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“I'm glad I picked you.”
“My family could accept me being gay, but not trans.”
James is in trouble. His family turned their back on him after he transitioned, and he was forced to start his new life without them, but now he's paying the price. Buried in debt, his last chance is to start a business with hunky carpenter Ryan and hope that they succeed. The one thing he can't afford is a distraction, but what if Ryan is the only one to see past it all and love him inside and out?
“Strictly-business is hard around you."
Ryan Hart doesn't rattle easy. From lazy contractors to being the last single friend, nothing bothers him until he meets James. Ryan's new business partner pushes him to follow his dreams, even though he faces problems Ryan's never considered. Ryan doesn't back down from a challenge or from threats to his business, James's hard-won privacy, and their future together. As business partners, of course. Nothing more.
“I can't believe they don't see you as the man I love.”
They both know mixing business with pleasure is a bad idea, but the pull between them is too hard to resist. Can Ryan have it all with the clever, caring, bossy guy who's won his heart?
Grind is a steamy, stand-alone gay romance novel with a HEA ending and no cliffhanger.
“My family could accept me being gay, but not trans.”
James is in trouble. His family turned their back on him after he transitioned, and he was forced to start his new life without them, but now he's paying the price. Buried in debt, his last chance is to start a business with hunky carpenter Ryan and hope that they succeed. The one thing he can't afford is a distraction, but what if Ryan is the only one to see past it all and love him inside and out?
“Strictly-business is hard around you."
Ryan Hart doesn't rattle easy. From lazy contractors to being the last single friend, nothing bothers him until he meets James. Ryan's new business partner pushes him to follow his dreams, even though he faces problems Ryan's never considered. Ryan doesn't back down from a challenge or from threats to his business, James's hard-won privacy, and their future together. As business partners, of course. Nothing more.
“I can't believe they don't see you as the man I love.”
They both know mixing business with pleasure is a bad idea, but the pull between them is too hard to resist. Can Ryan have it all with the clever, caring, bossy guy who's won his heart?
Grind is a steamy, stand-alone gay romance novel with a HEA ending and no cliffhanger.
Audible Audio
First published July 11, 2016
78 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
About the author
E. Davies
130 books728 followersE. Davies writes feel-good, low-angst romance that never fades to black when the going gets good! Born in Canada, after 16 moves and counting, Ed has finally put down roots in north London.
He emerges from his writing nest to coo over fuzzy animals, flee from cute guys, dance through the streets with his chosen family, put together fierce looks, and—most of all—befriend local flowers.
Newsletter: edaviesbooks.com/subscribe
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/edavies
He emerges from his writing nest to coo over fuzzy animals, flee from cute guys, dance through the streets with his chosen family, put together fierce looks, and—most of all—befriend local flowers.
Newsletter: edaviesbooks.com/subscribe
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/edavies
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
September 17, 2016
*** I'm excited about this story, because it is my first about a transgender main character.
*** Ryan is a tall, blonde, muscled construction guy.
He has a side business of woodwork he does for friends, etc. Now, he's decided he
wants to see if it can be a business. Well, business is James' specialty !
James is short, slim, toned man with dark scruff and hair, and he's cute. The big plus is he knows business, the ins and outs of stating one, and the numbers come easy for him.
So, they strike up a partnership, a contract, and work together to make it work. First info James tells Ryan, is that he is transgender, born a girl, but acted as a man since a teenager, and has had the trans surgery.
James wants to be upfront and honest, FTM=Female transition to Male
and Ryan takes the news in stride and they are doing well. This is a great tutorial on how to start a business.
We get awesome characters, a well written, well handled topic of a transgender man. The men explore a relationship, slowly moving forward, and really are sexy, erotic, and loving. They do finally have sex toward the end, and they are meant to be with each other in every way.
There is fresh banter, but some crappy relatives, a bigot, but mostly loving, caring friends that have formed their own "family" of open, giving people.
This beautiful story does wrap up the series, and I loved how it was done. All of the stories in this series are romantic and sweet.
I highly recommend this book, and the whole series. The first three are about the brothers, and then move on to friends, too. I cried big tears during the proposal of Cam and Noah ! "sigh..."
Each story is unique and filled with heartwarming love.
ENJOY !!
=======================
*** Ryan is a tall, blonde, muscled construction guy.
He has a side business of woodwork he does for friends, etc. Now, he's decided he
wants to see if it can be a business. Well, business is James' specialty !
James is short, slim, toned man with dark scruff and hair, and he's cute. The big plus is he knows business, the ins and outs of stating one, and the numbers come easy for him.
So, they strike up a partnership, a contract, and work together to make it work. First info James tells Ryan, is that he is transgender, born a girl, but acted as a man since a teenager, and has had the trans surgery.
James wants to be upfront and honest, FTM=Female transition to Male
and Ryan takes the news in stride and they are doing well. This is a great tutorial on how to start a business.
We get awesome characters, a well written, well handled topic of a transgender man. The men explore a relationship, slowly moving forward, and really are sexy, erotic, and loving. They do finally have sex toward the end, and they are meant to be with each other in every way.
There is fresh banter, but some crappy relatives, a bigot, but mostly loving, caring friends that have formed their own "family" of open, giving people.
This beautiful story does wrap up the series, and I loved how it was done. All of the stories in this series are romantic and sweet.
I highly recommend this book, and the whole series. The first three are about the brothers, and then move on to friends, too. I cried big tears during the proposal of Cam and Noah ! "sigh..."
Each story is unique and filled with heartwarming love.
ENJOY !!
=======================
August 23, 2016
Although there were things I enjoyed about this novel, the few issues that I had with it were strong enough to give it a middle of the road rating.
What I liked
+ James
By the time that we meet him, James has already transitioned and come out to his family. He's basically the guy he's always been. I thought it was cool that the transgender angle wasn't written in a clinical or fetish-y way. Worthy of note is that James had a friend (a secondary character) who is genderqueer. #Thumbsup
As soon as Ryan figured out that he was interested in James, he did some research about transguys. But that didn't mean that, all of the sudden, he knew everything there was to know about transgender people.
There were certain moments where he stumbled without coming off as a creep or mocking. It was just someone trying to connect with someone else. After all, this is the first time that Ryan was interested in a transguy so, yeah, he stepped on things a couple of times, but he wasn't mean-spirited about it.
(FTR, I thought Ryan was OK, but his storyarc--aside of dating and falling in love with James--wasn't anything that would shake anyone up. He was, imo, an average character.)
+ Most of the sex
You could feel the chemistry between James and Ryan. Even if all they were doing was making out. Once they got to the sexin', things got steamy af. >:)
It bears mention that one scene was a tad wonky (and I discuss it a length in the negative part.
+ A few female characters
Some of them were nice and the one character who was rude didn't do it out sheer villainy.
What I didn't like
- Chapter 22
So, the book's told from James and Ryan's POVs alternating from chapter to chapter.
Chapter 22 begins on James' POV while he's hanging out with some friends. About a third into that chapter, however, the POV switches over to another character (who's not Ryan) and it stays like so til the end of the chapter.
I don't quite get the reason for that.
- That one sex scene
Ryan and James get in bed. One of them gets flipped around so that he's on his belly.
HOWEVER, there's a SEVERE lack of positioning awareness for the entire scene. It sounds like the character is flipped to his back and then on his belly again back and forth even though that's not what's actually happening. I mean, unless that character's knees can go backward or something.
I dunno. The logistics took me out of what had been a really great and intimate scene between them.
- The ending
The first 85% of the novel is pretty solid. This is romance on the fluffier side of the scale. There are a couple of ups and down but nothing, you know, earth-shattering. Then a confrontation between the MCs and another character happens. I think that the author decided to make up for that moment of angst by taking the plot to such a sugar high that it left me dizzy.
It got to the point that I was reminded of the Hallmark Movie Channel or Lifetime Movie Channel Christmas movies (Ch. 30 and the epilogue take place in December.)
I really wish that the author hadn't given into that urge to make everything so syrupy and instead had pulled back or added a bit of grit.
HAVING SAID THAT, there is a possibility that the ending was so OTT with the fluff because it was the literal ending to the series. I've yet to read the previous five books so I could be wrong about the need for the overwhelming sweetness. #ThoImprettysureImnotwrong #IJS
It lacked emotional payoff for me because the actual story had ended around Ch. 28.
TL;DR: I'd say that this book is a beach read or a lazy afternoon novel. This is not a challenging story and that's OK. Sometimes, you might be in the mood for something mellow to chill out with. It can be read as a standalone.
(And I'm thinking I'll check out some of this author's other books.)
What I liked
+ James
By the time that we meet him, James has already transitioned and come out to his family. He's basically the guy he's always been. I thought it was cool that the transgender angle wasn't written in a clinical or fetish-y way. Worthy of note is that James had a friend (a secondary character) who is genderqueer. #Thumbsup
As soon as Ryan figured out that he was interested in James, he did some research about transguys. But that didn't mean that, all of the sudden, he knew everything there was to know about transgender people.
There were certain moments where he stumbled without coming off as a creep or mocking. It was just someone trying to connect with someone else. After all, this is the first time that Ryan was interested in a transguy so, yeah, he stepped on things a couple of times, but he wasn't mean-spirited about it.
(FTR, I thought Ryan was OK, but his storyarc--aside of dating and falling in love with James--wasn't anything that would shake anyone up. He was, imo, an average character.)
+ Most of the sex
You could feel the chemistry between James and Ryan. Even if all they were doing was making out. Once they got to the sexin', things got steamy af. >:)
It bears mention that one scene was a tad wonky (and I discuss it a length in the negative part.
+ A few female characters
Some of them were nice and the one character who was rude didn't do it out sheer villainy.
What I didn't like
- Chapter 22
So, the book's told from James and Ryan's POVs alternating from chapter to chapter.
Chapter 22 begins on James' POV while he's hanging out with some friends. About a third into that chapter, however, the POV switches over to another character (who's not Ryan) and it stays like so til the end of the chapter.
I don't quite get the reason for that.
- That one sex scene
Ryan and James get in bed. One of them gets flipped around so that he's on his belly.
HOWEVER, there's a SEVERE lack of positioning awareness for the entire scene. It sounds like the character is flipped to his back and then on his belly again back and forth even though that's not what's actually happening. I mean, unless that character's knees can go backward or something.
I dunno. The logistics took me out of what had been a really great and intimate scene between them.
- The ending
The first 85% of the novel is pretty solid. This is romance on the fluffier side of the scale. There are a couple of ups and down but nothing, you know, earth-shattering. Then a confrontation between the MCs and another character happens. I think that the author decided to make up for that moment of angst by taking the plot to such a sugar high that it left me dizzy.
It got to the point that I was reminded of the Hallmark Movie Channel or Lifetime Movie Channel Christmas movies (Ch. 30 and the epilogue take place in December.)
I really wish that the author hadn't given into that urge to make everything so syrupy and instead had pulled back or added a bit of grit.
HAVING SAID THAT, there is a possibility that the ending was so OTT with the fluff because it was the literal ending to the series. I've yet to read the previous five books so I could be wrong about the need for the overwhelming sweetness. #ThoImprettysureImnotwrong #IJS
It lacked emotional payoff for me because the actual story had ended around Ch. 28.
TL;DR: I'd say that this book is a beach read or a lazy afternoon novel. This is not a challenging story and that's OK. Sometimes, you might be in the mood for something mellow to chill out with. It can be read as a standalone.
(And I'm thinking I'll check out some of this author's other books.)
September 19, 2020
Love, Love, Love this SERIES....But each of these books can be read as a standalone. I just found this story wonderful, refreshing and a captivating romance. Big, sexy and quietly shy Ryan finally met someone as genuine as him. Sexy, flirty, James, with his quick mind, wit and smile took Ryan completely by surprise. This is the first story I've read involving a transgender character as the main character in the insta-wet moments. I found this story immensely feeling informative from James perspective. There is no way for others to really know the courage it takes to live or love someone who is living their authentic life. I loved this story and the relationship between all the characters from the previous books who visited in this story. I know that this is a sensitive subject in the world today but this was a beautifully written romance between two very different men. I love this author and can't wait to see what she comes up with next. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS AFFORDABLE SERIES!!!!
March 11, 2019
2.5 stars -- This is my first exposure to E. Davies as an author and my second time reading a book with a trans man as part of the romantic pairing. While the story as a whole was fine, it lacked any real spark to get me invested. Largely, this was due to the fact that there wasn't much in the way of conflict and what was there didn't really get to the point of being fully realized.
I do not recommend reading this book as a standalone! This sixth book of the series does claim to be a standalone, and it would be that if the definition of standalone were simply that the romantic arc involves characters who haven't been point-of-view (POV) characters earlier in the series. I fully expected upon picking it up that the author would involve at least some of the ten characters paired up in previous books, but their involvement is heavy-handed. In fact, one of these other characters actually has multiple chapters where he is the POV character instead of either of the two being paired in this book! Worse, these chapters did little if anything to advance the plot of the romantic pairing of this book. Perhaps because there were so many back characters here, the author felt the need to drop hints about things that happened in other books, especially when we were in the head of this character. It resulted in my feeling like I was finding things out that I didn't deserve to know. And that made me less want to read those chapters, and it frankly left me less likely to pick up the earlier stories in the series, even if I had enjoyed this one more. Overall, their involvement seriously hampered my enjoyment of the story being told about this book's main characters. If the book had not been blurbed as a standalone, I would not have started with this book.
As far as the trans representation was concerned, I'm not trans, but it felt authentic to me and it was handled more subtly than in the other trans book I have read, Second Chance by Jay Northcote. So that certainly wasn't an issue for me reading the book. But even the internal conflict with the trans character felt subdued. Yes, there are times where we get to experience some of the pain a trans person goes through, but the way these scenes were handled didn't really feel as important to the character's development as I hoped they would.
Honestly, this can be said about the rest of the conflict in the book too, as there were plenty of things that could have turned into big problems for the couple, within both their business relationship and their personal one, but none of it really panned out. While low-angst romances are fine with me, this seemed to fall even below that. At no point was I truly concerned about the couple's success. And part of what makes romance intriguing to me is witnessing the love grow and persevere through adversity.
So the two things I wanted to get out of this book, I didn't really get either one. And that's a shame, because books with main characters who are trans are far too few.
I do not recommend reading this book as a standalone! This sixth book of the series does claim to be a standalone, and it would be that if the definition of standalone were simply that the romantic arc involves characters who haven't been point-of-view (POV) characters earlier in the series. I fully expected upon picking it up that the author would involve at least some of the ten characters paired up in previous books, but their involvement is heavy-handed. In fact, one of these other characters actually has multiple chapters where he is the POV character instead of either of the two being paired in this book! Worse, these chapters did little if anything to advance the plot of the romantic pairing of this book. Perhaps because there were so many back characters here, the author felt the need to drop hints about things that happened in other books, especially when we were in the head of this character. It resulted in my feeling like I was finding things out that I didn't deserve to know. And that made me less want to read those chapters, and it frankly left me less likely to pick up the earlier stories in the series, even if I had enjoyed this one more. Overall, their involvement seriously hampered my enjoyment of the story being told about this book's main characters. If the book had not been blurbed as a standalone, I would not have started with this book.
As far as the trans representation was concerned, I'm not trans, but it felt authentic to me and it was handled more subtly than in the other trans book I have read, Second Chance by Jay Northcote. So that certainly wasn't an issue for me reading the book. But even the internal conflict with the trans character felt subdued. Yes, there are times where we get to experience some of the pain a trans person goes through, but the way these scenes were handled didn't really feel as important to the character's development as I hoped they would.
Honestly, this can be said about the rest of the conflict in the book too, as there were plenty of things that could have turned into big problems for the couple, within both their business relationship and their personal one, but none of it really panned out. While low-angst romances are fine with me, this seemed to fall even below that. At no point was I truly concerned about the couple's success. And part of what makes romance intriguing to me is witnessing the love grow and persevere through adversity.
So the two things I wanted to get out of this book, I didn't really get either one. And that's a shame, because books with main characters who are trans are far too few.
August 15, 2016
2.5 rounded up.... these are similar to watching movies on Lifetime. Very sweet basically insta-luv. Always one masculine guy who works with his hands & a smaller guy...this time the nerdy guy with a head for business. Also...this town... I don't know if it's homophobic or not. It's written as if it could be, may have been but no real conflicts occur, everything resolved almost with an "aw shucks man" shoulder shrug kind of vibe. But.... well I don't care. I've read 4 of the 6. Now it appears all the single gay men are paired off....but who knows a cousin might move to town or something.
June 27, 2021
What a nice way to end E. Davies' Riley Brothers series.
While you can read most of these books independently, I'd save this one till last just because there are a number of scenes including characters from earlier stories, and you'll enjoy seeing them get their happy endings much more if you know how they got together in the first place.
Grind has two lovely characters. James' struggle broke my heart, between the lack of support and constant petty belittling from his family, and how lonely he is, this poor guy was crying for some happiness in his life.
Ryan is just a big ole sweetie. His open acceptance of James is a delight, and I got a kick out of his polite curiosity (and James' reaction to it).
The audio version of the series is narrated by Michael Dean, who delivers his trademark performance.
While you can read most of these books independently, I'd save this one till last just because there are a number of scenes including characters from earlier stories, and you'll enjoy seeing them get their happy endings much more if you know how they got together in the first place.
Grind has two lovely characters. James' struggle broke my heart, between the lack of support and constant petty belittling from his family, and how lonely he is, this poor guy was crying for some happiness in his life.
Ryan is just a big ole sweetie. His open acceptance of James is a delight, and I got a kick out of his polite curiosity (and James' reaction to it).
The audio version of the series is narrated by Michael Dean, who delivers his trademark performance.
March 21, 2017
Wow... when I read the synopsis for this book my first reaction was if the whole gay male falls in love with gay trans man plotline was something that could work in a gay romance. I am happy to say that this may be the book of this whole series. The author did an outstanding job! Having never been close friends with anyone who was F2M Trans I knew very little about just how it all worked. I have to say for that alone this was a fascinating read. On top of that James is one of the best characters this author has created in the books of his I have read thus far. Truly awesome book, with lots of happy tears shed for Ryan and James! Definitely a must read!
July 31, 2023
This was a nice surprise. James is a trans man who falls for Ryan, a cisgender gay man. I appreciated the fact that the sex scenes were not fade to black - which is often what you get with MM romance featuring a trans man. Overall, it was a nice wrap up to the whole series. (There are a couple of novellas which you should read if you enjoyed the whole series.) 4 stars
September 19, 2016
Great end to this series
I've enjoyed the Riley Brothers and their love lives and those of their friends so it's sad this is the final book in the series as I understand it.
This is also the second FtM trans MC romance I've read recently and like the previous I think they've been written with a sympathetic and educating touch which has made me more informed about that sphere of the LGBT+ community.
James was a sweetie and Ryan's long been on the edge of the other books so to see him get his HEA was overdue.
This is a gentle romance with a little heat, sex isn't shied away from with a fade to black off page encounter but is instead given the same level of care as any other pairing in this series has been.
I've enjoyed the Riley Brothers and their love lives and those of their friends so it's sad this is the final book in the series as I understand it.
This is also the second FtM trans MC romance I've read recently and like the previous I think they've been written with a sympathetic and educating touch which has made me more informed about that sphere of the LGBT+ community.
James was a sweetie and Ryan's long been on the edge of the other books so to see him get his HEA was overdue.
This is a gentle romance with a little heat, sex isn't shied away from with a fade to black off page encounter but is instead given the same level of care as any other pairing in this series has been.
January 5, 2020
* AUDIOBOOK REVIEW *
I liked this story very much and I felt like James was so judged and not accepted by some people I wanted to cry for him. Ryan accept him as he is and l love his quiet approach to what his wondering about.
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Lots of good dialogues
Well described characters that’s developed in to realistic personalities
The storyline is good and progresses to a natural ending.
5 stars
Narrator:
This narrator is very good an easy to listen to but at times he can get a little too loud.
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings.
I liked this story very much and I felt like James was so judged and not accepted by some people I wanted to cry for him. Ryan accept him as he is and l love his quiet approach to what his wondering about.
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Lots of good dialogues
Well described characters that’s developed in to realistic personalities
The storyline is good and progresses to a natural ending.
5 stars
Narrator:
This narrator is very good an easy to listen to but at times he can get a little too loud.
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings.
December 9, 2020
A very sweet end to a great series. I really enjoyed how much I learned about the trans community from this story. I loved the way Ryan researched so he could make James feel more comfortable around him and knew the politically correct things to say.
I thought the angst level was perfect in this story because there was so much family drama going on with James anyway, so he needed the reprieve in my mind. Another great Riley Brother's addition!
I thought the angst level was perfect in this story because there was so much family drama going on with James anyway, so he needed the reprieve in my mind. Another great Riley Brother's addition!
July 23, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ryan's story. If you haven't read the other books in the series I urge you to go back and read them in order first.
Ryan is still smarting from a breakup from his ex. He's the last single member in his group of friends. At the moment isn't exactly looking for a relationship, although he can't help but feel a bit envious. Instead he decides to go forward with starting up his own word work craft business, something he's been wanting to do for a while.
James is a transgender male (FTM) who is having some difficulty with the changes in his life and financially. He's in need of a job to help him pay off his debt and is new to Fredericton after moving away from his hometown due to the attitude of individuals who use to know him before his transition. Having a business degree, he's hopefully everything will work out. As luck has it, he overhears Ryan plan to start up a business and offers to help the guy out.
I liked the transgender angle. I haven't read many books with transgender characters and learned quite a few things. I liked that the author shed some light on the emotional side of it along with the difficulty and bias associated with ones identity after transitioning. It was unique for me since I haven't seen this type of focus in the other two books I've read with transgender characters.
James and Ryan flirtatious dance was cute. I loved that they took the time to get to know each other. That Ryan went and did his own research about what it meant to be transgender and proceeded with caution when asking questions. James was a funny guy and I liked that he kept on pulling Ryan's strings in jest.
There was a lot of great focus on Ryan's new business and I did find myself intrigued about word work.
Overall, this was a very well balanced book. I loved that we got to visit with the other characters in the series (yeah, yeah I know it happen in all the books in the series) and seeing where they are and how well their relationship are thriving.
Ryan's story. If you haven't read the other books in the series I urge you to go back and read them in order first.
Ryan is still smarting from a breakup from his ex. He's the last single member in his group of friends. At the moment isn't exactly looking for a relationship, although he can't help but feel a bit envious. Instead he decides to go forward with starting up his own word work craft business, something he's been wanting to do for a while.
James is a transgender male (FTM) who is having some difficulty with the changes in his life and financially. He's in need of a job to help him pay off his debt and is new to Fredericton after moving away from his hometown due to the attitude of individuals who use to know him before his transition. Having a business degree, he's hopefully everything will work out. As luck has it, he overhears Ryan plan to start up a business and offers to help the guy out.
I liked the transgender angle. I haven't read many books with transgender characters and learned quite a few things. I liked that the author shed some light on the emotional side of it along with the difficulty and bias associated with ones identity after transitioning. It was unique for me since I haven't seen this type of focus in the other two books I've read with transgender characters.
James and Ryan flirtatious dance was cute. I loved that they took the time to get to know each other. That Ryan went and did his own research about what it meant to be transgender and proceeded with caution when asking questions. James was a funny guy and I liked that he kept on pulling Ryan's strings in jest.
There was a lot of great focus on Ryan's new business and I did find myself intrigued about word work.
Overall, this was a very well balanced book. I loved that we got to visit with the other characters in the series (yeah, yeah I know it happen in all the books in the series) and seeing where they are and how well their relationship are thriving.
July 23, 2016
I wanted to like the book. It is very good at portraying some of the issues men face. Honestly though, there isn't really any conflict. I kept cringing waiting for something to happen because, let's face it, people who identify as transgender encounter many issues. The main one in this book was that his mother and some family members used female pronouns and referenced his past biology. I know this is a HEA but it would've been better, and more realistic, to show at least some struggle for the MCs. Instant acceptance, informed opinions, and the ability to open up communication are all great; however, they are unrealistic. There is one slight miscommunication about a "binder," which felt flat. I'm glad I read the series, but this last one was just okay.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
00-mm-horrible-disaster-fail-dnf
July 15, 2016I think it's awesome that Davies wrote a book that includes a trans male MC, but it's just not for me at all. I tried reading it, but will respectfully pass. Kudos to the author though :-)!!
August 28, 2016
Boring
December 12, 2020
Overall: 4 Stars
Performance: 4 Stars
Story: 4.5 Stars
I've listened to all of the Riley Brothers audio books and have tended to like each one more than the last, which is somewhat ironic seeing as the later stories get further away from the brothers themselves, and that proved to be the case with "Grind" as well. Here, friends-of-friends Ryan and James go into business together and, for most of the story, manage to tamp down their mutual attraction to keep things professional while their friendship and working relationship develops. There is real chemistry between the two, and both are thoughtful, loving and considerate men. There is some mild conflict with Ryan's hostile co-worker and James's obstinate, unaccepting mother, but like all the books in the series, it's a fairly low angst, feel-good story written with sensitivity.
"Grind" can be enjoyed as a standalone but all of the series couples do appear and one takes a big relationship leap forward, which will be all the more meaningful if already familiar with the series. Narrator Michael Dean delivers another solid performance, as he's done for each book in the series, with distinct voices for all of the characters. I received this free review copy audio book by request and have left this honest review voluntarily.
Performance: 4 Stars
Story: 4.5 Stars
I've listened to all of the Riley Brothers audio books and have tended to like each one more than the last, which is somewhat ironic seeing as the later stories get further away from the brothers themselves, and that proved to be the case with "Grind" as well. Here, friends-of-friends Ryan and James go into business together and, for most of the story, manage to tamp down their mutual attraction to keep things professional while their friendship and working relationship develops. There is real chemistry between the two, and both are thoughtful, loving and considerate men. There is some mild conflict with Ryan's hostile co-worker and James's obstinate, unaccepting mother, but like all the books in the series, it's a fairly low angst, feel-good story written with sensitivity.
"Grind" can be enjoyed as a standalone but all of the series couples do appear and one takes a big relationship leap forward, which will be all the more meaningful if already familiar with the series. Narrator Michael Dean delivers another solid performance, as he's done for each book in the series, with distinct voices for all of the characters. I received this free review copy audio book by request and have left this honest review voluntarily.
March 17, 2018
I truly love everything I have ever read by this author... but please, take my suggestion... PROOFREAD!!! *grin*
The name mix-up in this book was just horrendous... *headdesk*
That having been said and my 5-star rating having been picked... I was a bit out of my depth with this one, but WOW, was it informative on so many levels. A dear friend of my daughter is FTM and I will say that I hope that I now have a better understanding of all of the things he went through to get to where he is today. Life is hard for all of us at one time or another, but the courage to say "this is who I am" and to become the person that you know in your heart you should be? That is way more than most of us will ever have to fight for... bravery comes in many forms and this is truly one of them! E. Davies... Thank you for this wonderful story!
The name mix-up in this book was just horrendous... *headdesk*
That having been said and my 5-star rating having been picked... I was a bit out of my depth with this one, but WOW, was it informative on so many levels. A dear friend of my daughter is FTM and I will say that I hope that I now have a better understanding of all of the things he went through to get to where he is today. Life is hard for all of us at one time or another, but the courage to say "this is who I am" and to become the person that you know in your heart you should be? That is way more than most of us will ever have to fight for... bravery comes in many forms and this is truly one of them! E. Davies... Thank you for this wonderful story!
September 1, 2019
Ryan is a carpenter building homes in Fredericton and toying with starting his own business on the side making small wooden craft items, signs, wine bottle holders, boxes etc. He meets James who is unemployed, having left his previous job where it had been very uncomfortable being trans. He had gone ahead on his own and put the surgery on his credit card since he was without the support of his family. When they meet and stumble on the idea of starting the business together with James handling the business plan marketing purchasing etc while Ryan did the construction. That put the possibility of a relationship on a slipper slope but as they grow closer and more comfortable they decide to ignore that risk. A pleasant read with the trans aspect playing a major part but in a very subtle way.
December 15, 2020
audio review
Grind is book 6 in The Riley Brothers series. I love this series and this book is a wonderful addition. Ryan works in construction but also does some wood working. He'd like to expand his wood working into a business but needs help. James is in need of a job and when he talks with Ryan it's clear they would be great business partners. Although they ended up being so much more than that to each other. James finds himself struggling with his relationship with his mother as she can't accept that he isn't her 'little girl'. I love James and Ryan together, they are so adorable. I love how accepting Ryan is of James from the beginning and wants to understand and learn more about what James is going through, or has gone through. Definitely recommend this book and series. Narrator Michael Dean does another amazing job in this series.
Grind is book 6 in The Riley Brothers series. I love this series and this book is a wonderful addition. Ryan works in construction but also does some wood working. He'd like to expand his wood working into a business but needs help. James is in need of a job and when he talks with Ryan it's clear they would be great business partners. Although they ended up being so much more than that to each other. James finds himself struggling with his relationship with his mother as she can't accept that he isn't her 'little girl'. I love James and Ryan together, they are so adorable. I love how accepting Ryan is of James from the beginning and wants to understand and learn more about what James is going through, or has gone through. Definitely recommend this book and series. Narrator Michael Dean does another amazing job in this series.
May 25, 2019
This whole series has been spectacular but this story is truly beautiful. Ryan and James are absolutely perfect together and I love how easily accepting and supporting Ryan is of James. He even goes above and beyond by researching and learning about being trans. I loved watching their relationship grow from business partners, to friends, to lovers. Unfortunately this is the last Riley Brothers book and I'm sad to see them go.
The narrator is absolutely spectacular with the story and brilliantly portrays all of the characters and emotions. I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy of this audiobook.
The narrator is absolutely spectacular with the story and brilliantly portrays all of the characters and emotions. I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy of this audiobook.
October 30, 2021
TL;DR I'm not going to read the other books but I don't regret it
Things I liked:
-The positive trans representation
-The chemistry between the characters
Things I was on the fence
It was claimed you could read this as a single book though it's in a series, but you will be confused when a random guy gets a chapter in his POV with guys you just encountered that scene
Things I disliked
Nothing really happens. There's barely any drama and it was easily diffused. This is the first time I could have used more drama. This is the fluffiest I suppose I can get without disliking it
Things I liked:
-The positive trans representation
-The chemistry between the characters
Things I was on the fence
It was claimed you could read this as a single book though it's in a series, but you will be confused when a random guy gets a chapter in his POV with guys you just encountered that scene
Things I disliked
Nothing really happens. There's barely any drama and it was easily diffused. This is the first time I could have used more drama. This is the fluffiest I suppose I can get without disliking it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2017
I like James and Ryan, but sometimes the writing was off. There's too much of a fairytale feel regarding the Rileys, seems a bit forced.
Also, their business was simplistic, and considering how much it was a part of their interactions, things went along too smoothly with their moneymaking.
The contrived Christmas ending wrecked things for me, would make this a 2 star book if the rest wasn't so good.
My least favourite in the series.
KU
Also, their business was simplistic, and considering how much it was a part of their interactions, things went along too smoothly with their moneymaking.
The contrived Christmas ending wrecked things for me, would make this a 2 star book if the rest wasn't so good.
My least favourite in the series.
KU
May 27, 2020
An absolutely excellent finish to the Riley Brothers series, with Ryan finding a business partner (and lover) with James. I loved the pairing, as Ryan was a gentle and shy carpenter who was enchanted by the smart and resourcefulness of James - but James finds easy acceptance with Ryan as he has struggled with his family and previous places of employment not respecting that he has transitioned and recognizes himself as a man. Super cute!
May 20, 2019
I loved this book where E Davies introduces us to James, a trans man in the process of figuring out his life after distancing himself from his family and hometown. When James meets Ryan, the quietest of the Riley brothers' friends, they become business partners and will try to keep their attraction at bay, but this will not last long.
Michael Pauley's narration is outstanding as always!
Michael Pauley's narration is outstanding as always!
August 29, 2019
I don't know, but something about the writing style was off for me.
Many times I had to reread a sentence or a chapters because I couldn't get the context. Some conversations were more like realtime talking, so to say like a script for a movie.
I might be wrong, but in my opinion Ryan was a little bit too unquestioning, too quick in accepting. Doesn't it take a bit more curiosity or struggle?
Many times I had to reread a sentence or a chapters because I couldn't get the context. Some conversations were more like realtime talking, so to say like a script for a movie.
I might be wrong, but in my opinion Ryan was a little bit too unquestioning, too quick in accepting. Doesn't it take a bit more curiosity or struggle?
December 7, 2020
What a great book to close the series! This is definitely my favorite! I loved James and Ryan as individuals and I loved them together. Their story was heartwarming and beautiful. It was great to see the other characters too and catch up with them. I'm going to miss this group. I had the best time listening their stories. The narrator is absolutely fantastic!
April 3, 2024
This was sweet and fluffy and feel good. I enjoyed reading it and I've already forgotten most of it after a week. I like the business development, how sweet Ryan is to James, and how they found a way to make their lives work together. I wanted a little more conflict, a little more growth, but that's a personal preference. All in all, not bad.
June 6, 2017
I loved this book. My favorite of the series. The characters were very well written. The way the author got important information out while telling such an emotional story was amazing. Please let there be more in this series.
November 20, 2017
When I started it I didn't realize I'd already read book 1 in the series. So it was fun to read about those characters as well and get a bit of a refresher. This one was so sweet. Low drama, no real angst. Just sweet romance.
January 3, 2018
What a lovely finish to the series
I really fell in love with all the main characters. Each couples story was filled with some problems but mostly happiness. They each overcame a lot to be together and good for them.
I really fell in love with all the main characters. Each couples story was filled with some problems but mostly happiness. They each overcame a lot to be together and good for them.
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