Review: Falling Apart by Riley Long

Author: Riley Long

Publisher: MLR Press

Pages/Word Count: 118 Pages

At a Glance: Riley Long did a good job of keeping the book focused on Billy and Ryder.

Reviewed By: Pia

Blurb: A cowboy meets an up-and-coming rock star and faces his fears of falling in love.

Playboy and up-and-coming rockstar Ryder Sullivan has it all–a band he loves, a career on the rise, and groupies in his bed whenever he wants. Cowboy Billy Cunningham enjoys his quiet life, but something’s missing. Soon he discovers that what’s missing is Ryder. Ryder feels the same way, and is ready to cast off his playboy ways and jump into the deep end with Billy. Can Billy face down his fears, put aside the complications of an eager would-be girlfriend and his pushy mother, and accept that he’s finally falling in love–with a man?

Review: In Riley Long’s Falling Apart, we meet our MCs Ryder Sullivan, cocky, up-and-coming rock star, and Billy Cunningham, stressed out ranch boss and sometimes bar tender. We follow them on their journey from friends to lovers, and boy, is it a bit of a roller coaster.

For me, this book wasn’t the typical skanky-rock star-playboy meets innocent guy insta-lust story, which I’m grateful for. Don’t get me wrong—it’s hinted at that Ryder is getting his fair share while on tour, but it’s thankfully just background noise.

Riley Long did a good job of keeping the book focused on Billy and Ryder. I liked how the guys took their time, and that the book revolved mostly around them getting together. However, it would have been nice to meet more of the background characters, such as Ryder’s band and the ranch staff who worked with Billy. I also felt bad for Ryder, who time and again put himself out there, only for Billy to reject him because Billy “wasn’t gay”. It was annoying because it was clear that Billy had strong feelings for Ryder. Having said that, I’m glad things worked out for the guys, and I hope they get their happy ever after.

P.S., the dedication was truly awesome.