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Love and Libations #1
Rum and Rendezvous
What do you get when you combine terrible dating advice and a bottomless supply of consolation cocktails? Garnish with banter and sweet baked goods and you have the perfect recipe for love.
Ryan~
After a string of failed dates, I was ready to give up on love.
Carson Carrick was the bangable bartender who was out of my league, barring one disastrous night turned perfect.
I was blown away when my one night stand stepped in to help change my luck. Under his careful direction, things went from bad to worse. I’ve started to wonder how someone could be so charming but suck at dating.
Maybe I was the problem after all?
Carson~
I had no idea what I was doing when I offered to help Ryan find his match. But he was hot, gullible, and desperate. He needed me—I mean—he needed my help.
I should never have touched him, because now I couldn’t keep my hands off him. And the more I helped him look for the right guy, the more I became convinced that it was me.
I was beginning to think he had seen through my lame attempts at coaching him on dates. But why should he even bother looking for Mr. Right when I’m right in front of him?
How could I make him see I had more to offer than rum and rendezvous?
Rum And Rendezvous is the first book in the Love And Libations series. This opposites attract, friends with benefits gay romance features a dating coach with terrible advice, a tragic serial dater with a run of bad luck, and nosy family members who like to meddle.
Ryan~
After a string of failed dates, I was ready to give up on love.
Carson Carrick was the bangable bartender who was out of my league, barring one disastrous night turned perfect.
I was blown away when my one night stand stepped in to help change my luck. Under his careful direction, things went from bad to worse. I’ve started to wonder how someone could be so charming but suck at dating.
Maybe I was the problem after all?
Carson~
I had no idea what I was doing when I offered to help Ryan find his match. But he was hot, gullible, and desperate. He needed me—I mean—he needed my help.
I should never have touched him, because now I couldn’t keep my hands off him. And the more I helped him look for the right guy, the more I became convinced that it was me.
I was beginning to think he had seen through my lame attempts at coaching him on dates. But why should he even bother looking for Mr. Right when I’m right in front of him?
How could I make him see I had more to offer than rum and rendezvous?
Rum And Rendezvous is the first book in the Love And Libations series. This opposites attract, friends with benefits gay romance features a dating coach with terrible advice, a tragic serial dater with a run of bad luck, and nosy family members who like to meddle.
197 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2023
69 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
May 28, 2024
This was a sweet bundle of quick cute, sweet, sexy, hot, simple bad boy falls for toy boy❤️
Lots of MM romance cliches, the bad boy Mc even love romance gay books 🥹
Ps: there’s also cupcakes 🧁 and cocktails 🍸 🫶
Lots of MM romance cliches, the bad boy Mc even love romance gay books 🥹
Ps: there’s also cupcakes 🧁 and cocktails 🍸 🫶
March 28, 2023
Sweet story. I liked it.
3.5 rounded up
3.5 rounded up
January 29, 2023
As usual, Raquel brings the heat with fireworks erupting with yet another remarkable release! The humor and growth from these characters was solid, keeping me engaged throughout. Not mentioning the ATROCITIES Carson pulled when “advising” Ryan, but boy were they hilariously entertaining! And, cameos with Reid were appreciated lol.
“𝕃𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕕𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕓𝕖𝕕. 𝕀𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕠𝕡𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕦𝕡?”
Ryan and Carson’s relationship, though completely unconventional and total opposites, was excitedly hot!! From the beginning, the tension could be felt, consistently increasing overtime. Their chemistry was enticing, but their growth was more. Witnessing both trust and confidence grow within these two is what romance is about, and, of course their scenes were filled with filth and a nastiness that left me shivering. And, Crisco for the win!?
“𝔹𝕦𝕥 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕤𝕥 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕖𝕞𝕠𝕤𝕥, 𝕪𝕠𝕦’𝕝𝕝 𝕒𝕝𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕓𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝔹𝕠𝕪𝕥𝕠𝕪.”
I am ecstatic for this upcoming series! Raquel brought the heat with the first two, preparing for the future releases! (Let me quit, I’m here for everything nasty 😋).
“𝕃𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕕𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕓𝕖𝕕. 𝕀𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕠𝕡𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕦𝕡?”
Ryan and Carson’s relationship, though completely unconventional and total opposites, was excitedly hot!! From the beginning, the tension could be felt, consistently increasing overtime. Their chemistry was enticing, but their growth was more. Witnessing both trust and confidence grow within these two is what romance is about, and, of course their scenes were filled with filth and a nastiness that left me shivering. And, Crisco for the win!?
“𝔹𝕦𝕥 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕤𝕥 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕖𝕞𝕠𝕤𝕥, 𝕪𝕠𝕦’𝕝𝕝 𝕒𝕝𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕓𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝔹𝕠𝕪𝕥𝕠𝕪.”
I am ecstatic for this upcoming series! Raquel brought the heat with the first two, preparing for the future releases! (Let me quit, I’m here for everything nasty 😋).
March 1, 2023
✰ 3 stars ✰
“You’re crazy, you know that?”
“Sometimes, all you need is a little bit of crazy to feel right again."
Yep, that's exactly how I would sum up reading Rum and Redezvous. I really have to start being a bit more careful with picking MM Romances to give a chance. I don't have any other words to describe this strange but silly yet sweet story of Ryan and Carson, two polar opposites who end up together after a steamy casual one night stand. Sounds like a fun time, right?
And it was! In a weird way...Ryan is a gorgeous trust fund baby, who just doesn't seem to have any good luck in the romance department. After a failed hook-up at the trendy Limericks Lounge, Ryan literally bumps into Carson, bad boy softie of a waiter. To make it up to him, Ryan takes him, one horny thought leads to another and then they casually part ways. Yeah, right? 😏 So smitten is Carson with Ryan that he makes it his personal life purpose to coach Ryan on the etiquettes of online dating, all the while subtly sabotaging his attempts in the hopes to make Ryan realize that he is the one for him. A bit possessive, yet still endearing - you decide.
The writing was alright - nothing I'm going to find any fault in, well, this was one jarring moment that I just couldn't, like. This was so ridiculously absurd, my head was just reeling here. 😵💫
"...around his ankles as I plowed him using the frosting as lube. Was that a viable option as a lubricant? Probably not, but I was dying to find out."
And yes, I did chuckle at some of the creatively filthy names given to various drinks at the bar, but the writing and story was just passable at best. Some readers might enjoy the overuse of terms that are very prominent in online dating, like 'twink, twunk, boytoy, and sugar daddy. And of course, it is a story about a guy who is trying to find his soulmate via Grindr choices. But, it just didn't resonate with me - the hipness of it all.
Still, after some heavy reading, it's a nice feel to read something that is completely light-hearted and without any heavy thinking involved. And for that enough, it was a fine enough read - nothing too unbearable, but still nothing too memorable for me to want to check out this series again. 🤷
“You’re crazy, you know that?”
“Sometimes, all you need is a little bit of crazy to feel right again."
Yep, that's exactly how I would sum up reading Rum and Redezvous. I really have to start being a bit more careful with picking MM Romances to give a chance. I don't have any other words to describe this strange but silly yet sweet story of Ryan and Carson, two polar opposites who end up together after a steamy casual one night stand. Sounds like a fun time, right?
And it was! In a weird way...Ryan is a gorgeous trust fund baby, who just doesn't seem to have any good luck in the romance department. After a failed hook-up at the trendy Limericks Lounge, Ryan literally bumps into Carson, bad boy softie of a waiter. To make it up to him, Ryan takes him, one horny thought leads to another and then they casually part ways. Yeah, right? 😏 So smitten is Carson with Ryan that he makes it his personal life purpose to coach Ryan on the etiquettes of online dating, all the while subtly sabotaging his attempts in the hopes to make Ryan realize that he is the one for him. A bit possessive, yet still endearing - you decide.
The writing was alright - nothing I'm going to find any fault in, well, this was one jarring moment that I just couldn't, like. This was so ridiculously absurd, my head was just reeling here. 😵💫
"...around his ankles as I plowed him using the frosting as lube. Was that a viable option as a lubricant? Probably not, but I was dying to find out."
And yes, I did chuckle at some of the creatively filthy names given to various drinks at the bar, but the writing and story was just passable at best. Some readers might enjoy the overuse of terms that are very prominent in online dating, like 'twink, twunk, boytoy, and sugar daddy. And of course, it is a story about a guy who is trying to find his soulmate via Grindr choices. But, it just didn't resonate with me - the hipness of it all.
Still, after some heavy reading, it's a nice feel to read something that is completely light-hearted and without any heavy thinking involved. And for that enough, it was a fine enough read - nothing too unbearable, but still nothing too memorable for me to want to check out this series again. 🤷
February 6, 2023
Ryan and Carson’s story was so much fun to read! I loved the concept of a dating coach, growing into a friendship which grows into love! Ryan was a super fun character. I loved seeing him grow and start doing more and more things that he loves as he grew more confident with the help of Carson. For Ryan to realize he can just be himself around Carson is huge!
Carson was a little shit with his dating advice and I have no idea how Ryan didn’t see right through all that but it was hilarious and all worked out in the end!! I remember Carson from another of this authors books so I was excited to know he was an MC in this one! This was a total opposites attract romance and it took a while for Carson to come around to the fact that he was good enough for Ryan! But when he finally did he proved it in spades!!
This was a very low-angst book with lots of fun times, laughs and sexy time (starting almost right away)! We got a glimpse into a lot of side characters that I believe will be the MCs for future books. I especially liked Carlisle (Carson’s twin brother) and I’m excited to read the next book in this series about him and Rory!
Also, I loved the formatting of the text messages in this book! I’m so excited to see more and more authors adopting this formatting! Makes it so much easier to read!!
Carson was a little shit with his dating advice and I have no idea how Ryan didn’t see right through all that but it was hilarious and all worked out in the end!! I remember Carson from another of this authors books so I was excited to know he was an MC in this one! This was a total opposites attract romance and it took a while for Carson to come around to the fact that he was good enough for Ryan! But when he finally did he proved it in spades!!
This was a very low-angst book with lots of fun times, laughs and sexy time (starting almost right away)! We got a glimpse into a lot of side characters that I believe will be the MCs for future books. I especially liked Carlisle (Carson’s twin brother) and I’m excited to read the next book in this series about him and Rory!
Also, I loved the formatting of the text messages in this book! I’m so excited to see more and more authors adopting this formatting! Makes it so much easier to read!!
February 18, 2023
Fun & Flirty
This is a really fun story. I enjoyed the way things developed between Ryan & Carson and I can't wait for more from this series.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
This is a really fun story. I enjoyed the way things developed between Ryan & Carson and I can't wait for more from this series.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
March 29, 2023
Carson and Ryan
We were introduced to Ryan in the Hearts for Hire series, and I enjoyed seeing him finally find his guy. Carson was hot and funny, worst dating coach ever lol I loved their banter and forming friendship, turned lovers. Looking forward for Carson's twins story next!
We were introduced to Ryan in the Hearts for Hire series, and I enjoyed seeing him finally find his guy. Carson was hot and funny, worst dating coach ever lol I loved their banter and forming friendship, turned lovers. Looking forward for Carson's twins story next!
February 21, 2023
Raquel Riley wrote such a fun story here - a romcom in book form. I loved both of the characters - Ryan and Carson - and they managed to hold my interest from the start. I did kind of want to wrap Ryan up in bubble wrap though because that boy had some terrible luck in the dating world. Like poor thing. In fact, that's how he meets Carson. When he has a bad date that includes his wallet getting stolen and has to ask Carson for a ride home - even though Carson lives on the wrong side of town.
Believable? Not quite. But do we really read books without a suspension of disbelief? I know I don't. If I want everything to be completely believable and real, I'll go out into the real world.
This night spurs a friendship between them, complete with Carson offering to help coach Ryan on his dates. And this - this leads to so much hilarity as Carson starts to develop feelings for Ryan. He actually goes on to ruin a date or two and I couldn't help but laugh. Actually, I couldn't help but laugh a lot of the time in this book. It was light hearted and it was fun.
It's a great first book for Love and Libations and I cannot wait to read further into the series. I'm more than a little curious about how Carlisle's book is going to play out (and I NEED to know whats up with Shannon - okay? Like I need this yesterday.)
I would definitely recommend this book for a nice light rom com read. Oh yeah, and the spice? Amazing as always. But I feel like that goes without say in Raquel's books.
Believable? Not quite. But do we really read books without a suspension of disbelief? I know I don't. If I want everything to be completely believable and real, I'll go out into the real world.
This night spurs a friendship between them, complete with Carson offering to help coach Ryan on his dates. And this - this leads to so much hilarity as Carson starts to develop feelings for Ryan. He actually goes on to ruin a date or two and I couldn't help but laugh. Actually, I couldn't help but laugh a lot of the time in this book. It was light hearted and it was fun.
It's a great first book for Love and Libations and I cannot wait to read further into the series. I'm more than a little curious about how Carlisle's book is going to play out (and I NEED to know whats up with Shannon - okay? Like I need this yesterday.)
I would definitely recommend this book for a nice light rom com read. Oh yeah, and the spice? Amazing as always. But I feel like that goes without say in Raquel's books.
March 22, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. This is only my second book by Raquel Riley and I’m so glad I read it. It’s hard to take these old tropes that have been used so many times and make them fun and new. When Ryan and Carson hook up on the their first meeting I thought I wasn’t going to like this, but I was so wrong. This is a sweet story about a sexy bartender and the buttoned up young insurance salesman who fall in love while trying to be friends with benefits.
February 8, 2023
This was a first from this author for me, and the start of a new series. I read this as a standalone but I think it's set in a pre-existing world. there were a couple of references I didn't get and I was a little confused at, but nothing to mar the enjoyment of the book.
These are two of the most clueless MCs ever 😂. I mean really. That's not a bad thing, and it was kind of fun actually. Ryan in particular is not only clueless but hopelessly naive at times, and he was so sweet I hated seeing people take advantage of him (which even Carson kind of did, honestly). There was such an instant connection between Carson and Ryan, and it was hot. I loved Ryan's efforts at dating, the mishaps were kind of fun and I did giggle a little at Carson's attempts to undermine them.
Honestly these two were just so perfect together, and so utterly clueless. It was fun watching them dance round each other, and everyone else could it see it miles away. Ryan, for all that he's clueless and naive when it comes to dating, also has a hidden spine of iron, he knows what he wants and seeing that come out from time to time was great.
I really enjoyed this and look forward to Carlisle's story.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
These are two of the most clueless MCs ever 😂. I mean really. That's not a bad thing, and it was kind of fun actually. Ryan in particular is not only clueless but hopelessly naive at times, and he was so sweet I hated seeing people take advantage of him (which even Carson kind of did, honestly). There was such an instant connection between Carson and Ryan, and it was hot. I loved Ryan's efforts at dating, the mishaps were kind of fun and I did giggle a little at Carson's attempts to undermine them.
Honestly these two were just so perfect together, and so utterly clueless. It was fun watching them dance round each other, and everyone else could it see it miles away. Ryan, for all that he's clueless and naive when it comes to dating, also has a hidden spine of iron, he knows what he wants and seeing that come out from time to time was great.
I really enjoyed this and look forward to Carlisle's story.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
January 28, 2023
A nerdy young guy who has trouble finding someone for more than just a hookup. A trendy hookup bartender who decides to help him after he stiffed him with his bill. The wild things these two get up to all in the name of love is hilarious! Fun, sex, and discovered love can all be found in this book! Absolutely loved it!
February 9, 2023
This was such a feel good story and just what I needed. It was sweet and swooney and had me hooked from the start. Ryan has been so unlucky with dating so after another disaster date he needs help from the hunky barman Carson. They end up having a hot night but Carson doesn't want anything serious but he offers to be Ryan's dating coach. They become good friends and have a strong chemistry. It's a bit forward and backward for them but in the end they realise how perfect they are for each. Such a lovely story 💜
August 19, 2023
Sweet Read
Carson is a terrible dating coach, but his friendship with Ryan was precious. I can’t wait to read more stories in this series and get to know the Carrick family better.
Carson is a terrible dating coach, but his friendship with Ryan was precious. I can’t wait to read more stories in this series and get to know the Carrick family better.
March 2, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
This book had a cute set up with Carson helping Ryan out when his date goes all sorts of wrong. The guys immediately then hook up and things started to slide away from there, as I never felt the chemistry between them for this supposedly heated hookup. Then, Carson offers to give Ryan dating advice, yet he doesn’t want Ryan dating anyone else, so he gives him bad advice. Ryan follows all of it, which then leads to some awkward and embarrassing situations for Ryan and it didn’t come across as funny to me.
The book has a familiar set up with Carson thinking that Ryan is too upscale for him and out of his league, combined with him not wanting to have a relationship, and then Ryan thinking that Carson is just too hot to be interested in him. They bounce back and forth between being friends, hooking up, and spending time together, while everyone but them can see they are into each other.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
This book had a cute set up with Carson helping Ryan out when his date goes all sorts of wrong. The guys immediately then hook up and things started to slide away from there, as I never felt the chemistry between them for this supposedly heated hookup. Then, Carson offers to give Ryan dating advice, yet he doesn’t want Ryan dating anyone else, so he gives him bad advice. Ryan follows all of it, which then leads to some awkward and embarrassing situations for Ryan and it didn’t come across as funny to me.
The book has a familiar set up with Carson thinking that Ryan is too upscale for him and out of his league, combined with him not wanting to have a relationship, and then Ryan thinking that Carson is just too hot to be interested in him. They bounce back and forth between being friends, hooking up, and spending time together, while everyone but them can see they are into each other.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
December 24, 2023
Love you like a bakery cart with muffins and coffee.
Carson and the gang promote the togetherness and camaraderie in support of the matched pair as new ideas and recipes bring confidence to start a bakery cart that allows for a lot more love of baking and helping people instead of the dull daily insurance trade that was wearing them down.
With the instant success of the new business, what could the love and support do except provide happiness to the matched couple.
Carson and the gang promote the togetherness and camaraderie in support of the matched pair as new ideas and recipes bring confidence to start a bakery cart that allows for a lot more love of baking and helping people instead of the dull daily insurance trade that was wearing them down.
With the instant success of the new business, what could the love and support do except provide happiness to the matched couple.
June 12, 2023
Sweet friends to lovers book❤️ And good steam🔥🔥 Love the characters and the story! Can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series! And there were a fun cross reference to an other Ine of my favourite authors, love it❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 17, 2023
There hasn't been a book in the last two years that I've read that has made me smile as much as Rum. I swear my cheeks hurt the two days it took me to read it (because sleep and work interfered with my enjoyment), but when I picked it up the next night, it sucked me right back in.
I'm a huge fan of rom-coms, and while we apparently have to wait for good quality theatrical ones starring a gay couple, we don't have to wait for good literary ones, and this is the best I can recall in recent memory.
The premise - a guy (Carson) ends up falling for the guy he's giving dating advice to (Ryan) - is simple, but becomes comedic when Carson starts giving Ryan purposely bad advice...because Carson wants Ryan to realize the perfect guy is already in front of him. Cue sappy, romantic music that I love!
As for the characterizations, the main MCs come up as multi-dimensional and refreshing. We don't have the wounded, heartbroken, I'm-so-over-men-and-dating guy, nor do we have the let's-pretend-there-are-rules-and-this-is-something-it-isn't garbage (I'm a little sick of that, can you tell? Is it because I also wrote that myself? Huh...damn). Carson isn't really looking for anything and Ryan falls into his lap because Carson's a nice guy and horny (realism!). Ryan is a preppy, innocent, nerdy, almost-virgin (I think...my memory isn't what it used to be). But he isn't doe-eyed and naive...he can get dirty. Exhibit A: Crisco. It's not complicated and that's what helps the story move along. Ms. Riley also keeps up with her extended cast, giving them little snippets to shine, and teasers from previous books and future ones. Just the perfect amount.
Anywho...I had a lot of fun reading this and I would love to see it made into a movie. It's got all the ingredients. Honestly, this is how I think when I read MM romance anyway - would it make a good movie? The characters, the pacing, the plot...all the ingredients are there for a perfect COCKtail of a book that will leave a sweet aftertaste in your mouth.
If you don't read this, you're missing out.
I'm a huge fan of rom-coms, and while we apparently have to wait for good quality theatrical ones starring a gay couple, we don't have to wait for good literary ones, and this is the best I can recall in recent memory.
The premise - a guy (Carson) ends up falling for the guy he's giving dating advice to (Ryan) - is simple, but becomes comedic when Carson starts giving Ryan purposely bad advice...because Carson wants Ryan to realize the perfect guy is already in front of him. Cue sappy, romantic music that I love!
As for the characterizations, the main MCs come up as multi-dimensional and refreshing. We don't have the wounded, heartbroken, I'm-so-over-men-and-dating guy, nor do we have the let's-pretend-there-are-rules-and-this-is-something-it-isn't garbage (I'm a little sick of that, can you tell? Is it because I also wrote that myself? Huh...damn). Carson isn't really looking for anything and Ryan falls into his lap because Carson's a nice guy and horny (realism!). Ryan is a preppy, innocent, nerdy, almost-virgin (I think...my memory isn't what it used to be). But he isn't doe-eyed and naive...he can get dirty. Exhibit A: Crisco. It's not complicated and that's what helps the story move along. Ms. Riley also keeps up with her extended cast, giving them little snippets to shine, and teasers from previous books and future ones. Just the perfect amount.
Anywho...I had a lot of fun reading this and I would love to see it made into a movie. It's got all the ingredients. Honestly, this is how I think when I read MM romance anyway - would it make a good movie? The characters, the pacing, the plot...all the ingredients are there for a perfect COCKtail of a book that will leave a sweet aftertaste in your mouth.
If you don't read this, you're missing out.
January 29, 2023
Couldn’t put it down
This book had me hooked from the first page to the last. I couldn’t put it down. From the minute Ryan has his credit card stolen on a date, and he’s left with a bill he can’t pay, I was rooting for him. Carson, his server, comes to his rescue. They are opposites in every way imaginable, but after watching Ryan suffer through some horrendously bad dates, Carson decides to take it upon himself to become Ryan’s dating coach. Carson’s jealousy, over all of Ryan’s dates, results in some laugh out loud moments at his outrageously bad advice. Right up until the moment he finally figures out what everyone around him, including Ryan, had already realized. That the perfect guy for Ryan was him. This story had moments of sweet, funny, and high heat, mixing in perfectly for a fantastic, fun read. There’s a liberal amount of fun cocktails with sexy names, and mouth-watering baked goods, to make it even more fun. Not to mention I’ll never look at Crisco the same way! I also loved the cameos from some of my favorite characters from the authors “Hearts for Hired” series. I can’t wait to read the next book in this new series by Raquel Riley.
This book had me hooked from the first page to the last. I couldn’t put it down. From the minute Ryan has his credit card stolen on a date, and he’s left with a bill he can’t pay, I was rooting for him. Carson, his server, comes to his rescue. They are opposites in every way imaginable, but after watching Ryan suffer through some horrendously bad dates, Carson decides to take it upon himself to become Ryan’s dating coach. Carson’s jealousy, over all of Ryan’s dates, results in some laugh out loud moments at his outrageously bad advice. Right up until the moment he finally figures out what everyone around him, including Ryan, had already realized. That the perfect guy for Ryan was him. This story had moments of sweet, funny, and high heat, mixing in perfectly for a fantastic, fun read. There’s a liberal amount of fun cocktails with sexy names, and mouth-watering baked goods, to make it even more fun. Not to mention I’ll never look at Crisco the same way! I also loved the cameos from some of my favorite characters from the authors “Hearts for Hired” series. I can’t wait to read the next book in this new series by Raquel Riley.
February 9, 2023
This was pretty much a perfect example of a fun, flirty, funny romance. I love both characters-- Ryan is beyond adorable and the chemistry between them is incredible from the start. Raquel Riley has done an amazing job of making this the perfect combination of funny, sweet and sexy. I really don't know how anyone could ask for more.
As much as Ryan in innocent and oblivious, he's also strong and clever. I enjoyed watching him becoming increasingly dubious about Carson's terrible dating advice, even though he went along with it anyway. I loved watching him grow in confidence and find the ability to rely on his own strength and truly be himself. I especially loved how Carson encouraged him to wear what he wanted and was absolutely supportive.
Carson initially appears confident and assured, but it rapidly becomes apparent he's just as insecure as Ryan, if not more so. He spends most of the book insisting he's not good enough for Ryan and never could be-- hence the terrible dating advice. It's not just that he's jealous and doesn't want to see Ryan with another guy, he also knows that none of them are remotely good enough for him-- Ryan has a talent for picking epically terrible dates, but at least he has Cary to pick up the pieces. It was great watching both of them grow and change.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. I'm sure anyone who loves MM romance would find plenty to enjoy in this gorgeous book.
As much as Ryan in innocent and oblivious, he's also strong and clever. I enjoyed watching him becoming increasingly dubious about Carson's terrible dating advice, even though he went along with it anyway. I loved watching him grow in confidence and find the ability to rely on his own strength and truly be himself. I especially loved how Carson encouraged him to wear what he wanted and was absolutely supportive.
Carson initially appears confident and assured, but it rapidly becomes apparent he's just as insecure as Ryan, if not more so. He spends most of the book insisting he's not good enough for Ryan and never could be-- hence the terrible dating advice. It's not just that he's jealous and doesn't want to see Ryan with another guy, he also knows that none of them are remotely good enough for him-- Ryan has a talent for picking epically terrible dates, but at least he has Cary to pick up the pieces. It was great watching both of them grow and change.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. I'm sure anyone who loves MM romance would find plenty to enjoy in this gorgeous book.
February 16, 2023
Ryan and Carson ❤️
4.5 ⭐️
What happens when a dating disaster leads to a one night stand that inadvertently leads to finding a dating coach who wants nothing but the perfect match for you but doesn't realize that he's the one? A hilarious snark and banter filled story that will having you smiling for days!!! I loved this book!! Ryan and Carson were honestly couple goals, not only were they sexy as hell together, they were sweet as sugar and funny AF. The relationship development was adorable and the flow of this book was perfect. I have not read a feel good story like this in a long time, I finished this book days ago and I'm still smiling. I would most definitely recommend this read. I can't wait to see what's next in this series...I'm so excited!
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4.5 ⭐️
What happens when a dating disaster leads to a one night stand that inadvertently leads to finding a dating coach who wants nothing but the perfect match for you but doesn't realize that he's the one? A hilarious snark and banter filled story that will having you smiling for days!!! I loved this book!! Ryan and Carson were honestly couple goals, not only were they sexy as hell together, they were sweet as sugar and funny AF. The relationship development was adorable and the flow of this book was perfect. I have not read a feel good story like this in a long time, I finished this book days ago and I'm still smiling. I would most definitely recommend this read. I can't wait to see what's next in this series...I'm so excited!
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
February 18, 2023
This was a super sweet opposites attract book that had me laughing at loud several times.
Ryan, an insurance agent who took college classes and baked on the side wanted to find love just like his best friends. He decided to use dating apps to find his perfect match. After his first date stole his credit card and left while he was in the bathroom, Ryan had to beg the hot bartender for money for a ride home so he could pay him.
Carson, a server and bartender at his family's upscale lounge, ended up taking Ryan home himself and after a steamy night together, offered to be Ryan's dating coach.
It was clear from the start that Carson didn't want anyone else to have Ryan, and he made sure Ryan repelled every man he went out with. Carson had a hard time accepting his was good enough for Ryan since Ryan came from money and they had a very different upbringing.
This was a great start to a new series and I'm looking forward to the rest of the books.
Ryan, an insurance agent who took college classes and baked on the side wanted to find love just like his best friends. He decided to use dating apps to find his perfect match. After his first date stole his credit card and left while he was in the bathroom, Ryan had to beg the hot bartender for money for a ride home so he could pay him.
Carson, a server and bartender at his family's upscale lounge, ended up taking Ryan home himself and after a steamy night together, offered to be Ryan's dating coach.
It was clear from the start that Carson didn't want anyone else to have Ryan, and he made sure Ryan repelled every man he went out with. Carson had a hard time accepting his was good enough for Ryan since Ryan came from money and they had a very different upbringing.
This was a great start to a new series and I'm looking forward to the rest of the books.
January 30, 2023
This book soothed my soul, it was fun, sexy and hard to put down. A well written book with a really fun storyline. The sexual chemistry between these two characters was steamy hot from the start; I won't spoil it but tall glass windows might have been involved!It's duel POV so we knew what both men were feeling. Carson was ingenious, trying to 'help' Ryan with his dates. A no angst story with lots of heat between the two MC's. It was hard not to like the characters and I think that is why it was so easy to read. This book is written in a way that it gives the reader an insight to how the story is going to go before either character has a clue, making it a slow(ish) love story despite the sexy scenes. The fruity drinks were so well described I could almost taste them. There were lots of secondary characters which hopefully will get a story. I'm looking forward to reading Carlisle' story in book 2. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 13, 2023
If have not picked up Raquel Riley yet, start here. Okay, you can really start with any of them and you will want to read them all. This series stays in the same universe as Luck Match. And we are here for all of it. Ryan is adorable with all his failed dates, even ones that make you squirm they are just wrong. (I won't give that one away) But when he catches Carson's attention there is a chemistry that both of them seem to fight. Carson sets himself up as Ryan's wingman and provides terrible advice that just makes Ryan's dates that much worse. At the same time when Ryan is with Carson, he lets his true self out. Who knew you can Crisco can be so much more.. Read the book to find out what I mean. It will make you think differently about baked goods.
February 13, 2023
3.5 stars
A cute and enjoyable read! Ryan, incredibly adorable and incredibly unlucky with dating, and Carson, a big ol’ softie at heart that doesn’t think he’s good enough for someone like Ryan, made for a sweet and delightful couple. The side characters were interesting and were intriguing, as I am now excited to read Carlisle’s story next! The plot very much felt like a rom-com which I believe many people will enjoy. I personally found some parts to be slow, and I found Carson to be an irritating character at times. The book was a delicious amount of spicy and while the sex scenes were well written, they started to feel repetitive. Overall, I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
A cute and enjoyable read! Ryan, incredibly adorable and incredibly unlucky with dating, and Carson, a big ol’ softie at heart that doesn’t think he’s good enough for someone like Ryan, made for a sweet and delightful couple. The side characters were interesting and were intriguing, as I am now excited to read Carlisle’s story next! The plot very much felt like a rom-com which I believe many people will enjoy. I personally found some parts to be slow, and I found Carson to be an irritating character at times. The book was a delicious amount of spicy and while the sex scenes were well written, they started to feel repetitive. Overall, I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
February 16, 2023
Ryan and Carson were adorable and I had a blast watching them get together
I love books that manage to mix sweetness, feelings and humour well. Ryan and Carson gave me everything I wanted and more. Not only was there genuine hilarity in some of the ‘assistance’ Carson gave but their chemistry was also a perfect mix of sweet and hot. On paper these guys do not match but their differences just made them more compelling. I haven’t read this author before but I’m really glad I read Ryan and Carson’s story because now I have even more books to read. I’ll definitely be looking forward to more from this series.
I love books that manage to mix sweetness, feelings and humour well. Ryan and Carson gave me everything I wanted and more. Not only was there genuine hilarity in some of the ‘assistance’ Carson gave but their chemistry was also a perfect mix of sweet and hot. On paper these guys do not match but their differences just made them more compelling. I haven’t read this author before but I’m really glad I read Ryan and Carson’s story because now I have even more books to read. I’ll definitely be looking forward to more from this series.
February 19, 2023
We finally get Ryan's story and I loved it. It was awesome catching up with the couples from the Hearts For Hire series! We met Ryan in that series too. I loved how Ryan and Carson balanced each other out. Ryan blossomed like a beautiful flower with the help and guidance of Carson. Carson did struggle with his feelings for a bit, but he wised up pretty fast. They were perfect for each other and had amazing chemistry. I loved how the book didn't end as soon as they got together like most books do. We actually got to experience them as a couple, which was refreshing. I can't wait for Carlisle's story next!!
February 13, 2023
Sabotage to Love!!
Carson the fun loving, sassy bartender coming in at just the right time to save the too pretty, naive Ryan from his horrible online date. One favor that leads to a rather lovable friendship with a "help" that doesn't always go the way it should, but works out in the end.
You will fall in love with the storyline and writing that Raquel brings out in this book. These boys are so cute and funny together, you'll be waiting for the next interaction with silent laughter. With a close knit family and nosy brother what more could you ask for.
Carson the fun loving, sassy bartender coming in at just the right time to save the too pretty, naive Ryan from his horrible online date. One favor that leads to a rather lovable friendship with a "help" that doesn't always go the way it should, but works out in the end.
You will fall in love with the storyline and writing that Raquel brings out in this book. These boys are so cute and funny together, you'll be waiting for the next interaction with silent laughter. With a close knit family and nosy brother what more could you ask for.
February 16, 2023
Carson works in a bar/restaurant and meets Ryan being dumped by a date. After a hookup, he offers to help Ryan with an app profile and be a dating coach. The problem is, they both want each other and nobody else.. This book is fun, flirty and full of fantastic, sexy times. These two are so sweet together and obviously crazy about each other. Raquel gave a nice nod to fellow author, Finn Dixon but knows how to write an awesome romance herself. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
February 5, 2023
I am going to say this is the best book Raquel has written so far in her career…
Carson works at the bar when he meets Ryan. Ryan is there for a date gone wrong, which leads to Carson helping Ryan out.
From there friendship and dating advice develops between the two of them. Carson is there for Ryan to help give him pointers.
This book is low angst with a lot of giggles (you’ll get what I mean when you read the book) lol. A great set of new characters and loved seeing past characters.
I really look forward to seeing them in the future books in the series as well as Carson’s brother finding his HEA in next book in the series.
Kudos Raquel for a great book 1
Ryan
Carson works at the bar when he meets Ryan. Ryan is there for a date gone wrong, which leads to Carson helping Ryan out.
From there friendship and dating advice develops between the two of them. Carson is there for Ryan to help give him pointers.
This book is low angst with a lot of giggles (you’ll get what I mean when you read the book) lol. A great set of new characters and loved seeing past characters.
I really look forward to seeing them in the future books in the series as well as Carson’s brother finding his HEA in next book in the series.
Kudos Raquel for a great book 1
Ryan
February 6, 2023
Yay, Ryan finally gets his man. Carson is as far removed from Reid as possible. Dont get me wrong, this is not a bad thing. Carson is sexy and fun. Misjudged as a bad boy, he bends over backwards to help those he loves. Going so far as to offer dating advice to a man hes slowly falling for..... hence the bad dating advice.
Ryan gets a new friend, and as the time goes on his friend offers dating advice... he doubts the advice as being good, but he follows it anyways. Ryan opens up and shows Carson all his favorite things, becomes his honest self, which Carson encourages.
Ryan gets a new friend, and as the time goes on his friend offers dating advice... he doubts the advice as being good, but he follows it anyways. Ryan opens up and shows Carson all his favorite things, becomes his honest self, which Carson encourages.
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