of him. I think so many books make it seem like everyone is born with a manual on all this that no matter how new something can be for you that suddenly you know what you’re doing, but in reality, it’s not only about practice but also knowledge. I’ve read so many MM romances where it’s questioning how some of the characters knew what they were doing when it was their first time, despite never doing it before, having no previous knowledge whatsoever, and not even knowing about certain positions or places the body finds desire in. All in all, this was really realistic, showing a different side that I don’t really see in other MM books.
This couple has become one of my favorites. Every little thing they did together and as individuals felt perfect. I could read about them over and over, for hours, without getting tired or distracted.
When he was with Damon, he didn’t feel alone, didn’t feel obligated to be someone he wasn’t or to smile if he didn’t feel like it. He didn’t feel like he was weak for still hurting so damn much.
But, as much as I love them together, their individualities tugged at my heart. Despite the fact that both characters witnessed the same tragedy and both lost a loved one (Damon his younger sister, and Enzo his older brother), they both deal with the mourning and guilt in very different ways that show their distinct personalities and flaws. Damon feels like he really doesn’t have anyone. His father is gone, his sister died that night, and his mother is at a Nursing Home for her Alzheimers. On the other hand, Enzo has a big, Italian family, but he feels guilty and neglected for what happened. Both men blame themselves for what happened, carrying guilt and shame, feeling like they should have and could have done better to protect their sibling. We go into detail on how they feel. I really appreciated how Riley didn’t leave this topic hanging around, as if it was something that only happened in the beginning and was suddenly gone. Instead of it being brushed away, we see how much both men struggle on accepting the fact that they couldn’t do anything about what happened, not when their lives were also at risk. But, seeing how both blamed themselves and wished they could go back in time and even switch places with their siblings really showed not only the emotional bond they had as relatives, but it also shows how guilt is eating them alive. Damon can’t do anything to help his mother remember more, and Enzo feels like his family is shaming him. They both become more damaged as they carry the blame.
I became very emotional with both characters. With Enzo, it was the way he wanted to be there with his family, mourn with them, and feel like he could talk about what happened with them, but couldn’t. He deserved better. Even though he was able to confront his parents about how he was feeling in the end, his emotions played with my emotions. I loved how Riley wrote his character. Lost, lonely, scared, and vulnerable, he didn’t feel as loved by his family and felt like he could only rely on his sister Izzy (and later Damon when he met him). Hart wrote his character to be hurting. It caused him to misunderstand situations, lack a little in communication, and feel hopeless. His strengths were constantly brought down because he didn’t feel like he was enough. His family never made him feel strong but instead weak, and the way they would constantly talk about Ricky and Ricky only, as if Enzo never went through anything and isn’t suffering on his own, showed the growing agony he was experiencing. But hile I may have had a smaller but bigger soft spot for Enzo, Damon’s somber feelings were still heart-wrenching. Not only does his mother struggle with Alzheimers that she doesn’t always remember him, but she doesn’t always remember that his little sister, Katie, is also dead. Damon also continues carrying guilt over what happened, blaming himself for not being able to be the big brother he was meant to be.
They understood one another on a level no one else could—two men who had been through a tragedy and who suffered with the monster of survivor’s guilt.
Both of their regrets are apparent with their every-day thoughts, consuming their desires, making them feel like they weren’t and shouldn’t be able to feel happiness again. Being in their mind and reading their perspective was difficult sometimes. Their inner thoughts were heartbreaking. Even though the love they had for each other was growing between them, there was also that small separation that caused them to have difficulty communicating at certain times. Still, while I constantly say I’m not a fan of the miscommunication trope, it isn’t something that can always be avoided with humans when the reason for it is not because the characters don’t talk, but because they don’t know how to. There are always certain topics and discussions that can be difficult to continue forward, which can cause conflict between a relationship, no matter the status of it. With Damon and Enzo, it was usually because Enzo was unsure of who he was and what he was feeling. He was not only worried about what his family would think about the fact that he’s come to realize he isn’t as straight as he is, but also because he feels like he isn’t worthy of this new, growing feeling he’s accustomed to. It was difficult, to say the least, to read some of the guy's thoughts, but mostly Enzo’s. I loved how the author showed this vulnerability to them. It allows the reader to get a bigger understanding of why they’re acting a certain way. Guilt and mourning is dealt by everyone differently, and there never will be a right way to do it. Showing how much someone like Enzo struggled with a lot of the personal shit he was dealing with showed how the process isn’t easy and something that can magically heal.
“I don’t need time, D, not away from you. Knowing I have you is what gets me through.”
Speaking of, I personally found the representation to be well-done. I didn’t think Enzo and Damon ever become those characters and people who were suddenly okay and healed just because they had each other. I’m actually a believer in saying that someone can definitely help you see the world differently. I’m not a believer in the whole “love cures all” speech, but I am a believer in saying that love (whether romantic or platonic) can have an influence in how someone starts viewing life again. People make such a big impact on us that when we start getting closer, we can’t ever imagine being away from them like we were before. Still, it felt like Damon and Enzo were never there. Instead, it felt like both of them felt like as long as they had each other, everything else could wait. It was definitely a “Us-Against-The-World” type, and it was beautiful. I loved how both men were ready to settle down with each other and not feel ashamed for their new discovery. Sometimes, it really does take one person or thing to make a difference in the world for you, to give you that push to get back up and tackle the world. That’s how Damon and Enzo helped each other–by giving each other a hand to get back up, walk forward, and take what life would give them.
I also want to mention that the transitions of their lives also felt so natural in the way they changed. I thought the timeline of the book was perfect, with one situation taking over another after a certain time period. From their friendship to romantic relationship, they also ended up seeking professional help, confronting family members, and coming out. Everything went at a reasonable pace. There was never a moment where I felt like the book was rushing or being too slow. My attention never wavered, and I felt myself becoming more absorbed into the characters and the bond building up.
All in all, I know many people have thoughts about continuing to read books by an author that clearly hasn’t been working out for you. There are certain authors I truly know aren’t for me and that I’m on the verge of dropping, but I held hope for Riley Hart. Yeah, it took seven attempts of misery feelings and boredom, but I’ll say that it was worth it to finally give this book a chance.
“So how’re we doing this? I’m not saying I’m gonna be perfect. It’s still something we have to get used to, something I have to get used to, but I want to try because the alternative is losing you, and I can’t do that. I really fucking can’t.”
Side note: I keep thinking of this book and this couple. As I was writing this review, I was trying to think of what I didn’t like, and fortunately, I wasn’t able to think of anything. When I finished the story, I thought it was an almost perfect story at four stars, but the more I think about it, the more perfect it becomes to me, and how I’m going to give this beauty five stars. My first five star read of the year.
July 27, 2019
~4.5~
Damon and Enzo are merely existing. Both men lost a loved one "that night" (Damon his only sister, Enzo his older brother). Both are grieving.
Nine months after the event that changed their lives, Damon sees Enzo go into an alley. When several thugs follow, he jumps in to save Enzo from a beating or worse.
When I first read the blurb, I assumed the men had been present during a nightclub shooting, a tragedy similar to Pulse. But that's not the case. What happened was a terrible accident, which of course doesn't make it any easier to move on.
This is an angsty story in that it's about loss, grief, and moving on. It's about family expectations and never feeling like you're good enough.
But it's also an incredibly tender and romantic love story about two men who've only ever been with women falling for each other something fierce.
I'm not a fan of the GFY trope, but the author doesn't shy away from talking about bisexuality.
Damon embraces the label right away and is more willing to be out in public. Enzo jumps into gay sex like it's the best thing ever (probably because it is!) but is more hesitant about the social aspects of being part of a same-sex couple.
Enzo isolates himself from his large Italian family, feeling guilty that he survived while his brother didn't. He thinks his mom blames him for his brother's death.
Meanwhile, Damon is worried about his mom who has Alzheimer's.
Despite these obstacles, the relationship angst is minimal. The MCs are really good at talking through things and supporting one another. Forget the drama. These guys are mature adults, not teenagers.
This book is seriously, intensely sexy! I loved the first time exploration of blow jobs, rimming, and more (I'll let you use your imagination; think dirty thoughts). So much hotness, I couldn't even.
Even though I think things with Enzo's family were perhaps resolved too easily, I can't fault the hopeful HEA. If anyone deserves a happily ever after, it's D and Enzo. I loved this story!
Damon and Enzo are merely existing. Both men lost a loved one "that night" (Damon his only sister, Enzo his older brother). Both are grieving.
Nine months after the event that changed their lives, Damon sees Enzo go into an alley. When several thugs follow, he jumps in to save Enzo from a beating or worse.
When I first read the blurb, I assumed the men had been present during a nightclub shooting, a tragedy similar to Pulse. But that's not the case. What happened was a terrible accident, which of course doesn't make it any easier to move on.
This is an angsty story in that it's about loss, grief, and moving on. It's about family expectations and never feeling like you're good enough.
But it's also an incredibly tender and romantic love story about two men who've only ever been with women falling for each other something fierce.
I'm not a fan of the GFY trope, but the author doesn't shy away from talking about bisexuality.
Damon embraces the label right away and is more willing to be out in public. Enzo jumps into gay sex like it's the best thing ever (probably because it is!) but is more hesitant about the social aspects of being part of a same-sex couple.
Enzo isolates himself from his large Italian family, feeling guilty that he survived while his brother didn't. He thinks his mom blames him for his brother's death.
Meanwhile, Damon is worried about his mom who has Alzheimer's.
Despite these obstacles, the relationship angst is minimal. The MCs are really good at talking through things and supporting one another. Forget the drama. These guys are mature adults, not teenagers.
This book is seriously, intensely sexy! I loved the first time exploration of blow jobs, rimming, and more (I'll let you use your imagination; think dirty thoughts). So much hotness, I couldn't even.
Even though I think things with Enzo's family were perhaps resolved too easily, I can't fault the hopeful HEA. If anyone deserves a happily ever after, it's D and Enzo. I loved this story!
August 28, 2023
Such a beautiful book. I feel like anything I say won’t do it justice so I’ve been at a bit of a loss for words when it comes to talking about it! But alas, I found the words! And I found a lot of them!! Most certainly a new all time favorite for me. I swooned and I sobbed. I felt everything they felt. I was so immersed in the writing and this world Riley created. Third person omniscient point of view Riley Hart? I need more! There’s something about this type of POV and her writing that made it feel even more intimate. I felt so close to the characters. Which I wanted to point out because sometimes for me this type of POV has the exact opposite effect where I’ll feel too far away and detached from the characters and story. Not here!!!!
Upon starting this book, I pretty much instantly felt the intense grief, guilt, loneliness, hurt and isolation seeping from both main characters. My heart was in my throat because of how deeply I could feel their pain. Damon and Enzo have both lost someone they love in the very same nightclub fire and they randomly meet one day and start becoming closer and closer friends. They make each other feel deeply, at a time where both are so numb and just going through the motions of surviving. They understand each other like few can. Damon is grieving the loss of his younger sister, Katie. Enzo is grieving the loss of his older brother, Ricky. The heavy weight of guilt follows Enzo and Damon around constantly. The what if’s and cyclical thinking, an unbearable pain paired with losing the person closest to them in the world. The constant reminders when they’re with their respective families of who they’ve let down by not bringing their sibling out of the club alive.
Their blossoming romance felt so organic. It was just another added layer to their solid friendship. They had many things to work through and I appreciated how great the communication was. They didn’t let things fester, they talked it out. There is of course angst here but there’s plenty of sweetness and some levity to be found too. A personal favorite of mine is Enzo’s nicknames for Damon - “D,” “Fancy.” Damon works for management at a hospital and seemingly has it all. The fancy job, the fancy house, the fancy car. And thus, comes the initially teasing friend nickname turned loving inside joke nickname for a partner.🥹 Damon, care-taker and protector of everyone he loves, getting that directed towards him!!! Enzo, insecure tough guy with a heart of gold who doesn’t believe anyone could love him, getting loved!!! My heart!!! ❤️ Also they’re so smitten. Like the way one would walk in the room and the other just absolutely melts or lights up with a giant smile…love is so real. They proved it!!!!
I loved the portrayal of Enzo and Damon’s double bi-awakening. It felt so earnest. They had so many questions but also just knew they wanted each other and that was that. But so many questions. But I like you so much! I’ll figure it all out later. But also…Questions. But also…not important right now, I think you’re amazing and that’s what matters to me!!!
”It felt good,” Enzo admitted, hoping he wasn’t fucking things up.
“Yeah, it did. It felt inevitable… Which likely makes no sense, and I can’t believe I said it out loud. But it’s just kind of like…oh…okay. There you are. What took you so long?” He took his glasses off and rubbed a hand over his face. “Fuck, if that doesn’t send you running.”
He tried to stand, but Enzo put a hand out, letting it rest on Damon’s thigh. “I’m not going anywhere, D.”
Damon couldn’t hold back his grin, knowing exactly what Enzo was doing. He was saying he wasn’t going anywhere, that he’d make it work, that he would be by Damon’s side. The wings fluttering against his stomach grew, and his chest felt like it fucking swelled, and he knew, knew in that moment that he was in love for the first time in his life.
So if you can’t tell I loved this so very much!!! It’s heartbreaking but with hope for a happier tomorrow.💙
Upon starting this book, I pretty much instantly felt the intense grief, guilt, loneliness, hurt and isolation seeping from both main characters. My heart was in my throat because of how deeply I could feel their pain. Damon and Enzo have both lost someone they love in the very same nightclub fire and they randomly meet one day and start becoming closer and closer friends. They make each other feel deeply, at a time where both are so numb and just going through the motions of surviving. They understand each other like few can. Damon is grieving the loss of his younger sister, Katie. Enzo is grieving the loss of his older brother, Ricky. The heavy weight of guilt follows Enzo and Damon around constantly. The what if’s and cyclical thinking, an unbearable pain paired with losing the person closest to them in the world. The constant reminders when they’re with their respective families of who they’ve let down by not bringing their sibling out of the club alive.
Their blossoming romance felt so organic. It was just another added layer to their solid friendship. They had many things to work through and I appreciated how great the communication was. They didn’t let things fester, they talked it out. There is of course angst here but there’s plenty of sweetness and some levity to be found too. A personal favorite of mine is Enzo’s nicknames for Damon - “D,” “Fancy.” Damon works for management at a hospital and seemingly has it all. The fancy job, the fancy house, the fancy car. And thus, comes the initially teasing friend nickname turned loving inside joke nickname for a partner.🥹 Damon, care-taker and protector of everyone he loves, getting that directed towards him!!! Enzo, insecure tough guy with a heart of gold who doesn’t believe anyone could love him, getting loved!!! My heart!!! ❤️ Also they’re so smitten. Like the way one would walk in the room and the other just absolutely melts or lights up with a giant smile…love is so real. They proved it!!!!
I loved the portrayal of Enzo and Damon’s double bi-awakening. It felt so earnest. They had so many questions but also just knew they wanted each other and that was that. But so many questions. But I like you so much! I’ll figure it all out later. But also…Questions. But also…not important right now, I think you’re amazing and that’s what matters to me!!!
”It felt good,” Enzo admitted, hoping he wasn’t fucking things up.
“Yeah, it did. It felt inevitable… Which likely makes no sense, and I can’t believe I said it out loud. But it’s just kind of like…oh…okay. There you are. What took you so long?” He took his glasses off and rubbed a hand over his face. “Fuck, if that doesn’t send you running.”
He tried to stand, but Enzo put a hand out, letting it rest on Damon’s thigh. “I’m not going anywhere, D.”
Damon couldn’t hold back his grin, knowing exactly what Enzo was doing. He was saying he wasn’t going anywhere, that he’d make it work, that he would be by Damon’s side. The wings fluttering against his stomach grew, and his chest felt like it fucking swelled, and he knew, knew in that moment that he was in love for the first time in his life.
So if you can’t tell I loved this so very much!!! It’s heartbreaking but with hope for a happier tomorrow.💙
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March 31, 2021
Endless Stretch of Blue is a stand alone M/M romance by Riley Hart. This is the story of two men, both at the lowest point of their lives. Fate gives them a nudge and they meet and find something in each other that no one else has been able to provide, peace, comfort, and love. It’s the story of healing hearts and finding “the one.”
Lorenzo (Enzo) Moretti is a thirty year old carpenter, and Damon Blackwell is a thirty seven year old who works in the office of a hospital. Both of these men are straight. And both of them shared a tragic night, even though they didn’t even know each other yet. Enzo had been at the club with his older brother and Damon was there with his younger sister, both enjoying some sibling time, when the fire happened. Both lost their siblings that night.
“It was just them, Damon and Enzo, two men who shared the worst night of their lives and met when they were at their darkest. Two men who showed each other there was still some light left in the world.”
Now it’s nine months later. Both Enzo and Damon are struggling. It was surely fate that brought them together that night when they were at their lowest. It didn’t take long for them to realize they shared that night. Who better to understand what they are going through. So a friendship was born. The more time they spent together, the more they both felt drawn to each other. It was confusing because neither of them had ever entertained thoughts of another man before. But the feelings grew stronger until they could no longer be ignored. Neither of them wanted to deny what they felt for one another.
“It didn’t matter that Enzo was a man. All that mattered was that he was Damon’s friend, and a part of him realized he’d been waiting for this moment in ways he hadn’t even realized.”
Things began to happen as Damon and Enzo became closer, they smiled more, laughed even. The world started to look just a little bit brighter. The guilt felt just a little bit lighter. But they were still living in their own little bubble. What would Enzo’s family say? What about Damon’s co-workers? Was their relationship strong enough to survive in the public?
I loved these two so much. I loved the ways they found to explore this new attraction to another man. Danom’s was intellectually. Enzo’s more through exploration. I especially loved the way they talked about everything! They both just accepted that they were each other’s “one!”
“It’s like you started this fire inside me, when I’d been nothing but ice. I wanna bask in your warmth, wanna stoke those flames until they consume me.”
I was afraid going in that this would be too sad. But it really wasn’t. Yes, they were both dealing with grief. But the story was more of their healing, of their love for each other, of they journey together. This is only my second Riley Hart book. I have no idea why because I truly enjoyed both books I read so much. These characters will live on in my heart for a very long time.
“Loving Enzo felt as easy as breathing.”
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Lorenzo (Enzo) Moretti is a thirty year old carpenter, and Damon Blackwell is a thirty seven year old who works in the office of a hospital. Both of these men are straight. And both of them shared a tragic night, even though they didn’t even know each other yet. Enzo had been at the club with his older brother and Damon was there with his younger sister, both enjoying some sibling time, when the fire happened. Both lost their siblings that night.
“It was just them, Damon and Enzo, two men who shared the worst night of their lives and met when they were at their darkest. Two men who showed each other there was still some light left in the world.”
Now it’s nine months later. Both Enzo and Damon are struggling. It was surely fate that brought them together that night when they were at their lowest. It didn’t take long for them to realize they shared that night. Who better to understand what they are going through. So a friendship was born. The more time they spent together, the more they both felt drawn to each other. It was confusing because neither of them had ever entertained thoughts of another man before. But the feelings grew stronger until they could no longer be ignored. Neither of them wanted to deny what they felt for one another.
“It didn’t matter that Enzo was a man. All that mattered was that he was Damon’s friend, and a part of him realized he’d been waiting for this moment in ways he hadn’t even realized.”
Things began to happen as Damon and Enzo became closer, they smiled more, laughed even. The world started to look just a little bit brighter. The guilt felt just a little bit lighter. But they were still living in their own little bubble. What would Enzo’s family say? What about Damon’s co-workers? Was their relationship strong enough to survive in the public?
I loved these two so much. I loved the ways they found to explore this new attraction to another man. Danom’s was intellectually. Enzo’s more through exploration. I especially loved the way they talked about everything! They both just accepted that they were each other’s “one!”
“It’s like you started this fire inside me, when I’d been nothing but ice. I wanna bask in your warmth, wanna stoke those flames until they consume me.”
I was afraid going in that this would be too sad. But it really wasn’t. Yes, they were both dealing with grief. But the story was more of their healing, of their love for each other, of they journey together. This is only my second Riley Hart book. I have no idea why because I truly enjoyed both books I read so much. These characters will live on in my heart for a very long time.
“Loving Enzo felt as easy as breathing.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
August 16, 2022
4.5 Stars
I’ve always been a fan of Riley Hart’s books, yet this one stands out as particularly memorable among her recent releases.
Beautifully written and emotionally engaging, Endless Stretch of Blue tells the story of two very different men, both dealing with the heartache and pain they each suffer after losing a sibling in a terrible night club fire.
The story picks up almost a year after the tragedy, with 30-year-old Enzo and 37-year-old Damon meeting serendipitously in their darkest time. After realising that they were both at the club that fateful night and that they both lost a near and dear sibling in the process, they spark up a friendship, one that is initially built on understanding, comfort and unwavering support – the kind they haven’t found with anyone else, even their families, since the tragedy occurred.
Enzo and Damon relate deeply, especially in terms of the personal grief and sense of guilt they each feel for what went down that night. But in their newfound friendship, they begin to break through the pain-filled walls they’ve each constructed and together they learn to enjoy life again, one simple but precious moment at a time.
Both men have always identified as straight, but their connection is so strong that they soon begin to question their sexual identities. After all, life is too precious and too short not to embrace every positive feeling and spend time with the people who are most important to us – and with this attitude in mind, Enzo and Damon slowly transition their relationship from friends to lovers, and eventually, to everything.
This was an emotionally affecting story, dealing with a lot of heavy themes, yet it was never overwhelming for me as a reader; it struck the perfect balance between emotional poignancy and hopefulness and joy. I genuinely felt for these characters and the loss they experienced, and I appreciated that there was no magical sex-fix to their heartbreak and their deep sense of guilt. It was so very mature and mental health conscious, which I respected.
I also completely believed how effortlessly these two accepted and embraced their feelings for one another, even if it blindsided them initially. I loved how inquisitive they were in terms of sex and what it meant for their previously straight selves to be with another man. They never found their attraction surprising; they simply knew they thrived around one another and that they wanted to turn their platonic relationship physical, however that came about and at whatever pace felt natural.
I flew through this story and that always goes to show just how much I’ve enjoyed myself. And I must note that the cover art is god damn gorgeous, and for once, the models perfectly fit the characters they are representing within! Hallelujah! <3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
I’ve always been a fan of Riley Hart’s books, yet this one stands out as particularly memorable among her recent releases.
Beautifully written and emotionally engaging, Endless Stretch of Blue tells the story of two very different men, both dealing with the heartache and pain they each suffer after losing a sibling in a terrible night club fire.
The story picks up almost a year after the tragedy, with 30-year-old Enzo and 37-year-old Damon meeting serendipitously in their darkest time. After realising that they were both at the club that fateful night and that they both lost a near and dear sibling in the process, they spark up a friendship, one that is initially built on understanding, comfort and unwavering support – the kind they haven’t found with anyone else, even their families, since the tragedy occurred.
Enzo and Damon relate deeply, especially in terms of the personal grief and sense of guilt they each feel for what went down that night. But in their newfound friendship, they begin to break through the pain-filled walls they’ve each constructed and together they learn to enjoy life again, one simple but precious moment at a time.
Both men have always identified as straight, but their connection is so strong that they soon begin to question their sexual identities. After all, life is too precious and too short not to embrace every positive feeling and spend time with the people who are most important to us – and with this attitude in mind, Enzo and Damon slowly transition their relationship from friends to lovers, and eventually, to everything.
This was an emotionally affecting story, dealing with a lot of heavy themes, yet it was never overwhelming for me as a reader; it struck the perfect balance between emotional poignancy and hopefulness and joy. I genuinely felt for these characters and the loss they experienced, and I appreciated that there was no magical sex-fix to their heartbreak and their deep sense of guilt. It was so very mature and mental health conscious, which I respected.
I also completely believed how effortlessly these two accepted and embraced their feelings for one another, even if it blindsided them initially. I loved how inquisitive they were in terms of sex and what it meant for their previously straight selves to be with another man. They never found their attraction surprising; they simply knew they thrived around one another and that they wanted to turn their platonic relationship physical, however that came about and at whatever pace felt natural.
I flew through this story and that always goes to show just how much I’ve enjoyed myself. And I must note that the cover art is god damn gorgeous, and for once, the models perfectly fit the characters they are representing within! Hallelujah! <3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
September 13, 2022
***4.75 rating***
"You have a big, scarred heart in that chest of yours, and I love you for it. I want to help you heal those wounds the way you do mine.”
A beautiful heartfelt angsty read.
I have read many books by Riley Hart, probably more recent releases than her previous books. The first book I ever read by her was Crossroads . I loved Nick and Bryce's story and from there I wanted to read more of RH's work. Sadly, every book I read after that, did not live up to Crossroads. Maybe it was the comparison, maybe it was seeing Riley's quality of writing deteriorating, there were many reasons why I couldn't rate her other books higher than 3 stars. But this book was a game-changer. Thanks to my lovely friend Elena and her beautifully written review of this book, I was curious and intrigued.
Endless Stretch of Blue sounded emotional, beautiful and heart-rending. It was obvious that I was going to add it to my tbr and I am so glad that I did. It turned out to be a wonderful read about an unexpected couple who were meant to be together as a result of life's tragic circumstances. Tragedy and grief brought Enzo (Lorenzo) and Damon together but a beautiful heartfelt friendship and romance triumphed as a result. Riley Hart made me remember why I fell in love with her writing in the first place, I felt the same wave of happiness and other twisted emotions when I read Nick and Bryce's story. Enzo and Damon are my second favorite couple that is written by her. While their story was more emotional and at times heart-wrenching, I rooted for this couple from the very beginning, from their loss, sadness, and friendship to their heartfelt romance. Enzo and Damon are a couple you want to read about. You feel for them and their grief, especially survivor's guilt. To lose a sibling is a loss I never wish to experience but in this story, you read about it from Enzo and Damon's perspectives. It was really sad how both wished it had been them instead of their siblings, that their families would have wanted it that way, it was absolutely devastating.
Despite the many emotional moments, there are also many happy ones. Enzo and Damon's relationship never felt forced. Their friendship made it more real and I loved that they always understood each other, Damon never pressured Enzo and was just there for him and likewise. Their chemistry and romance was even better. So many romantic moments between this couple, from their kisses to little touches and heated sex scenes, you fall in love with them. What is better than seeing two people who genuinely love each other? Riley wrote these characters with care and much thought. I wish she still wrote like this because she has the potential, clearly. It is a shame that her recent releases are nowhere near as great as her previous books. As a reader, you cannot help but miss this style of writing from her.
I have also said this about RH in my other reviews, RH loves to bring up family meddling and difficult dynamics in her books but in this story, it worked effortlessly. The complications surrounding grief and trauma are evident in both Enzo and Damon's families but especially Enzo and his complicated relationship with his mother. You feel for both characters and want them to resolve their issues with their families, however, with Damon, it was very sad due to his mother's Alzheimer's. That was rather emotional to read about, be prepared with some tissues in hand.
Overall, this was a beautifully written story about overcoming loss, grief, unexpected friendship, and romance between two men who were somehow meant to be together despite the tragedy they experienced. I would recommend this to anyone who loves a good angsty friends-to-lovers story.
"You have a big, scarred heart in that chest of yours, and I love you for it. I want to help you heal those wounds the way you do mine.”
A beautiful heartfelt angsty read.
I have read many books by Riley Hart, probably more recent releases than her previous books. The first book I ever read by her was Crossroads . I loved Nick and Bryce's story and from there I wanted to read more of RH's work. Sadly, every book I read after that, did not live up to Crossroads. Maybe it was the comparison, maybe it was seeing Riley's quality of writing deteriorating, there were many reasons why I couldn't rate her other books higher than 3 stars. But this book was a game-changer. Thanks to my lovely friend Elena and her beautifully written review of this book, I was curious and intrigued.
Endless Stretch of Blue sounded emotional, beautiful and heart-rending. It was obvious that I was going to add it to my tbr and I am so glad that I did. It turned out to be a wonderful read about an unexpected couple who were meant to be together as a result of life's tragic circumstances. Tragedy and grief brought Enzo (Lorenzo) and Damon together but a beautiful heartfelt friendship and romance triumphed as a result. Riley Hart made me remember why I fell in love with her writing in the first place, I felt the same wave of happiness and other twisted emotions when I read Nick and Bryce's story. Enzo and Damon are my second favorite couple that is written by her. While their story was more emotional and at times heart-wrenching, I rooted for this couple from the very beginning, from their loss, sadness, and friendship to their heartfelt romance. Enzo and Damon are a couple you want to read about. You feel for them and their grief, especially survivor's guilt. To lose a sibling is a loss I never wish to experience but in this story, you read about it from Enzo and Damon's perspectives. It was really sad how both wished it had been them instead of their siblings, that their families would have wanted it that way, it was absolutely devastating.
Despite the many emotional moments, there are also many happy ones. Enzo and Damon's relationship never felt forced. Their friendship made it more real and I loved that they always understood each other, Damon never pressured Enzo and was just there for him and likewise. Their chemistry and romance was even better. So many romantic moments between this couple, from their kisses to little touches and heated sex scenes, you fall in love with them. What is better than seeing two people who genuinely love each other? Riley wrote these characters with care and much thought. I wish she still wrote like this because she has the potential, clearly. It is a shame that her recent releases are nowhere near as great as her previous books. As a reader, you cannot help but miss this style of writing from her.
I have also said this about RH in my other reviews, RH loves to bring up family meddling and difficult dynamics in her books but in this story, it worked effortlessly. The complications surrounding grief and trauma are evident in both Enzo and Damon's families but especially Enzo and his complicated relationship with his mother. You feel for both characters and want them to resolve their issues with their families, however, with Damon, it was very sad due to his mother's Alzheimer's. That was rather emotional to read about, be prepared with some tissues in hand.
Overall, this was a beautifully written story about overcoming loss, grief, unexpected friendship, and romance between two men who were somehow meant to be together despite the tragedy they experienced. I would recommend this to anyone who loves a good angsty friends-to-lovers story.
November 5, 2019
This story touched me deeply and brought actual tears to my eyes. Both MC's have lost a sibling and are struggling to deal with their grief and survivor's guilt. There's a beautifully written, haunting sadness in this book, a sense of such deep sorrow. The connection and growing love between Enzo and Damon was epic and incredibly powerful, building slowly from friendship to a gradual awareness of an even deeper, stronger feeling. What I loved the most was how safe they feel with each other at all times and how inevitable and meant-to-be their love is.
May 1, 2023
4.5***** stars
A horrible event brought them together. Their mutual understanding made them best friends. And the more time they spend together, still processing what happened and grieving their loss, something else is forming between them neither man Damon nor Enzo had ever experienced before —attraction and love for another man.
And what an absolutely beautiful love story this was.
I agree with everyone who says that Riley Hart’s earlier, more heavier in topic, more intense books are so much better than her recent releases. And even though it took me a hot minute to finally finish this book, I loved and totally recommend reading it. ♡
“No matter what happens,” Enzo replied, “I’m coming home to you.”
“No matter what happens, I’ll be right there waiting for you.”
A horrible event brought them together. Their mutual understanding made them best friends. And the more time they spend together, still processing what happened and grieving their loss, something else is forming between them neither man Damon nor Enzo had ever experienced before —attraction and love for another man.
And what an absolutely beautiful love story this was.
“When you look out at the water, at that endless stretch of blue, makes you feel small, doesn’t it? Small but somehow important. Like the ocean goes on forever and you’re just really damn lucky you get to see it, experience it. It’s so beautiful, it doesn’t feel real sometimes.”
I agree with everyone who says that Riley Hart’s earlier, more heavier in topic, more intense books are so much better than her recent releases. And even though it took me a hot minute to finally finish this book, I loved and totally recommend reading it. ♡
September 2, 2023
Re-read 09/2023: This book will always have a special place in my heart and I really love the way the double bi-awakening was done. But I was a bit disappointed this time. I still really enjoyed the book and won't change the overall rating but something was missing to me, the characters lacked depth and it was mostly tell instead of show... I was really bothered by the lack of resolution with Enzo's family. It really was too fast and the last chapter before the epilogue focused on the wrong thing for me.
Re-read 07/2022: my rating stands, I still love this book, a great double bisexual awakening.
Riley Hart does it again! I really LOVED this book. It deals with grief and does not shy away from that difficult topic but despite that background it feels like a warm hug. The relationship development was wonderful and rested on choices and excellent communication! They were so cute and hot together. My only niggle would be that Enzo's relationship to his family was solved too quickly and easily. I wanted to see more of that conversation. That's a small thing because it is not swept under the rug either. I highly recommend it f you feel like reading a low angst story in which the characters are very sweet.
Re-read 07/2022: my rating stands, I still love this book, a great double bisexual awakening.
Riley Hart does it again! I really LOVED this book. It deals with grief and does not shy away from that difficult topic but despite that background it feels like a warm hug. The relationship development was wonderful and rested on choices and excellent communication! They were so cute and hot together. My only niggle would be that Enzo's relationship to his family was solved too quickly and easily. I wanted to see more of that conversation. That's a small thing because it is not swept under the rug either. I highly recommend it f you feel like reading a low angst story in which the characters are very sweet.
September 25, 2019
While I was reading this one, I hit a well and I was not sure if I was going to finish it. On the plus side, I really liked both MC’s and I wanted to see how it would all work out. Once I pushed through the first 25/30% which was really an angst fest, the book took a turn and felt a little lighter.
Enzo and Damon were both suffering from survivor’s guilt over a tragedy with each of them losing a sibling. Both Enzo and Damon had a lot of family issues to deal with, but being there for each other made things easier. At first it was a friendship, but the pull to be something more was always there. Maneuvering into relationship, and their innocence was sweet and made me smile.
My advice to you if you decide to read this one, is to push through, it does get better
Enzo and Damon were both suffering from survivor’s guilt over a tragedy with each of them losing a sibling. Both Enzo and Damon had a lot of family issues to deal with, but being there for each other made things easier. At first it was a friendship, but the pull to be something more was always there. Maneuvering into relationship, and their innocence was sweet and made me smile.
My advice to you if you decide to read this one, is to push through, it does get better
August 5, 2019
*** 3 Stars ***
A nice angsty story about losing someone you love, drowning in guilt, putting yourself back together, making peace with your family and yourself and finally finding love in the middle of this shitload of issues.
In spite of being a consistent and a pleasant read, it didn't awe me as I was expecting.
High expectations are the worst. 😰
A nice angsty story about losing someone you love, drowning in guilt, putting yourself back together, making peace with your family and yourself and finally finding love in the middle of this shitload of issues.
In spite of being a consistent and a pleasant read, it didn't awe me as I was expecting.
High expectations are the worst. 😰
March 7, 2024
4,5 stars.
This is the tenth book I read but only the second I loved by Riley Hart.
My first book by her was The Endgame, I loved it, and afterwards no other book by her would compare for me.
Until now.
Marci ❤️ thanks for convincing me this was worth giving the author another chance.
The writing style wasn't as bland and simple as in the majority of Riley Hart's books, it flowed smoothly. Beside some artificial sounding love declarations (just like in The Endgame) I found the writing soothing and balanced.
The MCs Enzo and Damon were two beautiful but broken souls. I hurt with them, I wanted to hug them and tell them time would heal some of their wounds.
I loved how slowly their relationship progressed, that they were friends for months first. I loved how the author showed their deep need to feel whole again, and to be there for each other to help the other heal. I really appreciated that they talked about the fact that they couldn't be their respective saviour, though, and that therapy was discussed and both started seeing a therapist.
Like in The Endgame the last chapters felt a bit cheesy but that's ok, both Damon and Enzo deserved all the love from their families.
This is the tenth book I read but only the second I loved by Riley Hart.
My first book by her was The Endgame, I loved it, and afterwards no other book by her would compare for me.
Until now.
Marci ❤️ thanks for convincing me this was worth giving the author another chance.
The writing style wasn't as bland and simple as in the majority of Riley Hart's books, it flowed smoothly. Beside some artificial sounding love declarations (just like in The Endgame) I found the writing soothing and balanced.
The MCs Enzo and Damon were two beautiful but broken souls. I hurt with them, I wanted to hug them and tell them time would heal some of their wounds.
I loved how slowly their relationship progressed, that they were friends for months first. I loved how the author showed their deep need to feel whole again, and to be there for each other to help the other heal. I really appreciated that they talked about the fact that they couldn't be their respective saviour, though, and that therapy was discussed and both started seeing a therapist.
Like in The Endgame the last chapters felt a bit cheesy but that's ok, both Damon and Enzo deserved all the love from their families.
August 8, 2019
3.5 Stars!
It was fine. I didn't love it. I didn't hate it.
Nothing really exciting happened.
Nothing really annoying happened. Well the pet name "fancy" annoyed me some.
Definitely more reminiscent of Riley Hart's older work.
It was fine. I didn't love it. I didn't hate it.
Nothing really exciting happened.
Nothing really annoying happened. Well the pet name "fancy" annoyed me some.
Definitely more reminiscent of Riley Hart's older work.
August 21, 2019
Out of all the books I've read by this author, this is the most boring. Yet somehow, this is one of the highest rated of all her books (on avg.)
Huh.
So, it's about 2 straight men who discover, through a shared experience, that they are actually soulmates and not that straight after all. The author once again "teaches" us something about sexuality - pansexual for example. She taught demisexual in the last book I read by her.
Not sure I like these clinical little educational pieces.
And because I've been reading books by her one after another, the sex gets pretty repetitive and boring. The writing itself has grown boring too.
Tho, maybe bc I'm a bit hormonal these days, my throat did get a little tight at one point...
Def not one of my faves of hers. Just OK.
Huh.
So, it's about 2 straight men who discover, through a shared experience, that they are actually soulmates and not that straight after all. The author once again "teaches" us something about sexuality - pansexual for example. She taught demisexual in the last book I read by her.
Not sure I like these clinical little educational pieces.
And because I've been reading books by her one after another, the sex gets pretty repetitive and boring. The writing itself has grown boring too.
Tho, maybe bc I'm a bit hormonal these days, my throat did get a little tight at one point...
Def not one of my faves of hers. Just OK.
September 7, 2023
4.5 - this was really lovely. I’d put it off on many previous occasions because I was worried it would make me sad and whereas it is emotional it isn’t overwhelming. It was very easy to read, I made the mistake of starting it before bed and then couldn’t put it down. I’m not always a fan of the GFY thing but it seemed to work here.
September 5, 2019
This reminds me of why I fell in love with MM Romance, and why I still continue to fall.
This totally takes me back to the beginning for me when GFY was the best thing ever! It still is sometimes and this made me remember exactly why.
Such a great romance that I didn't want to put down.
This totally takes me back to the beginning for me when GFY was the best thing ever! It still is sometimes and this made me remember exactly why.
Such a great romance that I didn't want to put down.
August 25, 2022
4 stars ⭐️
July 26, 2019
I absolutely adored this book. It grabbed my attention from the first page, and I enjoyed it from start to finish.
Enzo is a 30 year old carpenter, who specializes in doing cabinets, and loves what he does. But he feels like he's never good enough compared to his older brother Ricky, who seems to be perfect, and who his mother seems to compare him to and want him to aspire to be instead of being who he is. It affects Enzo greatly over his life, and when Ricky dies in a fire at the night club Enzo asked him to come to him with, it adds on guilt and grief.
Damon in a 37 year old hospital administrator who makes a good amount of money. He doesn't get out a lot and is dedicated to his work, but his younger sister Katie managed to get him to come out with her that night at that club, and she died in the fire at the night club as well.
Both Enzo and Damon are not only suffering from the grief of losing their siblings, but from misplaced guilt as well. About nine months after the fire, Damon is trying to will himself to go into a bar, still not able to since the fire, when he sees Enzo across the street seeming to go hook up with a woman in an alley, with three men then following them into the alley.
Turns out they were trying to rob Enzo, and Damon gets them to back off. From there these two form a friendship, and they get even closer when they find out that they both experienced the fire at the nightclub, and then both lost siblings as well.
Thing is, they both thought they were straight before they met each other. They had only even been attracted to women, but the more they fall for each other - and realize they're falling - the more attracted they are to each other.
I liked how low the freak outs were for these two. Enzo got uncomfortable at times and freaked out majorly once, but for the most part these two were okay with being with each other, with a man, and just going with it. I mean certainly, they went slow, explored each other and what the other liked, and got more settled into their relationship before they ever even told anyone, but it was a nice change of pace for there not to be a "i don't like guys, stay away from me" moment. Enzo had more of a "we're moving too fast, this is too much" moment, but that's understandable.
These two were just amazing together, and I loved every moment they were together. They weren't perfect, but they were perfect for each other.
Also, I can't say how happy I am that
Overall this was just an amazing story, with a great main couple who had amazing chemistry - I felt it when that first kiss came, and I was into all their smutty scenes, they just worked so well together - and an amazing romance. The secondary characters were good too and complemented the story so well.
Two big thumbs up for me, this was a win for me. Highly recommend!
Enzo is a 30 year old carpenter, who specializes in doing cabinets, and loves what he does. But he feels like he's never good enough compared to his older brother Ricky, who seems to be perfect, and who his mother seems to compare him to and want him to aspire to be instead of being who he is. It affects Enzo greatly over his life, and when Ricky dies in a fire at the night club Enzo asked him to come to him with, it adds on guilt and grief.
Damon in a 37 year old hospital administrator who makes a good amount of money. He doesn't get out a lot and is dedicated to his work, but his younger sister Katie managed to get him to come out with her that night at that club, and she died in the fire at the night club as well.
Both Enzo and Damon are not only suffering from the grief of losing their siblings, but from misplaced guilt as well. About nine months after the fire, Damon is trying to will himself to go into a bar, still not able to since the fire, when he sees Enzo across the street seeming to go hook up with a woman in an alley, with three men then following them into the alley.
Turns out they were trying to rob Enzo, and Damon gets them to back off. From there these two form a friendship, and they get even closer when they find out that they both experienced the fire at the nightclub, and then both lost siblings as well.
Thing is, they both thought they were straight before they met each other. They had only even been attracted to women, but the more they fall for each other - and realize they're falling - the more attracted they are to each other.
I liked how low the freak outs were for these two. Enzo got uncomfortable at times and freaked out majorly once, but for the most part these two were okay with being with each other, with a man, and just going with it. I mean certainly, they went slow, explored each other and what the other liked, and got more settled into their relationship before they ever even told anyone, but it was a nice change of pace for there not to be a "i don't like guys, stay away from me" moment. Enzo had more of a "we're moving too fast, this is too much" moment, but that's understandable.
These two were just amazing together, and I loved every moment they were together. They weren't perfect, but they were perfect for each other.
Also, I can't say how happy I am that
Overall this was just an amazing story, with a great main couple who had amazing chemistry - I felt it when that first kiss came, and I was into all their smutty scenes, they just worked so well together - and an amazing romance. The secondary characters were good too and complemented the story so well.
Two big thumbs up for me, this was a win for me. Highly recommend!
July 27, 2019
One of my all time favorites from Riley is Crossroads, so when I saw she was working on another double G/O/OFY story I was immediately interested.
I thought this story was just beautiful. Enzo and Damon meet each other and become friends, not knowing at the beginning just how intertwined their lives really are. Both men have suffered major trauma and loss, and both are struggling to cope and get through daily life when they first meet.
The more time they spend together, the closer they become. And once they share their pasts, Damon and Enzo become even closer. They truly are linked together, and they wind up being able to help each other get through the day, and find they can lean on the other.
“It was just… them. Damon and Enzo, two men who shared the worst night of their lives and met when they were at their darkest. Two men who showed each other there was still some light left in the world.”
The writing in this was just beautiful. Sad, but hopeful. Poetic, lyrical, and it just had this perfect flow. And when Damon and Enzo discover they want each other in bed? Scorchingly hot, yummy, delicious as the two navigate intimacy with another man for the first time.
I love that these two supported each other, were able to bring out the best of the other, and were ultimately able to seek help and find peace to move on together. No major drama or angst, just two men who happened to fall in love.
Another new favorite from Riley Hart, and why she is consistently at the top of my list of favorites!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this story was just beautiful. Enzo and Damon meet each other and become friends, not knowing at the beginning just how intertwined their lives really are. Both men have suffered major trauma and loss, and both are struggling to cope and get through daily life when they first meet.
The more time they spend together, the closer they become. And once they share their pasts, Damon and Enzo become even closer. They truly are linked together, and they wind up being able to help each other get through the day, and find they can lean on the other.
“It was just… them. Damon and Enzo, two men who shared the worst night of their lives and met when they were at their darkest. Two men who showed each other there was still some light left in the world.”
The writing in this was just beautiful. Sad, but hopeful. Poetic, lyrical, and it just had this perfect flow. And when Damon and Enzo discover they want each other in bed? Scorchingly hot, yummy, delicious as the two navigate intimacy with another man for the first time.
I love that these two supported each other, were able to bring out the best of the other, and were ultimately able to seek help and find peace to move on together. No major drama or angst, just two men who happened to fall in love.
Another new favorite from Riley Hart, and why she is consistently at the top of my list of favorites!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2022
Another jewel
I am considering it one of my favs
I am considering it one of my favs
August 6, 2019
4.5 stars.
Out of all the books I've read by Riley Hart, this book is probably the one that stands out the most. And probably my favorite as well. It was heartbreaking, yet beautiful and uplifting. I liked the characters and that they didn't shy away from who they were. It also didn't hurt that this was one of Riley's sexier books. I mean, damn, it was hot!
This was a sad book but definitely worth the read! I loved Enzo and Damon.
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Life was a work in progress for everyone, and you never stopped learning or working along the way.
Out of all the books I've read by Riley Hart, this book is probably the one that stands out the most. And probably my favorite as well. It was heartbreaking, yet beautiful and uplifting. I liked the characters and that they didn't shy away from who they were. It also didn't hurt that this was one of Riley's sexier books. I mean, damn, it was hot!
This was a sad book but definitely worth the read! I loved Enzo and Damon.
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August 6, 2019
-Friends to lovers
-Hurt/comfort/healing
-Bisexual discovery
-Family drama
-Dual POVs
While I enjoyed it overall, I felt like the second half was anticlimactic. Nothing really happened. I was waiting for the "oh, sh*t" moment that typically occurs at 70-80% but it never came.
3.5 Stars
-Hurt/comfort/healing
-Bisexual discovery
-Family drama
-Dual POVs
While I enjoyed it overall, I felt like the second half was anticlimactic. Nothing really happened. I was waiting for the "oh, sh*t" moment that typically occurs at 70-80% but it never came.
3.5 Stars
July 11, 2021
I expected the angstiest of angst but instead got a gentle story of love that springs from unfortunate tragedy and loss, and to be completely honest, I didn't mind at all.
Think fluff but with the consistency of heavy cream 😆
Grief has Enzo and Damon frozen in time, both struggling to move forward after losing their respective siblings in a horrific fire. That is, until they meet.
They find comfort, understanding, and much-needed normalcy in each other's presence and the way this grounded them was incredibly sweet! But I'm also grateful they acknowledged that their relationship wasn't a magical cure for their trauma, and they both eventually chose to pursue therapy to learn to live with the grief and survivor's guilt.
Even though our MCs identify as straight at the beginning of the story, we're saved from an overdone freak-out scene after they become intimate. It's simple: they listen to what their heart says to decide if this is what they want instead of getting caught up in the labels. And yes, these are two guys eager for smoking sexual exploration 😉 (Damon consulting the book on men/sex/sexuality was so darn endearing! WE LOVE A THOROUGH MAN )
The one thing I wasn't the biggest fan of was the family drama littered throughout the story that was resolved in one fell swoop at the very end, but that's entirely on my poor timing as I've been reading/watching too many things where family members start messes with little intention of cleaning them up LOL.
If you're looking to cry until you have no tears left, you might want to look elsewhere, but be sure to come back after for the healing hurt/comfort 🥺
Think fluff but with the consistency of heavy cream 😆
Grief has Enzo and Damon frozen in time, both struggling to move forward after losing their respective siblings in a horrific fire. That is, until they meet.
They find comfort, understanding, and much-needed normalcy in each other's presence and the way this grounded them was incredibly sweet! But I'm also grateful they acknowledged that their relationship wasn't a magical cure for their trauma, and they both eventually chose to pursue therapy to learn to live with the grief and survivor's guilt.
Even though our MCs identify as straight at the beginning of the story, we're saved from an overdone freak-out scene after they become intimate. It's simple: they listen to what their heart says to decide if this is what they want instead of getting caught up in the labels. And yes, these are two guys eager for smoking sexual exploration 😉 (Damon consulting the book on men/sex/sexuality was so darn endearing! WE LOVE A THOROUGH MAN )
The one thing I wasn't the biggest fan of was the family drama littered throughout the story that was resolved in one fell swoop at the very end, but that's entirely on my poor timing as I've been reading/watching too many things where family members start messes with little intention of cleaning them up LOL.
If you're looking to cry until you have no tears left, you might want to look elsewhere, but be sure to come back after for the healing hurt/comfort 🥺
July 30, 2019
***** A beautifully written and entrancing book by Riley Hart. We love our men right away and want them to be whole. Each man was at a club fire and lost a beloved family member. Carpenter, black haired Italian Lorenzo/Enzo, 30, lost his older brother, Ricky. They have a huge family. A hospital worker, 37, Damon lost his sister, and now visits his only relative, his Mom, in an Alzheimer's Unit. Damon is in anguish and guilt, as is Enzo.
This cover is magnificent...
Damon has a shaved head, glasses, and a swimmer's body.
Nine months later, each man is hanging around late at night, looking at the burnt building, haunted by the event. Damon see a man go into an alley and decides to check it out. Enzo is being hit and robbed, but Damon saves him.
They begin their sharing stories, and give each other strength. Our author shows us their progression of these straight men as friends, and the slow burn that turns into GFY for each man. They find intense emotions for each other, only each other, no other men have ever attracted them.
We see tenderness, acceptance, hurt/comfort, and extremely passionate awakenings. Enzo and Damon's sexy times are all first M/M times and neither guy is afraid to explore equally.
It is smoothly paced, with deeply emotional thoughts, some are close to suicidal, plus we see amazing sharing, and the lovely use of a therapist for a healing tool.
This is simply a glorious story to read.
I highly recommend it. ENJOY !
=========
This cover is magnificent...
Damon has a shaved head, glasses, and a swimmer's body.
Nine months later, each man is hanging around late at night, looking at the burnt building, haunted by the event. Damon see a man go into an alley and decides to check it out. Enzo is being hit and robbed, but Damon saves him.
They begin their sharing stories, and give each other strength. Our author shows us their progression of these straight men as friends, and the slow burn that turns into GFY for each man. They find intense emotions for each other, only each other, no other men have ever attracted them.
We see tenderness, acceptance, hurt/comfort, and extremely passionate awakenings. Enzo and Damon's sexy times are all first M/M times and neither guy is afraid to explore equally.
It is smoothly paced, with deeply emotional thoughts, some are close to suicidal, plus we see amazing sharing, and the lovely use of a therapist for a healing tool.
This is simply a glorious story to read.
I highly recommend it. ENJOY !
=========
September 1, 2022
1.5-2 stars
Well I finished it… but fuck that was boring.. should have DNF’ed at least 200 pages ago haha
Well I finished it… but fuck that was boring.. should have DNF’ed at least 200 pages ago haha
August 4, 2019
Weighty fluff!!!
You want heavy without angst? If so, this is your book.
All the bad in this book happened already—although we get a solid POV of the “bad:” the burning of a nightclub in which both MC’s lost a sibling.
Both straight. Both unsuccessfully coping with survivors’ guilt. Both drawn to each other one fateful night.
Aside from them grieving for their losses and overcoming family issues, these boys got the straight to bi in the bag. No issues, no problems, no angst (other than coping with the past). Everything is fine and dandy.
Can I call this a bit of fluff? Because aside from sibling loss, slowly losing a parent to dementia, and being real with one’s mother there was zero drama.
So heavy fluff, like fudge instead of cotton candy. I enjoyed it, but it was a little too perfect for me.
Oh...and it was plenty hot!! 🔥🔥🔥
You want heavy without angst? If so, this is your book.
All the bad in this book happened already—although we get a solid POV of the “bad:” the burning of a nightclub in which both MC’s lost a sibling.
Both straight. Both unsuccessfully coping with survivors’ guilt. Both drawn to each other one fateful night.
Aside from them grieving for their losses and overcoming family issues, these boys got the straight to bi in the bag. No issues, no problems, no angst (other than coping with the past). Everything is fine and dandy.
Can I call this a bit of fluff? Because aside from sibling loss, slowly losing a parent to dementia, and being real with one’s mother there was zero drama.
So heavy fluff, like fudge instead of cotton candy. I enjoyed it, but it was a little too perfect for me.
Oh...and it was plenty hot!! 🔥🔥🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2023
8/23 re-read.
It’s been almost 3 years since I read this and to say I still loved it is an understatement.
Is it perfect? No. Am I biased because of nostalgia? Probably.
It’s just… no one writes awakenings like this anymore. No one writes them without rampant and raging homophobic and problematic… everything. Were these guys both freaked out that they were attracted to/had feelings for a guy? Yes. Did they spiral into homophobic tirades and say or think really problematic things? Nope.
The bond these two had and the growth of their feelings felt real and organic. It’s sexy and has all of the feels. Even with its flaws, it remains at 5 stars and the top of my favorite double awakening books.
It’s been almost 3 years since I read this and to say I still loved it is an understatement.
Is it perfect? No. Am I biased because of nostalgia? Probably.
It’s just… no one writes awakenings like this anymore. No one writes them without rampant and raging homophobic and problematic… everything. Were these guys both freaked out that they were attracted to/had feelings for a guy? Yes. Did they spiral into homophobic tirades and say or think really problematic things? Nope.
The bond these two had and the growth of their feelings felt real and organic. It’s sexy and has all of the feels. Even with its flaws, it remains at 5 stars and the top of my favorite double awakening books.
August 19, 2023
not reading summaries and just jumping into books blind kind of backfired on this one because I had no idea I was going to have tears in my eyes for the first 40% of this book
This was so heavy and Damon and Enzo both went through such a traumatic experience only to find each other because of it.
This is easily one of the best double bi-awakenings I’ve ever read. These two were inevitable and are complete soul mates. They made each other better 😭🩵
“Enzo chuckled as he pressed his mouth to Damon’s again, ate Damon’s laugh and fed Damon his own. An hour ago, he felt as if he would never laugh again, and now there he was, kissing and laughing and feeling like he could fucking fly.”
😭😭😭😭👏🏾
This was so heavy and Damon and Enzo both went through such a traumatic experience only to find each other because of it.
This is easily one of the best double bi-awakenings I’ve ever read. These two were inevitable and are complete soul mates. They made each other better 😭🩵
“Enzo chuckled as he pressed his mouth to Damon’s again, ate Damon’s laugh and fed Damon his own. An hour ago, he felt as if he would never laugh again, and now there he was, kissing and laughing and feeling like he could fucking fly.”
😭😭😭😭👏🏾
May 16, 2023
May 23 re-read: still one of the best mm books out there. Perfection
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