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Red's Tavern #3
The Silver Fox
I rescue people from danger every day. But my love life? That’s a dumpster fire I can’t put out.
I had a badass life, my dream job as a firefighter, and I could snag anyone I wanted in bed. But when an injury temporarily took me off duty, it all screeched to a halt. Now I’m healing, staying with my brother Red in Amberfield, this small town with jack-all to do.
Other than flirt with Perry. A hot-as-hell, shy but smoldering silver fox. And I think he wants me bad, even though I’m a straight, babyfaced jock in a baseball cap.
Perry is a family man, through and through. He would do anything for his mom, brother, nieces and nephews. When family drama threatens to ruin his big family reunion, I know I can help. I offer to be Perry’s fake boyfriend for the reunion, so all eyes will be on us.
And then the plan works.
A little too well.
Turns out Silver Fox isn’t as bashful as he seemed. Now I’m becoming addicted to the feeling of his lips on mine. His skin pressed up against me in bed. Soon, I’m fantasizing about going all the way with him, and I’m not sure I can call myself “straight” anymore with a straight face.
At first I just craved the attention. But Perry isn’t just great in bed--his family is fun as hell, too. For once, I feel like I belong somewhere.
And once we're done faking it, I don’t know how the hell I’m going to leave.
I had a badass life, my dream job as a firefighter, and I could snag anyone I wanted in bed. But when an injury temporarily took me off duty, it all screeched to a halt. Now I’m healing, staying with my brother Red in Amberfield, this small town with jack-all to do.
Other than flirt with Perry. A hot-as-hell, shy but smoldering silver fox. And I think he wants me bad, even though I’m a straight, babyfaced jock in a baseball cap.
Perry is a family man, through and through. He would do anything for his mom, brother, nieces and nephews. When family drama threatens to ruin his big family reunion, I know I can help. I offer to be Perry’s fake boyfriend for the reunion, so all eyes will be on us.
And then the plan works.
A little too well.
Turns out Silver Fox isn’t as bashful as he seemed. Now I’m becoming addicted to the feeling of his lips on mine. His skin pressed up against me in bed. Soon, I’m fantasizing about going all the way with him, and I’m not sure I can call myself “straight” anymore with a straight face.
At first I just craved the attention. But Perry isn’t just great in bed--his family is fun as hell, too. For once, I feel like I belong somewhere.
And once we're done faking it, I don’t know how the hell I’m going to leave.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2021
230 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
March 28, 2021
Why do I keep reading this author thinking the next book will be better when it never is?
Let's recap: two-dimensional characters, too much focus on Perry's family, low steam, weak ending. This author won't commit to her characters, and it's hella annoying.
As per usual with Ruebins' work, the blurb is better than the story.
Let's recap: two-dimensional characters, too much focus on Perry's family, low steam, weak ending. This author won't commit to her characters, and it's hella annoying.
As per usual with Ruebins' work, the blurb is better than the story.
October 24, 2021
[3.2] i don’t know whether to love Perry or hate him: his interior decorating and home organizational system are an inspiration to us all, like he literally printed out and stuck the label “condoms and lube” on a storage container to announce to the world that it holds—you guessed it—condoms and lube. AND YET this dastardly monster keeps bashing my beloved pineapple pizza 😔 ngl my heart’s leaning towards the latter right now.
NOBODY INSULTS MY 🍍🍕!!!! 😤😤😤
NOBODY INSULTS MY 🍍🍕!!!! 😤😤😤
November 7, 2021
✽ 2.5 STARS ✽
I liked Perry and Rock together, which is surprising because this was only thing I liked in this story. Everything else felt too artificial. This is gay-for-you story which I usually don't like if the story is not carried out masterfully.
I was highly bothered with following inconsistency:
I liked Perry and Rock together, which is surprising because this was only thing I liked in this story. Everything else felt too artificial. This is gay-for-you story which I usually don't like if the story is not carried out masterfully.
I was highly bothered with following inconsistency:
February 19, 2022
Fluffy bi-awakening, pretend boyfriend, and only one bed tropes with an introverted chef and an outgoing firefighter.
This was the shortest but also my favorite so far! It almost got 4 stars from me but it was just a little too angst free, one of the MCs acted cold immediately after the other’s first gay experience, and some of the actions by the MCs were confusing near the end. These are minor issues though and I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
I loved the differing personalities here. I’m an introvert so it’s always fun for me to see one depicted in a positive light. It’s super fun to see them paired with an extrovert who is an asset, doesn’t try to change them, and who’s personality isn’t totally defined by being an extrovert.
This was the shortest but also my favorite so far! It almost got 4 stars from me but it was just a little too angst free, one of the MCs acted cold immediately after the other’s first gay experience, and some of the actions by the MCs were confusing near the end. These are minor issues though and I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
I loved the differing personalities here. I’m an introvert so it’s always fun for me to see one depicted in a positive light. It’s super fun to see them paired with an extrovert who is an asset, doesn’t try to change them, and who’s personality isn’t totally defined by being an extrovert.
March 22, 2021
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Silver Fox is the third stand alone is Raleigh Ruebins Red Tavern series. This was exactly the book I was in the mood for. A feel good romance with the fake relationship between an injured firefighter and a chef.
Firefighter Rock is spending his recovery with his brother in the small town of Amberfield and spends most of the time at his bar Red's Tavern. He's always been attracted to women and for the first time he's discovering feelings for a man it happens to be the chef at his brothers bar. He instantly feels a connection to him and when Perry is stressing out over his family's drama and needs a date to his family reunion, Rock happily volunteers. Rock quickly realizes he wants their relationship to be more than pretend but Perry his hesitant to give his heart to a straight man.
"I don't want a world without you in it, Chef."
Oh goodness, I adored both of these men. Perry is ridiculously shy, one of Rock's favorite things is how easily he blushes, and introverted. He is the problem solver of his family always focusing on everyone's needs before his own. I loved that Rock showed him that he was worth the focus and deserved to be appreciated. Rock is a lovable goofball, who everyone kept judging because of the amount of woman he had slept with. All he wanted was to feel loved and find a home, but people don't take him seriously. It was frustrating how everyone kept bluntly telling him he was straight therefore he couldn't feel this way or that way and I loved the moment Rock stood up for himself and put a stop to it. Their relationship was just precious and if they weren't being super sweet with each other then they were bantering and having a laugh.
"Is it a pineapple pizza, Perry-style? Becuase that would be admirable and truly selfless."
I snorted. "I would never sink that low," I said.
"I'll corrupt you one day," he told me, winking.
The Silver Fox is a low drama, charming MM romance. It has a decent amount of steam, but it doesn't overtake the story, it's just the right amount for this charming couple. I honestly can seem myself going back to this in the future for a reread and it is definitely my favorite of the series so far.
The Silver Fox is the third stand alone is Raleigh Ruebins Red Tavern series. This was exactly the book I was in the mood for. A feel good romance with the fake relationship between an injured firefighter and a chef.
Firefighter Rock is spending his recovery with his brother in the small town of Amberfield and spends most of the time at his bar Red's Tavern. He's always been attracted to women and for the first time he's discovering feelings for a man it happens to be the chef at his brothers bar. He instantly feels a connection to him and when Perry is stressing out over his family's drama and needs a date to his family reunion, Rock happily volunteers. Rock quickly realizes he wants their relationship to be more than pretend but Perry his hesitant to give his heart to a straight man.
"I don't want a world without you in it, Chef."
Oh goodness, I adored both of these men. Perry is ridiculously shy, one of Rock's favorite things is how easily he blushes, and introverted. He is the problem solver of his family always focusing on everyone's needs before his own. I loved that Rock showed him that he was worth the focus and deserved to be appreciated. Rock is a lovable goofball, who everyone kept judging because of the amount of woman he had slept with. All he wanted was to feel loved and find a home, but people don't take him seriously. It was frustrating how everyone kept bluntly telling him he was straight therefore he couldn't feel this way or that way and I loved the moment Rock stood up for himself and put a stop to it. Their relationship was just precious and if they weren't being super sweet with each other then they were bantering and having a laugh.
"Is it a pineapple pizza, Perry-style? Becuase that would be admirable and truly selfless."
I snorted. "I would never sink that low," I said.
"I'll corrupt you one day," he told me, winking.
The Silver Fox is a low drama, charming MM romance. It has a decent amount of steam, but it doesn't overtake the story, it's just the right amount for this charming couple. I honestly can seem myself going back to this in the future for a reread and it is definitely my favorite of the series so far.
March 24, 2021
I liked Perry since previews books from this series and I couldn't wait to know his story.
Never though I could love him even more but the author just made it possible
Rock is just the perfect guy for shy Perry, so perfect that he agree to pretend to be Perry's boyfriend during a family reunion
And then...OK read the book to find out
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
Never though I could love him even more but the author just made it possible
Rock is just the perfect guy for shy Perry, so perfect that he agree to pretend to be Perry's boyfriend during a family reunion
And then...OK read the book to find out
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
July 29, 2022
this is good, but a bit plain. nothing exceptional. your typical fake dating romance with less smut.
i really liked the MCs but this could’ve been so much more.
i really liked the MCs but this could’ve been so much more.
April 5, 2021
So I kinda love this book. Like a lot. I honestly had no expectations for it. I've not read anything by Raleigh Ruebins before, and since this is book 3 in a series, I figured I might feel a bit lost because I haven't read the earlier books. The Silver Fox was great as a standalone though. It was clear that some of the characters were from earlier books, but it didn't affect the story.
Perry's spent his whole life trying to take care of his family, and make sure no one gets upset. He even goes so far as to try and make his mom feel less upset about his brother getting a divorce by bringing along a hot firefighter as a fake boyfriend to a family reunion. He hopes his mom's happiness for him will take some of the sting out of his brother's divorce plans. But Perry spends so much time making sure everyone else is happy, he pays no attention to his own happiness. His niece and nephew even nickname him "Uncle Foreveralone", which I thought was awful. Rock thought so too, and when he realizes that Perry won't stand up for himself because he just wants to keep the peace, Rock takes it upon himself to stick up for Perry with some unpleasant relatives.
I'm not usually a fan of the "fake relationship" trope, but it worked here. Perry and Rock are just a really sweet couple. I felt for both of them, they were both so unsure of how the other one felt. I think Perry was probably right to be afraid that he was going to be nothing more than an experiment for "straight boy" Rock, but Rock was able to prove him wrong.
I also thought it was cool that Rock was freaking out - but not for the reasons you might suspect. He wasn't freaking out AT ALL at the fact that he was attracted to a man after believing he was straight for his whole life. He was freaking out like a typical guy does - because his feelings scared him. His sexuality wasn't an issue. It just made me wish that everyone could have that attitude. The gender of who you love really shouldn't be the cause of all kinds of drama, but we all know that's not reality.
I really, really liked The Silver Fox, and I'll be going back to read the earlier Red's Tavern books, as well as looking forward to the next book in the series. I'm hoping we get the story of Perry's newly divorced brother, Cameron.
Perry's spent his whole life trying to take care of his family, and make sure no one gets upset. He even goes so far as to try and make his mom feel less upset about his brother getting a divorce by bringing along a hot firefighter as a fake boyfriend to a family reunion. He hopes his mom's happiness for him will take some of the sting out of his brother's divorce plans. But Perry spends so much time making sure everyone else is happy, he pays no attention to his own happiness. His niece and nephew even nickname him "Uncle Foreveralone", which I thought was awful. Rock thought so too, and when he realizes that Perry won't stand up for himself because he just wants to keep the peace, Rock takes it upon himself to stick up for Perry with some unpleasant relatives.
I'm not usually a fan of the "fake relationship" trope, but it worked here. Perry and Rock are just a really sweet couple. I felt for both of them, they were both so unsure of how the other one felt. I think Perry was probably right to be afraid that he was going to be nothing more than an experiment for "straight boy" Rock, but Rock was able to prove him wrong.
I also thought it was cool that Rock was freaking out - but not for the reasons you might suspect. He wasn't freaking out AT ALL at the fact that he was attracted to a man after believing he was straight for his whole life. He was freaking out like a typical guy does - because his feelings scared him. His sexuality wasn't an issue. It just made me wish that everyone could have that attitude. The gender of who you love really shouldn't be the cause of all kinds of drama, but we all know that's not reality.
I really, really liked The Silver Fox, and I'll be going back to read the earlier Red's Tavern books, as well as looking forward to the next book in the series. I'm hoping we get the story of Perry's newly divorced brother, Cameron.
April 10, 2021
Clear right from the beginning, there was something palpable and filled with potential between Rock and Perry. Watching their chemistry unfold along with Perry's family drama and Rock's self-discovery was enjoyable...for the most part. The slightly emotionally turbulent moments in the middle were due to too much focus on family drama that really wasn't drama at all, one-dimensional characters, and a forced conflict that didn't really need to be there at all.
I did love how Rock was incredibly sweet and all in right from the first. His excitement for everything Perry was adorable as was his inability to lie. It was very clear that his affectionate manner was exactly what Perry and his family needed, his personality brought a lightness to the affair that could have drowned in Perry's insecurity and excessive self-sacrifice.
Perry's shyness was endearing at first, but then his constant pushing away and separating himself from Rock became annoying. I totally understand that he's got a few hang ups that stem both from his romantic and his familial responsibilities, but constantly stressing labels and pushing Rock toward females was too much for me. His consistent denials of Rock's words and actions despite knowing very well that Rock couldn't and wouldn't lie became disappointing.
But in the end, while they were really communicating and coming clean to family so many things fell into place along with their passion and intimacy. So yes, the characters were simplistic, the story itself wasn't organic, and the resolution was quick and nice, but I wouldn't say it was a waste of time, it was merely a nice book.
I did love how Rock was incredibly sweet and all in right from the first. His excitement for everything Perry was adorable as was his inability to lie. It was very clear that his affectionate manner was exactly what Perry and his family needed, his personality brought a lightness to the affair that could have drowned in Perry's insecurity and excessive self-sacrifice.
Perry's shyness was endearing at first, but then his constant pushing away and separating himself from Rock became annoying. I totally understand that he's got a few hang ups that stem both from his romantic and his familial responsibilities, but constantly stressing labels and pushing Rock toward females was too much for me. His consistent denials of Rock's words and actions despite knowing very well that Rock couldn't and wouldn't lie became disappointing.
But in the end, while they were really communicating and coming clean to family so many things fell into place along with their passion and intimacy. So yes, the characters were simplistic, the story itself wasn't organic, and the resolution was quick and nice, but I wouldn't say it was a waste of time, it was merely a nice book.
February 4, 2024
The Special Silver Fox of Red's Tavern Family
Sometimes things just happen. Sometimes friends and family interfere. Sometimes fate gets so busy interfering that no one notices the little quirks and events that quietly weave together the threads that bunds us together as friends and family. Sometimes it is the blazing fire that catches the eye. Sometimes it is a cracked fire helmet or baseball cap collection. Sometimes it is the pull of a partner or the push of dreams and schemes. Sometimes attempts to attract another's attention just diverts attention. Sometimes it is the smells of the Chef's cooking or the sight of special treats on display at a gathering of friends. Sometimes it takes too much booze or pineapple pizza to catch the prize. Sometimes it is jealousy and sexual desire in soft light while pretending to be fake lovers. Sometimes it is real and pretending doesn't matter.
But sometimes life is smarter than the pretenders. What if everyone knows it is real but the ones faking it to help others keep it real as a family reunion when really the family is already together with everything except the ring. Then the special gift of the ring does not matter if the gift is of a key. The key to everything sometimes and the real symbol of love....access to the heart and mind without the ring of restrictions. Other than the labeled container of condoms and lube by the bed just in case and just in time. Sometimes........
Sometimes things just happen. Sometimes friends and family interfere. Sometimes fate gets so busy interfering that no one notices the little quirks and events that quietly weave together the threads that bunds us together as friends and family. Sometimes it is the blazing fire that catches the eye. Sometimes it is a cracked fire helmet or baseball cap collection. Sometimes it is the pull of a partner or the push of dreams and schemes. Sometimes attempts to attract another's attention just diverts attention. Sometimes it is the smells of the Chef's cooking or the sight of special treats on display at a gathering of friends. Sometimes it takes too much booze or pineapple pizza to catch the prize. Sometimes it is jealousy and sexual desire in soft light while pretending to be fake lovers. Sometimes it is real and pretending doesn't matter.
But sometimes life is smarter than the pretenders. What if everyone knows it is real but the ones faking it to help others keep it real as a family reunion when really the family is already together with everything except the ring. Then the special gift of the ring does not matter if the gift is of a key. The key to everything sometimes and the real symbol of love....access to the heart and mind without the ring of restrictions. Other than the labeled container of condoms and lube by the bed just in case and just in time. Sometimes........
April 12, 2021
A sweet standalone story with great communication, easy acceptance of sexuality and two adorable but flawed MCs.
A proud extrovert (mostly) straight fire fighter and an people-pleaser introvert gay cook with great chemistry are deeply attracted to each other and end up in a pretend boyfriend situation. I have to say, I'm not a huge fan of pretend boyfriend stories, but have to admit this one was really well written.
What I liked most was the characters being honest with themselves and each other (a trait not often enough seen in main characters) and the easy acceptance of sexuality. And I don't only mean Rock's easy acceptance of his own sexuality shift, but also the acceptance of other people; personally I've experienced how judgemental other people can be about your sexuality.
[Because at this moment there is no entry for Ruebins' Rudolph the Tattooed Librarian on goodreads, I'll write a few words about it here.
12.04.21, 3.5- stars, 0h 31min; a sweet and hot short story. I would have liked this very much as a more fleshed out novel. If it ever gets expanded I will definitely read it! As it is I very much liked it, but it was just too short for the potential both characters and the side characters held. In other words, it was so promising that I had to take a star away because the promise just couldn't be delivered on on such few pages.]
A proud extrovert (mostly) straight fire fighter and an people-pleaser introvert gay cook with great chemistry are deeply attracted to each other and end up in a pretend boyfriend situation. I have to say, I'm not a huge fan of pretend boyfriend stories, but have to admit this one was really well written.
What I liked most was the characters being honest with themselves and each other (a trait not often enough seen in main characters) and the easy acceptance of sexuality. And I don't only mean Rock's easy acceptance of his own sexuality shift, but also the acceptance of other people; personally I've experienced how judgemental other people can be about your sexuality.
[Because at this moment there is no entry for Ruebins' Rudolph the Tattooed Librarian on goodreads, I'll write a few words about it here.
12.04.21, 3.5- stars, 0h 31min; a sweet and hot short story. I would have liked this very much as a more fleshed out novel. If it ever gets expanded I will definitely read it! As it is I very much liked it, but it was just too short for the potential both characters and the side characters held. In other words, it was so promising that I had to take a star away because the promise just couldn't be delivered on on such few pages.]
January 28, 2022
Rock and Perry are just about the most adorable fake couple ever! Rock has always considered himself straight, but after hanging out in Red’s Tavern while he’s been recuperating from an injury, he’s noticed Perry more and more. When Perry needs a boyfriend for a family reunion, Rock happily volunteers.
I love, love, love Perry’s family! His mom is awesome and even though Cam is going through a divorce, he seems to be a good guy. That aunt though… not gonna lie, I had all the giddy butterflies when Rock put that woman in her place. It’s so nice when “fake” boyfriends stand up for their guy. 😍😍😍 I most definitely recommend this book.
I love, love, love Perry’s family! His mom is awesome and even though Cam is going through a divorce, he seems to be a good guy. That aunt though… not gonna lie, I had all the giddy butterflies when Rock put that woman in her place. It’s so nice when “fake” boyfriends stand up for their guy. 😍😍😍 I most definitely recommend this book.
March 22, 2021
This story was so enjoyable to read. I'm loving this series, and I liked this book better than the last. I LOVE how Perry is a silver fox but only in his late 30's. I love how he puts his family first, and how he blushes and gets shy. I love why Rock uses his nickname, as his real name cracked me up. I love how he just goes with anything, and is such a ray of light to those around him, and how open he is to change. And it's cute how worried about fire safety he is. You don't have to read the previous books to enjoy this one. It's pretty sweet and amazing on it's own. I could read 20 more just like it, this was my jam.
April 5, 2021
I really did enjoy this. I'm glad I was given an opportunity to read this. First time reader with this author and I wasn't disappointed. The characters were relatable and entertaining. I loved Rock. He was so refreshing, funny and real. Says what he wants...says what he means. He really has no filter so when he notices Perry, his silver fox chef he's ready to explore his sudden attraction to him...eventhough he suppose to be straight. When Perry has a family reunion and needs a date, he volunteers himself as his fake boyfriend. This fake relationship give both fellas the chance to really evaluate their feelings...is it really fake??? Well I was so entertained by Rock and his unconscious "wooing" of Perry. Their chemistry was nice with all the flirting and the intimacy level was HOT. You couldn't help but love this couple. The ending was nice with a lovely HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2023
two great characters, I wish they had another book!
This is a modern romance, the third book in the “Red’s Tavern” series that should be read in order! You meet Perry in the first two books, the chef at the Tavern; such a sweet man. Rock, Red’s brother, is intrigued by Perry and offers to be his fake boyfriend for the family reunion. It doesn’t take long until things are sizzling but again this author has a way of layering tenderness and a realistic development of feelings between two great characters!
This is a modern romance, the third book in the “Red’s Tavern” series that should be read in order! You meet Perry in the first two books, the chef at the Tavern; such a sweet man. Rock, Red’s brother, is intrigued by Perry and offers to be his fake boyfriend for the family reunion. It doesn’t take long until things are sizzling but again this author has a way of layering tenderness and a realistic development of feelings between two great characters!
August 9, 2023
Welp, I made it till August, but I've finally encountered my first hate read of the year. I realize I went into this with pretty high expectations because I liked Perry and Rock, and of course fake dating.
However:
1. I literally just got back from a week-long vacation with my entire family where nearly everyone has been divorced/remarried and none of us have patience for hysterics, so I found Perry's family to be dumb as shit.
2. The characters were so inconsistent and none of the pacing seemed right.
However:
1. I literally just got back from a week-long vacation with my entire family where nearly everyone has been divorced/remarried and none of us have patience for hysterics, so I found Perry's family to be dumb as shit.
2. The characters were so inconsistent and none of the pacing seemed right.
March 22, 2021
Full of great tropes - fake relationship, forced proximity, gfy and works well as a standalone, although I've read books 1 and 2 and enjoyed both.
Would have been 5 stars but I got a little frustrated with Perry basically deciding how Rock felt. Their age gap wasn't that significant but Rock read younger somehow. The brief moment of angst had no build up before it was sorted too.
Super sweet in places and I loved Rock a lot. Set up nicely for book 4
Would have been 5 stars but I got a little frustrated with Perry basically deciding how Rock felt. Their age gap wasn't that significant but Rock read younger somehow. The brief moment of angst had no build up before it was sorted too.
Super sweet in places and I loved Rock a lot. Set up nicely for book 4
March 24, 2021
This is a sweet and sexy fake boyfriend to the read deal between Perry and Rock. I loved watching the two men coming together , finding an unexpected love with each other as the story unfolds. The author does a great job bringing strong characters and developing the relationship , painting her scenes perfectly. He brings strong secondary characters to help bring the story around and just enough steam to keep things interesting. The story moves fluidly and is a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
March 25, 2021
Sweet story
This was a very nice story of self discovery and learning what one loves.
I really liked both Perry and Rock. They were very different but both needed to open their eyes to what they had been missing and wanted.
Their story was sweet and hot, with a few fun moments and very little angst.
Very enjoyable
This was a very nice story of self discovery and learning what one loves.
I really liked both Perry and Rock. They were very different but both needed to open their eyes to what they had been missing and wanted.
Their story was sweet and hot, with a few fun moments and very little angst.
Very enjoyable
February 21, 2024
This one may well prove to be my fave of the series--or at least way up there (because I acknowledge that I'm not even halfway through the series yet). Perry and Rock are so freaking adorable.
March 30, 2021
Fun entry in the newest series from Ruebins. Probably a 3.5 for me overall, but rounded up due to the fun cast of characters, including an interesting supporting cast.
Firefighter Rock, the brother of Red from the previous books, is rehabbing at Red's home from an injured ankle. Somewhat bored in the small town, he hangs out at Red's Tavern and ends up being fascinated with Perry, the head cook at Red's. Rock comes to Perry's rescue when he needs a date to his family reunion and pretends to be Perry's boyfriend. Of course, this being a romance novel, the fake relationship ends up making the two men question if they want to engage in a real relationship.
Perry and Rock make an interesting couple, particularly since Rock is supposedly straight. Overall, Rock's bi "awakening" is handled fairly well, even if it seems a bit rushed. One qualm I had about the characters was that they tended to be a bit over the top where it came to their professions. Rock for example saw everything as being a fire hazard - the first time we get it, yes, but two and three times, well.....
The cast of supporting characters help make this story work, including Red and the mothers of Perry and Rock. Perry's brother also plays an important part in the story.
The overall plot seemed a bit rushed at times, with not a lot of time to properly explore the relationship of the two, so the book just didn't hang together quite as well as I had hoped. It just seemed that a few more chapters would have put the book on a more consistent footing. I've liked other books by this author before so I'd have to qualify this one as an enjoyable and light near miss.
I was provided an ARC of this title and this is my honest opinion.
Firefighter Rock, the brother of Red from the previous books, is rehabbing at Red's home from an injured ankle. Somewhat bored in the small town, he hangs out at Red's Tavern and ends up being fascinated with Perry, the head cook at Red's. Rock comes to Perry's rescue when he needs a date to his family reunion and pretends to be Perry's boyfriend. Of course, this being a romance novel, the fake relationship ends up making the two men question if they want to engage in a real relationship.
Perry and Rock make an interesting couple, particularly since Rock is supposedly straight. Overall, Rock's bi "awakening" is handled fairly well, even if it seems a bit rushed. One qualm I had about the characters was that they tended to be a bit over the top where it came to their professions. Rock for example saw everything as being a fire hazard - the first time we get it, yes, but two and three times, well.....
The cast of supporting characters help make this story work, including Red and the mothers of Perry and Rock. Perry's brother also plays an important part in the story.
The overall plot seemed a bit rushed at times, with not a lot of time to properly explore the relationship of the two, so the book just didn't hang together quite as well as I had hoped. It just seemed that a few more chapters would have put the book on a more consistent footing. I've liked other books by this author before so I'd have to qualify this one as an enjoyable and light near miss.
I was provided an ARC of this title and this is my honest opinion.
March 2, 2022
Title - The Silver Fox ( Reds Tavern #3)
Author - Raleigh Ruebins
Genre - MM Romance
Published - March 2021
Pages - 240 Pages
Summary - Rock is a firefighter when he injures his foot he goes to stay with his brother Red. Red owns his own bar called Red's Tavern. Perry works as a chef in Red's Tavern. When Perry's brother announces he's getting divorced from his wife Perry feel even more pressured to make sure the family reunion his mother has planned goes smoothly. There's only one problem his family call him forever alone and there trying to set him up again.
When Perry talks to Rock about what's going on Rock comes up with the plan to pretend to be Perry's boyfriend for the reunion.
With Perry being gay and Rock being straight Perry doubts the plan will work. But things go well, maybe too well, soon Rock is questioning if he really is as straight as he always thought he was when suddenly all he can think about is kissing his silver fox.
What I thought about this book - This was a beautiful book, I really enjoyed it, I loved the characters of Rock and Perry and even the side characters were brilliant. The plot was fantastic, really engaging and kept me hooked throughout. I haven't read the first two books in the series but I will now definitely be going back and reading them and then rereading this one. An exceptionally well-written book.
Would I Recommend - Yes
Would I Read Again/Continue The Series - Yes/Yes
Rating - 5*
Reviewed by LucyLui
Author - Raleigh Ruebins
Genre - MM Romance
Published - March 2021
Pages - 240 Pages
Summary - Rock is a firefighter when he injures his foot he goes to stay with his brother Red. Red owns his own bar called Red's Tavern. Perry works as a chef in Red's Tavern. When Perry's brother announces he's getting divorced from his wife Perry feel even more pressured to make sure the family reunion his mother has planned goes smoothly. There's only one problem his family call him forever alone and there trying to set him up again.
When Perry talks to Rock about what's going on Rock comes up with the plan to pretend to be Perry's boyfriend for the reunion.
With Perry being gay and Rock being straight Perry doubts the plan will work. But things go well, maybe too well, soon Rock is questioning if he really is as straight as he always thought he was when suddenly all he can think about is kissing his silver fox.
What I thought about this book - This was a beautiful book, I really enjoyed it, I loved the characters of Rock and Perry and even the side characters were brilliant. The plot was fantastic, really engaging and kept me hooked throughout. I haven't read the first two books in the series but I will now definitely be going back and reading them and then rereading this one. An exceptionally well-written book.
Would I Recommend - Yes
Would I Read Again/Continue The Series - Yes/Yes
Rating - 5*
Reviewed by LucyLui
March 25, 2021
I loved the chemistry between Perry and Rock! While I enjoy a good angsty story, sometimes you just want a sweet, lighthearted, good story and that is exactly what you get with this book. Bi-awakening is not usually my favorite trope; sometimes it comes across as very disingenuous. However, The Silver Fox was so well written that Rock's realization of his feelings for Perry felt so genuine and true. Both men complemented each other so well, working together to enhance, rather than change, each others lives.
One of my favorite parts of the book was when Rock asks Perry to lay all the bad parts of his personality out there so they know the worst going into the relationship and sharing all the worst parts of his own personality in the process. I LOVED Perry response of "Why do I love everything you have to say?" Swoon. When "the worst" about your partner makes you love them more, you know it is a deep and meaningful connection.
I have been a fan of this series since book one and am so looking forward to see what is in store for Cam in book four. I received an ARC for a fair and honest review.
One of my favorite parts of the book was when Rock asks Perry to lay all the bad parts of his personality out there so they know the worst going into the relationship and sharing all the worst parts of his own personality in the process. I LOVED Perry response of "Why do I love everything you have to say?" Swoon. When "the worst" about your partner makes you love them more, you know it is a deep and meaningful connection.
I have been a fan of this series since book one and am so looking forward to see what is in store for Cam in book four. I received an ARC for a fair and honest review.
June 5, 2021
Upbeat romance.
I really liked Perry and Rock together. They were incredibly sweet with a lot of hot thrown in. I enjoy books where characters are discovering their sexuality, Rock saw Perry, and fell lock, stock and barrel for him, and started to question his sexuality. Great side characters, and family. It was cute how they evolve from fake lovers to actual lovers, even though the development was swift. It's nicely written, with a fair bit of humour, no real angst and well worth a read.
I received an ARC of this book, which in no way influenced my opinion.
I really liked Perry and Rock together. They were incredibly sweet with a lot of hot thrown in. I enjoy books where characters are discovering their sexuality, Rock saw Perry, and fell lock, stock and barrel for him, and started to question his sexuality. Great side characters, and family. It was cute how they evolve from fake lovers to actual lovers, even though the development was swift. It's nicely written, with a fair bit of humour, no real angst and well worth a read.
I received an ARC of this book, which in no way influenced my opinion.
April 4, 2021
I have been a fan of this author for years. You’d think I would read the books in order but for some crazy reason I never do. Here is what I can tell going to be a great series snd again I started with the third book. Which means I’m going back to read the others. I do love the shy guys. There’s just something so adorably sweet about them. Perry was just that but at an age I found it even more adorable at. Rock is perfect for him. The most enjoyable thing of the whole story is how well we get to know and feel for them. I definitely need to read the other books though lol.
April 6, 2021
The first m/m romance I read was Raleigh Ruebins Your Wish and I've been hooked on the genre and Ruebins writing ever since. The quality of the writing just keeps getting better and better and I absolutely adored this fake relationship/age gap romance between Rock and Perry and the reason for their fake relationship - trying to help Perry deal with family issues - was perfect. Raleigh Ruebins continues to be a one-click buy for me.
March 28, 2021
I love this series and 'The Silver Fox' could just be my new favourite. It was well written, had great chemistry and emotions that make your heart flutter.
This is Rock and Perry's story. It's a gay-for-you, fake boyfriend Romance. The story kept my attention, I couldn't put it down. Love a read with instant attraction, its my vice.
This is Rock and Perry's story. It's a gay-for-you, fake boyfriend Romance. The story kept my attention, I couldn't put it down. Love a read with instant attraction, its my vice.
March 30, 2021
The Silver Fox is another wonderful story from this series by Raleigh Ruebins.
Rock is Red's brother and is staying with him whilst recovering from an injury. He can't help but notice Perry one night, the cook at Red's Tavern, downing tequila like it's going out of fashion. In his normal way, he wants to help however he can and so somehow ends up suggesting to be Perry's fake boyfriend to an upcoming family reunion. Perry is stressed. All he wants to do is sort out everyone's problems, keep the peace but it even with Rock and his confidence at his side he's not too sure this plan will work, especially with how damn hot Rock is and how attracted he is to the other man.
I was worried when we're first introduced to Rock as he sounded arrogant in his love for his job as a firefighter, as he likes saving people and being the hero, but he's truly a nice guy, very outgoing but not the biggest fan of small towns. Helping Perry, who he finds himself strongly attracted to, seems a great way to spend time with the other man and help him at the same time. Perry is so sweet and introverted. He's constantly wanting to help and do things for others but especially his family. His relationship history isn't great and he even has a nickname of "Foreveralone" which speaks volumes to him for his future prospects.
The two men together are a hit from the start. You can feel a spark even when they are just stood in the bar talking but once at the Inn for the family reunion, they are drawn to each other. Perry needs to tread carefully to protect his heart, especially with Rock being straight, but Rock is blowing all his assumptions out of the water, finding it easy with casual touches and their own version of immersion therapy. Together, they are hot and adorable, working out what they could possibly have for themselves and with each other.
I love a good fake relationship story and this one is great as it doesn't have a lot of angst. The MC's feelings and connection develops quite quickly with the time line of the reunion but it feels natural for them in that moment. Definitely a recommended read and I know who I'd like to see getting their HEA next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Rock is Red's brother and is staying with him whilst recovering from an injury. He can't help but notice Perry one night, the cook at Red's Tavern, downing tequila like it's going out of fashion. In his normal way, he wants to help however he can and so somehow ends up suggesting to be Perry's fake boyfriend to an upcoming family reunion. Perry is stressed. All he wants to do is sort out everyone's problems, keep the peace but it even with Rock and his confidence at his side he's not too sure this plan will work, especially with how damn hot Rock is and how attracted he is to the other man.
I was worried when we're first introduced to Rock as he sounded arrogant in his love for his job as a firefighter, as he likes saving people and being the hero, but he's truly a nice guy, very outgoing but not the biggest fan of small towns. Helping Perry, who he finds himself strongly attracted to, seems a great way to spend time with the other man and help him at the same time. Perry is so sweet and introverted. He's constantly wanting to help and do things for others but especially his family. His relationship history isn't great and he even has a nickname of "Foreveralone" which speaks volumes to him for his future prospects.
The two men together are a hit from the start. You can feel a spark even when they are just stood in the bar talking but once at the Inn for the family reunion, they are drawn to each other. Perry needs to tread carefully to protect his heart, especially with Rock being straight, but Rock is blowing all his assumptions out of the water, finding it easy with casual touches and their own version of immersion therapy. Together, they are hot and adorable, working out what they could possibly have for themselves and with each other.
I love a good fake relationship story and this one is great as it doesn't have a lot of angst. The MC's feelings and connection develops quite quickly with the time line of the reunion but it feels natural for them in that moment. Definitely a recommended read and I know who I'd like to see getting their HEA next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
April 9, 2021
Ohhh, these two were just so cute together! Cuteness overload!
I love awkward characters. I adore them! And I got two of them! Can you imagine it!? Two cute, awkward, adorable guys in one book! I am in heaven...
Okay, okay, I can stop squealing for like 5 minutes to finish this review without melting into a puddle. Maybe.. probably not..
Okay, okay, I've got this.
Our two heroes met in Red's tavern. Rock is Red's brother and staying with him because of his injury. Perry works for Red as a cook and is something of a culinary genius. Reading those food descriptions might have made me drool a little. They instantly have a connection and strike up an unlikely friendship, but it is only when they pretend to be boyfriends for Perry's family reunion that they realize they could be so much more than friends. Of course there are doubts and circumstances that make them question if it is right, but it is adorable to see them figure it out. Perry is so adorably cute and shy. He is a people pleaser, always solving the problems of others, but always being too afraid to venture out of his own comfort zone. He is sweet and caring, but for some reason that does not extend towards caring for himself as well, so he struggles a lot to accept Rock's interest in him. Rock is just so funny and sweet, so protective and brave. Of course, he has some hang ups and issues too, like his unexpected attraction to Perry, since he has always been with women before, his struggles about his injury and how he feels ashamed of it and how it makes him look. We also get to see he is a lot more vulnerable than expected, when he reveals his past relationship struggles and how he wants more but isn't sure how to get it. There is something to relate to in both of them and their character development is amazing to watch, either through their humorous moments or the ones that play directly on the heartstrings.
This is definitely a nice contemporary story filled with quirky and adorable characters, humor and so much cuteness, you might overdose on it ;D
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
I love awkward characters. I adore them! And I got two of them! Can you imagine it!? Two cute, awkward, adorable guys in one book! I am in heaven...
Okay, okay, I can stop squealing for like 5 minutes to finish this review without melting into a puddle. Maybe.. probably not..
Okay, okay, I've got this.
Our two heroes met in Red's tavern. Rock is Red's brother and staying with him because of his injury. Perry works for Red as a cook and is something of a culinary genius. Reading those food descriptions might have made me drool a little. They instantly have a connection and strike up an unlikely friendship, but it is only when they pretend to be boyfriends for Perry's family reunion that they realize they could be so much more than friends. Of course there are doubts and circumstances that make them question if it is right, but it is adorable to see them figure it out. Perry is so adorably cute and shy. He is a people pleaser, always solving the problems of others, but always being too afraid to venture out of his own comfort zone. He is sweet and caring, but for some reason that does not extend towards caring for himself as well, so he struggles a lot to accept Rock's interest in him. Rock is just so funny and sweet, so protective and brave. Of course, he has some hang ups and issues too, like his unexpected attraction to Perry, since he has always been with women before, his struggles about his injury and how he feels ashamed of it and how it makes him look. We also get to see he is a lot more vulnerable than expected, when he reveals his past relationship struggles and how he wants more but isn't sure how to get it. There is something to relate to in both of them and their character development is amazing to watch, either through their humorous moments or the ones that play directly on the heartstrings.
This is definitely a nice contemporary story filled with quirky and adorable characters, humor and so much cuteness, you might overdose on it ;D
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
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