I am vociferously passionate about good books. And I hate adverbs.
Not only does C. Kennedy have a way with words, here is also a perfect example of how a very short novella story can comprise a whole story arc without ever feeling stumped or cut short.
Perfect length. Well-weighed words, conveying deep emotions of both love and friendship. Of how family can be fantastic, and of how it can be utter disaster, just across the street.
Well-played supporting-acts in the form of girls at school is a favorite and a plus.
(I want to underline it everytime I read an m/m romance book with good female characters: women can be and are often allies of the gay community, please show this in your writing, authors!)
High-school sweethearts, and teenage boys. Simply beautiful. I adored that they took their sexual relationship in small steps, making sure that both were ready for the next one, every time. So loving.
The abuse in this story is realistic, Nico's father is a drunken wife- and child-beater. (And what I really appreciate is that there are all these links after the story, where you can find more information and help, in case you need it).
Beautiful. Simply beautiful. This author has both heart and soul, and will give us many more thoughtful and read-worthy stories in the future.
I, for one, cannot wait for more.
***
I was given an ARC of this book for free from the author.
A positive review was neither expected nor promised in return.