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Comfort Food
“I can't help unless you let me.”
“I might be alone, but at least I'm safe.”
Martin Painter has been a recluse since his parents died when he was seventeen. Sure, he has money and a sprawling house in an upscale neighborhood, but material things can't patch the holes in his heart. When his sister drags him to a charity auction, the last thing he expects to win is a date with a handsome stranger. He can feel the attraction starting, but it's pointless, isn't it? He's better off alone. He's too awkward for a platonic "date," let alone real love.
“Do you ever wonder if you made a wrong turn somewhere?”
Charity owner Travis Cole loves his work even if he misses the world of haute cuisine. But his charity is hemorrhaging money. He throws an auction to scrape together extra funds, and up on the auction block? Cooking lessons and a dinner with himself. He never thought the winner would be a man. And stranger still, he never expected to care so much about the soft-spoken, sad-eyed loner who won him.
“We've both got too much to lose, don't we?”
Martin isn't sure he's capable of love anymore. Travis isn't sure he's capable of loving a man. But they can't deny it: there's something between them as powerful as gravity, even if it's just a desire to help one another let go of the past. While Travis teaches Martin how to cook, can they teach each other to be happy?
Comfort Food is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers
“I might be alone, but at least I'm safe.”
Martin Painter has been a recluse since his parents died when he was seventeen. Sure, he has money and a sprawling house in an upscale neighborhood, but material things can't patch the holes in his heart. When his sister drags him to a charity auction, the last thing he expects to win is a date with a handsome stranger. He can feel the attraction starting, but it's pointless, isn't it? He's better off alone. He's too awkward for a platonic "date," let alone real love.
“Do you ever wonder if you made a wrong turn somewhere?”
Charity owner Travis Cole loves his work even if he misses the world of haute cuisine. But his charity is hemorrhaging money. He throws an auction to scrape together extra funds, and up on the auction block? Cooking lessons and a dinner with himself. He never thought the winner would be a man. And stranger still, he never expected to care so much about the soft-spoken, sad-eyed loner who won him.
“We've both got too much to lose, don't we?”
Martin isn't sure he's capable of love anymore. Travis isn't sure he's capable of loving a man. But they can't deny it: there's something between them as powerful as gravity, even if it's just a desire to help one another let go of the past. While Travis teaches Martin how to cook, can they teach each other to be happy?
Comfort Food is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers
209 pages, ebook
First published August 12, 2016
41 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Sierra Riley
31 books453 followersSierra Riley was born and raised in a small town where she spent all her time reading under trees before she moved to the Bay area to pursue her own love story.
She writes the kinds of books she loves to read: rollercoaster rides with happily-ever-afters. She's rarely at a loss for ideas, and credits her wonderfully supportive friends with helping her stories actually make it onto the page, as well as her husband and kids for giving her the chance to follow her dreams.
When Sierra isn't busy writing, she enjoys knitting, traveling, listening to the Pet Shop Boys, or just curling up with her dogs and cats and devouring a good book.
She writes the kinds of books she loves to read: rollercoaster rides with happily-ever-afters. She's rarely at a loss for ideas, and credits her wonderfully supportive friends with helping her stories actually make it onto the page, as well as her husband and kids for giving her the chance to follow her dreams.
When Sierra isn't busy writing, she enjoys knitting, traveling, listening to the Pet Shop Boys, or just curling up with her dogs and cats and devouring a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
September 14, 2016
Comfort Food was a very sweet book with adorable characters. It was fun reading about these two shy guys try out a relationship with one another and I liked how they were with one another. I wish there had been a little more to the story so their story was more apart of it. But overall, I enjoyed reading this.
August 25, 2016
* I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review. *
*gasping while being a sobbing, laughing mess*
Oh. My. God.
Why did I wait so long to start this? Stupid, idiot me!
Oooohhhhhhhh! I just LOVED this, like all hearts and glitter are surrounding me now as I type this. This was just... Delish! I savoured every morsel, every word, everything. I just fell in love with both Martin and Travis. In fact, Travis is now officially my bestest book boyfriend in the whole wide world. Only I know how hard I found to take my eyes off it when I had to do some much-needed chores. I literally wept inside. I have NOT loved a book like I loved this in sooo long that it feels like forever. I am just a puddle of emotions right now, literally a dreamy-sighing mess. I wish I could just meet the author (or, as I recently found out, the group of authors) right now and just gawk at them and worship them, really.
I am DEFINITELY going to reread it soon. And I'm soooo goddamn happy to say that, as I haven't read a book recently that I felt the desire to reread immediately after I was done with it.
My most favorite book by the author. <3
Oh! And my favorite line:
“And that smile, well, it shattered Travis’ heart into a thousand stupid, lovesick pieces every time he smiled it.”
*gasping while being a sobbing, laughing mess*
Oh. My. God.
Why did I wait so long to start this? Stupid, idiot me!
Oooohhhhhhhh! I just LOVED this, like all hearts and glitter are surrounding me now as I type this. This was just... Delish! I savoured every morsel, every word, everything. I just fell in love with both Martin and Travis. In fact, Travis is now officially my bestest book boyfriend in the whole wide world. Only I know how hard I found to take my eyes off it when I had to do some much-needed chores. I literally wept inside. I have NOT loved a book like I loved this in sooo long that it feels like forever. I am just a puddle of emotions right now, literally a dreamy-sighing mess. I wish I could just meet the author (or, as I recently found out, the group of authors) right now and just gawk at them and worship them, really.
I am DEFINITELY going to reread it soon. And I'm soooo goddamn happy to say that, as I haven't read a book recently that I felt the desire to reread immediately after I was done with it.
My most favorite book by the author. <3
Oh! And my favorite line:
“And that smile, well, it shattered Travis’ heart into a thousand stupid, lovesick pieces every time he smiled it.”
August 25, 2016
*** Here we have Travis, dark hair and eyes, Chef, and
CEO of The Good Plate charity, and he's straight.
*** Next is shorter, blonde with glasses, Martin, a financial wiz,
who can't rebound back into life since his parents tragic death. He raised his sister, and has pulled himself into exile and a social desert. How did these two meet? They actually run into each other at a charity auction. Eyes lock with confusion, questions, and clumsiness. Travis is straight. Travis also had a hard time from life, with no food, no security, but has driven himself to success as a Chef and runs the charity. The two saw each other again because Martin won the cooking classes and dinner from the auction, which he wanted for his sister. The lessons give the men a glimpse of one another, cooking together and slowly bonding. The relationship, friendship is SLOW moving, with lots of internal dialogue, understanding and acceptance. Travis figures Martin out and decides to go forward and see what happens. His feelings are strong for Martin, new territory, but not frightening. He embraces it, forms a deep bond and likes it.
Both men have overcome tragedy and have a new problem to solve together. Their sex was not the main event here; it was seldom, ( some kissing and a BJ) until 93 %, when it says they used up a half a box of condoms, but still haven't had sex. Confusing. Then Travis tops Martin for the first time. I wished there was more affection shown in between. The embezzlement took prime focus, and we were left to guess about the men.
Still... this is well written with interesting characters.
====================================
a generous free copy was given for an honest review.
====================================
CEO of The Good Plate charity, and he's straight.
*** Next is shorter, blonde with glasses, Martin, a financial wiz,
who can't rebound back into life since his parents tragic death. He raised his sister, and has pulled himself into exile and a social desert. How did these two meet? They actually run into each other at a charity auction. Eyes lock with confusion, questions, and clumsiness. Travis is straight. Travis also had a hard time from life, with no food, no security, but has driven himself to success as a Chef and runs the charity. The two saw each other again because Martin won the cooking classes and dinner from the auction, which he wanted for his sister. The lessons give the men a glimpse of one another, cooking together and slowly bonding. The relationship, friendship is SLOW moving, with lots of internal dialogue, understanding and acceptance. Travis figures Martin out and decides to go forward and see what happens. His feelings are strong for Martin, new territory, but not frightening. He embraces it, forms a deep bond and likes it.
Both men have overcome tragedy and have a new problem to solve together. Their sex was not the main event here; it was seldom, ( some kissing and a BJ) until 93 %, when it says they used up a half a box of condoms, but still haven't had sex. Confusing. Then Travis tops Martin for the first time. I wished there was more affection shown in between. The embezzlement took prime focus, and we were left to guess about the men.
Still... this is well written with interesting characters.
====================================
a generous free copy was given for an honest review.
====================================
August 14, 2016
Sierra Riley's books keep getting better and better! I really loved this one. I would say this is an opposites attract, GFY (gay for you), kind of romance.
Martin is a nerdy recluse that suffers from an anxiety disorder. He works from home and rarely leaves the house. He often holds back things he wants to say because he overthinks it too much or he freezes altogether. Travis is a trained chef that now runs a charity for the needy. He is a very caring person and once he realizes that Martin suffers from sever anxiety, is very understanding has a lot of patience.
This is one that I would definitely call a slow burn type of romance because they really take their time getting to know each other, and also because Travis is still questioning his sexuality. The "mystery" or conflict to this story was a little obvious from all of the foreshadowing, but I really didn't mind.
* I received an ARC of this title for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
Martin is a nerdy recluse that suffers from an anxiety disorder. He works from home and rarely leaves the house. He often holds back things he wants to say because he overthinks it too much or he freezes altogether. Travis is a trained chef that now runs a charity for the needy. He is a very caring person and once he realizes that Martin suffers from sever anxiety, is very understanding has a lot of patience.
This is one that I would definitely call a slow burn type of romance because they really take their time getting to know each other, and also because Travis is still questioning his sexuality. The "mystery" or conflict to this story was a little obvious from all of the foreshadowing, but I really didn't mind.
* I received an ARC of this title for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
August 19, 2016
Ok, I liked this one, although is very surreal xD 3.5*
Martin has a big social skill problem so barely left his house. Her sister, knowing this drag him to a Charity Auction dinner to socialize a bit. Travis , one of the organisers, is offering himself in a “cooking date” auction and Martin's sister trick him to make Martin get the date! Only to have some fun out of the house because Travis is straight. So.. NO REAL DATE here.
But Of course Travis start feeling more than a friendship for Martin , so he decide to slowly be open to his new founded bisexuality.
**VERY** Slow burn touches of fun and cute characters ♥
Also I liked the plot!! We have a small mystery here AND really really loved how is described Martin some anxiety issues. I feel very near.
Plus a superpretty HEA!
August 19, 2016
**)4.5 awesome stars.
.•.•*) .•*)
(.• (.•`*They met at an auction and cultivated their friendship into love.
"This all started with wine." Winning former Chef turned charity owner Travis Cole was not the thing Martin Painter would ever do. He would not even leave his house if not for his sister. But after losing their parents too young and taking on the parenting of Lisa, Martin had become withdrawn and anxious. He'd do anything for his sister, and this was one of those things. Now all he had to do was suffer through several cooking classes and he could go onto his regularly scheduled life.
Everything's not always so black and white, sometimes gray matter exudes.
Not having an easy childhood and seeing things from another spectrum led Travis to forming his own charity. Being able to get back into the kitchen he loved so much was even better. But finding out that his highest bidder was a man threw him of a bit. Identified as straight, Travis now found himself doing a lot of questioning the more he sorted Martin out. The man was an enigma and one Travis was eager to figure out.
Not asking for help but getting it anyway.
Travis and Martin found themselves getting closer. When an issue is found with the charity's books, it is Martin who gets to the bottom of things despite almost destroying the very thing they were building. With friendship on the line, the question becomes, would Martin be able to ask for forgiveness and would he accept that Travis wants the same thing as he does?
I enjoyed this book very much. Another GFY with suspense. It was easy to love Martin with all his neuroses. And Travis, with his easy acceptance when it came to himself and his sexuality, if not with his friends.
ARC provided by Author Sierra Riley in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
.•.•*) .•*)
(.• (.•`*They met at an auction and cultivated their friendship into love.
"This all started with wine." Winning former Chef turned charity owner Travis Cole was not the thing Martin Painter would ever do. He would not even leave his house if not for his sister. But after losing their parents too young and taking on the parenting of Lisa, Martin had become withdrawn and anxious. He'd do anything for his sister, and this was one of those things. Now all he had to do was suffer through several cooking classes and he could go onto his regularly scheduled life.
Everything's not always so black and white, sometimes gray matter exudes.
Not having an easy childhood and seeing things from another spectrum led Travis to forming his own charity. Being able to get back into the kitchen he loved so much was even better. But finding out that his highest bidder was a man threw him of a bit. Identified as straight, Travis now found himself doing a lot of questioning the more he sorted Martin out. The man was an enigma and one Travis was eager to figure out.
Not asking for help but getting it anyway.
Travis and Martin found themselves getting closer. When an issue is found with the charity's books, it is Martin who gets to the bottom of things despite almost destroying the very thing they were building. With friendship on the line, the question becomes, would Martin be able to ask for forgiveness and would he accept that Travis wants the same thing as he does?
I enjoyed this book very much. Another GFY with suspense. It was easy to love Martin with all his neuroses. And Travis, with his easy acceptance when it came to himself and his sexuality, if not with his friends.
ARC provided by Author Sierra Riley in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
August 19, 2016
Every time I pick up a book by this author they seem to get better and better. Comfort food is one of those books that I love. The romance was not a quick instant type thing, and I'm not saying I don't love those too, but I do adore hard won and hard fought loves. Martin and Travis on the surface didn't seem like they would have a chance in hell of ever getting together. The way Sierra Riley wrote this was perfect. These two opposites in every way imaginable some how managed to fit together like puzzle pieces. I truly loved the romance between them. The underlying plot was a nice one. It was a bit predictable, but that certainly didn't detract from the story nor did it keep me from wanting to read their story and find out what happens. I enjoyed this book so much and I think any who enjoy a wonderful romance will love it just as much as I did. I highly recommend it.
September 26, 2016
I seriously don't understand how this book has such a good overall rating. A waste of what could have been a good gfy, cherry popping book.
This one was Not.Good.At.All. With Sierra it's a hit and miss for me, but I think this is the worst one I read by her.
Inconsistencies all over the place, unlovable characters, zero connection, lack of development, meh secondary characters... You name it.
Martin is a nerdy recluse that barely speaks to Travis. Yet Travis, a supposedly hot straight guy, is (kinda?) attracted to him.
This one takes the prize for the most awkward first kiss ever (and the less hot too). Travis and his dry lips are still trying to decide if they liked it.
Travis attraction to Martin seemed lukewarm at best to me. I never felt passion between these two.
And Jezzzz, you don't want to get me started with their first I Love you's... Really???? WTH?
Terrible book. I skipped paragraphs. I barely finished it.
Do not recommend.
This is me with this book:
This one was Not.Good.At.All. With Sierra it's a hit and miss for me, but I think this is the worst one I read by her.
Inconsistencies all over the place, unlovable characters, zero connection, lack of development, meh secondary characters... You name it.
Martin is a nerdy recluse that barely speaks to Travis. Yet Travis, a supposedly hot straight guy, is (kinda?) attracted to him.
This one takes the prize for the most awkward first kiss ever (and the less hot too). Travis and his dry lips are still trying to decide if they liked it.
Travis attraction to Martin seemed lukewarm at best to me. I never felt passion between these two.
And Jezzzz, you don't want to get me started with their first I Love you's... Really???? WTH?
Terrible book. I skipped paragraphs. I barely finished it.
Do not recommend.
This is me with this book:
August 20, 2016
Really very good, much better than I expected. I don't know if all Sierra Riley's books are like this, or if I just got lucky on this one, but the writing style was excellent. It was a slow beginning, but I actually liked that. I enjoyed being inside the heads of both MCs. All the Bay Area details seemed realistic and right, and the sex scene toward the end was an absolute scorcher. I just wish we could have been in Martin's head a little more and felt his pleasure as the relationship heated up. Travis took over the narrative a bit, but that's OK. They were an adorable couple and their backgrounds dovetailed nicely.
A keeper that I might reread.
A keeper that I might reread.
January 6, 2019
Watching Travis and Martin fall in love is a pleasure. I love the food charity elements of this book and the slow hope that fills both heroes as they find a partner to share their lives.
There is a bit of a mystery that gets solved here. I would have liked more information on the motivation of villain but this element of the story caused a closeness and care between Travis and Martin which was lovely.
A good read.
There is a bit of a mystery that gets solved here. I would have liked more information on the motivation of villain but this element of the story caused a closeness and care between Travis and Martin which was lovely.
A good read.
September 16, 2016
KUing this. These books are like a guilty pleasure: sweet, fluffy, light, and hopeful :-)!! I'm not giving up ... I'm going to continue searching for another Sierra Riley book that I'll enjoy as much as, if not more than, Guardian!!
September 30, 2016
I liked this one a little more than I thought I would. I thought the cover and premise were pretty awful, but the characters and story itself were sweet. I had a hard time buying the GFY aspect though. Though the Martin and Travis did talk about what was going on in their heads, I just wasn't feeling the chemistry between the two. It felt a little forced.
The premise of a chef selling himself as a cooking instructor/date seemed annoying at first, but it grew on me. That's actually the part of the story I liked the most- seeing Travis slowly bringing Martin out of his shell. But it felt like too much of the book was hinging on UST, the resolution of which just left me going "meh." If you're looking for a super fluffy, nearly angstless read that's surprisingly less cheesy than it appears, this might be a good one.
The premise of a chef selling himself as a cooking instructor/date seemed annoying at first, but it grew on me. That's actually the part of the story I liked the most- seeing Travis slowly bringing Martin out of his shell. But it felt like too much of the book was hinging on UST, the resolution of which just left me going "meh." If you're looking for a super fluffy, nearly angstless read that's surprisingly less cheesy than it appears, this might be a good one.
August 21, 2016
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
Again a very different book by Sierra Riley - but also as great and awesome as Loud and Clear or the Someday series (Someday, Delicious, Falling)
In this book we had again very sensitive acting main character. Especially Martin deals with a kind of anxiety because of
Martin is a really sweet character, but underneath the shell of being invoiding people as much as he can, he is a sweet, kind soul.
Travis - chef of a charity company and passionate chef de cuisine - is staight - or at least he thinks so. Being forced to have several "dates" with Martin - because he won the donation and so the meetings (which include cooking lessons) - he learns what lies beneath the surface of the shy and timid character. And his attraction grows.
It's very natural how
It's also great to see how two pieces are fitting so well together. They complete each other really good and it's awesome to see Martin to thaw a bit. :)
Although there is very less sex the story isn't boring or the emotion aren's palpable. On the contrary, the pace seems totally fine and the person's behaviour is fitting nice and slow.
A little thrill contains the story with Travis' co-worker. It's really interesting how the own suspections about him are fitting.
The end is really sweet and a HEA is guaranteed. :)
If you like to read a story about main character who are dealing with their own problems - some they both have in common but yet it's so differnt - has his/her perfect book. Also if you love sensitive, kind and caring character like Travis and Martin who are totally sweet together.
I give the story wholeheartly 5 out of 5 stars. :)
Again a very different book by Sierra Riley - but also as great and awesome as Loud and Clear or the Someday series (Someday, Delicious, Falling)
In this book we had again very sensitive acting main character. Especially Martin deals with a kind of anxiety because of
Martin is a really sweet character, but underneath the shell of being invoiding people as much as he can, he is a sweet, kind soul.
Travis - chef of a charity company and passionate chef de cuisine - is staight - or at least he thinks so. Being forced to have several "dates" with Martin - because he won the donation and so the meetings (which include cooking lessons) - he learns what lies beneath the surface of the shy and timid character. And his attraction grows.
It's very natural how
It's also great to see how two pieces are fitting so well together. They complete each other really good and it's awesome to see Martin to thaw a bit. :)
Although there is very less sex the story isn't boring or the emotion aren's palpable. On the contrary, the pace seems totally fine and the person's behaviour is fitting nice and slow.
A little thrill contains the story with Travis' co-worker. It's really interesting how the own suspections about him are fitting.
The end is really sweet and a HEA is guaranteed. :)
If you like to read a story about main character who are dealing with their own problems - some they both have in common but yet it's so differnt - has his/her perfect book. Also if you love sensitive, kind and caring character like Travis and Martin who are totally sweet together.
I give the story wholeheartly 5 out of 5 stars. :)
September 17, 2016
4.5 stars... I really liked this one. I haven't liked all books by this author the same way but I really enjoyed this one. Martin and Travis were so sweet each other. I loved watching them fall in love with each other.
August 23, 2016
Gave 4.5 reviews and rounded to 5 for this review
I dont know how Sierra writes these stories so quickly but I am so happy she does. This is another new stand alone book from her and I really enjoyed reading it. Martin was so hurt and lost from losing his parents when he was younger and having to take care of his sister , he never wanted anything for himself. He provided for her and they are still very close. Martin doesnt go out much and doesnt let anyone into his life either. Travis runs a non profit organization and he meets Martin after he wins an auction for a cooking lesson. Martin and Travis become friends but Travis starts to have feelings for Martin. Travis is straight but is open to start something with Martin. I loved these 2 together. Martin being so shy and not very social and Travis being so open and helping him come out of his shell. These is some conflict in this but really it is easily fixed and these guys fall in love. Not many actual love scenes in this story but that was OK with me. Martin, I think helps Travis settle and Travis helps Martin open up and live. I always love a good GFY and Sierra didnt let me down.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
I dont know how Sierra writes these stories so quickly but I am so happy she does. This is another new stand alone book from her and I really enjoyed reading it. Martin was so hurt and lost from losing his parents when he was younger and having to take care of his sister , he never wanted anything for himself. He provided for her and they are still very close. Martin doesnt go out much and doesnt let anyone into his life either. Travis runs a non profit organization and he meets Martin after he wins an auction for a cooking lesson. Martin and Travis become friends but Travis starts to have feelings for Martin. Travis is straight but is open to start something with Martin. I loved these 2 together. Martin being so shy and not very social and Travis being so open and helping him come out of his shell. These is some conflict in this but really it is easily fixed and these guys fall in love. Not many actual love scenes in this story but that was OK with me. Martin, I think helps Travis settle and Travis helps Martin open up and live. I always love a good GFY and Sierra didnt let me down.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
August 16, 2016
Dinner, a lesson, a date and a scandal makes a great recipe for a charming tale. Martin, who suffers from near paralyzing depression and anxiety in the aftermath of his parents’ death, finds himself dragged by his sister to a charity auction to benefit The Good Plate. Under duress (from his sister) he bids on a date with the charity founder Travis. Travis is surprised to find the “date” is going to be with a guy but it consists of 2 cooking lessons and a dinner so he’s ok with that. Martin, with his issues and severe lack of social skills, makes a horrible first impression. The more time Martin and Travis end up spending together though Martin relaxes and shows his true self and Travis starts to have unexpected feelings for him, even inventing reasons to see him. When Martin offers to help audit the books for the charity to see where they can use money more efficiently for a scholarship he uncovers some oddities that cause a rift in their budding relationship and could be disastrous for the charity. Another heartwarming story with sweet, charming characters from Sierra Riley, a treat not to be missed!
**this book received in exchange for an honest opinion**
**this book received in exchange for an honest opinion**
December 2, 2016
Do you know how you feel, when you want to like something very much, but can't?
Well, that was what happened to me reading Comfort Food.
I knew from the start how this story and Travis and Martin's relationship would develop. There was no surprise. I even guessed Curt's part of the story. Which in itself, isn't a big surprise to me, as I seldom find a book that can truly surprise me.
But even then, I still enjoy the heat of a new relationship, the getting to know each other, the way the author tells the story. But with Comfort Food I felt nothing!
I couldn't feel Travis attraction to Martin! I couldn't find anything that made me understand why he would try a relationship with a man, when he wasn't gay or even bisexual.
The whole story was just bland and boring. Unemotional. The author could have made it so much more. There were so many things that could have used some deeper emotion.
Like:
Travis falling in love with a man for the first time
Martin's anxiety disorder and how he got better
Curt's part of the story
Travis and Martin's relationship
This was like seeing a really great looking cake and when you finally try it, it tastes like cardboard.
Well, that was what happened to me reading Comfort Food.
I knew from the start how this story and Travis and Martin's relationship would develop. There was no surprise. I even guessed Curt's part of the story. Which in itself, isn't a big surprise to me, as I seldom find a book that can truly surprise me.
But even then, I still enjoy the heat of a new relationship, the getting to know each other, the way the author tells the story. But with Comfort Food I felt nothing!
I couldn't feel Travis attraction to Martin! I couldn't find anything that made me understand why he would try a relationship with a man, when he wasn't gay or even bisexual.
The whole story was just bland and boring. Unemotional. The author could have made it so much more. There were so many things that could have used some deeper emotion.
Like:
Travis falling in love with a man for the first time
Martin's anxiety disorder and how he got better
Curt's part of the story
Travis and Martin's relationship
This was like seeing a really great looking cake and when you finally try it, it tastes like cardboard.
August 21, 2016
2.5 - 3 stars
This story was a middle of the road book for me, and in the scheme of Ms. Riley's books. With a title like Comfort food and cooking lessons, I expected more. The story seemed to move too fast for a guy like Martin who suffers from acute social anxiety. There was a slow build up that turns tails and went way too fast, which made it feel unbelievable.
Travis’ character was better portrayed, although there seemed to be barely any hesitation into getting it on with a guy when previously there had only been women. I'm getting tired of the gay for you trope that seems to be the author's mainstay as of late. Travis hadn't spent enough time with Martin to "switch sides" in my mind.
I liked Lisa, Martin's sister, but Travis' coworkers could have been more shocked or surprised that he was going to date a man. Travis also kept talking/thinking about his mother and what a great influence she was/is, but then we never really saw her brought into play.
The number one thing that unnerved me though… the overuse of the word unnerved. Really? *arched eyebrow* Try again.
This story was a middle of the road book for me, and in the scheme of Ms. Riley's books. With a title like Comfort food and cooking lessons, I expected more. The story seemed to move too fast for a guy like Martin who suffers from acute social anxiety. There was a slow build up that turns tails and went way too fast, which made it feel unbelievable.
Travis’ character was better portrayed, although there seemed to be barely any hesitation into getting it on with a guy when previously there had only been women. I'm getting tired of the gay for you trope that seems to be the author's mainstay as of late. Travis hadn't spent enough time with Martin to "switch sides" in my mind.
I liked Lisa, Martin's sister, but Travis' coworkers could have been more shocked or surprised that he was going to date a man. Travis also kept talking/thinking about his mother and what a great influence she was/is, but then we never really saw her brought into play.
The number one thing that unnerved me though… the overuse of the word unnerved. Really? *arched eyebrow* Try again.
August 22, 2016
Definitely a comfort read
While Riley's bakery based books are my favourites, this one runs a close second.
A real slow burn friends to lovers story with a socially crippled man who finds his way back out into the world with the help of a man whose never been attracted to his own sex before.
The dawning realisation that he might just have feelings for the awkward guy he's ended up as friends with is well drawn out and believable.
As with most Sierra Riley stories the sex is on the low end of the burner but it's beautifully sweet and heart felt.
This one also has a great cover which works well to depict the two main characters.
While Riley's bakery based books are my favourites, this one runs a close second.
A real slow burn friends to lovers story with a socially crippled man who finds his way back out into the world with the help of a man whose never been attracted to his own sex before.
The dawning realisation that he might just have feelings for the awkward guy he's ended up as friends with is well drawn out and believable.
As with most Sierra Riley stories the sex is on the low end of the burner but it's beautifully sweet and heart felt.
This one also has a great cover which works well to depict the two main characters.
August 19, 2016
Two men from completely different worlds. One with a traumatic event running his life, and the other living a life of giving.
Who knew the winning bid of an auction for charity would change both their lives.
An great love story or friendship, trust and moving on.
Who knew the winning bid of an auction for charity would change both their lives.
An great love story or friendship, trust and moving on.
August 24, 2016
Liked Martin, but I couldn't stand Travis. I didn't believe in this relationship and I can't trust Travis. Not to mention that first couple times they messed around they were drunk. Umm...can we have at least once sober, so I can BELIEVE it's real?
August 15, 2016
bidding love
Martin Painter has been a recluse since his parents died when he was seventeen. Sure, he has money and a sprawling house in an upscale neighborhood, but material things can't patch the holes in his heart. When his sister drags him to a charity auction, the last thing he expects to win is a date with a handsome stranger. He can feel the attraction starting, but it's pointless, isn't it? He's better off alone. He's too awkward for a platonic "date," let alone real love.
Since his parents died when he was 17 Martin became a recluse. He has money and lives in his parents old home in an upscale neighborhood but material things cant fix the hole left in his heart when his parents died. After all these years Martain still feels guilty about his parents death cause he only found out days after it happened when the police turned up at the front door. Martin's sister drags him out the house to a charity auction and the unexpected happened. He wins a date with the handsome stranger that he bumped into earlier that night and Martin finds himself enjoying the man's company to the point that Martin thinks he maybe falling in love.
Travis loves his work at the charity he runs, he also still miss working in the kitchen of fancy restaurants. Things aren't looking so good from the charity it is losing money so in order to get some an auction is held and one of the bids is 2 cooking lessons and dinner with himself. Travis still isn't comfortable with this but the charity can use the money, he never expects that a man would be the one who wins the bid and he sure never expected it would be the soft spoken man he ran straight into earlier that night.
There is an attraction between them that they cant deny, Martian doesn't think he is capable of loving some one and Travis has always been straight but his feelings fro Martian leaves him confused and unsure if he could ever love a man.
i received a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Martin Painter has been a recluse since his parents died when he was seventeen. Sure, he has money and a sprawling house in an upscale neighborhood, but material things can't patch the holes in his heart. When his sister drags him to a charity auction, the last thing he expects to win is a date with a handsome stranger. He can feel the attraction starting, but it's pointless, isn't it? He's better off alone. He's too awkward for a platonic "date," let alone real love.
Since his parents died when he was 17 Martin became a recluse. He has money and lives in his parents old home in an upscale neighborhood but material things cant fix the hole left in his heart when his parents died. After all these years Martain still feels guilty about his parents death cause he only found out days after it happened when the police turned up at the front door. Martin's sister drags him out the house to a charity auction and the unexpected happened. He wins a date with the handsome stranger that he bumped into earlier that night and Martin finds himself enjoying the man's company to the point that Martin thinks he maybe falling in love.
Travis loves his work at the charity he runs, he also still miss working in the kitchen of fancy restaurants. Things aren't looking so good from the charity it is losing money so in order to get some an auction is held and one of the bids is 2 cooking lessons and dinner with himself. Travis still isn't comfortable with this but the charity can use the money, he never expects that a man would be the one who wins the bid and he sure never expected it would be the soft spoken man he ran straight into earlier that night.
There is an attraction between them that they cant deny, Martian doesn't think he is capable of loving some one and Travis has always been straight but his feelings fro Martian leaves him confused and unsure if he could ever love a man.
i received a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
August 16, 2016
Sierra Riley has truly out done herself with her mm stories. I really enjoy reading her books.
Martin Painter lost his parents when he was 17 and had to grow up fast to care for his sister Lisa. However he became closed off from the world and secluded himself in his family's home. Now his sister is making him get out of the house and attend a charity event that he's extremely nervous about because of the anxiety attacks he feels coming over him when he's around a lot of people. His sister's no fool. I'm pretty sure she planned this especially for him because of the date auction at the end. He did not know about this and surely figured this was why she dragged him out the house.
Travis Cole runs The Good Plate Charity. Growing up not knowing where your next meal was coming from or when you will eventually be out on the streets formed him into the man that he is. He never wanted to see kids go without and if he could do something about it that's what he would do. The event's date auction takes place and Travis is shocked to hear a man's voice bidding for him. He's even more shocked to see that the bidder is not listed as a man when they collect the receipts. A few days after the event, Travis calls Lisa to set up the date and finds out that it's her brother Martin that is supposed to be attending these dates and provides him with Martin's phone number. Martin not sure what to do when he receives the call from Travis but agrees to the dates.
Over time Martin and Travis learn more about one another and a friendship develops. There's drama with Travis' co-workers and Martin and you feel for everyone. Although their friendship is completely rocky at first the book does have a happy ending. Lovely ending that will bring tears to your eyes.
Martin Painter lost his parents when he was 17 and had to grow up fast to care for his sister Lisa. However he became closed off from the world and secluded himself in his family's home. Now his sister is making him get out of the house and attend a charity event that he's extremely nervous about because of the anxiety attacks he feels coming over him when he's around a lot of people. His sister's no fool. I'm pretty sure she planned this especially for him because of the date auction at the end. He did not know about this and surely figured this was why she dragged him out the house.
Travis Cole runs The Good Plate Charity. Growing up not knowing where your next meal was coming from or when you will eventually be out on the streets formed him into the man that he is. He never wanted to see kids go without and if he could do something about it that's what he would do. The event's date auction takes place and Travis is shocked to hear a man's voice bidding for him. He's even more shocked to see that the bidder is not listed as a man when they collect the receipts. A few days after the event, Travis calls Lisa to set up the date and finds out that it's her brother Martin that is supposed to be attending these dates and provides him with Martin's phone number. Martin not sure what to do when he receives the call from Travis but agrees to the dates.
Over time Martin and Travis learn more about one another and a friendship develops. There's drama with Travis' co-workers and Martin and you feel for everyone. Although their friendship is completely rocky at first the book does have a happy ending. Lovely ending that will bring tears to your eyes.
August 13, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review:
Sierra Riley has gone and done it again! I love her books, but loved this one a bit more than most. This one consists of an auction to help The Good Plate, one of the main characters, Travis's charity to be able to offer a scholarship to deserving young people and if the auction just happens to include a yummy bachelor like Travis, who is going to complain? Add in yummy food that Travis intends to teach the lucky winner to cook and the action is set for the story.
But almost totally homebound Martin is constantly fighting against his own version of anxiety that started years earlier when his parents' plane went down, leaving he and his sister, Lisa, as orphans and him to take care of her as they grew up without parents. This anxietyaffects nearly everything he attempts and Lisa has a job on her hands keeping him grounded and from being a total hermit in the big cavernous home he lives in. Along comes Travis and though Travis had never even entertained thoughts about men before and definitely was not gay in any way before meeting and getting to know Martin, he embraced the new feelings with both arms. I do not want to go into too much detail, but when the author added in a bit of charity embezzling, she made the story even more enjoyable to read.
I love an HEA and this one was no exception. Her version of the HEA made tears come to my eyes a bit in reaction.
Sierra Riley has gone and done it again! I love her books, but loved this one a bit more than most. This one consists of an auction to help The Good Plate, one of the main characters, Travis's charity to be able to offer a scholarship to deserving young people and if the auction just happens to include a yummy bachelor like Travis, who is going to complain? Add in yummy food that Travis intends to teach the lucky winner to cook and the action is set for the story.
But almost totally homebound Martin is constantly fighting against his own version of anxiety that started years earlier when his parents' plane went down, leaving he and his sister, Lisa, as orphans and him to take care of her as they grew up without parents. This anxietyaffects nearly everything he attempts and Lisa has a job on her hands keeping him grounded and from being a total hermit in the big cavernous home he lives in. Along comes Travis and though Travis had never even entertained thoughts about men before and definitely was not gay in any way before meeting and getting to know Martin, he embraced the new feelings with both arms. I do not want to go into too much detail, but when the author added in a bit of charity embezzling, she made the story even more enjoyable to read.
I love an HEA and this one was no exception. Her version of the HEA made tears come to my eyes a bit in reaction.
August 19, 2016
The book blurb is self explanatory...
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I love Sierra's books. Every now and then one might not be for me. All total I had 3 I did not particularly care for: not realistic to be "wowed" with every book. However, this one " Comfort Food" I was "wowed". I loved and read it in one sitting. We have two MC's; Martin and Travis.
They are on the opposite end of the spectrum: Martin,a gay,nerdy, anxiety ridden and a compulsive over thinker and Travis, an outgoing, confident, and definitely a straight guy. They meet at a charity function, after a misunderstanding, became friends. Through the friendship, Travis begins to have "special" feelings for Martin; feelings he have never had for a man. He embraces this whole heartily and they slowly get to know each other. Throw in secondary characters and the"mystery", it was a very entertaining read. Although it has elements of gay for you and friends to lovers, it was an awesome read. Sierra seems to get better with each read. I like that she has less than perfect MC's. I love the way Sierra writes, her sentence structure, word usage and plot lines.This is a very entertaining read and i would recommenced this to anyone.
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I've received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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I love Sierra's books. Every now and then one might not be for me. All total I had 3 I did not particularly care for: not realistic to be "wowed" with every book. However, this one " Comfort Food" I was "wowed". I loved and read it in one sitting. We have two MC's; Martin and Travis.
They are on the opposite end of the spectrum: Martin,a gay,nerdy, anxiety ridden and a compulsive over thinker and Travis, an outgoing, confident, and definitely a straight guy. They meet at a charity function, after a misunderstanding, became friends. Through the friendship, Travis begins to have "special" feelings for Martin; feelings he have never had for a man. He embraces this whole heartily and they slowly get to know each other. Throw in secondary characters and the"mystery", it was a very entertaining read. Although it has elements of gay for you and friends to lovers, it was an awesome read. Sierra seems to get better with each read. I like that she has less than perfect MC's. I love the way Sierra writes, her sentence structure, word usage and plot lines.This is a very entertaining read and i would recommenced this to anyone.
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I've received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 15, 2016
An ARC was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
Martin Painter has been keeping to himself since his parent's death. The only company he keeps is that of his younger sister. When she talks him into attending a charity with her. He can't say no. When his sister wheedles him into bidding on a chance to receive two cooking lessons and a dinner date, Martin does his best to win it thinking she wants it.
Travis Cole, charity owner and cook, holds a fundraiser to gain donors for his charity. He's even gone as far as to volunteer himself to be bought by the highest bidder. He doesn't expect to be bought by a guy and especially one he had a awkward run in with. But as he gets to know Martin he can't help but be drawn to the guy.
The two character were very likable. Martin was a the kind of character that you just wanted to take home and care for. Travis was fun loving and pretty chill. The two complimented each other and the change they each brought to the others life was engaging.
The relationship build up was slow but worth it. The story line was entertaining. The hints of something amiss with Curt, the CFO of Travis's charity, added a nice mystique to the story (even if most readers knew where the author was going with the story). The ending was sweet and I was very satisfied with the last two chapters.
Martin Painter has been keeping to himself since his parent's death. The only company he keeps is that of his younger sister. When she talks him into attending a charity with her. He can't say no. When his sister wheedles him into bidding on a chance to receive two cooking lessons and a dinner date, Martin does his best to win it thinking she wants it.
Travis Cole, charity owner and cook, holds a fundraiser to gain donors for his charity. He's even gone as far as to volunteer himself to be bought by the highest bidder. He doesn't expect to be bought by a guy and especially one he had a awkward run in with. But as he gets to know Martin he can't help but be drawn to the guy.
The two character were very likable. Martin was a the kind of character that you just wanted to take home and care for. Travis was fun loving and pretty chill. The two complimented each other and the change they each brought to the others life was engaging.
The relationship build up was slow but worth it. The story line was entertaining. The hints of something amiss with Curt, the CFO of Travis's charity, added a nice mystique to the story (even if most readers knew where the author was going with the story). The ending was sweet and I was very satisfied with the last two chapters.
September 13, 2016
A GFY that was not focused on sex, I loved it. Martin who lost both parents at 17 and raised his younger sister, Lisa, has not gotten over their deaths and has become a recluse. Travis is a chef who has started his own charitable company to help feed the low income and homeless because of his childhood struggles. They meet at a an auction where Martin gets the winning bid on a straight Travis thinking its for his sister. The dates consist of 2 cooking lessons and a dinner. Martin soon realizes he's attracted to Travis but his anxiety and lack of social skills keep him from even thinking about acting on it. Travis at first thinks Martin is a rich snob then he figures out the truth. He goes out of his way not to do anything to hurt Martin but can't understand why he's doing that. He soon realizes he cares about Martin but he's not sure if its just friendship or more. I like the slow pace these two take as they get to know each other. I love the fact that outside of kisses and a bj the couple didn't rush into sex. Lisa was hilarious and at times it seemed like she was the big sister. Curt I wanted to strangle, I still don't understand how people do that to a friend. Sierra thanks for another good book. I know 9 times outta 10 when I open one of your books I'm gonna get a feel good story that leaves me with a smile on my face. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2017
Love can find you when you least expect it... Sierra Riley is on a roll. She has taken Martin and Travis, both coming from harsh beginnings in life, and had their paths cross when they needed each other most. The both of them realizing this, of course, took a little work to get to. None of this is easy for people who already know what they want, but for Martin and Travis, for a while, it was downright confusing due to their individual circumstances. Even through all of the awkwardness and self-realizations, a sweet romance between the two began to bloom. I think it took them both by surprise and neither really knew how to handle it at first. They took things slowly with their physical relationship and by the time they couldn't wait any longer, it was obvious the love they have had gotten stronger. This is a great story and I very much enjoyed reading it. There's some angst, but love, along with sweet and sexy romance, does well to overcome that. There are a few triggers like depression and social anxiety, just in case anything like that bothers you. GFY romances are some of my favorites, and now this one has been added to my list. Looking forward to more from this author. I've received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 20, 2016
I liked this one.
This story held my attention and I really enjoyed reading it. Martin is a quirky character and Travis helps to bring him out of his shell. But Travis is straight and he never expected to have feelings for Martin beyond friendship.
Travis’s charity isn’t doing as well as he’d like and he can’t quite understand why the donations they are getting aren’t enough for some of the programs he wants to support. Martin loves to dig into spreadsheets and financial stuff so he offers to help Travis by looking at the books to see if he can spot any place that money can be saved.
While the bad guy was pretty easy to figure out in this story I still enjoyed it. The relationship between Martin and Travis was slow to develop and reading how that happened kept me entertained enough that I wanted to read the book straight through.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
This story held my attention and I really enjoyed reading it. Martin is a quirky character and Travis helps to bring him out of his shell. But Travis is straight and he never expected to have feelings for Martin beyond friendship.
Travis’s charity isn’t doing as well as he’d like and he can’t quite understand why the donations they are getting aren’t enough for some of the programs he wants to support. Martin loves to dig into spreadsheets and financial stuff so he offers to help Travis by looking at the books to see if he can spot any place that money can be saved.
While the bad guy was pretty easy to figure out in this story I still enjoyed it. The relationship between Martin and Travis was slow to develop and reading how that happened kept me entertained enough that I wanted to read the book straight through.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
March 21, 2021
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This was so sweet. Martin had so much trouble adjusting to life after his parents' death, and got stuck in some kind of shut down mode for years. He didn't get out much, and stayed pretty much sheltered. After participating in a bachelor auction to get his sister a date for charity, she sneaks around and signs Martin up for it to get him out of the house. Travis is the CEO of the organization running the fundraiser. He initially finds Martin to be rude and awkward, but eventually realizes there is more than meets the eye with Martin. They become friends with Travis starting to notice that he is getting attracted to Martin, which is not usual for him because he is "straight". There is a great minor plot that starts to develop outside of their relationship, which I admit I saw coming, but I liked how it was written and resolved. I really liked these guys together.
This was so sweet. Martin had so much trouble adjusting to life after his parents' death, and got stuck in some kind of shut down mode for years. He didn't get out much, and stayed pretty much sheltered. After participating in a bachelor auction to get his sister a date for charity, she sneaks around and signs Martin up for it to get him out of the house. Travis is the CEO of the organization running the fundraiser. He initially finds Martin to be rude and awkward, but eventually realizes there is more than meets the eye with Martin. They become friends with Travis starting to notice that he is getting attracted to Martin, which is not usual for him because he is "straight". There is a great minor plot that starts to develop outside of their relationship, which I admit I saw coming, but I liked how it was written and resolved. I really liked these guys together.
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