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Wes Jensen just lost the sister who raised him, and gained custody of his niece. The last thing he needs to add to his full plate is dealing with Braden Roth, the one-night-stand who continues to try to push his way into Wes’ life. He has a kid to raise now, and Wes isn't great at getting close anyway.

Braden has never had a woman or a man sneak out on him the morning after. From the start, Wes intrigues him, and Braden isn't one to deny himself something he wants. And he wants Wes. The more time he spends with Wes and the little girl who constantly keeps them on their toes, the more Braden realizes this isn't just about getting the guy who walked away.

As their lives intertwine more and more, Wes discovers Braden isn't as shallow as he thought. But after everything Wes lost in his life, he isn't sure he can risk his heart, and truly want Braden to stay—and if he did, would Wes’ quiet life be enough for Braden?

361 pages, ebook

First published April 22, 2014

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About the author

Riley Hart

104 books6,417 followers
Riley 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.

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5 stars
2,834 (38%)
4 stars
3,081 (42%)
3 stars
1,160 (15%)
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33 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 751 reviews
Profile Image for Mirjana **DTR - Down to Read**.
1,447 reviews788 followers
April 18, 2018

4/11/18 Update - I've missed Wes and Braden, so I think it's time for a reread! I haven't reread their book yet, so I'm excited to start the audiobook! My commute to and from work just got a hell of a lot better!!



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***5 Stars***

Dear Riley Hart,



I really liked Noah and Cooper from the first book Collide, and thought it was going to be pretty damn hard to surpass them. Don't get me wrong, I was beyond looking forward to Wes and Braden and went into this book with high expectations, but I was fully confident they were going to be ending up in second place. HOLY HELL was I wrong!

I loved this book so much and was so deeply immersed in the story, that I didn't even have time to highlight. And if I'm being completely honest, I think half of the book would have been highlighted anyway!

My darling, sweet Wes. He had the weight of the world on his shoulders. After losing his sister, he had to become a mother and father for his niece Jessie. He took his responsibility seriously, which led to him second guessing every decision he made and worrying constantly whether he was making the right choices. He didn't have time for anything else, or anyone else, including himself. Yet somehow, little by little, Braden chipped away at his defensive walls while implanting himself as a sturdy companion to lean on. Wes fought it, but sometimes the heart has to step in and help open your eyes.



OH Braden! EVERYONE needs a Braden in their life. He was funny, sweet, caring, generous, sexy, witty and just down right perfect! What came so naturally to him, caring for others, he didn't recognize as a trait he possessed. He saw it in Wes and respected him for it, but didn't realize that he was doing the same with every selfless action. His childlike enthusiasm was infectious and it radiated off the pages whether he was hanging out with Jessie or flirting with Wes. And in the end, Braden found the place where he finally belonged and where his roots were meant to be planted.



When it came to the steam, this book was all about quality over quantity. But don't get me wrong, when you got it......YOU GOT IT!

Wes and Braden definitely didn't hold back. As much as they had you clutching your heart, they also had you throwing your panties across the room.

Overall, this was a story that centered around one of the basic desires a person has.... for someone to be there. To be there when times are good, bad and everything in between. To just want to...



Below is the link for a FANTASTIC little bonus scene that takes place approximately a month after the book ends. Seriously, who can deny wanting more Wes and Braden!

http://shhmomsreading.com/review-bonu...
Profile Image for Judith.
724 reviews2,865 followers
November 15, 2015
*** 3 Stars ***




Enjoyable M/M Romance.
Braden and Wes were introduced in book one and I was really looking forward to their story,especially from the delectable Braden's POV.
In book one we learned that Wes's sister was dying and that she wanted him to have custody of her young daughter,Jess.





In this book he is struggling to cope with the loss of his sister and the daunting task of raising a young child.
Wes and Braden had previously had a one time thing with him not wanting anything more,however Braden has other ideas.

God,Wes really annoyed me in this one.Yes,he was suffering but I hated the way he kept rejecting Braden





I bloody loved Braden.He is a laid back character but so caring and he never gave up on Wes.
Wes did redeem himself for me but I never really connected to his character.

A good M/M series and I will definitely read the next book at some point but it was just a little too sweet for me.I'm tending to like my Man on Man action just a little bit dirtier and a lot more risky.

Still,though,a recommended M/M read ...
Profile Image for *J* Too Many Books Too Little Time.
1,921 reviews3,711 followers
April 23, 2014
Riley Hart....



Loved Braden and Wesley!

This was a super sweet, feel good story. Very low on the angst and drama but had plenty of steam.

We met both Braden and Wesley in Collide. They share a night together and the next morning, Wes leaves Braden without so much as a goodbye.



Fast forward and Wes' sister has passed away and he now has custody of his niece Jessi. Wes doesn't have time for a relationship, he doesn't want a relationship and he definitely doesn't want Braden.



Braden has a different idea when it comes to he and Wes.



He pushes Wes. Forces him to open up. They start out as friends. Braden helps out with Jessi once a week and over time they get closer and closer. I loved the slow build of Braden and Wes' relationship.



Wes has lost a lot of people in his life. He holds himself back from relationships for fear that he will get too close and lose someone else. Braden was like a big kid. He was fun, he was funny and he didn't let Wes hide behind his feelings.



I really loved everything about this one. It was perfect and when I finished I had a big 'ole smile on my face!

Profile Image for Gigi.
2,149 reviews1,030 followers
February 10, 2017
Re-read August, 2015 M/M romance perfection. I give it 6 stars after this re-read. A perfect, feel-good comfort read.



This book has the distinct honor of encouraging me to finally cull my fuck yeah, 5+ stars shelf of the books that don't quite make the grade as the best of the best. I knocked 10 books off the shelf to make room for books like this one that ROCK MY WORLD and fill my brain with sunshine. I still love those 10 books and they still rate 5 stars and are on my favorites shelf, but I need to remember why I have the fuck yeah, 5+ stars shelf in the first place.

After reading this incredibly emotional tale of lonely, emotionally closed off, new guardian to his young niece Wes Jensen and hunky, quick to laugh, carefree firefighter Braden Roth, I could not get their story out of my head. I re-read the entire book the next day. On the 2 hour car ride to my in-laws house for Easter brunch, I re-told the story from memory to my husband and he enjoyed it too. I kept going over the story in my mind, wishing I had my old bookclub group to meet with at Dunn Brothers to hash it out with. When, exactly did Wes redeem himself? Will he ever be good enough for Braden? Why did Braden try so damn hard with Wes? Was it Wes or the challenge that Wes represented? Would any of this have even happened if it weren't for Jesse? I could go on and on.

I found this story to be beautiful and incredibly romantic and I absolutely fell in deep, unashamed love with Braden. The scene with Wes on the porch watching for headlights while talking on the phone with Braden still gives me goose bumps and made me absolutely weep. The emotions this book brought out in me were numerous and quite unexpected. Gay men with children usually make me a little crazy, and this was no exception.

So, I now have plenty of room on that fuck yeah shelf and Stay is going right up there. I fucking LOVED this book and want to shout my positive recommendation from the rooftop's to all M/M romance readers. READ THIS BOOK!



This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews

August 9, 2016
3. 5 chemistry, lust, and tension galore stars

Braden knows what he wants, and he wants Wes. But Wes is happy in his little bubble. He doesn't need the complications.

Braden gave much more here than Wes. Wes didn't put himself out there, and it took a lot of pushing on Braden's part to get Wes to open up.

Small niggles: The editing was not stellar with typos and some awkward sentence construction.

I also don't love it when kids are used as a plot device to move the relationship between adults along. Kids are inherently selfish; they focus on themselves, not on the grown-ups. Braden bonded with Jessie, Wes's niece, but this struck me as out of character for a fun-loving, free-spirited player. Wes was such a shit to Braden for so long, I wasn't sure what Braden got out of that setup half the time.

The story did move along at a fast pace. There were sweet moments between Braden and Wes, and the sex was hot. I loved both sets of families and their acceptance. I also really appreciated the lack of melodrama and the nice HEA.


Profile Image for Ingie.
1,415 reviews167 followers
May 3, 2014
Written May 1, 2014

4 Stars - Cute, loving and tender with a sweet niece, tentative increasing manly heat and sincerely hope for the future of a great family happiness

Of cource I wanted to read Wes & Braven's own love story.
I so wanted to know much more about them already in Collide (3.8 stars). ~ ...and I'm a happy girl now, it was a lovely book.



Do you like to read about growing love between two men mixed with a nice family feeling, a sweet little motherless four year old girl, a cute labrador doggie, everyday time spend with TV and pizza nights, breakfasts before kindergarten and jobs, family Christmas and fun in the snow - all mixed with hot sex scenes - are Stay the perfect book for you.

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My buddyread friends talked about some typos and grammatical errors, etc. but the benefit with an poorer English is that I don't see them always. For me was it's mostly about the feeling of this lovely story. And I liked Stay, as I liked the first book in this Blackcreek series. ~ Flaws or not, this was nice to read.
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Braden and Wes are easy to like and really care about and these books by Riley Hart are really good common stories about ordinary men, with regular jobs and a fairly normal life. Braden is one of the most awesome guys I've read about in a long time. Always cheerful and positive - a dream prince.

This is mostly about to start a gay family with a kid. It's tender with steamy hot sexy scenes from the bedroom, nice friends (like Noah & Cooper from the first book) and about loving both men and women.
“I'm attracted to people because of how they make me feel. I'm attracted to who they are - the person, and not their gender.”

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Stay is a cute, cozy and romantic romance - an obvious "feel good four star" from me. Easy and quick read was it also. Felt like a perfect simple romance story to read when you're on holiday as I am right now.
“It doesn't matter who you love, brother, as long as you love them with your whole damn heart.”

I LIKE - enjoyable and nice


~~~~~~~~~~

# Exclusive Bonus Scene for Stay by Riley Hart
http://shhmomsreading.com/review-bonu...

# Buddy read with the ladies Bev, Andrea and Mona with.


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...The Ladies BR Quartette
Profile Image for Isabel.
562 reviews106 followers
September 6, 2015
Fabulous!!! I loved Collide, but Stay is even better! And the reason why this book is better is Braden!!! Braden is the life of this story... He is funny, intelligent, care free... but when he was needed, he was always there, safe and dependable!

Wes wasn't expecting to fall so strongly for Braden! He was careful, scared of what could come of that relationship!

Together they are so good... Braden is so sweet and tender with Jessie!!! Who wouldn't fall for a man like that?!!!

I loved this book!!!


Exclusive Bonus Scene for Stay by Riley Hart:

http://shhmomsreading.com/review-bonu...
Profile Image for K..
262 reviews100 followers
October 30, 2014
4.5 Stars!

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So far I am really enjoying Blackcreek series. Ever since Wes and braden's encounter in Collide (will practically hit and run situation! :D). I got curious to see how these two will end up. And Riley Hart didn't fail to deliver me a book So full of life,love,lust,happiness,and some aching moments..

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Moving on..

I honestly don't know how a person can give,and still handle all the chaos. But when it comes to Wes. he would give all his life to people, without anything in return. And that's exactly the same thing to Braden. But both have a complete different current when it comes to being there for the people they love.. Since Wes's sister died from cancer. she gave the custody of her four-year old daughter Jessie to Wes. With all the sudden changes that's appearing in Wes's life. he simply don't have time to be in a relationship. Although that did not stopped Braden from sticking around even if he wasn't "Welcomed". Let me tell you! WE all in need for a person like Braden! he's the person who would be there for you without even second guessing it! he's the one who pushes you to be the best version of yourself. putting a smile on your face even if you didn't feel like it!!. That is exactly what he did for Wes..

I loved how their relationship built. it felt real guys, so down to earth! and put a smile on my face every time Braden quoted..
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And don't get me start on the Hotness of their intimacy. Phew! (Wiggling my eyebrows!!)
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All in all. it was a pleasurable read for me. had all my interest in one book!
Happy Reading..
Profile Image for Cory .
728 reviews85 followers
May 21, 2018
So let me just get this out of the way, I LOVE BRADEN! Seriously L-O-V-E him! I would love Braden in the ugliest of Christmas sweaters. I would love him in pink Spanx with a neon green tank top. With each page I fell in love with him more and more. And just so we are clear....he is MINE people :) Although I don't mind lending him to you for the length of time that it takes you to read the book...but then he is back to being mine again. OK, I just needed to get that off my chest.

This is my 3rd Riley Hart book and I loved it just as much, if not more, than the first two. There is something about her stories that draws you in and makes you root for the characters. In Collide, I thought that Braden was a little obnoxious. He could definitely say the wrong things at times in Stay as well. But GOOD GOD, he said so many RIGHT things that it made him imperfectly perfect!

WARNING...SPOILERS AHEAD....as I'm going to list of some of the ways that solidified my love for my boyfriend (aka Braden):

1) I loved how he always pushed Wes. He always seemed to be a step ahead and would anticipate what Wes was thinking or how he would react.

2) How could you not absolutely love how he was with Jessie?? Seriously! From the way he volunteered to watch her on Wednesdays (loved how he did that by the way....again, he did it in a way that Wes couldn't refuse), to how he was with her when he was watching her. He truly loved her. I really enjoyed the times when she was scolding him for using bad language.

3) The night where Wes passed out on Braden while Braden was going to the call to get his cell phone. I loved that Braden left, and WHY he left. When Wes woke up the next morning and found the things that Braden did, I really loved him even more.

4) I loved that Braden used Wesley more often than not. There was something quite erotic when he would call him Wesley while they were...ahem...you know....doing stuff together (blushes like a school girl).

5) He named his dog based on his love of jockstraps. Enough said!

OK, OK...I understand that you get my love for Braden. Now on to Wes. Wes was much more guarded and hard to 'get to know', but with good reason as he had a lot on his plate. His sister just died and he became guardian to his niece. That's a lot to take in. He was putting Jessie first (as he should) and he was very guarded with Braden. I loved how Braden kept pushing, and not in an over the top way, to break down the walls around Wes.

Wes had the tendency to over think and analyze many situations. Thankfully, Braden would pick up on that and call him out on it or give him one of his winks ;) I loved how Braden was always so confident, but that Wes took a stance in the end to tell him that he wanted him to Stay (and I loved how he did it)!

I think the pace of this book was perfect and I just really, really, loved the story and how it unfolded. Riley Hart, another two thumbs up novel!! I will read everything to you publish so keep them coming!!
Profile Image for * Meli Mel *.
856 reviews674 followers
April 27, 2014



♥♥♥ 4.5 Heart Melting Stars ♥♥♥




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"I needed to risk my heart, because you're worth it. And I'm worth it, too."

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Oh, how I loved this book. I couldn't wait to get into this one, and I am so happy how much I enjoyed it. Just LOVED it!



If you read book 1 of the series, then you that Braden and Wes have a bit of a history. They had a one night stand where Wes leaves Braden during the night and since then, Braden can't seem to get Wes out of his mind. As you also know, Wes's sister was really sick in the first book, and passes away leaving him in charge with his four year old niece. This why he keeps pushing Braden away. He has no time to think about having a relationship with him.



I really liked Wes. He was a bit insecure of himself, especially when it came to the care of his niece Jessie. Which is understandable since he has suddenly become a parent overnight. But he had a big heart and so sweet. Yes, he didn't like opening up much and that at times became a bit frustrating, but I loved how Braden slowly broke down his walls. I loved the 'true' Wes, and I couldn't believe he didn't see how amazing he was. I loved how for him Jessie came first, as it should be, and how he was always there for her.



Braden I absolutely LOVED! He was this cocky, confident, childlike bisexual man. He would also most of the time say things at inappropriate times. But who knew this man could have such a beautiful sweet side. I freaking loved the way he interacted with Jessie. My heart melted into complete mush from the cuteness overload. I also loved the way in which he pursued Wes, it was quite entertaining, especially their back and forth banter. He was funny, sexy, and a big flirt, and I wanted him for myself!!



Jessie, was such an adorable ball of energy. She was loud and at times a bit over bearing but loved this little girl, nonetheless. She had her moments that broke my heart for her loss. I was so glad she had these two men in her life who loved her so much, when she lost the most important person in her life. I also loved how she brought Braden and Wes together. Pretty much any scene that Wes and Braden had with her had me having good feels.

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"I want to fuck you. I want to forget about everything else in my life and just focus on what I can control. Getting you hard. Driving you wild...tasting you everywhere."

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The steam in this book was pretty damn hot!! As is what I have come to expect from Riley Hart. I love the way the author writes her sex scenes. I just LOVED it!! The chemistry between Braden and Wes was scorching. I was SO happy that I was really able to connect with both of them. I was also happy that this whole book wasn't just about the sex, there was just the perfect amount. Instead, the story was about the growth of the relationship between Wes and Braden.


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"I've never had someone or something that made me want to stay until you. I'm crazy, fucking in love with you, Wesley. I'd rather be here with you and Jessie than anywhere else in the world."

"I guess it's good that I'm crazy, fucking in love with you, too(...)I'd take on anything for you."

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I really loved this book and all the characters. I was glad to see a bit of Noah and Cooper in this one. I loved the story and the pace of it all. There were some tear jerking moments, as well as some bursting with joy ones too. There were also moments that made me sigh with pleasure. It was really great. There was even a little bit of angst near the end. The ending itself was really great too. If anything, it left me wanting an epilogue because I just wanted it to keep going. I know not everyone likes books that involve children in them. But I personally do, and if you do too and enjoy the m/m genre, then I would totally recommend this one to you.

July 21, 2016
Riley Hart, you just keep getting better and better! I really enjoyed this one!


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Stay follows the story of Wes and Braden. If you read Collide, Braden was the bi-sexual hunk of man that worked in the firehouse with Cooper, a main character in Collide. Wes was staying in Blackcreek caring for his dying sister and niece. They had a small cameo together in Collide where Braden and Wes have a one night stand where Braden wakes to an empty bed. Fast forward a bit....

Wes' sister Chelle passes away and Stay begins at her funeral. Braden is there to provide support, along with a Coop and Noah. But Wes is very cool and non responsive to everything Braden. It's clear his focus is on caring for his niece and that alone. He thinks Braden is a shallow guy who goes from bed to bed and that is NOT what he needs right now. Nobody else to walk away from him.

Loved their story. Braden is just...perfect. He's like a giant kid. I don't know who could resist him.


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Braden doesn't give up fighting for Wes, breaking down wall after wall...with a little help from an adorable four year old girl.



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I don't know who stole the show more...Braden or Jessie. She was so stinking cute! Wes was a perfect uncle/father figure to her and watching their family form and day to day love grow....endearingly sweet.



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"The Squirt is apparently dying of hunger. It just might kill her if she has to wait for you. She told me. And according to her, you'll be pissed at me if I let her starve."
"You said a bad word, Braden!" Jessie screeched in the background.
"Pissed is a bad word?" Braden asked.
"You said it again!"
"I was confirming!"




Stay has a perfect balance of great storyline, a bit of angst, drama, romance, and smoking hot MM. It's not super heavy on the sex but perfectly enough for me. This is more MM romance but the few sex scenes were FUCKHOT. Rest assured, my friends.


"I want to fuck you. I want to forget about everything else in my life and just focus on what I can control. Getting you hard. Driving you wild...tasting you everywhere."



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So, if you're looking for a great romance MM, easy to read, medium on the steam, and one that just puts a damn cheesy smile on your face in the end...Stay is the book for you.


Looking forward to Mason in book three. The new bar owner in town.


And I thank you,


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Profile Image for Jo ★The Book Sloth★.
485 reviews440 followers
January 9, 2016
5 FREAKING LOVE IT STARS

“If you don't risk your heart, you'll never know what it's like for it to fully be whole.”


Wes Jensen is no stranger to loss. It seems that everyone he loves he eventually loses. His dad who walked out on him, his mom who died way too early, the boyfriend who didn't understand him enough to stay and now the sister who raised him. As if dealing with the pain isn't enough he now also has to care for his niece, a task that Wes isn't sure he is really up to.

Braden Roth is a guy who loves enjoying life to its fullest. He is bisexual, always has been and never was in conflict about it. He enjoys his no-strings-attached one night stands, until the night Wes walks away from his bed in the middle of the night. Now Braden can't get Wes and the way he left out of his mind.


If you asked me a week ago I would say that it's next to impossible to love all the characters in a book(except if maybe the author is Ilona Andrews but they are on a level all their own). This book did it! I freakin' loved EVERYONE! I loved Braden, I loved Wes, I adored Jessie, I liked Braden's family, I liked Wes' family. I love the gay gang that is forming in Blackreek.

Wes was such a lovable character. It was obvious that life had dealed him some pretty shitty hands and that left him guarded and closed off from the people around him. It was obvious that he had a heart of gold in the way he loved Jessie and always put her needs first. It was obvious in the way he wanted to do what was best for the little girl. I loved watching his struggle to accept that he was what Jess needed in her life.

I also enjoyed seeing how he fought to keep away from Braden's attempts to be part of his life. There's nothing like watching a guy who's afraid to love, do exactly that. I could actually feel my heart aching every time he thought that he wasn't enough. That he coudn't give other people what they needed when it was obvious that he loved with his whole heart.

And the there was the wonder that was Braden Roth. From his description you would expect the usual player. The guy who looked for fun, had a serious case of commitment-phobia and struggled to accept he might actually fall for another person. And you would be absolutely wrong. I know I was.

Braden was a breath of fresh air. He was fun, had a tendency to talk way too much and more often that not had a series case of "foot-in-mouth" disease. But he was also kind, and loving and loyal. He was the guy who decided to spent his Wednesday baby-sitting for a friend and a little girl he barely knew, instead of having fun just because they needed him. He was the guy who protected his friends and went after what he wanted.

The relationship part of the book was awesome, the sex hot as hell and the secondary characters lovable(Braden's parents definitely get the "Awesome Parenting" award). I freakin loved this book!!!!!
Profile Image for Barbara.
433 reviews86 followers
April 28, 2014
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I LOVED IT!!!

This book has the perfect amount of everything I love!

A bit of angst but …

No nagging melodrama…

Dirty talker…

Lots of lust and sexual tension…

Smoking hot sex…

Tender sweet gooey moments!!!

And Braden, SERIOUSLY … AMAZING❤!
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Profile Image for Monique.
1,068 reviews377 followers
April 22, 2014
☆ ★ ☆ 4.5 FABULOUS STARS ☆ ★ ☆

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It’s official… I AM A HUGE Riley Hart fan!!! There is no doubt in my mind this woman can write up a storm. As a reader she takes me to that place we all want to go, to get so lost and caught up in the pages of a book, where reality fades into the background and you become engrossed and lose yourself to the romance. Riley Hart gives me that ahhh feeling… when you sink into the couch, open your kindle and know you are going to be truly wowed, she just seems to pull you into the story effortlessly, there is nothing complex about her writing, it’s like comfort food for a reader, enjoyable and thoroughly entertaining, pulling on all your heart strings and emotions… I just love her! As someone that reads so much, it’s easy to become blasé about books, where one just mingles into the next, but that is something that cannot be said about Riley, and the main reason for this is her characterisation… simply put, it’s just excellent, there is no other word for it, every single one of her characters from all three of her books so far have managed to crawl into my heart and take up residence, and for me this is where Riley excels.

I am going to hold my hands up and admit, I was late to the Blackcreek party, so when I knew Stay was going to be released, and after reading and loving Broken Pieces… there was no way this book was not going to be MINE!!! It’s a term of phrase to say “I could not put this book down” …but in all honesty, when I picked up Collide to start my journey to Blackcreek, I literally, DID NOT put my Kindle down until I had read both books, my life was officially on hold, the only thing keeping my attention were Riley’s boys.

We met both Braden and Wes in Collide and even before having their own book, I was already smitten. I mean, what’s not to love about Braden, he’s your typical cheeky chappie, a bit like Coop, which is probably why they got on so well. Wes is a little more intense, you get a feeling of sadness from him but dealing with his sisters illness, that’s understandable. Wes and Braden had spent a night of passion together in Collide, for Wes, that’s all it was, an escape from the reality of the inevitable, but for Braden, a man used to getting what he wants, being bailed on in the middle of the night has him wanting more… to Braden, Wes has become a challenge!

And so, Stay picks up right were Collide finished…

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For the rest of the review, please visit Sinfully Sexy Book reviews... where you will also find Chapter one of Stay to have a nosy at...

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Profile Image for D.L. Howe.
Author 23 books558 followers
June 3, 2022
Not gonna lie, at some points I didn’t know who annoyed me more; Wes or Brayden.

Brayden was too immature, too pushy and annoying. Wes was such a grump all the fucking time, but more so he was overly redundant.

I’m all for angst but when you beat the dead horse until you kill it ten times over, it’s a bit much. Stop hitting me over the head with the same lame excuses.

On the other end of the spectrum Brayden is no doubt the most selfless person on the planet. I adored the relationship he built with Jessie, Wes’ niece. He was a major positive influence on her and she came to need him as much as Wes.

And Wes is so incredibly strong even if he’s hiding from any kind of happiness he still tries to take care of everyone around him. Nobody could’ve been a better choice to take care of Jessie after her mom died.

This was obviously super emotional, the angst was far too high and the steam far too low. It’s only my third book by Hart but I’ve come to expect a lot of smut and that was sorely missing from this.

Seeing as the pros and cons are pretty even on this one, I have no choice but to give it a middling rating … unfortunately.

This won’t stop me from finishing the series though.
Profile Image for Mo.
1,386 reviews2 followers
April 30, 2014
3.5

I liked it. I did like it. I see most of my friends have given this 4 and 5 stars. It did not hit that 4 or 5 star button for me. Why? No idea why! Liked Wes, liked Braden, liked Jessie. It was just “like” though, not “love”.


Wes Jensen just lost the sister who raised him, and gained custody of his niece. The last thing he needs to add to his full plate is dealing with Braden Roth, the one-night-stand who continues to try to push his way into Wes’ life. He has a kid to raise now, and Wes isn't great at getting close anyway.


I think Wes sort of annoyed me a bit. OK, I get his grief and his role to try and be the best for Jessie. But c’mon, give a guy a break.


Will I read more from this author. Yes, I will.

Profile Image for Alice.
338 reviews79 followers
January 6, 2015

This series just keeps getting better . This one was amazing!

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After reading book one, Collide, I was so anxiously awaiting to read Wes story. I liked Braden, but nothing more. But I had no idea Braden could be this flawless!


After his sister died of cancer, Wes gained the custody of his little niece, Jessie. He is not convinced that he's the right person to fit in that role for her, but he tries to do his best.

We know from book one that Braden and Wes hooked up once. It was just a one night stand.
From that night, Wes tries to stay away from Braden. He has so many things going on in his life and he can't deal with a relationship at the moment.

That doesn't mean Braden is going to give up on him..
And honestly, how long can someone stay away from him?!

Braden is cocky, pushy, handsome, sexy, kind, sweet, caring..and he's a firefighter!! He's just PERFECT . He reminded me of my beloved Drew Evans.

Sex scenes were so hot.

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I loved Jessie and her relationship with Braden! This 4 year old kid was just so cute. The scenes with her were sometimes hilarious, sometimes so sad. How can you tell a little girl that she's not going to see her mother again?


I really recommend this series, especially to the ones who still have to start reading this genre. Collide was my first m/m book and I really enjoyed it, and I loved this one!


For those who have read this book, you should read this bonus scene .

I can't wait to read book 3, Mason's story. Really loving this series so far!

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Profile Image for Richard.
180 reviews19 followers
August 6, 2016
Man, it killed me not to give this book a 5th star.
Man, Collide was 5 star awesome but I had hoped the use of "man" would have been tempered in this book, man.
But man, sadly no.

Man, gay men do not use the "man" reference
Bi man do not use the "man" reference, man.
Insecure straight men in lockerooms do not use the "man" reference as much as these characters.

MAN, this got awkward to read.
Profile Image for Eva.
363 reviews178 followers
May 2, 2014
Amazing... loved it!



Wes...



Past heartbreaks ...



Future hope...



AMAZING.

It was sweet, it was tender, characters full of self-doubt, and a bit of angst.

*Sighs*

I connected with both Wes and Braden and felt the development of their relationship was credible and very real. The emotions were off the charts

"I needed to risk my heart, because you're worth it. And I'm worth it, too."


And the sex, well that was pretty damn hot too.



I am really happy that a book 3 is coming out soon. Cant wait.

Beautiful, emotional, intense and just cant get enough MM romance. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Dia.
534 reviews144 followers
March 17, 2019
4 solid stars!

This is the second book in the Blackcreek series. I have read the first book years ago and unfortunately I don't remember much about Noah and Cooper, but I am a big Riley Hart fan and I knew I will love this book.

It was extremely hot, but also suuuper sweet. We get only a little angst here and it's the only reason I am not giving it 5 stars. What I loved the most here would be the hotness. Wow these men can surely burn my iPad. Loved the cute 4 years old Jessie! And Jock the chocolate labrador!
Profile Image for M.
268 reviews1 follower
May 13, 2014
**3.5 Sweet Stars**

I'll admit...
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But I was happy and smiling by the end. So all good.
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Profile Image for ~Stéphanie~.
623 reviews360 followers
January 25, 2015
Stay was one perfect read!

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This is the story of Wes and Braden, two men so different from one another that it was so adorable to see what brought them together.

Wes is in a difficult period of his life because he has just lost one of his sisters whom he was very close. Following this tragic event, he was given custody of her niece, Jessie, who is only four years. He terrified to do more wrong than good and he only wants to focus on his life and the one from his niece, Jessie.

Braden is a man who doesn't often remains in place. He likes to go out, to have fun, he likes the company of women but also men. He lives his life as it comes and doesn't ask himself too many questions.
Nevertheless since he spent one night of sheer madness with Wes he can't stop thinking about him. Braden understands that this is not the moment to try anything but he wants to help Wes and be there for him as a friend.
The beginnings between them are rather complicated. Wes is someone of reserved, who doesn't trust easily and who doesn't let somebody enter his life because he always thinks that they are likely to leave.

"Everyone who knew him understood how hard it was for him to talk about things that really mattered. Not feeling made it a whole lot easier when he lost them and Wes always lost the people who mattered to him"

Braden is quite the opposite, it is very sociable and likes to do favors to those around him. On the other hand, one thing he can seem to change, is to know when to shut up.

"My doctor is still trying to come up with a cure for my "open mouth, insert foot" disorder"

Things are going to change when Wes needs a little help to find someone who can take care of Jessie every Wednesday. Of course, Braden offers his help without a second thought.

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I don't have enough word to express how I loved this book! It has all assets to be a perfect read. It's well written, enthralling with a great characters development, not much drama, moments of tenderness, moments of sadness, moment of joy.

The relation shared by both men is growing in front of our eyes naturally and is touching.

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The little extra from this story is of course Jessie, the 4 years old little girl. She's smart, and playing a key role in the evolution of Wes and Braden's relationship.

-" Are you having a sleepover?" she asked
-"No. Your uncle will be home around seven thirty, so he'll put you to bed"
-"How come you never have a sleepover" "Don't you want to sleep over? It would be fun?"
-"I'm sure it would be, but... it just doesn't work that way"
-"Why?"


I don't even want to speak about the incredible sex in the book because to me, it took a secondary place. Don't get me wrong, there are awesome scenes but it wasn't important, and it wasn't a big part and that doesn't bother at all.

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Special Thanks to my BR partner Natalie ♥
863 reviews230 followers
November 13, 2014

3.5 stars

Ok, so here's a confession: I started reading this book knowing that I'd read the first one and seeing that I'd given it 3.5 stars, obviously enjoyed it enough. But as I got a couple pages in, I realized I could not, for the life of me, remember ANYTHING about book 1. I could not remember Noah or Cooper or a fireman or GFY or any of it! I went back and read my review and NO light bulbs went off. It was a black hole. Huh.

Good news: that means "Stay" book 2 of the series, can TOTALLY be read as a standalone. Because that's essentially what I did, I suppose.

Bad news: I'm losing my memory in my old age. Pass the ginko biloba.


I very much enjoyed this book. It's a classic contemporary. Guy's been hurt in the past so is wary to love again. Other guy is happy-go-lucky (and yay, bisexual!) and tries to break through the walls. There's a sweet kid in the mix. There's lots of sad bits and some angst and some miscommuncication and some lack of communication. There's so hot stuff and some fun stuff. And it all worked.

Admittedly, since I couldn't even remember the MC's of the 1st book, I most assuredly did not remember Wes or Braden from before. But I liked them both in this 2nd book. Wes was a tortured character...my heart hurt for him and I wanted him to allow himself to be happy. He could have crossed into the annoying territory, but I didn't feel that he had. Braden was just...awesome. :) I want a Braden in my life. I want to be a Braden. He's arrogant, sure. But he's kind and caring and he's loyal. And he's just good people. I love those types.

Lots of family stuff...and luckily that was a plus more than a minus.

Some work stuff...and those scenes seemed a bit out of place, but I didn't hate them.

I enjoyed this and at some parts really FELT it.

Hopefully I'll remember it 6 months down the line...but I make no promises...

Profile Image for εllε.
755 reviews
March 25, 2016

Oh, this book was so much better than the first one. I ended up loving both Braden and Wes, and of course little Jess. This book had all the elements that the first one lacked. The drama (not much, just the right amount), the deep feelings and the interaction.

Wes is a tormented soul, whose life hasn't been easy at all, and continues to get harder and harder. He finds himself in a parent role and tries to do everything for his little niece. He doesn't care what happens to himself, he only cares in providing what's best for Jessie, even if it means that he no longer has a private life or the right to feel happy.

Until Braden. I loved him so much. His easy-going personality, his playfulness, the way he demands to get under Wes's skin and everything he does for little Jess. I liked so much his family and the way they made everything easy for Wes, Jess and Braden of course. It's like a big, wonderful clan.

And the hot scenes?? :Q_



This book had some heart-wrenching moments but it also was very funny, especially when Braden interacted with Jess. There was a scene when Jess was playing with Jock-Jockstrap(great name for a dog! :D), she wanted a puppy for herself and was going to name him after "Uncle Wes".

I liked Jessie and the way she wanted Braden and Wes to be together and how she loved them both.

This was a good book that leaves you happy in the end. I'm so gad that I read it.

Profile Image for ✝✝ Ⓓaisy ❣ ✝✝ .
493 reviews274 followers
April 29, 2014
Stay was one book that I was excited about with Ami because of Wes and Braden.

And totally fell in love with Braden. He was such a darling.

BRADEN + WES =

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Explosive!!!!

If you are into M/M smut read, you have it!!!! Only thing that I wished for was more of the sorry line.

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Braden, ooo, Braden, he is such a dirty talker and me loving!!!!

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Happy reading

D xo

**BR with gorgeous Ami, thanks girly**
Profile Image for Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden ⚓️.
1,951 reviews33.6k followers
August 31, 2016
5++++ Stars

It's official, I will read anything Riley Hart writes. She writes my favorite thing - character driven stories about real people. Wes and Braden were all kinds of sexy - adorable and I could have read about them for eternal pages.

In fact, that's my only beef with this story - no epilogue - I'm a am a whore for a good epilogue.

Other than that, I can't wait for Mason's story next.
Profile Image for ✦❋Arianna✦❋.
790 reviews2,593 followers
September 5, 2014
4.5 STARS

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We met both Wes and Braden in the first book in the series “Collide”, where they spend a night together. Wes leaves Braden in the morning without a word, he’s not interested to be with someone, especially with Braden. Wes has enough on his plate right now to be involved in a relationship – his sister died from cancer, leaving him in charge with his four year old niece, Jessie.

Braden is a fire fighter and he’s bi. He’s carefree and wild and he doesn’t have any responsibilities. He had never had a woman or a man sneak out on him after a night spent together. Since Wes left Braden that night, Braden can’t stop thinking of him, there’s something about Wes. He can’t explain this fascination he has with this man, even if Wes made it obvious he wasn’t interested in a repeat of their night together.

“Why did it bother him so much that Wes wanted nothing to do with him?”


Wes tries to avoid Braden, he doesn’t want to be interesting to anyone. Everything changes when Wes has an interview for a job and he has no choice but to leave the little girl with Braden. Braden spends more time with Wes and Jessie when he starts taking care of Jessie once a week.


“I’ve never known anyone like you.”
“That a good thing, Wesley?”
No hesitation, Wes replied, “It is.”


They start to know each other better, they are attracted to each other, but Wes has some fears. He doesn’t want to care anymore, to get attached. Everyone in his life left him in way or other, first his mother, then the only man he’s ever loved and now his sister when she died.

“Could he risk that again? Could he risk Jessie’s heart?”


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Wes must learn how to let go of his fears in order to be happy. Can Wes learn how to trust and love again?

Braden is a fantastic man. From the beginning he respects Wes, he knows all this is difficult for this man and he’s amazed how good is with Jessie. He wants to make Wes laugh as much as he can and he offers to help Wes in any way. He is patient and so caring and loving with both Wes and Jessie. I loved how he interacts with both of them and I adored the sweet moments between three of them. He is perfect for Wes and for Jessie and both of them are perfect for him.

Wes is insecure, he doesn’t think he will be a good parent for Jessie, but he is so perfect with her. He’s responsible, caring and so loving. He always puts Jessie first and he’s ready to sacrifice anything for her. His relationship with her is so great; you can really feel their love and adoration for each other.

This book was really, really great! Like the first book in the series, "Stay" is low in angst and drama. I liked the story and loved both main characters and of course Jessie too. The side characters are great too, their friends, Noah and Cooper, and Braden’s family. I loved the chemistry between Wes and Braden and all the steamy moments between them. Hot and sometimes sweet they are fantastic.

I definitely recommend this one!!

“If you don’t risk your heart, you’ll never know what it’s like for it to fully be whole.“
Profile Image for Alvin.
388 reviews103 followers
October 23, 2014
AND NOW, ALL I CAN THINK ABOUT IS THAT SAM SMITH SONG.

(BTW, while writing this review, I made a playlist with songs that has "Stay" in it and had it on repeat.)

4.5 UNCLE WES AND UNCLE BRADEN STARS!!!
I think I like this better than Collide. And I think this might be my favorite Riley Hart book!

It was just what I need. This story made me feel so good!!! Out of all of her books, this was the least angsty. And I loved it!!! It was simple and light. But really good. Lots of happy moments on it. My favorite part would be when Jessie called Braden: Uncle Braden. Awww...

I loved Braden. He was just an irresistible character. Conceited as hell, but very adorable. He's perfect for Wes' distant demeanor.
Wes, I like him too! I get him, even though he's a hard character.
Jessie! Who would not like that adorable, strong girl.
I think this was one of those few M/M books that have supportive families behind of both MCs. All of them were wonderful.

I'm not sure if I can say a bad thing about this one aside that it could be cheesy and too simple to some. But not to me, it worked well with me. Also think this is a great starter for those who want to try M/Ms.

A very feel good adorable story.
RECOMMENDED! :D


ALSO POSTED ON MY BLOG: THE SAPPY NOYPI
http://sappynoypi.wordpress.com/2014/...
Please check it out!


ENJOY THIS BONUS SCENE from Ms. Hart!
http://shhmomsreading.com/review-bonu...
Profile Image for Macky.
1,945 reviews230 followers
May 1, 2014
Quite simply...I loved this. Wes and Braden's relationship kept me rapt all the way through. I'd been looking forward to this for a long time and when it arrived it was just as great as I expected. Engaging characters, sweet, hot, sexy romance, endearing little girl.. No complaints from me at all. Everyone should be so lucky to meet someone like Braden, like everyone I fell hard and fast for him...as it stands Wes was the guy who got him and I'm so happy he did. Wes stole my heart just as much as Braden, just in a different way. I'll be reading this one again but now I'm back to waiting for the next lovely story from Blackcreek and I know, like this, its going to be worth the wait. Highly enjoyable.
Profile Image for SueC.
112 reviews
April 17, 2014
4.5 stars

What do you get when you cross a couple of hot guys, an adorable kid and a Labrador Retriever called Jock? A damn good story, that’s what. ❤️❤️❤️


Books are very much like single days in our lives. Some are good, and some are bad. Sometimes they’re ridiculous and hard to believe, while others make you wish you’d never had to endure them. Sometimes you’ll revisit a picnic spot (or book) with great fervour only to find that it’s memory serves you better than the crummy experience you just had. And sometimes you go meet with old friends and find that things (just like wine) only get better with time. And that, my dears, is exactly what’s happened with book two of the Blackcreek Series.

I can tell you that I adored this book; that the story, despite being quite simple, held my attention the whole time. That there were nuances throughout the story that moved me and that those details added life and sometimes darkness to the story. I’ll admit that I liked Stay more than it’s predecessor, Collide.

Both main characters are well developed, but I can’t go further without mentioning the awesomeness that is Braden Roth. He is such a fantastic character and the kind of guy everyone would like as their friend and/or lover. He’s a quick witted smartass, an unashamedly free spirited soul, a FIREMAN and wiser than he lets on. He’s the hero in this story. Following on from that, it would be remiss of me not to mention the steamy chemistry (and the subsequent hotty hotness which ensued) between Braden and Wes, and for that I’d like to Ms Hart – enthusiastically.

A big component of this story is in (as the blurb states) the fact that Wes becomes the sole guardian of his 4 year old niece, so be prepared for “family time” and the emotional attachment that goes with it.

Lastly, I’ll tell you that snapshots of car headlights, little fingers that wiggle, doggy noses pressed up against car windows and life changing sled rides will now hold a special place in my heart.

Well done Ms Hart, well done.

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