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vicki_williams 's review for:

Rise by J. Hayden Bailey
4.0

Made me hungry for baked goods!

It’s time for the Summer Fair in Hidden Creek and that means the week long baking contest begins.

Todd is a military consultant for film and tv and relaxes by baking. When not travelling the country, he lives with friends in Hidden Creek.

Charlie is a shift manager at the local grocery store. To his detriment he always puts everyone else first and believes that a twink such as himself doesn’t deserve to be loved or looked after. He bakes so that he can satisfy his vegan sweet tooth.

Prior to the baking contest they meet at the local gay bar and get together. After checking his nanny cam to find that his rescue dog is fretting without him, Charlie rushes off whilst Todd is asleep.
When the baking contest starts the next day, Charlie and Todd find themselves competing against each other.

This is very well written with a complexity to the main characters and interesting side characters. There are some obstacles to be overcome before Todd and Charlie get their HEA. I highly recommend this sweet and salty book.