Rico

Cock & Bull #2

by Dallas James, Samantha Cole

**This book was unpublished and republished under the pen name Samantha Cole.


Rico Demara has suffered more hardships in life than anyone deserves, but every time he got beat down, he got up again and dusted himself off. With some help from family and a good friend, Rico has finally fulfilled his dream of owning a successful bar—the Cock & Bull. Now if only his personal life could consist of more than a combination of one-night stands, friends with benefits, and dates from hell.

Evan Calhoun married his high-school sweetheart, has two kids, and spent the last twenty years denying to himself and everyone else that he was gay. After an amicable divorce, he’s starting over, but a few random hookups and failed dates weren’t what he was hoping for. He wants to find someone he can spend the rest of his life with. Someone like the gorgeous man he spots tending bar—a man who makes Evan weak in the knees and sends his heart soaring just by saying hello to him.

When Rico and Evan start dating, not everyone is happy about their relationship. In fact, they might just destroy the happy ending neither man ever expected to have.

**The Cock & Bull series consists of M/M romance novellas.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Audiobook, LGBT, Contemporary

104 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 26, 2021

About the author

Dallas James was the pen name of author Samantha Cole. The books previously published under this pen name are now published under Samantha Cole.

Reviews

[Courtney Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m addicted! This is a short and sweet love story that I gobbled up in about 2 hours! But just because it’s short doesn’t make it any less amazing. Rico and Evan are so sweet it will give you a tooth ache. Single father newly outed Evan and bar owner out and proud Rico fall head over heals in love. What is there to live about that? Through in awesome friends and a nosy son and you can wrap this book up in a nice bow! Loved it! Cant wait for more from this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pingmg · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book it was great, the story was written well and the characters were intriguing. Rico has had a hard life, every time he succeeded only to get knocked down, but his bar he owned thrived, all he wants is to settle with a person that is going to love him unconditional. He was at his club when he saw a guy that stopped him in his tracks Evan. Evan is divorced with two children, he is finally looking after himself now his needs and that was when he saw Rico working at the bar, they start talking, going out on dates. There are people that are not happy about their relationship. The chemistry between these two is intense, sizzling hotness, pleasures, lust and love like a rollercoaster ride that only takes you higher.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Maria E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 2 in the Cock & Bull series, and this time the story focuses on Rico, Alex's best friend, and Evan, a new man who Rico has just started dating. We see how they met, got together, and fell in love, all in a short book that can be read quickly. I would have liked the book to be a little longer. I would have liked the explanation of Rico's past to have been fleshed out a little more, it seemed like the whole matter was resolved too quickly. Nevertheless it's a sweet romance between two people who really love each other. Even though this book is part of a series, it's a standalone. Book 1 introduces us to some characters that we meet again in this book,but you don't need to read Book 1 to enjoy this book.

[kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read and love book 1, I couldn't wait to read Rico. This great novella packs in quite a bit of story. I really loved Rico and Evan together. They had an immediate connection and great chemistry.
I couldn't put this fast read down!

[Mari (Mystics & Metaphysics Book Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awww, Rico and Evan stole my heart. They are complex and sweet and so sexy together. Their story is not easy but it does suck you in from the beginning and I found myself rooting for them the whole way.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rico just wants someone to call his own and the man at the end of the bar is someone he is interested to get to know better. Evan spent years denying who he really was but now that he's finally free, he's also looking for the man of his dreams! A chance meeting and the two start seeing each other. The story is short as this is a novella but the emotions are there and I was completely invested in it. I felt that I got to know Rico and Evan well and a bonus is getting to see Scout and Alex again! (love those two) Rico has a big secret in his past and it's about to be revealed. Will it scare Evan away? I really loved this story and I can't wait to see who is going to be next!!!

[Candace P. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good short read! I liked each of the characters and how the author told their story.

I liked that we see the characters from book 1 in the series and how we have more information about Rico. The author did a good job telling Evan's story and how he was finding himself. I loved how each character had to build up the courage to talk to the other.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rico Demara isn’t satisfied with one-night stands. He wants someone in his life to come home to. He’s lonely and sees what Scout has found and how happy it has made him. Right now, the guy sitting at his bar is someone he would like to meet.

Evan Calhoun had married his high-school sweetheart, had two kids, and spent the last twenty years denying he was gay. He is also ready to find someone special. When he finally gets up the nerve to ask Rico to go for coffee, they start dating.

There is so much more to this story and the characters are wonderful. Their interaction with each other as well as friends and co-workers makes all of them so real. There are also many big moments in this story line, such as their first date, a memorable visit to the broadcast booth of a sports show for a heart-melting surprise, Rico’s talk with Mark, just too many perfect moments to list. But they are all in the pages to be shared. Grab your copy of this book and join the family! Love and friendship blend together and will make you feel right at home.

[Stephanie W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even when one isn't looking for love, love can have other plans.

Rico had more than his fair share of heartache. Relegated to hook-ups, one night stands and bad romances. What he needs is someone to love, but is he ready for all it will bring? His dream of owning a bar has finally come true but no one to share it with.

Evan has denied himself of who he really as for so many years. After his twenty year marriage finally ended in divorce, he was free to explore his true happiness. Starting anew isn't easy. He too, suffered the curse of failed dates, and bad hook-ups.

Spotting Rico in the bar is all Evan needed to light a fire under him. Dating will not come easy as there seems to be forces working against them. Determination kept them together. I love this strong couple.

**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**

[Gina Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rico is the second novella in the Cock and Bull Series. I enjoyed the romance between Rico and Evan, even though it was Evan first real m/m relationship he was embarrassed or shy about who he now knows he is. I always love confidence in the characters I read. Rico and Evan are on fire and perfect for each other.

[Annemieke Westerbeek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rico isn’t looking for Love but when Evan come to the Cock and Bull he is listing after him. Evan is shy but I likes the bartender very much. This is the second book in the Cock & Bull series. I enjoyed it very much and I love them both. The scenes are hot there is an very emotional scene in it that got me teary eyed.

[Reading to Stay Awake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read the excellent Scout I was unsure as to what Dallas James would pull out of the proverbial hat with Rico; however, DJ has found the white rabbit and dragged it out by the ears because this is an amazing book introducing us to the very cute coupling of Rico and Evan.

I loved that Evan was totally not what Rico was expecting him to be but was actually just as out there as he was; they both just needed to get over themselves and talk to each other!! The storyline of Evan's amicable divorce and acknowledging his sexuality was fantastic and I'm sure will resonate with many readers. It's only by being open and having this type of book that people can feel like that can actually live true to themselves. I loved the interactions with Evan's children and ex-wife; the love and understanding between Evan and Susan, and Evan and his sons, after the divorce was written really well.

Rico and Evan are the cutest of couples with the hottest of chemistry from their first awkward coffee date kiss. Neither of them are good at keeping their clothes on and when they come off they are hot hot hot! They are have a supporting cast which includes Scout and Alex from the first book in the series, are all friends including an actor and a local artist and I'm hoping that they will get their own books later.

The storyline for this book was fast paced and dropped in from the beginning and brought to a head really well at the end. I do love it when the baddie gets his comeuppance, and where better than a public toilet!!

Basically, I loved this book, I wish it had been longer as I could read about this two in a full length book; I smiled all the way through reading it and am totally recommending it to you xx

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sammy Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first book, so I was really looking forward to this book and it didn't disappoint. I really loved the characters and their interactions with each other. Rick is an amazing guy and has been through some horrible things in his life. But he didn't let it get him down and he made something of his life. It was great to learn about his and Scout's amazing friendship and who wouldn't want a friend like him. He was always there for him a kick in the butt at one point when he really needed it. Evan is such a sweetheart and it was amazing seeing him grow as an out gay man. He was finally living his truth after his divorce it was amazing how supportive his two son's and even his ex-wife were. Evan and Rico are amazing together as a couple. They have a really cute first date and it grows from there. Their first time together his hot and you can feel the heat coming off them. They are both so good for each other and it was great seeing Rico interact with his son's after their little blip, which I won't go into detail about. It is the only tiny bit of angst and quickly solved, as I hate it going on for ages for no reason. It was great seeing Sout and Alex again and I so can't wait for Magnus's story if the author does it. The ending was amazing and a much deserved happy ending for the both.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Georgette B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoilers includes

This was a sweet story about two men who wanted a forever story, but were uncertain it was in the cards. I enjoyed reading Rico and Evan’s love story unfold. It was especially nice to see Evan’s relationship with his ex-wife portrayed in such a positive way.

So what happened: A man who has been out and proud gay man since he was a teenager (Rico) and a newly out gay man (Evan) become enraptured with each other. Evan comes with an ex-wife, who is his best friend, and two sons (don’t worry, they are uber supportive of Evan). They fall for each other and are well on their way to a HEA. But just as they were sailing along and getting to know each other, they are interrupted by a well meaning teenager who gets a drop of information and draws an ocean of a conclusion. Because we know how thoroughly teenagers look into things they find on the internet. Fearful and anticipating hurt and rejection Rico withdraws and goes radio silent on Evan. Thanks to a friend not afraid to Rico in the butt with truth, he goes for love and follows his heart!

This book has all the good stuff and some not so good stuff: friendship, family (of choice and origin), celebrity worship, homophobia and wonderfully cheesy moments.

Enjoy!!!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just adored Rico’s story. If you read book one of the series, Scout, you have met Rico. He is Scout’s best friend and owns the Cock & Bull Bar. Rico is funny, sexy and lonely. His life revolves around his work and the one night stands that he picks up at the bar. He wants what his friend Scout found with Alex, his true soul mate. Someone to come home to every night who will be there for him through thick and thin.

Evan is recently divorced from his high school sweetheart. After 20 years and two kids he finally wants to live life as his true self, a gay male. But after a few failed dates, he was miserable and unsure if he’ll ever meet the type of man he wants in his life. That is until he stops in the Cock & Bull for a drink and sees Rico behind the bar. If only he had the nerve to speak to him.

This book is so tender and heartfelt. I fell in love with Rico and Evan. Their story is simply stunning and so worth the read. This novella can be read as a standalone, but for a Much Better reading experience, I highly suggest grabbing up Scout, novella #1 in this series, and reading it first. You’ll be glad you did.

2 Thumbs up and 5 Stars

[Amy Stauffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Scout’s book, I was excited to get ahold of Rico’s. We met him in the first book (in this series), but didn’t get to know too much about him. This was his turn for love and HEA.

I loved Rico and Evan. The tension and anxiousness between them on their first date was delicious and so relatable. I enjoyed the push and pull between them as they continued spending time together. I felt like the pace of the story was perfect for the length of the book. It took a few time jumps, but it wasn’t at the cost of the story. They were perfectly timed and spaced out.

This story was well written and utterly charming. Not only were the main characters lovable, but the side characters were captivating as well. We got to see a decent amount of Scout and Alex, as well. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. I’m completely enchanted.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A feel good romantic story! Rico, owner of Cock & Bull was eying a customer, Evan who comes in every Wednesday. He was strongly attracted to Evan. Evan pulled the attention of men and woman when he came in to C&B for a drink and a burger every week. Everything about Evan made Rico aware of himself as a man. When Evan talked to his friends, he realized Evan may fit into his world. Evan, newly divorced, out and a Dad. Evan has never dated a man, is he ready? Can Rico handle Evan's sons? Is Susan really okay with an out Evan? Lots of relationship challenges. Kids of divorce with an out parent, presents a special challenge. This story, had so many relationship challenges, it was a delight to read. Dallas struck a fantast balance between a good storyline and a great group of characters. I absolutely enjoyed this story. This is a story I can read over and over and enjoy immensely each time. Well done! I received an ARC from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Moomba · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are series where you can’t wait to read the next book. Cock & Bull is definitely one of those series. It got me hooked from the start.

Rico is Scout’s best friend. He’s the owner of the Cock & Bull. Since first laying eyes on Evan he wants the man but a very painful incident in his past has left deep marks.
Evan was married to his high school sweetheart with whom he has two sons. After 20 years of denial he wants to finally live his true self.
I really like about Rico & Evan that they meet at eye level.

The story is a short novella (under 100 pages) but it never feels rushed. Friendship plays a great role as more characters are introduced and previous ones return. I really hope that Magnus and Rex will get their own stories.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Justine Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rico is a wonderfully written short story about Rico, a bar owner, and Evan, a recently divorced father of two teenage boys. Evan married his high school sweetheart denying his true sexuality. After many years he finally decided to divorce his wife in hopes they both could find the love they both deserved. I love how they both are still friends and live close enough to each other so their boys are able to have relationships with both their parents. Evan finds himself and Rico's bar often but it takes him awhile to get up the nerve to talk to Rico and ask him out. Once they finally do go out it's not an easy journey as Rico's past is brought to light and could jeopardize everything. This is an enjoyable series and I can't wait for more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, the heat is HOT, and the physical chemistry is captivating so be careful you may just get burned all the heat coming off these pages. There were some "oh no" "oh wow" " what the what" moments and add in uncanny mishaps, shenanigans, and suspense the good kind that makes you keep turning the pages till last page has been turned. These two are so sweet Evan was new to coming out or just accepting his orientation and being okay with it although, still a little embarrassed and shy about being gay. Rico knows who he is and really needs more than just one night when he sees Evan at the end of the bar peeks his interest and so Rico makes it a point to try and get to know him especially with the attractions off the charts but is it enough?

[Nissy Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rico and Evan were so good together. This is a quick read, but packed with so much. Evan is a recently divorced dad and Rico is the owner of a bar. They both had secret crushes on the other but both hesitated to act on it. The connection was immediate between them. Then finally one day Evan took the plunge and asked Rico out. The navigation was not hard but there were some super bumps in the road that was a bit difficult for them. They pushed through, worked through them and were able to overcome. In the end love won out, which the both of them so deserved. They both got the HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Latecia Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like when things just come together...It was fate when Evan took a chance and asked Rico out. Both was crushing on the other for weeks and finally they connected. Their attraction was sweet and intense. So happy that both found each other. You could feel their bond/connection coming off the pages. Even though this was a short story, it packed a lot of emotion. I really enjoyed this and glad I took a chance and read this HOT romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elaine Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the second book of the Cock & Bull series. Rico and Ethan's romance was achieved in the old fashion way. They met, dated, and fell in love, but not without some conflict. Ehant is newly divorced and out of the closet. Rico is sweet, sexy, successful but has a hidden secret from his past. Ethan thinks he's not good enough for Rico and Rico thinks that his past will keep him from having a relationship. Their romance is a slow-build, sweet. romantic, sexy, and it will have your attention from start to finish. I enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the next one in this series.

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rico is a guy due for a break. He wants to meet someone to be there for him after he is done tending bar. And he meets him. Evan is a guy on a new path for him after being married and divorced from a woman he is now ready to be out and to find a relationship with a man. They meet by chance but in one another they find romance and connection that each truly was hoping for. This was a novella but it was well written and long enough that you get to know both men and root for their relationship.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chantelle Bouffanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! This is my first time reading a book from Dallas James. Rico is the second book in the Cock & Bull series. This is Rico and Evan's story. Evan is recently divorced from his high school sweetheart. Rico just wants someone to call his own. When Rico saw Evan walked into his bar. Rico wasn't sure if he could work up the nerves to ask Evan out. But Evan beat him to the punch. Rico and Evan were so good together. This is a quick, easy read. This story was so addicting! Can't wait to read more from this author. Keep up the great work!

[SFBookReviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rico tells the story of Rico and Evan and is the second in the series, but can be read as a standalone. They end up falling in love and have their own HEA even though Rico's past threatens the relationship. The book was well written and the characters are interesting with a nice twist on a regular type of storyline.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lucy Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rico is a good friend of Scout (book 1) and has had some difficult experiences since coming out. He notices Ethan from the start but is unsure of whether to go for it or let his past get in the way. Good story that continues on with the characters from Book 1. Enjoyed the writing style and characters and am looking forward to Book 3!

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another smash hit by Samantha Cole. This short read is full of heat. I even cried a few times. I felt for Rico about his past. He had a feeling it would continue to bite him in the rear. I am so happy that Scout was the one to basically kick Rico in the butt to get him to get the courage to explain everything. That ended at the station was beyond beautiful.

[Akasha721 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book isn't very long but it's very good! Rico finds true love when Evan walks into his bar. The two men dance around each other until Evan works up the nerve to ask Rico out. The book tells how they fall in love and have their happily ever after. Great book and you should pick up a copy!