Reviewed by Amber
TITLE: Devoted
AUTHOR: Sierra Riley
PUBLISHER: Self Published
LENGTH: 262 pages
RELEASE DATE: March 18th, 2016
BLURB:
“To have and to hold, in sickness and in health.”
“I can’t do this alone.”
Russ Callaghan knew he was going to struggle after his wife’s death. He just never realized how much. As a single dad, he’s tried to balance paying the bills with making time for his son, Ryan. He’s been treading water for a long time and right now, his best friend, Jake, is the only thing keeping him afloat. But when his son needs major surgery, Russ isn’t sure anyone can save him from going under.
“I’d do anything for you. You know that.”
Jake Larson has been in love with Russ since college, but he knows they’ll never be more than friends. Even so, he can’t seem to stop himself from coming to Russ’ rescue. With Russ facing bankruptcy thanks to his terrible insurance, Jake concocts his most desperate plan yet: A sham marriage to get Ryan on his policy.
“You’re the only thing that feels real to me right now.”
It was supposed to be temporary, but when an insurance agent questions the validity of their marriage, Russ and Jake are forced to get a whole lot closer. Jake knows that once their time is up, they’ll go back to being friends regardless of what they’ve shared. But after having Jake as a partner both physically and emotionally, Russ isn’t ready to let go. Can they manage to turn their fake marriage into something real?
REVIEW:
I love stories with these amazingly solid, strong friendships that provide the foundation for these unbelievable lifelong relationships. I think it’s already hard enough getting into a relationship where everything you’ve ever known is questioned but when they start with someone you care so strongly for it makes the transition that much easier. This was a sweet story about love after loss. It’s also about love being found in the most unlikely of places.
Russ and Jake have been friends for years. Recently, Russ lost his wife unexpectedly which left him as the sole caretaker for his 10 year old son.
Jake has never wavered when it comes to being Russ’s friend. Having always harbored stronger feelings for Russ, Jake knows the friendship lines have gotten blurred where he’s concerned. Knowing Russ is struggling financially with an unexpected medical issue Jake proposes a fake marriage which would allow Russ and his son to use Jake’s insurance.
Russ finds himself overwhelmed with the emotions Jake is stirring in him. Having always been a little curious and definitely attracted to Jake, Russ is also struggling keeping their “fake” marriage truly fake.
These men embark on a very sweet emotional journey that is not always smooth sailing. I really liked Jake in this story. He’s very sweet, caring, and incredibly loyal to Russ.
Overall, this was an enjoyable story. I’ve noticed that Sierra Riley’s stories tend to drag on a bit but always seem to come together in the end.
RATING: 
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