I loved the book. 5+ stars. Can't remember when I gave one of those last, if ever. And I don't usually prefer contemporary.
First, the author handled sI loved the book. 5+ stars. Can't remember when I gave one of those last, if ever. And I don't usually prefer contemporary.
First, the author handled some sensitive content really well. Its uncomfortable at times, but I would expect to be uncomfortable at a 15 year old resorting to prostitution. There is just the right amount of detail to demonstrate the pain Theo endured with out it venturing into squicky or vulgar. Man what a couple of well placed details can convey without it being graphic or off putting. And then there's Theo's strength. He goes through a lot, but he's determined to make it on his own and be his own man, which he does. Unlike some of the other escorts, he isn't looking for a sugar daddy, and I respect him for that. Even though he is an escort, he lives by his own terms. He does the best he can with what he's been given, and becomes pretty financially secure, though he never expects to find love, except the platonic love he has for the other rent boys. I enjoyed their relationship and how they supported each other. The prostitution aspect is another delicate balance the author handled beautifully. It isn't sugar coated ala Pretty Woman, but it isn't sheer despair either, especially when they can work at a higher level.
Theo's lifes story would have made a good story in itself, and the romance doesn't develop until pretty late in the book, which I found a refreshing change from insta-love. I liked that Theo had to reach a point in his life where he could focus on love before he accepted it. He needed some degree of security and control over his future first. Even then, it wasn't easy for him, and he still has a lot of doubts. It hurts to see him think he isn't worthy of love, but it is certainly understandable.
Wills is wonderful, such a nice shift from the growly bossy "alpha male" some readers enjoy but I really don't. He could kick your ass before you could blink, but he doesn't flaunt it and is sweet, courteous, and compassionate. Basically he was raised right, and he's proud of that. Quiet and unassuming even. Well, except in the case of one person who deserved it. The violent aspect of his work doesn't carry over to his relationship with Theo, which is a wonderfully equal relationship sexually and otherwise. He doesn't treat Theo as less because of his past, and Theo doesn't lose his strength and independence when he starts seeing Wills. The dynamic between the two of them felt natural, mutually beneficial, like they found each other just when they needed each other and worked together so well.
Add to that compelling supporting characters (I have to go and find and read everything about Mark Vincent, cause holy crap i was intrigued by him even by his brief appearances) a nice mix of action, some mystery, friendship, romance, internal and external conflict, some understandable miscommunication, and it just is a completely satisfying read. What the author does so well is balance everything, I think. Theo's self doubt and his strength. Horrible experiences and good times with friends. Loss of family but gaining independence. Outside conflict and self induced conflict. Wanting a partner and love but doubting and being scared. And a character in Wills who can be deadly but is also sweet and romantic. There's violence, pain, and loss, and then there's picking out furniture and blueberry pancakes. I really felt immersed in Theo's life.
I have probably gushed enough, but I really did love the book, and I can't wait to read the next one....more
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