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Last Chance #2
Color Me In
Caleb White has been a lot of places and made a lot of decisions he isn’t proud of. He’s ready to settle down and figure out who he really is. Where better to do that than Last Chance, the home he was ripped away from at sixteen? A fresh start is in order, but he has no idea how to do that when he’s not even sure what he wants in the first place.
Ryan Daily is a pro at hiding his insecurities. He’s never fit in and has spent most of his life knowing there’s something missing. Just when he thought he’d found it, his whole world fell apart and he lost everything.
Then comes a sleepless night in a twenty-four-hour café, where Caleb and Ryan forge a connection full of laughs, junk food, and whispered secrets. In the middle of their budding friendship, desire blooms unexpectedly. Ryan has kept his heart protected after having it shattered, and Caleb—no stranger to attraction—finds that what he has with Ryan is on a whole new level from anything he’s experienced before. In a world of black and white, they bring each other color.
But life is never simple. When the past comes knocking, Ryan and Caleb will have to reach through the darkness to find the light they see in each other…or risk slipping into the shadows for good.
Ryan Daily is a pro at hiding his insecurities. He’s never fit in and has spent most of his life knowing there’s something missing. Just when he thought he’d found it, his whole world fell apart and he lost everything.
Then comes a sleepless night in a twenty-four-hour café, where Caleb and Ryan forge a connection full of laughs, junk food, and whispered secrets. In the middle of their budding friendship, desire blooms unexpectedly. Ryan has kept his heart protected after having it shattered, and Caleb—no stranger to attraction—finds that what he has with Ryan is on a whole new level from anything he’s experienced before. In a world of black and white, they bring each other color.
But life is never simple. When the past comes knocking, Ryan and Caleb will have to reach through the darkness to find the light they see in each other…or risk slipping into the shadows for good.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2018
About the author
Riley Hart
96 books6,177 followersRiley Hart is the girl who wears her heart on her sleeve. She's a hopeless romantic. A lover of sexy stories, passionate men, and writing about all the trouble they can get into together. If she's not writing, you'll probably find her reading.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 298 reviews
February 4, 2018
~3.5~
I loved, loved, loved Depth of Field and had high hopes for Color Me In. And while I wasn't let down exactly, I had some issues with the way the story progressed.
But first let's discuss what I liked:
- Alternating POV (Riley Hart does such a good job of fleshing out her MCs by allowing us to get inside their heads and really feel their emotions.)
- Sensual steamy scenes (Slow burn that begins with mere touches and kisses, and moves on to pure passion.)
- Demisexual character (I absolutely loved the way demisexuality was treated in this story; Ryan's sexual discovery was a beautiful thing.)
- Romantic HEA (but of course)
- Bonus scene featuring Shane and Van from the first book (While Shane and Van are a part of this story and I HIGHLY recommend Depth of Field, Color Me In works as a standalone.)
Now the stuff that irked me:
- Ryan was once married; he and his ex-wife, Danielle, went through a very difficult time, during which she pulled away. Ryan still mourns the loss of his marriage and thinks and talks about Danielle all the time. And I mean ALL. THE. FUCKING. TIME.
While I'm glad his ex wasn't the stereotypical evil wench, the name Danielle (or Dani) was mentioned 126 times! That is WAY too much focus on an ex-anyone. (Yes, I'd feel the same if the ex were a man.) If I'd started a drinking game, I would have passed out a fourth of the way through.
- This brings me to Ryan, who was a bit whiny and insecure. I didn't really love him as a character.
I did like Caleb, but the tragedy of his past was kind of overdone. I mean, did he really need to Wouldn't just ONE of those have sufficed?
- Some of the writing was awkward and redundant. For example, every guy in the book was a "good man" and Danielle, you guessed it, was a "good woman." These phrases were so ubiquitous (and, frankly, meaningless), I was worried about spraining my eyeballs.
Also, nearly every time Ryan or Caleb spoke they uttered the word "yeah" twice: Yeah ... yeah. People don't talk like that.
My rating is a true and solid 3.5 stars, but I'm going to round down since GR is a bitch and doesn't offer half stars.
I did enjoy the story, like I do all of Riley's books. Hopefully there are more men in Last Chance looking for a happily ever after.
I loved, loved, loved Depth of Field and had high hopes for Color Me In. And while I wasn't let down exactly, I had some issues with the way the story progressed.
But first let's discuss what I liked:
- Alternating POV (Riley Hart does such a good job of fleshing out her MCs by allowing us to get inside their heads and really feel their emotions.)
- Sensual steamy scenes (Slow burn that begins with mere touches and kisses, and moves on to pure passion.)
- Demisexual character (I absolutely loved the way demisexuality was treated in this story; Ryan's sexual discovery was a beautiful thing.)
- Romantic HEA (but of course)
- Bonus scene featuring Shane and Van from the first book (While Shane and Van are a part of this story and I HIGHLY recommend Depth of Field, Color Me In works as a standalone.)
Now the stuff that irked me:
- Ryan was once married; he and his ex-wife, Danielle, went through a very difficult time, during which she pulled away. Ryan still mourns the loss of his marriage and thinks and talks about Danielle all the time. And I mean ALL. THE. FUCKING. TIME.
While I'm glad his ex wasn't the stereotypical evil wench, the name Danielle (or Dani) was mentioned 126 times! That is WAY too much focus on an ex-anyone. (Yes, I'd feel the same if the ex were a man.) If I'd started a drinking game, I would have passed out a fourth of the way through.
- This brings me to Ryan, who was a bit whiny and insecure. I didn't really love him as a character.
I did like Caleb, but the tragedy of his past was kind of overdone. I mean, did he really need to Wouldn't just ONE of those have sufficed?
- Some of the writing was awkward and redundant. For example, every guy in the book was a "good man" and Danielle, you guessed it, was a "good woman." These phrases were so ubiquitous (and, frankly, meaningless), I was worried about spraining my eyeballs.
Also, nearly every time Ryan or Caleb spoke they uttered the word "yeah" twice: Yeah ... yeah. People don't talk like that.
My rating is a true and solid 3.5 stars, but I'm going to round down since GR is a bitch and doesn't offer half stars.
I did enjoy the story, like I do all of Riley's books. Hopefully there are more men in Last Chance looking for a happily ever after.
September 29, 2018
3 Sweet Tooth & Salt Friend Stars
Caleb has returned to his hometown, Last Chance, after so many years. He needed to make peace with his past, needed to find himself again, to find what he wants. The last time he was in this town he was sixteen, he and his parents left the town so sudden and after that Caleb wasn’t in a good situation and did things that he regretted them now!
Ryan has been in Last Chance and working for Shane (Caleb’s best friend when he lived in the town) for some time now. There is something about his past, something that that’s like a burden on his shoulders, something that he felt guilty about it, something that he couldn’t tell anyone until he met his Salt Friend.
The first half was really good and I was enjoying it but unfortunately, the second half wasn’t as good as I thought or maybe it was my fault losing interest, so I got bored and started skipping some parts. But I liked their connection from the first! Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the second installment in the "Last Chance" series with character crossover and a bit slow. It can be read as a standalone but I think it’s better if you start from book one. Overall, it was an okay read for me (I’m in the minority here) and hope you like it!
Caleb has returned to his hometown, Last Chance, after so many years. He needed to make peace with his past, needed to find himself again, to find what he wants. The last time he was in this town he was sixteen, he and his parents left the town so sudden and after that Caleb wasn’t in a good situation and did things that he regretted them now!
Ryan has been in Last Chance and working for Shane (Caleb’s best friend when he lived in the town) for some time now. There is something about his past, something that that’s like a burden on his shoulders, something that he felt guilty about it, something that he couldn’t tell anyone until he met his Salt Friend.
The first half was really good and I was enjoying it but unfortunately, the second half wasn’t as good as I thought or maybe it was my fault losing interest, so I got bored and started skipping some parts. But I liked their connection from the first! Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the second installment in the "Last Chance" series with character crossover and a bit slow. It can be read as a standalone but I think it’s better if you start from book one. Overall, it was an okay read for me (I’m in the minority here) and hope you like it!
March 6, 2018
I honestly didn't love the first book in this series. And this one had some mixed reviews. But I actually ended up liking it more than book 1.
I was really glad this one wasn't riddled with drama. I liked how everything played out. Yeah, the ex Dani was mentioned quite a bit. And the guys turned a bit sappy towards the end.
But I enjoyed the slow build of the relationship. I liked seeing Ryan and Caleb go from friends to lovers. I thought Ryan's demi-sexuality was done really well. And I loved seeing his reactions to how Caleb made him feel.
I'm really glad I ended up giving this one a go.
I was really glad this one wasn't riddled with drama. I liked how everything played out. Yeah, the ex Dani was mentioned quite a bit. And the guys turned a bit sappy towards the end.
But I enjoyed the slow build of the relationship. I liked seeing Ryan and Caleb go from friends to lovers. I thought Ryan's demi-sexuality was done really well. And I loved seeing his reactions to how Caleb made him feel.
I'm really glad I ended up giving this one a go.
December 8, 2018
4,5 stars rounded up
I absolutely love Riley Hart's writing!! And I loved this one so much! I enjoyed it even more than the first book in the series. It's my first book about a demisexual character.
Well developed characters and super hot scenes!!!
I absolutely love Riley Hart's writing!! And I loved this one so much! I enjoyed it even more than the first book in the series. It's my first book about a demisexual character.
Well developed characters and super hot scenes!!!
October 10, 2022
4**** stars
You know, for a city-girl like me it’s so super unimaginable that one just stops at a small-town gas station and ask if someone still lives there and they would know. And I’m still not quite sure if I like that image or not *lolll Small-towns are truly a whole different world.
This was such a beautiful addition to this 2-book-series. I loved how Ryan and Caleb met in the middle of the night in that diner, plagued by insomnia. This was only my second time I read a book with a demisexual lead. It was beautiful to witness how he fell in love with Caleb, what it did to him and how it changed is own view on himself. It was so special to him.
And let me tell you, their feelings for each other were intense! At one point or another I may have thought that the intensity of their feelings was bordering a bit on unhealthy… but all in all it was just sweet and deep and emotional af. I’m happy I’ve read it.
And thank you Riley Hart for that Bonus scene for Shane & Van. I freaking loved it! ♡
***************
Last Chance Series:
Book 1 - Depth of Field - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Color Me In - 4 stars
You know, for a city-girl like me it’s so super unimaginable that one just stops at a small-town gas station and ask if someone still lives there and they would know. And I’m still not quite sure if I like that image or not *lolll Small-towns are truly a whole different world.
This was such a beautiful addition to this 2-book-series. I loved how Ryan and Caleb met in the middle of the night in that diner, plagued by insomnia. This was only my second time I read a book with a demisexual lead. It was beautiful to witness how he fell in love with Caleb, what it did to him and how it changed is own view on himself. It was so special to him.
“I would never have seen this coming. I don’t know what it is or where it’ll go, but…I feel you. I feel you inside me. Like this missing piece that clicked into place. Your friendship means the world to me, and this…what we share, no matter what happens, I’ll never forget it; I’ll never forget the way you make me feel.”
And let me tell you, their feelings for each other were intense! At one point or another I may have thought that the intensity of their feelings was bordering a bit on unhealthy… but all in all it was just sweet and deep and emotional af. I’m happy I’ve read it.
And thank you Riley Hart for that Bonus scene for Shane & Van. I freaking loved it! ♡
***************
Last Chance Series:
Book 1 - Depth of Field - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Color Me In - 4 stars
November 7, 2019
Color Me In is the fantastic follow-up to Depth of Field. Riley Hart shows once again why she is tops in the mm genre as she is always stretching herself as a writer and exploring new sub genres.
Caleb is Shane’s first love who returns to Last Chance to face his past. Ryan is a mechanic a at Shane’s business who is trying to rebuild his life after being dealt a series of devastating blows. The two men become friends who slowly discover they are much more to each other. Through their developing friendship , the men discover Ryan is demisexual and all the problems he’s had in past relationships start to make sense. I’ve never read a story about a demi character before, and I learned so much. The love story between Caleb and Ryan is so sensual, and Ryan’s responsiveness to touch made their love scenes incredibly erotic and beautiful! The two men are absolutely perfect for each other.
Caleb is Shane’s first love who returns to Last Chance to face his past. Ryan is a mechanic a at Shane’s business who is trying to rebuild his life after being dealt a series of devastating blows. The two men become friends who slowly discover they are much more to each other. Through their developing friendship , the men discover Ryan is demisexual and all the problems he’s had in past relationships start to make sense. I’ve never read a story about a demi character before, and I learned so much. The love story between Caleb and Ryan is so sensual, and Ryan’s responsiveness to touch made their love scenes incredibly erotic and beautiful! The two men are absolutely perfect for each other.
September 12, 2018
I just realized this is my first Riley Hart. Apparently I've shelved her books numerous times but never pulled the trigger on actually reading one. For shame.
I can see why people enjoy reading her work because this was very sweet, cozy. Color Me In is a story about second chances in a variety of different ways. Both Caleb and Ryan have suffered heartbreaks and missteps that have led them to Last Chance, a sleepy Oregon town that had me hearing a refrain of Angelo Badalamenti tunes. Don't ask. My brain is a strange place sometimes.
Anyway, both Caleb and Ryan tell their story of falling in love which I appreciated since Ryan has never been in a same sex relationship before. It was fun to see their differing perspectives on their shared experiences.
They become friends then roommates then more. Maybe Ryan's progression from friends to lovers was a little unbelievable but it fits into this particular romance algorithm. Ryan learns through his friendship with Caleb that he's demisexual. The portrayal of demisexuality I found illuminating and touching. He truly believed there was something wrong with him until he befriended Caleb and the weight of that burden was stifling for him. Watching that burden lift off him was satisfying as a reader as was seeing him embrace his "newfound" sexuality. He also endeared himself to me with how honest he was with both himself and Caleb. No game playing. No shenanigans. Just trying to find his way as best he can.
See the rest on the blog then later here.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I can see why people enjoy reading her work because this was very sweet, cozy. Color Me In is a story about second chances in a variety of different ways. Both Caleb and Ryan have suffered heartbreaks and missteps that have led them to Last Chance, a sleepy Oregon town that had me hearing a refrain of Angelo Badalamenti tunes. Don't ask. My brain is a strange place sometimes.
Anyway, both Caleb and Ryan tell their story of falling in love which I appreciated since Ryan has never been in a same sex relationship before. It was fun to see their differing perspectives on their shared experiences.
"I would never have seen this coming. I don't know what it is or where it'll go, but... I feel you. I feel you inside me. Like this missing piece that clicked into place. Your friendship means the world to me, and this... what we share, no matter what happens, I'll never forget it; I'll never forget the way you make me feel."
They become friends then roommates then more. Maybe Ryan's progression from friends to lovers was a little unbelievable but it fits into this particular romance algorithm. Ryan learns through his friendship with Caleb that he's demisexual. The portrayal of demisexuality I found illuminating and touching. He truly believed there was something wrong with him until he befriended Caleb and the weight of that burden was stifling for him. Watching that burden lift off him was satisfying as a reader as was seeing him embrace his "newfound" sexuality. He also endeared himself to me with how honest he was with both himself and Caleb. No game playing. No shenanigans. Just trying to find his way as best he can.
"When you change someone's life without trying... by just being, that's when you know it's really something."
See the rest on the blog then later here.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2018
I'm sure I will be the minority here. While I liked Color Me In by Riley Hart, I didn't love it. It was slow to start; it took until after 40% for it to pick up for me. I'm not sure why it has all the components that I love: friends to lovers, hurt/comfort/healing, second chances, and a slow burn, but I couldn't connect- I tried.
Let's focus on some highlights:
-Alternating POVs
-Character growth
-Slow burn romance. They don't just jump into bed even though off the bat there's a connection between them.
-The friendships between all the guys were beautiful.
-And the end is a sweet HEA.
As I said, everything is there; I can't put my finger on where the disconnect is. I guess sometimes we just don't gel with certain stories. This one's going to be filed under "It's me, not the book."
3 Stars.
ARC kindly provided for an honest review.
Let's focus on some highlights:
-Alternating POVs
-Character growth
-Slow burn romance. They don't just jump into bed even though off the bat there's a connection between them.
-The friendships between all the guys were beautiful.
-And the end is a sweet HEA.
As I said, everything is there; I can't put my finger on where the disconnect is. I guess sometimes we just don't gel with certain stories. This one's going to be filed under "It's me, not the book."
3 Stars.
ARC kindly provided for an honest review.
January 22, 2018
4.5*
This book is simply beautiful: Beautiful language, beautiful romance and straight up beautifully crafted.
Set in Riley's Last Chance, this is a town where people go back to their pasts and find strength in the unexpected. In this instance, Caleb finds love without any judgement in an all night diner and Ryan finds out he's not broken, only that he needs to have his emotions and his heart involved before he feels desire.
I loved, loved, loved how Riley created Ryan's demi-sexuality to be an element of the romance but not the whole focus. The friendship between Caleb and him drove the narrative forward, an exploration of how two people could be so in tune with each other without having jumped into bed first.
I could have highlighted pretty much all of the book but Ryan's shock at discovering there was a name for what he felt was a failing, and then the gradual awakening of his sexual desire for Caleb was so gorgeously written.
When he tells Caleb his world had been black and white until his love coloured him in, my heart exploded. There's a wee bit of angst but never thrown in for the plot, and there's an ex-wife who is a pretty special lady and not the typical "bitch from Hell" and I loved how her presence became just part of their life and not a dramady.
There is drama, but again it's never forced, and the resolution and ending felt honestly reached and believable.
We also get to catch up with Shane and Van from Depth of Field and they're both still deliriously happy. Riley's also gifted the reader a truly wonderful extra snippet after the epilogue featuring these two which made me smile a lot.
Another beautiful cover adds to the all round awesomeness of this book.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
This book is simply beautiful: Beautiful language, beautiful romance and straight up beautifully crafted.
Set in Riley's Last Chance, this is a town where people go back to their pasts and find strength in the unexpected. In this instance, Caleb finds love without any judgement in an all night diner and Ryan finds out he's not broken, only that he needs to have his emotions and his heart involved before he feels desire.
I loved, loved, loved how Riley created Ryan's demi-sexuality to be an element of the romance but not the whole focus. The friendship between Caleb and him drove the narrative forward, an exploration of how two people could be so in tune with each other without having jumped into bed first.
I could have highlighted pretty much all of the book but Ryan's shock at discovering there was a name for what he felt was a failing, and then the gradual awakening of his sexual desire for Caleb was so gorgeously written.
When he tells Caleb his world had been black and white until his love coloured him in, my heart exploded. There's a wee bit of angst but never thrown in for the plot, and there's an ex-wife who is a pretty special lady and not the typical "bitch from Hell" and I loved how her presence became just part of their life and not a dramady.
There is drama, but again it's never forced, and the resolution and ending felt honestly reached and believable.
We also get to catch up with Shane and Van from Depth of Field and they're both still deliriously happy. Riley's also gifted the reader a truly wonderful extra snippet after the epilogue featuring these two which made me smile a lot.
Another beautiful cover adds to the all round awesomeness of this book.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
August 27, 2018
Me ha gustado bastante, dos protagonistas perdidos, uno de ellos demisexual, una relación con slow burn, sexy, y muy sentimental. Una lectura tranquila, pero muy muy agradable. Lo he leído sin leer el primero de la serie, pero la pareja protagonista sale mucho, así que me ha despertado la curiosidad y en breve lo leeré.
Una bonita historia, aunque tenga algunos momentos realmente tristes.
Una bonita historia, aunque tenga algunos momentos realmente tristes.
October 19, 2022
3 stars
Ehh it was alright. Yes you can read this as a standalone, I didn’t read book one, not sure if I will since I hate Tristan James’s narration lol. But I didn’t feel like I was missing too much, yes you had Shane and Van show up in here but it wasn’t overwhelming which was nice.
Nick J Russo did an amazing job. Idk this was definitely cheese filled but I was entertained so it kept me engaged.
Ehh it was alright. Yes you can read this as a standalone, I didn’t read book one, not sure if I will since I hate Tristan James’s narration lol. But I didn’t feel like I was missing too much, yes you had Shane and Van show up in here but it wasn’t overwhelming which was nice.
Nick J Russo did an amazing job. Idk this was definitely cheese filled but I was entertained so it kept me engaged.
March 30, 2024
✰ 3.5 stars ✰
“You feel right. It’s like everything was black and white and now I’m seeing in color. Like I was just an outline and you somehow colored me in.”
If I could get over Riley Hart's more often than not slightly over-the-top writing that is too much for my delicate reading sensibilities at times, along with sex scenes that are described with a little too much cringe, I think she and I would have a great future together. 😔 It surprises me how my first ever read of hers - The Loner, was in fact a five star read, so I can only assume that I was either too oblivious to how much I overlooked, or I seriously just lucked out that one time. But, I will say that she has the ability to write creative and original ideas that only fall short, because of my own personal preference in writing style and tone. Color Me in was a special read for how unique the dynamic of Caleb and Ryan felt to me that I genuinely appreciate the thoughtfulness that went behind it. 🩷
“Those things were silly, such small details, but life was made of small details. It was those little things that created something bigger.
Life had a way of pulling the rug out from under you; loss had a way of slipping in at your happiest and snatching your peace.”
It starts simply enough with two broken souls who are as different as their preference in food tastes bond with their late night-early morning diner visits, as they fight off their respective insomnia. And somehow whilst their heartfelt exchanges of candid truths and heartfelt honesty, a tentative friendship of comfort and ease settles between the two - something that Caleb didn't expect he'd find when he turned home to Last Chance, nor did Ryan think he could ever find someone again who he could share his heart with. How they recognized in the other someone who understood the depths to their loneliness and their desire for a heartfelt connection. 'Yeah…yeah, I know you do. Somehow, you get me.' 🥺🥺 For the two of them have their own fair of secrets that they haven't yet revealed - especially for Ryan. Something that may be the one thing that makes or breaks their future for themselves. It is that hopeful and heartwarming journey to get to the point where it won't be that issue - something that Ryan learns about himself and Caleb in turn learns about him is what really left a palpable impact on me. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
There are two significant factors of their romance that really hit me hard with me. For Caleb, who has had so much more experience with sex, could be the one to open Ryan's heart and mind to better understand his own sexuality - about why he has never felt comfortable about having sex, but with one person, how he felt that he was broken, a burden that he has carried for so long until Caleb explained it to him as gently as possible, thus opening awakening within him a primal need of want, but still feeling insecure about his own inexperience and vulnerabilities. 'I can’t promise I’ll be perfect, that I won’t stumble. I’m still getting comfortable in my skin, but…all I know is, being with you…it feels right.' ❤️🩹❤️🩹 The gentle intimate way in which Caleb admitted and acted upon his attraction for Ryan, holding back as in not to overwhelm him or make him feel compelled to admit their status change, despite how much he just wanted to give in - he made Ryan worthy of being loved, when nothing about himself made sense until they met. 🫂
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Ryan asked. “Did I say something wrong?”
“No.” Caleb shook his head. “You said something right. This isn’t a performance for me either.”
And the second was how colors, itself, played a part, itself, in the narrative - uff, the subtle way it captured their emotions - how the author described how they breathed color into their dull worlds - I really liked it. Not to quote Lizzie McGuire, but their love can truly be captured with these lyrics 'Yesterday my life was duller/ Now everything's technicolor'. 🥰🌈 As cheesy as it sounds, I adored the way Riley H. portrayed how the bleakness of their lives changed when they were together, especially in the throes of passion. How often have I read that people see stars or there is a blinding white, but how she captured it - 'he saw nothing but color, felt his body quiver and tingle and damn near burst' - really blew me away. Because it felt real - it felt so vivid and honest that I could feel Ryan's heart being overwhelmed with the outpouring of affection and trust that Caleb gave him - how honored Caleb felt to be the one to make Ryan feel - 'he wanted to be the one to show him everything.'. 🥹🥹
I enjoyed the sweetness and honesty of their friendship. How they steadily became closer, how Caleb saw in Ryan the missing part of himself, those silly, but affectionate endearments they called each other. Caleb has his own broken past - a colorful past he is not exactly ashamed of, but would make others wary of him. 'Start over. Rediscover who he was and what he wanted. He’d done it over and over, and now? Now he wanted to settle.' The fact that the two of them trusted each other with their darkest parts - the secrets that they had kept buried for so long - proved to both of them how they had changed each other - how affected they were by knowing each other. The ending was a cathartic one that beautifully brought their love for each other to a finality that made them firmly believe that what they had was true. 🥺
“I want to make you feel good.”
“You will. I’ve been dying to have you inside me.”
“I’ve been dying to be there,” Ryan countered.
“So we’re basically saving two lives tonight.”
I can't! 😭😭 There were moments where I was so moved by the emotional and insightful depth to the writing - how Riley H. captured the loneliness and the heartbreak of Ryan's past - how Caleb felt so confused and guilt-ridden about his questionable status in Ryan's heart - that beautiful and tender scene where Ryan bared his feelings afresh to Caleb. But, then there are times where the dialogue and the writing is so ridiculously corny and so very cringe-y that I can't help but laugh, even when I'm not supposed to. It's not about bringing levity to the scene, it just feels so silly that I can't take it seriously. 'Just for a minute, then your ass is mine.” They both chuckled at how cheesy that sounded.' You and me, both! 😣😣
I couldn't help chuckling at those few instances where they knew just how corny they were with each other, but still couldn't help themselves. And good golly, those sex scenes! I wanted to love them, I really did, but I just couldn't take some parts of it, too seriously! 😅 I loved it when Caleb was simply just letting Ryan feel overwhelmed by his touch alone, but when it was supposed to be hawt and get me all flustered, I walked away feeling amused, instead. It's not the act, itself, it's the rather tasteful imagery that makes me laugh - in a nice way, I guess. 🥲
“His heart raced; his breathing picked up. “Christ, why does this feel so good?” It was only touching, only kissing, but Ryan was mesmerized, overwhelmed by sensation.
“Because I’m good.”
“Conceited.”
“Shh. I’m concentrating.”
I will have to mention that it did slightly bother me at how quickly adamant Ryan was for getting his groove on with Caleb - that insatiable thirst that had been unlocked just by Caleb's fervent touches and gentle caresses. But, I can understand that once you have a taste of a forbidden fruit or even something that you've never felt before - it is only natural to want more of it. 'I want you all the time…and it’s more than just physical. It’s everything else, but right now…right now I really want to make love to you, Caleb. Show me how to make love to you.' 🫡 So, as much as it felt off to me - it did feel right for him and Caleb was more than willing to give it to him. And if there came a time where it wouldn't bother me as such - Riley H. would be a tour de force in my books. 😊
“You came here looking for something, but I didn’t know anything was missing until you. But we both found what we needed in each other. I wouldn’t even have known how empty my life was until you came to fill it.”
Always a pleasure to see how Shane and Van still happy and crazily smitten with one another. I'm glad Shane and Caleb got closure to their friendship, past and I appreciated how supportive the two of them were to the renewed change in Caleb and Ryan's relationship status, despite how uncertain they were to how they would react.. Last Chance isn't only about second chances - it is about finding the final chance at life - for making a place for themselves, with the people that you love. The bonus epilogue was cheesilicious - I kid you not! 😅 But, Shane and Van deserved their happily ever after, heck, this whole town is about getting that second chance so that it can be their last chance at finding love and the hope for a safe and secure happiness. And luckily for Caleb and Ryan, they were able to find that with each other. 🤍🤍
“You feel right. It’s like everything was black and white and now I’m seeing in color. Like I was just an outline and you somehow colored me in.”
If I could get over Riley Hart's more often than not slightly over-the-top writing that is too much for my delicate reading sensibilities at times, along with sex scenes that are described with a little too much cringe, I think she and I would have a great future together. 😔 It surprises me how my first ever read of hers - The Loner, was in fact a five star read, so I can only assume that I was either too oblivious to how much I overlooked, or I seriously just lucked out that one time. But, I will say that she has the ability to write creative and original ideas that only fall short, because of my own personal preference in writing style and tone. Color Me in was a special read for how unique the dynamic of Caleb and Ryan felt to me that I genuinely appreciate the thoughtfulness that went behind it. 🩷
“Those things were silly, such small details, but life was made of small details. It was those little things that created something bigger.
Life had a way of pulling the rug out from under you; loss had a way of slipping in at your happiest and snatching your peace.”
It starts simply enough with two broken souls who are as different as their preference in food tastes bond with their late night-early morning diner visits, as they fight off their respective insomnia. And somehow whilst their heartfelt exchanges of candid truths and heartfelt honesty, a tentative friendship of comfort and ease settles between the two - something that Caleb didn't expect he'd find when he turned home to Last Chance, nor did Ryan think he could ever find someone again who he could share his heart with. How they recognized in the other someone who understood the depths to their loneliness and their desire for a heartfelt connection. 'Yeah…yeah, I know you do. Somehow, you get me.' 🥺🥺 For the two of them have their own fair of secrets that they haven't yet revealed - especially for Ryan. Something that may be the one thing that makes or breaks their future for themselves. It is that hopeful and heartwarming journey to get to the point where it won't be that issue - something that Ryan learns about himself and Caleb in turn learns about him is what really left a palpable impact on me. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
There are two significant factors of their romance that really hit me hard with me. For Caleb, who has had so much more experience with sex, could be the one to open Ryan's heart and mind to better understand his own sexuality - about why he has never felt comfortable about having sex, but with one person, how he felt that he was broken, a burden that he has carried for so long until Caleb explained it to him as gently as possible, thus opening awakening within him a primal need of want, but still feeling insecure about his own inexperience and vulnerabilities. 'I can’t promise I’ll be perfect, that I won’t stumble. I’m still getting comfortable in my skin, but…all I know is, being with you…it feels right.' ❤️🩹❤️🩹 The gentle intimate way in which Caleb admitted and acted upon his attraction for Ryan, holding back as in not to overwhelm him or make him feel compelled to admit their status change, despite how much he just wanted to give in - he made Ryan worthy of being loved, when nothing about himself made sense until they met. 🫂
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Ryan asked. “Did I say something wrong?”
“No.” Caleb shook his head. “You said something right. This isn’t a performance for me either.”
And the second was how colors, itself, played a part, itself, in the narrative - uff, the subtle way it captured their emotions - how the author described how they breathed color into their dull worlds - I really liked it. Not to quote Lizzie McGuire, but their love can truly be captured with these lyrics 'Yesterday my life was duller/ Now everything's technicolor'. 🥰🌈 As cheesy as it sounds, I adored the way Riley H. portrayed how the bleakness of their lives changed when they were together, especially in the throes of passion. How often have I read that people see stars or there is a blinding white, but how she captured it - 'he saw nothing but color, felt his body quiver and tingle and damn near burst' - really blew me away. Because it felt real - it felt so vivid and honest that I could feel Ryan's heart being overwhelmed with the outpouring of affection and trust that Caleb gave him - how honored Caleb felt to be the one to make Ryan feel - 'he wanted to be the one to show him everything.'. 🥹🥹
I enjoyed the sweetness and honesty of their friendship. How they steadily became closer, how Caleb saw in Ryan the missing part of himself, those silly, but affectionate endearments they called each other. Caleb has his own broken past - a colorful past he is not exactly ashamed of, but would make others wary of him. 'Start over. Rediscover who he was and what he wanted. He’d done it over and over, and now? Now he wanted to settle.' The fact that the two of them trusted each other with their darkest parts - the secrets that they had kept buried for so long - proved to both of them how they had changed each other - how affected they were by knowing each other. The ending was a cathartic one that beautifully brought their love for each other to a finality that made them firmly believe that what they had was true. 🥺
“I want to make you feel good.”
“You will. I’ve been dying to have you inside me.”
“I’ve been dying to be there,” Ryan countered.
“So we’re basically saving two lives tonight.”
I can't! 😭😭 There were moments where I was so moved by the emotional and insightful depth to the writing - how Riley H. captured the loneliness and the heartbreak of Ryan's past - how Caleb felt so confused and guilt-ridden about his questionable status in Ryan's heart - that beautiful and tender scene where Ryan bared his feelings afresh to Caleb. But, then there are times where the dialogue and the writing is so ridiculously corny and so very cringe-y that I can't help but laugh, even when I'm not supposed to. It's not about bringing levity to the scene, it just feels so silly that I can't take it seriously. 'Just for a minute, then your ass is mine.” They both chuckled at how cheesy that sounded.' You and me, both! 😣😣
I couldn't help chuckling at those few instances where they knew just how corny they were with each other, but still couldn't help themselves. And good golly, those sex scenes! I wanted to love them, I really did, but I just couldn't take some parts of it, too seriously! 😅 I loved it when Caleb was simply just letting Ryan feel overwhelmed by his touch alone, but when it was supposed to be hawt and get me all flustered, I walked away feeling amused, instead. It's not the act, itself, it's the rather tasteful imagery that makes me laugh - in a nice way, I guess. 🥲
“His heart raced; his breathing picked up. “Christ, why does this feel so good?” It was only touching, only kissing, but Ryan was mesmerized, overwhelmed by sensation.
“Because I’m good.”
“Conceited.”
“Shh. I’m concentrating.”
I will have to mention that it did slightly bother me at how quickly adamant Ryan was for getting his groove on with Caleb - that insatiable thirst that had been unlocked just by Caleb's fervent touches and gentle caresses. But, I can understand that once you have a taste of a forbidden fruit or even something that you've never felt before - it is only natural to want more of it. 'I want you all the time…and it’s more than just physical. It’s everything else, but right now…right now I really want to make love to you, Caleb. Show me how to make love to you.' 🫡 So, as much as it felt off to me - it did feel right for him and Caleb was more than willing to give it to him. And if there came a time where it wouldn't bother me as such - Riley H. would be a tour de force in my books. 😊
“You came here looking for something, but I didn’t know anything was missing until you. But we both found what we needed in each other. I wouldn’t even have known how empty my life was until you came to fill it.”
Always a pleasure to see how Shane and Van still happy and crazily smitten with one another. I'm glad Shane and Caleb got closure to their friendship, past and I appreciated how supportive the two of them were to the renewed change in Caleb and Ryan's relationship status, despite how uncertain they were to how they would react.. Last Chance isn't only about second chances - it is about finding the final chance at life - for making a place for themselves, with the people that you love. The bonus epilogue was cheesilicious - I kid you not! 😅 But, Shane and Van deserved their happily ever after, heck, this whole town is about getting that second chance so that it can be their last chance at finding love and the hope for a safe and secure happiness. And luckily for Caleb and Ryan, they were able to find that with each other. 🤍🤍
February 25, 2018
"...I spent most of my life seeing in black and white. Hell, maybe all of it, and now, with him, there's color, He colored me in."
I love Riley Hart's books, with her amazing character, deep emotions, and tantalizing tales. Ryan's been a mechanic at Shane's Garage for awhile. Caleb is back in his hometown and meets Ryan, at the all night diner; each man is dealing with insomnia. They talk, bond, become friends.
Ryan has had it rough, divorced and dealing with his baby's death. Caleb also had hard times with his past mistakes, and parent's passing.
He's ready to face Shane, his high school crush, when Caleb was taken away. Shane has moved on and they will be friends. The past is tough to overcome.
We learn about "demisexual" needs, and our men move slowly from friends to lovers. First time m/m sex for Ryan and these two aren't shy with their sexy times, using raw dirty talk, too.
Deeply moving characters, an intense, low angst tale, and the progression is believable.
Acceptance, bravery, plus tender love. When an emergency hits, Caleb is side by side with Ryan.
ENJOY !
=====
I love Riley Hart's books, with her amazing character, deep emotions, and tantalizing tales. Ryan's been a mechanic at Shane's Garage for awhile. Caleb is back in his hometown and meets Ryan, at the all night diner; each man is dealing with insomnia. They talk, bond, become friends.
Ryan has had it rough, divorced and dealing with his baby's death. Caleb also had hard times with his past mistakes, and parent's passing.
He's ready to face Shane, his high school crush, when Caleb was taken away. Shane has moved on and they will be friends. The past is tough to overcome.
We learn about "demisexual" needs, and our men move slowly from friends to lovers. First time m/m sex for Ryan and these two aren't shy with their sexy times, using raw dirty talk, too.
Deeply moving characters, an intense, low angst tale, and the progression is believable.
Acceptance, bravery, plus tender love. When an emergency hits, Caleb is side by side with Ryan.
ENJOY !
=====
August 19, 2019
3.5 stars rounded to 3.
I shouldn't binge read these books. They all start to blur. This one wasn't as good as the others I've read by this author bc it just seemed
1) preachy - like, educational. Thanks for telling me about demisexuals... like 20 times! Thanks for hammering the point that gay porn stars can also have soft and mushy sides that crave real love.
2) it was boring in the beginning. I skipped a bunch of pages.
3) there's a part of me after reading #1 that felt like Caleb and Shane could have been great together. The whole best friends, first loves, pulled apart by hate and fate. So it soured the sudden relationship between Caleb and Ryan... I felt like they were "leftovers" from Shane and Van.
There you go.
I shouldn't binge read these books. They all start to blur. This one wasn't as good as the others I've read by this author bc it just seemed
1) preachy - like, educational. Thanks for telling me about demisexuals... like 20 times! Thanks for hammering the point that gay porn stars can also have soft and mushy sides that crave real love.
2) it was boring in the beginning. I skipped a bunch of pages.
3) there's a part of me after reading #1 that felt like Caleb and Shane could have been great together. The whole best friends, first loves, pulled apart by hate and fate. So it soured the sudden relationship between Caleb and Ryan... I felt like they were "leftovers" from Shane and Van.
There you go.
February 3, 2018
3.75 stars.
Color Me In started off REALLY slow for me, unfortunately. And that changed how much I enjoyed the book. I really felt like Riley was trying a bit too hard at being funny(?) or something but it wasn't quite going the way she wanted too.
And that was a bit disappointing because I really was looking forward to Ryan and Caleb's story. Thankfully, the second have was where it picked up some. And it was definitely got a lot hotter.
I did like how well they seem to fit together. And their thoughts were just adorable. How they were just thinking the same thing. Caleb and Ryan were like Yin and Yang. There also wasn't any over the top drama which I really appreciated.
I'm excited to see what the next book in the series brings us, hoping that there is one.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
"When you change someone's life without trying...by just being, that's when you know it's really something..."
Color Me In started off REALLY slow for me, unfortunately. And that changed how much I enjoyed the book. I really felt like Riley was trying a bit too hard at being funny(?) or something but it wasn't quite going the way she wanted too.
And that was a bit disappointing because I really was looking forward to Ryan and Caleb's story. Thankfully, the second have was where it picked up some. And it was definitely got a lot hotter.
The man who had come into his life in the most unexpected way was his rock, his best friend, his lover.
I did like how well they seem to fit together. And their thoughts were just adorable. How they were just thinking the same thing. Caleb and Ryan were like Yin and Yang. There also wasn't any over the top drama which I really appreciated.
I'm excited to see what the next book in the series brings us, hoping that there is one.
"...But sometimes those curve balls turn out to be the best things that could ever happen to us."
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2018
3.5 stars
The rating for this one is my fault, I think. When I read the first I felt like there was so much we didn't know about Caleb that I was dying to know. I waited for this book and when I read it... it was ok. So yeah, I had high expectations. The book is good though, very entertaining. very Riley, if you like her work, then you are definitely going to enjoy this.
ohh and before I forget, there's ace representation! so that was a win.
I'm curious if there are going to be more books and about the characters because I can't think of anyone.
The rating for this one is my fault, I think. When I read the first I felt like there was so much we didn't know about Caleb that I was dying to know. I waited for this book and when I read it... it was ok. So yeah, I had high expectations. The book is good though, very entertaining. very Riley, if you like her work, then you are definitely going to enjoy this.
ohh and before I forget, there's ace representation! so that was a win.
I'm curious if there are going to be more books and about the characters because I can't think of anyone.
January 26, 2018
As much as I loved Depth of Field there was something just as charming about this second in the series as well, albeit in a different way. I absolutely loved the slow burn--and actually appreciated it given the storyline and the things that Ryan needed to discover about himself first. And when they finally get together--the one scene with the hands and the face (I won't spoil it)--but SWOON! I adored this book.
February 3, 2018
This Last Chance series gets better and better. This couple was so sweet... I loved how Caleb was with Ryan, never pushing him and being a sweetheart with him. But Ryan was my fav, so innocent and such a good guy.
On the one hand these two were the same and then, on the other, their life experiences couldn’t be more different.
Angst free and hot. I’m a happy girl.
On the one hand these two were the same and then, on the other, their life experiences couldn’t be more different.
Angst free and hot. I’m a happy girl.
February 4, 2018
I’m all for hearts and flowers at the moment and this continues the vibe ! This was a beautiful story - Caleb returning home after a harsh few years and Ryan not knowing what direction to take as life kept throwing curveballs. The elements of friendship, empathy and respect was strong and Caleb was adorable as he supported Ryan through his new feelings. Really enjoyed the warmth of this one❤️
June 14, 2022
“So, you’re demi. There’s nothing wrong with that.”
“I’m what?” Ryan asked, still sitting on the fucking bathroom floor.
Caleb stepped inside, sat down on the opposite wall, and said, “Demisexual. Do you not know what that is?” Ryan shook his head. Demisexual? There was a name for him? — Caleb and Ryan
May 2022 reread: All praise the motherfucking unicorn, which is a book with a demisexual main. even if this was read as part of an aspec run, including at least one other unicorn.. Upon first reading Color Me In left me with an overwhelming and unshakable affection for Caleb White. Additionally, I have always remembered Ryan Daily as a demi with an ex-wife but not the detail, I forgot so much of the detail in this. And oh those details make Color Me In. I forgot how commonly and easily these two fall into positive possessive behaviours, their adorable dynamic (the same but just a little different) I forgot the importance of watching, of Ryan's voyeuristic streak. Caleb isn't an exhibitionist, despite having worked in the adult entertainment industry. But he does take joy in the expressions on Ryan's face, the pleasure he takes from Caleb's acts. Honestly, it was a joy to come back to this book, to rediscover them, to fall in love with it all over again. It really didn't lose anything on the reread.
Caleb and Ryan's is a dynamic that I haven't seen written in other books. Their physical intimacy is no less intense, it might be more intense to read because of Ryan's demi status. All their physical intimacy is fed by their emotional bond, it's a feedback loop that relays on trust. As I read more aspec works I'm finding that Ryan does feels a little two-dimensional as representation but it is still there, the fight for nuance can wait until the term is broadly recognised. But what I do truly appreciate is the inclusion of a brief discussion on the idea of passing. Passing is easier for aspecs, something my generation did without knowing for much of our adolescence and young adulthood but we still shouldn't have to.
There are some brilliant lines in this book that I will include in the review as is my way now.• “Seriously, Shane. Maxwell fucking Sullivan?” he said again. “You gotta let me know how that happened. And God, he’s fucking gorgeous.”
Shane laughed. “No shit. Half the time, I can’t believe he’s mine.” — (Caleb and Shane) The way Caleb deals with Shane and Van just makes me laugh. It could have been a trainwreck but they all just fall in together. Caleb accepts Shane's judgement. And yeah Van is fucking stunning
• He’d needed a change something fierce. It was why he came. He’d lived a lot of life since he’d left Last Chance—loneliness, denial, depression, suicide attempt, prison, the death of his parents, college, porn… The list went on. Caleb couldn’t help but wonder if he would fit here now, if there would be a space for him—especially if people knew his past—but the truth was, he was pretty good at carving his own space. — (Caleb) This is why I like Caleb. Caleb is brutally honest with himself (even while he likes to others) and like Van he is aware of what he's done how that made him who he is. Though unlike Van he does carry shame at some of his adult actions, a counterpoint to Van's childhood bully regret
• “Not saying that. Just an observation. You should always take time to enjoy things.” Ryan cocked his head slightly. Yes, he agreed with Caleb, but most people didn’t speak the way he did; they didn’t just make statements like that, and they sure didn’t live them. Something about Caleb told Ryan that he did—that he walked the walk, but maybe he hadn’t always, and he’d learned from it. — (Caleb (the spoken words) and Ryan (the thoughts)) Yes! This is what makes Caleb so interesting to me. He's a flawed but lovable fictional man that I could easily fall in love with. He's lonely af but still a gentleman despite or maybe in spite of his past.
• “I was wrong? You’re not bi? Huh…I’m not wrong very often. Strange.” — (Van) This is Van who thinks Ryan is bi or bicurious, at least with some kind of interest in men. Something he denies. Van is a cocky guy and yeah he wasn't wrong. Ryan is a biromantic demisexual.
• “I’m not sure, if I’m being honest. It felt right. It’s not something I should keep from friends. I’ve never been in trouble since. I got out at twenty-two, off probation at twenty-five. I’m not that man. I was never that man, Ryan. I just lost myself for a bit.” — (Caleb) There is something interesting in this phrase choice. It feels like he heard it in counselling or read it in a book and took it to heart. Made it a touchstone.
• “Well, there’s one thing we’re different in. You were a fucking porn star, and I don’t even enjoy sex.” — (Ryan)
[[“How fucked up is that? What kind of man doesn’t like sex? Actually, that’s a lie. I’m a liar. Liar, liar, liar. I loved sex with my ex-wife, craved it all the time. That’s the only time, though. Otherwise, I don’t want it, don’t feel attracted to anyone. Looks like it wasn’t the cookies that were broken; it’s me.”
Caleb’s pulse slammed so hard in his ears that he thought it should be hard to hear Ryan…only it wasn’t. He was loud and fucking clear. Despite the laughter in Ryan’s voice, Caleb only heard the pain, the confusion, the fact that he really fucking thought something was wrong with him. “That doesn’t mean you’re broken," — (Ryan and Caleb)]]
“There’s nothing wrong with you, Sweet Tooth. You’re not broken. You’re not less of a man, if that’s what you’re thinking. You just feel attraction differently.” — (Caleb)These three are triplet quotes from Ryan near accidental coming out while high (which you know helluva way to do it). It is a moment. It is heartbreaking there is just so much pain here Ryan is so confused. Caleb is so strong and knows the natural nature of Ryan's sexuality which he has just been taught is wrong makes him broken.
• “Did you like it?” Ryan asked.
“I did—outside of the fucking too. I think sex can be empowering. Shit, I didn’t mean…”
“Don’t do that. Don’t walk on eggshells around me. I know what you meant. I’m a big boy. I’m not going to take offense.” — (Ryan and Caleb) Okay so Caleb worked in the adult entertainment industry, this is about his experience. I love this though it's so positive. Both to the adult entertainment industry and to Ryans sexuality.
• Experience isn’t always living. Living is knowing who you are and what you want. — (Caleb) This is an important quote in the context of the couple. Caleb is comfortable in his own skin, he knows who he is. Ryan, Ryan does not, this is the lesson he needs to learn
• “I don’t know what I want you to do here either. I just… You feel good. Your touch does, and I haven’t had a lot of that—touch that makes me feel this way.” — (Ryan) Touch starvation is not uncommon with fictional aspecs. I'm beginning to this that transfers to the real world too. Especially in the west, I think it's a cultural thing.
• His whole body was oversensitive, like he was a livewire, thrashing around, and would catch fire at any moment. — (Ryan) This is another thing I had totally wiped from my memory banks. There is a scene of almost full-blown body worship. That is something I really wish more people wrote. It's a helluva thing.
Read for Dymocks 2022 Reading Challenge. Filling the prompt: "Re-read a Favourite"
Not going to lie Riley Hart is one of my favourite authors, she character builds and builds emotions like no other. Color Me In is one of my faves of hers. It stuck with me, it is so rare to find anyone on the ace spectrum written well for adults, rarer still to find a demi/grey written well at all. While I did re-read specifically for this prompt see also 🦄 but it's been in my re-read pile for what feels like an age.
Firstly, I said I got Color Rush vibes, this is from Color Rush, I would have used the color rush of the title but it doesn't fit. Secondly, Jesus Christ as a reread write-up this was long.
“Demi is…” ... “It’s on the asexual spectrum—only, those who are asexual don’t feel physical attraction. People who are demi do, but they have to form an emotional attachment first. Once you feel that emotional connection, the rest comes with it. I’m assuming that’s what happened with your wife?” ... “There’s nothing wrong with you, Sweet Tooth. You’re not broken. You’re not less of a man, if that’s what you’re thinking. You just feel attraction differently.” - Caleb White
Color Me In picks up where Depth of Field left off, not so much in plot but in thematic strength. Caleb and Ryan deal with sexuality and sexual awakenings, grief, self, honesty, intimacy, connection. For people who enjoyed that there is much here to be enjoyed, moments with Shane and Van and there is the expected similarity in the writing. For fans of m/m this is a series I can't recommend enough, it manages to be beautiful, intelligent and seriously dirty.
The first scene in Color Me In is Caleb with the protagonists of Depth of Field, Shane and Van. It's not awkward, or as awkward as it could have been given the time that has passed, the pain that was inflicted on Shane. Caleb and Ryan's first meeting is my kind of first meeting, intimate, teasing and playful. They are in a 24-hour diner at 1am bonding over insomnia, insomnia cures and a mutual love of Chargers.
Caleb and Ryan are incredibly attractive, physically and psychologically. Caleb especially. After the life, he has lived there would be justification for him to have lost some of his humanity, but he is so human. After finding out that Ryan is a demi, has a degree of self-loathing about it and is relatively inexperienced he leads some of the most caring but seriously hot intimate scenes I've ever read. Their smut scenes are fire, all are different, all are hot as hell. I honestly spent a lot of time muttering fuck that's hot.
To me Ryan is an important character in general. He's a demisexual. Demi's are rare in this sort of writing. Ryan has a massive amount of baggage over who he is. As an Ace he is quite relatable, that feeling of being broken is a thought virtually anyone on the ace/demi spectrum has had, even if the thought was fleeting.
There is a bonus story which I adored. Shane proposes to Van is the best way possible for their relationship. There is a camera and not many clothes involved.
It’s like everything was black and white and now I’m seeing in color. Like I was just an outline and you somehow colored me in. - Ryan DailyMy reading experience in a gif:
(Praise be the demisexual protagonist.)
April 9, 2018
I enjoyed this one.
Caleb, the friend that Shane talks about in the first book who was taken away by his family one day, finally returns to Last Chance, to start his life over, in a way, and get back his friendship with Shane. What he isn't expecting is Ryan, who he meets in the 24-hour diner in town late one night because they both have insomnia and can't sleep.
Ryan, Shane's friend and coworker at the car shop from book one, believes he's straight, because he has an ex-wife who he loved and was attracted to. And while Caleb notices Ryan and thinks he's cute and good looking, Ryan doesn't notice that about Caleb at first.
But turns out that that is because Ryan is demisexual, but he and Caleb don't find out after well into their friendship. This whole time, Ryan thought he was broken because he'd never really been attracted to people before his ex-wife or interested in sex. But he thought he was "cured" with his ex, until they divorced and he hasn't felt that sexual spark again. Until Caleb.
I liked these two together. It was a little slow going, but that is understandable because Ryan had to feel an emotional connection to Caleb before he thought of him sexually or romantically. It just took me a bit to get into, though. The chemistry was on a low simmer for these two throughout for me. I didn't quite get as much sizzle and passion and sexual tension as with Shane and Van, but I still enjoyed them together. They were cute and adorable and hot at times.
I did love reading about Ryan discovering how good sex with a man could be for the first time.
This has fairly low angst (as more Riley Hart books do, and I love her books for that fact. Some times low-angst is sorely needed!) but what angst there is didn't feel manufactured, and we get to that wonderful HEA by the end (and get a bonus chapter with Shane and Van, woot woot!).
I very much enjoyed this second installment, and hope there is more to come! (although I have no idea who the next couple would be in this series). Definitely recommend! :D
Caleb, the friend that Shane talks about in the first book who was taken away by his family one day, finally returns to Last Chance, to start his life over, in a way, and get back his friendship with Shane. What he isn't expecting is Ryan, who he meets in the 24-hour diner in town late one night because they both have insomnia and can't sleep.
Ryan, Shane's friend and coworker at the car shop from book one, believes he's straight, because he has an ex-wife who he loved and was attracted to. And while Caleb notices Ryan and thinks he's cute and good looking, Ryan doesn't notice that about Caleb at first.
But turns out that that is because Ryan is demisexual, but he and Caleb don't find out after well into their friendship. This whole time, Ryan thought he was broken because he'd never really been attracted to people before his ex-wife or interested in sex. But he thought he was "cured" with his ex, until they divorced and he hasn't felt that sexual spark again. Until Caleb.
I liked these two together. It was a little slow going, but that is understandable because Ryan had to feel an emotional connection to Caleb before he thought of him sexually or romantically. It just took me a bit to get into, though. The chemistry was on a low simmer for these two throughout for me. I didn't quite get as much sizzle and passion and sexual tension as with Shane and Van, but I still enjoyed them together. They were cute and adorable and hot at times.
I did love reading about Ryan discovering how good sex with a man could be for the first time.
This has fairly low angst (as more Riley Hart books do, and I love her books for that fact. Some times low-angst is sorely needed!) but what angst there is didn't feel manufactured, and we get to that wonderful HEA by the end (and get a bonus chapter with Shane and Van, woot woot!).
I very much enjoyed this second installment, and hope there is more to come! (although I have no idea who the next couple would be in this series). Definitely recommend! :D
March 4, 2018
Delightful!
How refreshing to read a book with a demisexual MC! This was a delicious burning read that made connection and touch more important that sex—not that there wasn’t plenty of that!
This is the second book in the Last Chance series, and could conceivably be read as a standalone, but the first book is great, so why would you?
Caleb comes back to town after years away shocked to find that his first love and best friend is now head over heels for his high school bully (story from first book). Caleb is lost and quite alone in the world. His insomnia leads him to meet fellow insomniac, Ryan at the all night dinner. A connection sparks between them and thus begins the story of Caleb and Ryan, two empty individuals who end up “coloring” the other back to life.
Low angst and a solid HEA, plus a Van and Shane bonus scene.
How refreshing to read a book with a demisexual MC! This was a delicious burning read that made connection and touch more important that sex—not that there wasn’t plenty of that!
This is the second book in the Last Chance series, and could conceivably be read as a standalone, but the first book is great, so why would you?
Caleb comes back to town after years away shocked to find that his first love and best friend is now head over heels for his high school bully (story from first book). Caleb is lost and quite alone in the world. His insomnia leads him to meet fellow insomniac, Ryan at the all night dinner. A connection sparks between them and thus begins the story of Caleb and Ryan, two empty individuals who end up “coloring” the other back to life.
Low angst and a solid HEA, plus a Van and Shane bonus scene.
October 10, 2018
I liked it but there were no surprises.
February 4, 2018
Another great book from the Last Chance series. This book spoke to me, in large part, because I am a touch whore. When I am in relationships, I crave touch. And affection. And kinky sex doesn't hurt. :)
So as you might gather, any book that has all three instantly gets a high rating for me. I really enjoyed seeing Ryan and Caleb's relationship blossom. I also enjoyed watching those first tendrils of lust and curiosity bloom into full-seated passion. And I appreciated how moments of angst weren't so drawn out or so angsty--instead, they offered a brief, but not overwhelming respite, from the sweetness of the story underneath.
On a side note, I also liked how Riley Hart created a character (Ryan) who wasn't your typical MC. Without spoiling anything, his sexual orientation is slightly atypical and it was refreshing to read a story that featured a character like him.
Fans of Riley Hart can rest easy--if you enjoyed her other books, you should enjoy this one as well. Recommended!
So as you might gather, any book that has all three instantly gets a high rating for me. I really enjoyed seeing Ryan and Caleb's relationship blossom. I also enjoyed watching those first tendrils of lust and curiosity bloom into full-seated passion. And I appreciated how moments of angst weren't so drawn out or so angsty--instead, they offered a brief, but not overwhelming respite, from the sweetness of the story underneath.
On a side note, I also liked how Riley Hart created a character (Ryan) who wasn't your typical MC. Without spoiling anything, his sexual orientation is slightly atypical and it was refreshing to read a story that featured a character like him.
Fans of Riley Hart can rest easy--if you enjoyed her other books, you should enjoy this one as well. Recommended!
January 15, 2019
4.5 Stars. Another really, really good book from a consistently good author. The dirty talk in this one was on point as well as the character development, chemistry and storytelling. And the author was deft in adding in Shane and Van in ways that were easy to reconnect with them but also didn't over power Caleb and Ryan at all.
Looking forward to whatever the author writes next.
Looking forward to whatever the author writes next.
January 5, 2019
Neyse ki umutlarım boşa çıkmadı. İlk kitaba göre çok daha güzeldi.
September 5, 2022
I don't know why but from the first moment I started reading this book I was completely in love, there is something in the way so casual and at the same time so normal in which Ryan and Caleb connected that moved my heart a lot, I love when things so normal like watching tv takes on another meaning of intimacy between two people, the chemistry between these two was mindblowing, how little by little they got closer, and accepted each other as they were is a wonderful thing, I am completely in love with this book, I carry it with me on my heart and it will become indispensable for me, I really can't explain it, this book is simply a work of art.
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no se porque pero desde el primer momento que comenze a leer este libro yo estaba completamente enamorada , hay algo en la forma tan casual y a la vez tan normal en la que Ryan y Caleb conectaron que me movio mucho el corazon , amo cuando cosas tan cotidianas como ver tv toma otro significado de intimidad entre dos personas , la quimica entre estos dos fue mindblowing , como poco a poco se acercaron , y se aceptaron tal cual eran es una cosa maravillosa , yo estoyc ompletamente enamorada de este libro , lo llevo en mi corazon y se volvera un indispensable para mi , de verdad no puedo explicarlo este libro es simplemente una obra de arte.
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no se porque pero desde el primer momento que comenze a leer este libro yo estaba completamente enamorada , hay algo en la forma tan casual y a la vez tan normal en la que Ryan y Caleb conectaron que me movio mucho el corazon , amo cuando cosas tan cotidianas como ver tv toma otro significado de intimidad entre dos personas , la quimica entre estos dos fue mindblowing , como poco a poco se acercaron , y se aceptaron tal cual eran es una cosa maravillosa , yo estoyc ompletamente enamorada de este libro , lo llevo en mi corazon y se volvera un indispensable para mi , de verdad no puedo explicarlo este libro es simplemente una obra de arte.
January 30, 2018
3.5 stars
January 29, 2018
4.5 stars
This is my first full length book by Riley Hart and it was pretty damn fantastic. Two men meet by accident even though they have a mutual friend and strike up a friendship that goes through some ups and downs before they become platonic roommates and then more. There was real depth to this story, the characters were fully developed, and I liked the pacing of their relationship. With one man out and proud, and the other questioning his sexuality on many levels; Ms. Hart did a wonderful job of educating without being preachy and giving both characters time to grow and accept their new normal.
Caleb White has lived a hard life in the years since he was ripped out of Last Chance, Oregon after coming out to his parents. He’s not even sure why he decided to move back, purchase a house and he is especially not sure how to make amends with his then best friend and first gay encounter who still lives in town. Finding his friend happy and living with a man that bullied him is a bit surreal but he’s glad to have them both in his life. When he meets a man in the 24 hour diner one night he feels he’s met a kindred spirit, and while he feels the man is at the least bi-sexual; he isn’t ready to admit it.
Running from his old life and the heaviness that surrounded him, Ryan Dailey wound up in Last Chance and lucked into a job at a garage with a man he now considers a friend. All of his life Ryan felt a bit out of place and not like everyone until he met his now ex-wife, but that came to an end following a tragedy that tore them apart. On a night where he is fighting the insomnia that seems more prevalent every day, he meets Caleb; a man who confuses him, makes him smile with his quick wit, and makes him question so much.
This was truly a beautifully written story with the way Ms. Hart developed their friendship despite neither one being quite comfortable or sure in their feelings. There wasn’t any doubt that Caleb was attracted to Ryan physically, but he also felt at peace when he was around. Ryan struggled with how Caleb made him feel, but even he couldn’t deny that being around him made him feel comfortable and relaxed. I love the way that Caleb was able to help Ryan realize he was demi-sexual and while it was a part of the story, it wasn’t the focus. The relief Ryan felt when he realized he wasn’t “broken” and that there were other people like him in the world gave him the courage to admit he had feelings for Caleb.
With Ryan still working to accept his bisexuality there was a bit of angst and drama especially when he and Caleb must return to Ryan’s home when his father falls ill, but it wasn’t overblown and these two men communicated well throughout this book which kept things from ever getting out of hand between them.
This was a feel good romance chocked-full of spectacular intimate moments both in and out of the bedroom, characters that grab your heart, and an engaging plot. Color Me In was a delight to read and impossible to put down.
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