My double life is crumbling around me. Denying who I am isn’t fair on anyone: the girls I tried so hard to date, the guys I’m too afraid to flirt with, or my family who don’t know the truth. I’m afraid of coming out to my mom—but if I don’t, I’ll remain in fear that she’ll find out from someone else. I’m torn between expectation and truth, and I’m not sure I can keep hiding behind a cocky grin.
I’m not ready for the gorgeous guy who challenges me in my own diner. His every word turns me on, and I’m drawn to him like a moth to flame, but if I get so close that anyone finds out, we’re both going to end up burned.
CEDAR
I’m too clumsy to hold onto anything good. Everything I touch breaks, and now I’m dependent on my ex’s good graces. He runs our urban gardening charity, and his dad pays my rent. I do the dirty work, which is all I’m good for: I dig holes and plant seeds. Standing up for myself feels impossible, so I start easy. At least, it was supposed to be.
The cocky cook who couldn’t crisp up my bacon sure crisped up my sausage. Everyone knows closeted guys are a risk, and I’m great at scaring people away. But Ricky gives me the strength to be me, and I can’t stop falling for him. Not even chipped Brooklyn sidewalks can stop true love blooming.
Boiling Point is book three in the Brooklyn Boys series, where good men find their happily ever afters in a hectic metropolis. It has an HEA and no cliffhanger. There will be awkward first times, cops at the door, hiding in thrift store racks, a trouble-making bouquet, a mama’s boy coming home, and an uncontrolled flame.
E. Davies writes feel-good, low-angst romance that never fades to black when the going gets good! Born in Canada, after 16 moves and counting, Ed has finally put down roots in north London.
He emerges from his writing nest to coo over fuzzy animals, flee from cute guys, dance through the streets with his chosen family, put together fierce looks, and—most of all—befriend local flowers.
Well that was just gorgeous. It's a perfect Ed Davies romance with lots of sweet, sweet love and only a little bit of angsting.
Ricky is just the right guy for Cedar to rely on once he manages to deal with his fears about coming out and admitting to his mama and the world that he's gay.
I loved Ricky, how supportive he was even before Cedar's ass of an ex came and outed him. He had such a wonderful way of making Cedar's life with cerebral palsy not be an issue.
And way to go Ed Davies, for creating such a compelling character in Cedar, who I absolutely adored.
All ends up just a lovely read.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Another great addition to the Brooklyn Boys series. We met Ricky in book 2 when there was a failed hook up attempt and subsequent friendship with Adam. I was glad we got to see him again and come to terms with who he is. It was so hard for him to acknowledge his feelings, but Meeting Cedar and realizing that he is stronger than he thinks finds him happiness that he didn’t think possible. I loved watching Ricky navigate his orientation and Cedar break away from his awful ex. It was awesome connecting with all of the characters from the last 2 books as well. I continue to love everything that E. Davies writes. The stories are so great and hopeful, and the writing is really lovely.
Edited to add: I read this a second time by listening to the audiobook, and it was awesome. Nick J. Russo's voice brought the characters life, and I found myself more invested in them listening to the passion and inflection in the voices. Fabulous book with an excellent narration.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by the author
Enrique “Ricky” Rosa is the curious, closeted cook at Bubbles that has a brief part in book 2. Cedar is sort of a regular at Bubbles, or hangs out with a few that are. Their relationship journey begins over a plate of limp meat. Both of these guys have secrets and insecurities that continue to plague them with self-doubt throughout much of the book. Whether it be Cedar’s condition or a-hole ex-boyfriend, Nathan, Cedar constantly second-guesses himself. Likewise, Ricky failed at every relationship ever attempted and is convinced he won’t be able to make Cedar happy. They have good chemistry and while they torture themselves with this push-pull dynamic, there is progress made and a relationship developed. Secondary cast include previous couples, some regulars, manipulative exes, great parents, and more. The story kept my attention and entertained me as it moved along smoothly. Predictability was pretty low. The conclusion was solid enough to imply a HFN/HEA ending. Conflicts were handled maturely, for the most part. Overall, while it was not my favorite in the series, I enjoyed the story and cast. . Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.175 ~ Stars: 4 ========================== ⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I borrowed a copy of this book from Amazon via my #KindleUnlimited subscription and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
I really love this series, and the characters are awesome! It's like if I go to Brooklyn I would love to find them hanging out at a diner somewhere. Just wishing for a Jared/Shay back story, and Billy's HEA wouldn't go amiss either!
Great story with great main characters and wonderful surrounding people. I keep wondering which of these guys is going to get the next book and their HEA -- Billy? Neil? The hairdresser who has the shop near Ricky's apartment? Whoever it is, I can't wait to read it!
Well I have to say I completely fell in love with Ricky and Cedar! Oh these two are something so very special and a wonderful addition to this series!
Ricky is a cook at Bubbles and he's frustrated with life. He's deep in closet, afraid of what is mom will think when she finds out he is gay. He's also dealing with a manipulative ex-girlfriend and one night it all comes to a head when someone insults his cooking. The man with the complaint is not what Ricky was ready for but everything he has wanted. Cedar just wants a good plate of bacon and to escape the drama of working with and living next door to his ex so when he gets a plate of limp meat he stands up for himself. There's an instant spark between these two that changes everything for both of these guys.
There is a lot to this story, between Ricky dealing with what it means for him come out and Cedar dealing with his disability and controlling ex, but I think it is handled so well. I really loved seeing what these two came to mean to each other, and while it does happen fairly quickly, it didn't feel like insta-love. They learn to trust each other and protect each other and truly understand each other.
I really enjoyed everything about this story! There is so much heart and feeling and even during the rough moments and the struggles it is easy to love Ricky and Cedar. Both of these men grow so much together, gaining confidence and learning to be proud of who they are. They compliment each other perfectly! This series brings together such a great group of characters to just adore and I can't wait for more.
Word of advice and note to self... don't start a GREAT book on a holiday that you have a houseful of company for three days... *headdesk* ;D
This story touched my heart with the feel-good moments and the "support" that both Cedar and Ricky received from both family and friends! Even though the cold harsh reality is that many children and sometimes even adults are just thrown away by family or friends for being "different" or trying to live their lives as their "true" selves... there are, in fact, families, and friends that are accepting and loving! I thank the lord for those and pray for the others because they are throwing away someone very precious that would have made their lives fuller and more complete... their choice to turn their backs on love is a loss that can never be recaptured.
As for Cedar and Ricky? Yep, these two made for some mighty fine reading, thank you, E. Davies, for such wonderful characters and entertaining stories!
Now, who will get the next book and how long will we have to wait is my next thought.... grrr LOL!!!
I love this series already, and this is such a great addition. There are so few books, especially romance books, with main characters with disabilities. I love how E. Davies weaves information about cerebral palsy into the story - it's not the primary conflict, it's not something Cedar has to overcome, but it's a part of him and has been meaningful in his experiences that brought him to where he is as the story begins. I'm glad we got to see what came next for Ricky, after being in introduced to him in a previous story! As always, looking forward to the next. There were a few moments (of Britishisms?) that briefly took me out of the story: an "enquiries" (Americans are used to "inquiries"), and I had to stop and look up the meaning of "twigged"! Those were both very early on in the book, though, and from then on I was fully inside the Brooklyn Boys universe. I love these books; I like the length - they don't feel so short that as soon as I begin, it's over! But once I reach about the halfway point, I start to feel sad it will have to end soon. My appetite for E. Davies books is insatiable. More, please! 😍
Ricky is trying to figure out how he can truly be himself while Cedar is working on making it through another day with his ex’s voice always in his head. As these two work on themselves and being together, there is such beauty and grace shown, you will be overwhelmed with it. There is just enough heat to kick the book up from sweet to hot.
One thing I adore about this author is how he creates characters that are real and not what society says is “normal” and shows what true beauty is: acceptance of who people are without making them be some unreachable expectation that society puts on us.
Ed Davies has the uncanny ability to write marvelous characters. Men with a lot whole of insecurities, hang-ups, past and present hurt or life difficulties, but that manage to be strong and be themselves and live their best lives nonetheless. This is the case for Cedar and Ricky, too. Cedar, with a physical disability and and ex boyfriend and current co-worker who has latched onto it to control Cedar. Ricky, the closeted cook who is afraid to rock his life by coming out to his family and friend. When the two men meet, they seem to draw strength from the other to stand up for themselves and live up to their own expectations. Another wonderful novel in the Brooklyn Boys series.
Ricky is a cook at Bubbles and is deep in the closet and unsure how to change that. Cedar has just got out of a bad relationship and still has to work with his ex. An argument over crispy bacon puts the couple into each others orbit. The attraction between them is immediate and Ricky finally thinks that it might be time to own who he is. Their path is further complicated by both of their exes and problems with the charity that Cedar and his ex run. I love how quietly strong both of these characters are and the fact that they are so supportive of each other. A great addition to the Brooklyn Boys series.
Ricky and Cedar are just so sweet. Ricky hasn't told anyone that he is gay and he is struggling. He has an ex-girlfriend that is blackmailing him for money. Cedar has an ex that is just an all round awful person. Between everything that is going on Ricky and Cedar find each other and their relatioship blooms. It is just a sweet, heartwarming read. I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.
I’ve yet to be disappointed with this writer. This book introduces us to Ricky, closeted and unsure of himself as a gay man, and Cedar, a sweet guy with a slight impediment. Both seem to be in need of love and acceptance. Obstacles come in the form of exes who don’t play by the rules. As the story unfolds we watch as this novelist creates a colorful picture of our heroes, of their separate lives and then brings together a beautiful, moving HEA. The ability, I’ve seen by this writer, to create characters that are genuine, both likable and contentious, is found in his books, repeatedly. The art of depicting situations that are compelling and that envelopes the reader into the story, successfully, is a rare find. I believe we’ve found it here. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
Cedar is so sweet,always trying to overcome his condition and his insecurities, and Ricky...you just want to reach him,give him a hug ,maybe he finds the courage to get the reign of his life. It's beautiful to see how they become stronger together, finding each other and a little of their selfs in the process My favourite book in this series.loved it
I loved Boiling Point by E. Davies. I loved both Ricky and Cedar and how the author isn't afraid to write characters that have have everyday flaws and disabilities. Caesar's ex-boyfriend Nathan was a piece of work and I'm glad that he and his dad got what was coming to them. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Another great add to the series. Ricky and Cedar are so perfect and pull at the heart strings. Ricky is struggling with a lot and knows the next step is a big one that could change everything. It breaks my heart each time I read about a character who is scared to be themselves. Cedar doesn't think he is worth anything and a ex who is part of that thinking. Each of them just trying to make it to the next day and not happy with life come together and heat up the pages. Sexy, sweet and full of self discovery that each reader can feel inspired by. I wouldn't expect anything less from E. Davies, simply brilliant, truthful and hopeful. Can't wait for the next. I voluntarily reviewed an 'Advance Author’s Copy' of this book.
Not sure I read the same book as others. It was an enjoyable read but definitely not a 5 star for me. Couldn't understand why Cedar didn't join the dots sooner. 3.5 stars
I enjoyed Ricky and Cedar's sweet love story, even though both men were prone to bouts of overreacting. A large chunk of this book deals with how insecure Ricky is about dating men and how afraid he is to come out to his friends and family. While I sympathized with his situation, I didn't like how he kept catastrophizing the idea of hooking up with a man, to the point that he ran away from his date with Cedar. Cedar was very patient and level-headed during Ricky's moments of crisis, which I greatly appreciated, but then towards the end of the book when things fell apart in his own life, he threw himself one epic pity party that was a bit too self-deprecating for my taste. I have to admit that I didn't find the situation with Cedar's charity surprising at all, especially when the author made repeated mentions of Cedar barely paying attention to meetings with the lawyer, not reading what he was signing, etc. etc. Everything involving Nathan's story arc felt like a big predictable bomb that I was just waiting to see explode.
In between Ricky's anxieties over coming out and Cedar's heavily foreshadowed issues with his charity, these two had some adorable and laugh-inducing moments together. I can't decide if my favorite is their very first, weirdly flirty bacon encounter or one of the many other lighthearted exchanges they had, but I loved how caring and sweet they always were to each other. Even when the whole world seemed against them, Ricky and Cedar never turned on each other and never created drama in their own relationship. Even in moments of the story where I was sure that Ricky or Cedar would misinterpret something and go storming off, it never happened.
In terms of the audio itself, Nick Russo once again delivered an excellent performance. Cedar, Ricky, and all of the supporting characters had such distinct voices and personalities that it was easy for me to tell who was speaking without thinking about it at all.
**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
I'd give this a 3.5, rounded up to 4. I liked the plot, the characters, the addressing of ableism, Cedar's disability and the difficulties with being less severely disabled, but still having to exist in an ableist world, and the narration for the audio. I found the complications with Cedar's ex to be suspenseful, even though some might find it melodramatic, (but I like melodrama). It was good to see characters from the previous books, though not all of them did make an appearance. There were also a couple new side characters who were endearing as well. I also liked that Cedar was pretty clearly described, so far as his appearance. Davies sometimes seems to forget to describe characters beyond their build. (I can't say I had a truly clear impression of what Ricky looked like though.)
What didn't do it for me was what seemed like overdone, repetitive inner monologuing & OTP schmaltz. Nobody can think that much in between sentences in a conversation or during sex. Some of it was good, but some seemed to be just a bit too much. The dialogue between characters was often entertaining, but toward the end seemed, again, a bit too schmaltzy for my cold, jaded heart. They also fell head over heels in a short period of time that could've been extended by several weeks with more dates without the plot needing further alteration. With some of the inner monologuing cut down, it could've even stayed the same length.
That being said, if Davies ever extended the series or had a spin-off with the few characters mentioned who were not paired off, I would definitely continue with it.
As for the narration, Russo did a great job of differentiating characters, expressing emotion, etc. He did pronounce a few words incorrectly, (like cerebral palsy), but his performance otherwise made up for it.
With Boiling Point, E Davies has a way of bringing some light hearted humor into a serious subject. This book is a fantastic addition to the Brooklyn Boys series.
Ricky and Cedar meet over some limp bacon. Yes, seriously! From there, we have some more funny moments, along with some struggles. We see these superb men face their fears and insecurities in a touching manner.
Ricky's been hiding in the closet, trying not to upset his mother. Now, with Cedar, he's ready to embrace his sexuality. As he struggles with doing anything sexual, Cedar manages to help him relax and gives him time to get used to things. I love how patient and caring Cedar is about Ricky's inexperience.
Meanwhile, for Cedar, he's shocked, and thrilled, by the way Ricky acknowledges him. While he suffers from the effects of Cerebral Palsy, he rarely finds someone who's supportive. His ex was one who made sure to belittle him for his condition and unfortunately, he still works for him. Ricky's reaction to Cedar's condition is the complete opposite. Ricky makes me feel like an equal in every way, which is wonderful and inspirational.
Both Ricky and Cedar experience significant transformations as a result of their relationship. It's fantastic to see Ricky come out and be his true self, as it's a weight off his shoulder. And Cedar starts to believe in himself and tries to get out from under his ex's negativity.
Boiling Point is a beautiful story. E Davies had me feeling all the feels. I laughed, I worried, I smiled, and I came close to shedding a few tears. This is an amazing contribution to the Brooklyn Boys series.
So, what do a closeted short order chef and an out charities fundraiser have in common? That is easy… bad taste in partners and significant others, and a meet-cute over limp bacon.
Ricky and Cedar are as different as night and day, and that is what gives them so much charm as a couple. As someone who has a disability that isn’t seen at first glance, I was able to relate to Cedar and as this character faced his trials I faced them with him. I felt his injustices with him, but I also rejoiced in his happiness with him. It was wonderful.
I adored Ricky the more the story developed, and he and Cedar got to know each other. Their relationship was so sweet to me and I absolutely absorbed all the emotions as they floated out of the book and into my heart.
Russo as always did a wonderful job breathing life into Davies’ characters. Davies is already a one-click author for me, and even if I have read their eBooks, I STILL get the audios when they are released, because reliving those stories is always a joy, and the 2nd time around I get human voices instead of humanoid through TTS, and that RAWKS! 🎧📚🎧
This series has been great, so do not miss it!!
You will love, “The Brooklyn Boys!” 👨🏼🤝👨🏻🌈👨🏼🤝👨🏻
The Story: 5.00 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 The Narration: 4.50🌟🌟🌟🌟. ✨ Overall: 4.75 🌟🌟🌟🌟. ✨
Boiling Point is the third book in the Brooklyn Boys series and although familiar faces from books one and two make an appearance, it can be read as a standalone. This book is a contemporary romance featuring a toxic ex-boyfriend, coming out, and the courage to be true to yourself.
Ricky has been hiding his true self all his life and has no idea how to come out. But meeting Cedar changes everything and helps him find the resolve to move forward with his life and not loose out on love. Cedar has a lot of emotional damage he has to heal from his ex-boyfriend, but meeting Ricky is exactly what he needed to help find his confidence and self-worth. Together these men will help support each other as they deal with difficult obstacles that life throws at them.
I liked this book, but it definitely had some difficult moments for poor Cedar. Cedar drove me crazy because I both loved him and wanted to shake him. He stuck his head in the sand too many times and it ended up putting him in a really bad jam, but luckily this is a romance book so everything worked out for the best in the end.
Nick J. Russo narrated this book like he did the last two books in the series. He did a fantastic job, especially with keeping all the character voices distinct. I had no trouble following along with the story and enjoyed his performance immensely.
Exceeded my expectations!! I have a new cozy place in my heart where Ricky and Cedar live! Sweet, affirming, romantic and beautiful romance. I really enjoyed how this story developed from friendship, to lovers and soul-mates. Both men have challenges and i loved how they were there for each other. I loved the flow of the story and the development of their connection was so real.
Beautifully written and engaging story-line kept me reading all afternoon. I so enjoyed all the wonderful supporting characters that really help make this wonderful story.
Ricky and Cedar grow and change and become more of their true selves as you read about them falling in love. Reinventing yourself, finding yourself and accepting yourself are all very challenging endeavors. I loved their connection and the really special moments of awareness in this story.
Oh, my goodness! Ricky and Cedar are just made for each other! This is the third installment in the Brooklyn Boys series and it is getting stronger with each book! Ricky is the cook at Bubbles restaurant and Cedar usually comes in with his friends to grab a quick bite which includes bacon. Well the one time that his bacon came out limp he decided to stand up for himself and say something. This kicked off a whole sting of happy moment and the coming out of Ricky to his family and most important Cedar. Then Cedar finally kicks the jerk of an ex boyfriend to the curb and you will want to cheer right along with me on this one. Turns out that each and everyone of the boys of Brooklyn stand behind each other in the best way possible. Great read and tons of romance with a little bit of heroism added in just for good measures.
I loved this story. Ricky has been around since the prequel, but we got a better glimpse of him in book 2. I'm happy that he gets his own story and that he learns to accept himself. Cedar is tired of his ex and having to deal with him being in his life everyday. He hates arguments and fighting with people. The one time he says something he meets the hot cook at the local gay diner. Ricky is having a bad day and when he's told that his bacon is limp by a cute customer, he snaps.
These guys are great and so really well together. Ricky is learning a lot about himself and helping Cedar to discover that he is worth so much more than he believes.
When Cedar's life is thrown for a loop, Ricky steps up. Now these two need to figure out if they are where they are supposed to be or if this is too much too fast.
Cedar and Ricky, what a beautiful and enlightening story. I loved this book. It shows the insecurities in life, that regardless of who you are, we all have them. This is a story of new beginnings and what we learn about ourselves when we face them. This is a story about love. Of learning about your partner and adapting, when their not completely perfect. This book touched me on so many levels and warmed my heart all the way through. These two characters were SO funny even through the rough patches, that you know, they are part of the authors soul. BROOKLYN BOYS is a series but you don't have to read the others to keep up with any of the books. They can be read as standalones. This one is a must read. I thought it was AMAZING!!! I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS INCREDIBLE SERIES!!!!!
This was a story that's been told before but with the added bonus of one of the characters having a disability. It was definitely a Twist I wasn't expecting and it was definitely a Twist that I enjoyed it made the story more heartwarming and intense to read the see how all the characters dealt with it and accepted it. Definitely a book worthy of any this was a story that's been told before but with the added bonus of one of the characters having a disability. It was definitely a Twist I wasn't expecting and it was definitely a Twist by enjoyed it made the story more heartwarming and intent to read this see how all the characters dealt with it and accepted it. Definitely a book worthy of any collection indefinitely a book for a reader looking for something new to explore.