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Journeys to Love
Paul & Sam
Paul & Sam is a MM romance murder mystery. Their story is plot intensive, with a degree of psychic chemistry, as the following brief description indicates:
19yo Paul lives a lonely, tormented existence. One night he meets Sam in extraordinary circumstances. He discovers Sam hero-worships him for saving his cousin’s life after a cowardly beach incident two years earlier.
Blinded by infatuation for his hero and devastated by the recent death of Tim, his twin brother, Sam passionately pleads to Paul to become his partner. While deciding, Paul is drawn into Tim’s psychic maze of cryptic messages. What is Tim’s influence? Does Tim empower Paul to identify the culprit who caused his cousin’s near-death? Can Paul decipher Tim’s cryptograms to solve the mystery surrounding his passing?
Follow Paul’s journey to love and happiness. Share the passion as two young men overcome insecurities and develop their innate strengths. Admire the kindness and generosity of Sam’s family as it assists others less fortunate. Deliberate the madness of revenge leading to the exposure of evil judicial corruption and a suspenseful court case.
approx. 44 620 words
19yo Paul lives a lonely, tormented existence. One night he meets Sam in extraordinary circumstances. He discovers Sam hero-worships him for saving his cousin’s life after a cowardly beach incident two years earlier.
Blinded by infatuation for his hero and devastated by the recent death of Tim, his twin brother, Sam passionately pleads to Paul to become his partner. While deciding, Paul is drawn into Tim’s psychic maze of cryptic messages. What is Tim’s influence? Does Tim empower Paul to identify the culprit who caused his cousin’s near-death? Can Paul decipher Tim’s cryptograms to solve the mystery surrounding his passing?
Follow Paul’s journey to love and happiness. Share the passion as two young men overcome insecurities and develop their innate strengths. Admire the kindness and generosity of Sam’s family as it assists others less fortunate. Deliberate the madness of revenge leading to the exposure of evil judicial corruption and a suspenseful court case.
approx. 44 620 words
ebook
First published November 1, 2013
2 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Justin South
9 books124 followersProfessionally, I write articles for various accounts around the world. Recreationally, I write sexy gay YA and M/M romance stories, some with a degree of mystery/suspense or murder/suspense themes.
Over recent years I've counselled and assisted a large number of gay youths in Australia and some overseas. My contribution to the M/M Romance Group's video in support of the 'It Gets Better' project provides some detail, commencing at the 7 mins 55 secs mark here: http://www.goodreads.com/videos/15564...
Over recent years I've counselled and assisted a large number of gay youths in Australia and some overseas. My contribution to the M/M Romance Group's video in support of the 'It Gets Better' project provides some detail, commencing at the 7 mins 55 secs mark here: http://www.goodreads.com/videos/15564...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 30, 2014
Paul & Sam est un roman MM avec du mystère et un meurtre. Leur histoire est assez intense, avec une once de supranaturel, comme la brève description ci-dessous l'indique :
âgé de 19 ans, Paul vit comme un solitaire, menant une existence tourmentée. Une nuit, il rencontre Sam dans des circonstances extraordinaires. Il découvre Sam pour qui il est le héros adoré pour avoir sauvé la vie de son cousin après une attaque lâche qui s'était déroulée sur une plage deux ans plus tôt.
Aveuglé par l'engouement pour son héros et dévastée par la mort récente de Tim, son frère jumeau, Sam intervient passionnément auprès de Paul, lui demandant de devenir son partenaire. Tout en hésitant, Paul est aspiré dans un labyrinthe par la présence psychique de Tim - le jumeau décédé - qui lui laisse des messages cryptiques. Que recherche Tim ? Est-ce qu'il demande à Paul d'identifier le coupable qui a presque provoqué la mort de son cousin ? Paul pourra-t-il déchiffrer les cryptogrammes de Tim pour résoudre le mystère entourant son décès ?
Suivez le parcours de Paul vers l'amour et le bonheur. Partagez la passion des deux jeunes hommes, leurs efforts pour surmonter l'insécurité et développer leurs forces individuelles. Admirez la bonté et la générosité de la famille de Sam car elle vient en aide aux moins fortunés.
Ce livre n'a manifestement pas eu le succès qu'il méritait. à cela, je vois plusieurs raisons : la première, la couverture esthétiquement très belle mais qui laissait sous-entendre une histoire torride, sans forcément une histoire très fouillée derrière (dont j'étais, je l'avoue) ; le fait que beaucoup de gens s'arrêtent à une simple couverture ; bien que l'auteur soit australien son écriture est harmonieuse et berce joliment le lecteur dans l'histoire fantastique qu'il a créé.
Je vous en prie, allez au-delà de tout ça. Ce livre le mérite amplement.
Entre Sam qui n'arrive pas à surmonter la douleur d'avoir perdu son frère jumeau dans des circonstances étranges et dont la police a conclu au suicide un peu trop vite et Paul qui se retrouve à la rue, après que ses parents aient découvert qu'il était gay, se noue une profonde amitié. Lorsque le père de Sam prend Paul sous son aile, comme il le fait avec n'importe quel jeune homme qu'il trouve abandonné et seul dans un certain parc de la ville, Paul a du mal à faire confiance en cette figure paternelle bienveillante.
Tout ce livre n'est que poésie, douceur, tendresse, retenue et très bien écrit. On est loin des mots qui ne veulent rien dire ou des romans surfant sur la vague de l'érotisme débridé. Tout a son importance, que ce soit les mots utilisés ou les personnages qui interviennent et qui ont tous un rôle à jouer dans le dénouement de cette enquête passionnante.
La présence fantomatique de Tim ajoute une petite touche de surnaturel qui permet d'alléger un peu les moments de tension, mais toujours à bon escient. L'auteur dénonce également quelque chose auquel nous avons tous assisté impuissant : le fait que les gens haut placés se croient au-dessus des lois et agissent en toute impunité.
En conclusion, un livre que je recommande vivement à tous les amateurs d'enquêtes criminelles avec une once de fantôme.
This book clearly didn't have the success it deserved. I see several reasons for that: first, the beautiful cover implied a torrid story without any real plot in it (I have to confess that it's exactly how I felt when I saw it), and a lot of people based their desire to read a book on the cover. And the writing by the Australian author flows seamlessly and beautifully, lulling the reader into the fantastic story he has created.
Please, go beyong it. This book really deserve it.
A deep friendship takes place between Sam, who fails to overcome the pain of having lost his twin brother in strange circumstances in which the police concluded to suicide a little too fast, and Paul, who finds himself on the streets after his parents discovered that it was gay. When Sam's father takes Paul under his wing, as he does with any young man he finds abandoned and alone in a city park, Paul is struggling to trust the benevolent father figure.
The whole book is only poetry, softness, tenderness, restraint and very well written. It is far from words that mean nothing or novels riding the wave of unbridled eroticism. Everything has its importance; the words used or the characters involved who have a role to play in the outcome of this fascinating investigation.
Tim's ghostly presence adds a touch of supernatural that alleviates some moments of tension, but always wisely. The author also criticizes something that we all witnessed helplessly: the fact that people in high places think they are above the law and can act with impunity.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this bokk to all the lovers of criminal investigations with a hint of ghost.
âgé de 19 ans, Paul vit comme un solitaire, menant une existence tourmentée. Une nuit, il rencontre Sam dans des circonstances extraordinaires. Il découvre Sam pour qui il est le héros adoré pour avoir sauvé la vie de son cousin après une attaque lâche qui s'était déroulée sur une plage deux ans plus tôt.
Aveuglé par l'engouement pour son héros et dévastée par la mort récente de Tim, son frère jumeau, Sam intervient passionnément auprès de Paul, lui demandant de devenir son partenaire. Tout en hésitant, Paul est aspiré dans un labyrinthe par la présence psychique de Tim - le jumeau décédé - qui lui laisse des messages cryptiques. Que recherche Tim ? Est-ce qu'il demande à Paul d'identifier le coupable qui a presque provoqué la mort de son cousin ? Paul pourra-t-il déchiffrer les cryptogrammes de Tim pour résoudre le mystère entourant son décès ?
Suivez le parcours de Paul vers l'amour et le bonheur. Partagez la passion des deux jeunes hommes, leurs efforts pour surmonter l'insécurité et développer leurs forces individuelles. Admirez la bonté et la générosité de la famille de Sam car elle vient en aide aux moins fortunés.
Ce livre n'a manifestement pas eu le succès qu'il méritait. à cela, je vois plusieurs raisons : la première, la couverture esthétiquement très belle mais qui laissait sous-entendre une histoire torride, sans forcément une histoire très fouillée derrière (dont j'étais, je l'avoue) ; le fait que beaucoup de gens s'arrêtent à une simple couverture ; bien que l'auteur soit australien son écriture est harmonieuse et berce joliment le lecteur dans l'histoire fantastique qu'il a créé.
Je vous en prie, allez au-delà de tout ça. Ce livre le mérite amplement.
Entre Sam qui n'arrive pas à surmonter la douleur d'avoir perdu son frère jumeau dans des circonstances étranges et dont la police a conclu au suicide un peu trop vite et Paul qui se retrouve à la rue, après que ses parents aient découvert qu'il était gay, se noue une profonde amitié. Lorsque le père de Sam prend Paul sous son aile, comme il le fait avec n'importe quel jeune homme qu'il trouve abandonné et seul dans un certain parc de la ville, Paul a du mal à faire confiance en cette figure paternelle bienveillante.
Tout ce livre n'est que poésie, douceur, tendresse, retenue et très bien écrit. On est loin des mots qui ne veulent rien dire ou des romans surfant sur la vague de l'érotisme débridé. Tout a son importance, que ce soit les mots utilisés ou les personnages qui interviennent et qui ont tous un rôle à jouer dans le dénouement de cette enquête passionnante.
La présence fantomatique de Tim ajoute une petite touche de surnaturel qui permet d'alléger un peu les moments de tension, mais toujours à bon escient. L'auteur dénonce également quelque chose auquel nous avons tous assisté impuissant : le fait que les gens haut placés se croient au-dessus des lois et agissent en toute impunité.
En conclusion, un livre que je recommande vivement à tous les amateurs d'enquêtes criminelles avec une once de fantôme.
This book clearly didn't have the success it deserved. I see several reasons for that: first, the beautiful cover implied a torrid story without any real plot in it (I have to confess that it's exactly how I felt when I saw it), and a lot of people based their desire to read a book on the cover. And the writing by the Australian author flows seamlessly and beautifully, lulling the reader into the fantastic story he has created.
Please, go beyong it. This book really deserve it.
A deep friendship takes place between Sam, who fails to overcome the pain of having lost his twin brother in strange circumstances in which the police concluded to suicide a little too fast, and Paul, who finds himself on the streets after his parents discovered that it was gay. When Sam's father takes Paul under his wing, as he does with any young man he finds abandoned and alone in a city park, Paul is struggling to trust the benevolent father figure.
The whole book is only poetry, softness, tenderness, restraint and very well written. It is far from words that mean nothing or novels riding the wave of unbridled eroticism. Everything has its importance; the words used or the characters involved who have a role to play in the outcome of this fascinating investigation.
Tim's ghostly presence adds a touch of supernatural that alleviates some moments of tension, but always wisely. The author also criticizes something that we all witnessed helplessly: the fact that people in high places think they are above the law and can act with impunity.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this bokk to all the lovers of criminal investigations with a hint of ghost.
May 26, 2015
Voilà un roman un peu déroutant de prime abord, tant il mêle et mélange les genres. Du réalisme dur, du romantique, du sexy, du fantastique, du polar, le tout dans le contexte d'un quotidien familial, social et juridique australien dont il faut bien dire que nous autres, lecteurs français, ne connaissons strictement rien, ce qui accentue cette impression de décalage, parfois jusqu'au malaise... jusqu'à ce que l'on écoute vraiment ce que l'auteur veut nous raconter, au lieu d'essayer de faire rentrer l'histoire dans un cadre convenu qui ne lui va pas.
Et ce que Justin South nous raconte, avec une plume précise, littéraire, ciselée, et merveilleusement traduite, c'est un conte de fée. Un vrai, façon conte de Perrault ou de Grimm, loin des Bisounours ou du pays de Candy. Un conte de fée, ça commence toujours par une tragédie: la perte brutale du cocon familial et de la douceur de l'enfance - que les parents meurent (Bambi, Cendrillon), ou vous rejette (Petit Poucet) - qui vous propulse nu et désarmé dans un monde hostile, empli de dragons prêts à vous dévorer, de chasseurs voulant prendre votre cœur, de méchantes belle-mères sorcières. Et le propre du conte, c'est de transcender cette chose effrayante et noire qu'est parfois la vie, pour vous faire croire qu'avec du courage, mais surtout de l'amour, et des amis (pampan, les nains ou le prince charmant), vous vous en sortirez, trouverez la chaumière ou le royaume où vous pourrez vivre en paix, tandis que les méchants seront punis.
Et c'est très exactement ce que l'on a dans cette histoire teintée de fantastique. Des garçons perdus qui vendent ou donne leur corps pour quelques billets, un peu de plaisir, une dose de drogue ou juste pour avoir un contact humain. Et des prédateurs, ceux qui les utilisent comme des morceaux de viande, et parfois les violent et les tuent. Le jeune Paul, chassé de chez lui encore mineur parce qu'il est gay, fait parti du premier groupe. Guidé par sa marraine fée personnelle, il va retrouver le garçon dont il rêve depuis 2 ans, Sam. Et dont il a sauvé le cousin et ami, Adam. Ainsi va-il gagner une famille, un amant, des amis et un avenir. La romance est douce, belle, extrêmement romantique. Mais le roman ne s'arrête pas là. Car les retrouvailles de Paul et de celui dont il a autrefois sauvé la vie vont les mettre sur la piste des prédateurs, et à l'issue d'une traque minutieuse ou l'union fait la force, permettre à la justice d'être rendue, et aux mânes du gentil fantôme assassiné de reposer en paix, sauvant au passage un autre enfant perdu.
Alors oui, il y a des choses sans doute un peu irréalistes indépendamment de l'aspect fantastique: un amour qui s'exprime un peu naïvement après quelques jours de retrouvailles (ils auront quand même soupiré dans le vide pendant 2 ans avant cela); des coïncidences qui n'en sont pas (mais c'est le propre du Destin), une famille si adorable qu'on y croit pas (il en existe pourtant, des gens extraordinaires prêts à ouvrir pas seulement leur porte monnaie, mais surtout leur cœur et la porte de leur maison... non ?), un détective super habile, un bon avocat , un procureur qui fait son job, et une justice qui puni les coupables... Bien sûr que c'est trop beau pour être vrai ! Dans la réalité, le meurtre serait resté impuni, les coupables auraient continué leurs petites vies tranquilles, Sam se serait peut-être suicidé, Chris et Adam seraient restés solitaires et malheureux et très probablement, Paul aurait terminé sa courte vie une seringue dans le bras, couvert de vomi dans un squat sordide, ou égorgé pour quelques dollars. Alors à tout prendre... je préfère un conte de fée avec happy end, et au diable le réalisme !!
N'hésitez pas à découvrir ce conte MM à la fois moderne et poétique, noir et utopique.
Et ce que Justin South nous raconte, avec une plume précise, littéraire, ciselée, et merveilleusement traduite, c'est un conte de fée. Un vrai, façon conte de Perrault ou de Grimm, loin des Bisounours ou du pays de Candy. Un conte de fée, ça commence toujours par une tragédie: la perte brutale du cocon familial et de la douceur de l'enfance - que les parents meurent (Bambi, Cendrillon), ou vous rejette (Petit Poucet) - qui vous propulse nu et désarmé dans un monde hostile, empli de dragons prêts à vous dévorer, de chasseurs voulant prendre votre cœur, de méchantes belle-mères sorcières. Et le propre du conte, c'est de transcender cette chose effrayante et noire qu'est parfois la vie, pour vous faire croire qu'avec du courage, mais surtout de l'amour, et des amis (pampan, les nains ou le prince charmant), vous vous en sortirez, trouverez la chaumière ou le royaume où vous pourrez vivre en paix, tandis que les méchants seront punis.
Et c'est très exactement ce que l'on a dans cette histoire teintée de fantastique. Des garçons perdus qui vendent ou donne leur corps pour quelques billets, un peu de plaisir, une dose de drogue ou juste pour avoir un contact humain. Et des prédateurs, ceux qui les utilisent comme des morceaux de viande, et parfois les violent et les tuent. Le jeune Paul, chassé de chez lui encore mineur parce qu'il est gay, fait parti du premier groupe. Guidé par sa marraine fée personnelle, il va retrouver le garçon dont il rêve depuis 2 ans, Sam. Et dont il a sauvé le cousin et ami, Adam. Ainsi va-il gagner une famille, un amant, des amis et un avenir. La romance est douce, belle, extrêmement romantique. Mais le roman ne s'arrête pas là. Car les retrouvailles de Paul et de celui dont il a autrefois sauvé la vie vont les mettre sur la piste des prédateurs, et à l'issue d'une traque minutieuse ou l'union fait la force, permettre à la justice d'être rendue, et aux mânes du gentil fantôme assassiné de reposer en paix, sauvant au passage un autre enfant perdu.
Alors oui, il y a des choses sans doute un peu irréalistes indépendamment de l'aspect fantastique: un amour qui s'exprime un peu naïvement après quelques jours de retrouvailles (ils auront quand même soupiré dans le vide pendant 2 ans avant cela); des coïncidences qui n'en sont pas (mais c'est le propre du Destin), une famille si adorable qu'on y croit pas (il en existe pourtant, des gens extraordinaires prêts à ouvrir pas seulement leur porte monnaie, mais surtout leur cœur et la porte de leur maison... non ?), un détective super habile, un bon avocat , un procureur qui fait son job, et une justice qui puni les coupables... Bien sûr que c'est trop beau pour être vrai ! Dans la réalité, le meurtre serait resté impuni, les coupables auraient continué leurs petites vies tranquilles, Sam se serait peut-être suicidé, Chris et Adam seraient restés solitaires et malheureux et très probablement, Paul aurait terminé sa courte vie une seringue dans le bras, couvert de vomi dans un squat sordide, ou égorgé pour quelques dollars. Alors à tout prendre... je préfère un conte de fée avec happy end, et au diable le réalisme !!
N'hésitez pas à découvrir ce conte MM à la fois moderne et poétique, noir et utopique.
November 5, 2013
Sometimes you fall in love with a story because of the plot, the way the characters are written, or because at that time in your life, the book somehow resonates with you.
In this case, Paul and Sam are two characters that I rooted for.
The story of Paul is gripping. His character is real and, I suspect based on someone in the author's life, his experiences with folks like Paul, or a blend of several characters like Paul. {Although I suspect the way this character pops out at you, it's a character with whom he is very familiar.)
The character study of Paul hits you in the first chapter, when Paul describes his feeling of being used, the male hustler that he is, explaining in short, terse lines why he agreed to go with two men he met at a pub.
The moments when Paul meets Sam, and then falls in love with him are touching. This is when the first person narrative, used by Justin South, works well.
This long novella takes different twists and turns and at some points it was difficult to see where it was going. An objective criticism is that there were some subplots I had to re-read, and sometimes the character dialogues were overwhelming to me because I had to determine who spoke, and when.
I did like the references to Endless Summer. Additionally, it may be distracting to some Americans, but I like the colloquial use of Aussie slang.
In sum, I like the story of the male hustler with a heart of gold, and I liked the happy ending. I really rooted for happiness between Paul and Sam, and you should too.
In this case, Paul and Sam are two characters that I rooted for.
The story of Paul is gripping. His character is real and, I suspect based on someone in the author's life, his experiences with folks like Paul, or a blend of several characters like Paul. {Although I suspect the way this character pops out at you, it's a character with whom he is very familiar.)
The character study of Paul hits you in the first chapter, when Paul describes his feeling of being used, the male hustler that he is, explaining in short, terse lines why he agreed to go with two men he met at a pub.
The moments when Paul meets Sam, and then falls in love with him are touching. This is when the first person narrative, used by Justin South, works well.
This long novella takes different twists and turns and at some points it was difficult to see where it was going. An objective criticism is that there were some subplots I had to re-read, and sometimes the character dialogues were overwhelming to me because I had to determine who spoke, and when.
I did like the references to Endless Summer. Additionally, it may be distracting to some Americans, but I like the colloquial use of Aussie slang.
In sum, I like the story of the male hustler with a heart of gold, and I liked the happy ending. I really rooted for happiness between Paul and Sam, and you should too.
November 18, 2013
1.5 stars
A mystery plot gone haywire – that’s the best way I could describe this story.
If this could have been just a murder mystery, that would have been good but the author mixes it with some weird romance storyline that seems totally unrealistic. This is a make-believe story.
Let me divide this story into two parts based on the murder mystery and the “love” story of Sam and Paul. The first half of the book majorly focuses on getting the two characters together.
Paul has been living a hard life ever since his parents kicked him out (the reason one can guess) and his sexual encounter one night with two rich brats ends him up in a bigger mess. He is found by a kind, old man who helps him and takes him back to his home under his family’s care. And that is a turning point for Paul in his life. He finds family, friends and most of all, true love under one roof and that all in one day!
Why is it hard for me to believe this storyline you ask? I mean this could be the case of insta-love, right? Nope – it woulda been more believable if it was insta-love.
Sam hero-worships Paul because Paul had been the guy who had saved his cousin’s life in the past. But Paul has had a major crush on Sam’s twin-brother Tim (who is dead). When Sam practically begs Paul to consider being his partner for life, the latter agrees. Sam’s parents give their blessings to this couple and they even let them share a room. Who in their sensible mind does that? Letting a complete stranger into their son’s life like that? Not to mention – they are still teenagers, which means their hormones run high on sky! I know Paul has been a hero to the family but one would give their hero gifts, presents, even money – not their son for life. I actually thought Sam’s father literally pushed Paul into accepting Sam in his life.
And it all happens in a matter of days.
The second part – the murder mystery – was quite readable, though the outcome wasn’t very surprising. The identities of the murderers become quite clear even before they are revealed in the book. And I thought the end could have been more enlightening. The author uses summaries and not actual scenes to give us the whole picture of how the killers get caught which in turn drags us through the most interesting part of the book.
I have never read anything from Justin South before but I have to say this author has a flair with language. The tone of the story comes off very rich, but too rich to be a teenage boy’s narration. Not only Paul, but every other character – save for Sam’s uncle (whose tone of dialogue was surprisingly normal, for a change) – speaks like they come from an aristocratic family.
Like when Sam’s father says – “As we’ve explained, we view our pledges to you as the most meaningful we’ve had the privilege to commit to – an investment in your happiness and future as well as Sam’s.”
It is my belief that a good editor could have really given this a makeover and made the content readable and flawless. There were a few punctuations missing here and there in the reviewers’ copy I received but that one can ignore. The other issues – I couldn’t.
I wouldn’t say Paul & Sam’s story isn’t a good one overall. The sex scenes are quite well-written and steamy. But content-wise, this just didn’t go well with me.
This was posted on: The Blog of Sid Love
A mystery plot gone haywire – that’s the best way I could describe this story.
If this could have been just a murder mystery, that would have been good but the author mixes it with some weird romance storyline that seems totally unrealistic. This is a make-believe story.
Let me divide this story into two parts based on the murder mystery and the “love” story of Sam and Paul. The first half of the book majorly focuses on getting the two characters together.
Paul has been living a hard life ever since his parents kicked him out (the reason one can guess) and his sexual encounter one night with two rich brats ends him up in a bigger mess. He is found by a kind, old man who helps him and takes him back to his home under his family’s care. And that is a turning point for Paul in his life. He finds family, friends and most of all, true love under one roof and that all in one day!
Why is it hard for me to believe this storyline you ask? I mean this could be the case of insta-love, right? Nope – it woulda been more believable if it was insta-love.
Sam hero-worships Paul because Paul had been the guy who had saved his cousin’s life in the past. But Paul has had a major crush on Sam’s twin-brother Tim (who is dead). When Sam practically begs Paul to consider being his partner for life, the latter agrees. Sam’s parents give their blessings to this couple and they even let them share a room. Who in their sensible mind does that? Letting a complete stranger into their son’s life like that? Not to mention – they are still teenagers, which means their hormones run high on sky! I know Paul has been a hero to the family but one would give their hero gifts, presents, even money – not their son for life. I actually thought Sam’s father literally pushed Paul into accepting Sam in his life.
And it all happens in a matter of days.
The second part – the murder mystery – was quite readable, though the outcome wasn’t very surprising. The identities of the murderers become quite clear even before they are revealed in the book. And I thought the end could have been more enlightening. The author uses summaries and not actual scenes to give us the whole picture of how the killers get caught which in turn drags us through the most interesting part of the book.
I have never read anything from Justin South before but I have to say this author has a flair with language. The tone of the story comes off very rich, but too rich to be a teenage boy’s narration. Not only Paul, but every other character – save for Sam’s uncle (whose tone of dialogue was surprisingly normal, for a change) – speaks like they come from an aristocratic family.
Like when Sam’s father says – “As we’ve explained, we view our pledges to you as the most meaningful we’ve had the privilege to commit to – an investment in your happiness and future as well as Sam’s.”
It is my belief that a good editor could have really given this a makeover and made the content readable and flawless. There were a few punctuations missing here and there in the reviewers’ copy I received but that one can ignore. The other issues – I couldn’t.
I wouldn’t say Paul & Sam’s story isn’t a good one overall. The sex scenes are quite well-written and steamy. But content-wise, this just didn’t go well with me.
This was posted on: The Blog of Sid Love
March 31, 2014
Okay, first off, I do want to say I did enjoy the book. Read it in two sittings which is a rarity for me anymore.
If I was a psychologist, I would probably diagnose this book with multiple-personality disorder. I couldn't really tell if it was supposed to be a contemporary romance, paranormal romance, taking place in a different time or on a different world or a combination of all of those. I couldn't tell where it took place; it never really said. I *think* it took place in Australia because of the surfing aspect of the sub-plot and that they use the British legal system. (I don't think there is any decent surfing in the UK, so assuming it's Australia.)
To not give too much away, I'll keep this fairly short.
The main character, Paul, is a down-and-out young gay man, having been thrown out of his home by his homophobic parents. He is rescued and within moments is accepted by total strangers to be part of their home. He has a connection to them that comes to light within moments of his arrival and through a series of very unrealistic coincidences does the plot wind its way through a sort of 'hit and run', murder, corruption and serial rape. It was a bit much for a short novella, in my opinion.
There's a lot of unrealistic dialogue, especially from the parents. I can kind of get the doctor's speech; he's being a little clinical because of the sensitive nature of being assaulted and living on the streets as a gay man. But it does get too much when he starts giving advice on his own son's love life! EWWW.
This story has a lot of potential. It needs so much more. It was too 'instant' in everything. In the two main characters getting together (they are in bed, no sex, the first night!), to finding out who the bad guys are and how fast the evidence is found. (Now, I'm American, I don't know the British legal system, but the way they got the main piece of evidence ... that evidence would have been thrown out in an American trial. But, as I said, not sure about the British legal system, I let it slide.)
A lot more description, maybe a setback or two, not so much 'instant' everything and maybe a more explanation of Tim and his point in the plot (again, was this supposed to be contemporary? Then why did everyone believe in 'Tim'? There was no discussion on 'how' Tim could be doing what he was doing - it was just accepted and that takes it more into the realm of paranormal or other-worldly.)
There are sex scenes in the book, they start out fairly innocent enough as this is Sam's first gay relationship. They promise to each other no real sex until Paul comes back clean for siz months, which is a good message the author provided. HOWEVER, when it came to that 'first time' we get gypped. It's told in a flashback and with very little description! I'm a sucker for 'first times' and this just left me feeling ripped-off after all that build-up.
***spoilerish***
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My last little problem was the amount of gay people in one family. Only 5% of the population is gay; while not unheard of, it is unusual for two brothers to be gay. In this story the main character and his brother are gay, the MC's love interest and his cousin are gay and the cousin's best friend turns out to be gay too (while not blood-relation, it was too much of a coincidence). Again, if this is 'other-worldly' then no problem, but a bit much for a contemporary, in there here and now, this world romance.
Okay, so you're wondering why I liked it so much. Because I loved the main character, Paul. He had been through so much and grows so much in the book. He learns to love and be loved and to learn he's not a monster, he's not 'unclean' or 'dirty,' that he deserves to be with Sam. I LOVE stories like this. Maybe the author will revisit it one day, expand it out and provide a little more conflict. As it is, it is a nice little read if you're looking for something to spend a lazy afternoon reading, this is it.
If I was a psychologist, I would probably diagnose this book with multiple-personality disorder. I couldn't really tell if it was supposed to be a contemporary romance, paranormal romance, taking place in a different time or on a different world or a combination of all of those. I couldn't tell where it took place; it never really said. I *think* it took place in Australia because of the surfing aspect of the sub-plot and that they use the British legal system. (I don't think there is any decent surfing in the UK, so assuming it's Australia.)
To not give too much away, I'll keep this fairly short.
The main character, Paul, is a down-and-out young gay man, having been thrown out of his home by his homophobic parents. He is rescued and within moments is accepted by total strangers to be part of their home. He has a connection to them that comes to light within moments of his arrival and through a series of very unrealistic coincidences does the plot wind its way through a sort of 'hit and run', murder, corruption and serial rape. It was a bit much for a short novella, in my opinion.
There's a lot of unrealistic dialogue, especially from the parents. I can kind of get the doctor's speech; he's being a little clinical because of the sensitive nature of being assaulted and living on the streets as a gay man. But it does get too much when he starts giving advice on his own son's love life! EWWW.
This story has a lot of potential. It needs so much more. It was too 'instant' in everything. In the two main characters getting together (they are in bed, no sex, the first night!), to finding out who the bad guys are and how fast the evidence is found. (Now, I'm American, I don't know the British legal system, but the way they got the main piece of evidence ... that evidence would have been thrown out in an American trial. But, as I said, not sure about the British legal system, I let it slide.)
A lot more description, maybe a setback or two, not so much 'instant' everything and maybe a more explanation of Tim and his point in the plot (again, was this supposed to be contemporary? Then why did everyone believe in 'Tim'? There was no discussion on 'how' Tim could be doing what he was doing - it was just accepted and that takes it more into the realm of paranormal or other-worldly.)
There are sex scenes in the book, they start out fairly innocent enough as this is Sam's first gay relationship. They promise to each other no real sex until Paul comes back clean for siz months, which is a good message the author provided. HOWEVER, when it came to that 'first time' we get gypped. It's told in a flashback and with very little description! I'm a sucker for 'first times' and this just left me feeling ripped-off after all that build-up.
***spoilerish***
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
My last little problem was the amount of gay people in one family. Only 5% of the population is gay; while not unheard of, it is unusual for two brothers to be gay. In this story the main character and his brother are gay, the MC's love interest and his cousin are gay and the cousin's best friend turns out to be gay too (while not blood-relation, it was too much of a coincidence). Again, if this is 'other-worldly' then no problem, but a bit much for a contemporary, in there here and now, this world romance.
Okay, so you're wondering why I liked it so much. Because I loved the main character, Paul. He had been through so much and grows so much in the book. He learns to love and be loved and to learn he's not a monster, he's not 'unclean' or 'dirty,' that he deserves to be with Sam. I LOVE stories like this. Maybe the author will revisit it one day, expand it out and provide a little more conflict. As it is, it is a nice little read if you're looking for something to spend a lazy afternoon reading, this is it.
November 27, 2013
Paul & Sam is a YA romance about young love, first love, coming of age and self-discovery. It’s a story about acceptance, the importance of friendship and loyalty and overcoming obstacles to find one’s place in this world. It is written with a classical beauty; a poetic quality, that at times is almost lyrical. The story has a sweetness and innocence that immediately draws you to the main characters. Paul, having been kicked out of his home at the age of 16 for being gay, has become experienced in the ways of sexual encounters as a way of quelling the loneliness of life on the street; yet is inexperienced in the ways of love even though he longs to meet that special someone. Sam, withdrawing into himself after the assault on his cousin and the murder of his twin brother, is gay and a virgin, but yearns to meet the hero he has long held in his heart and mind; the boy who saved his cousin after a horrendous assault. The assault and the murder, brushed off by the authorities as accidents and misadventures, provide an element of mystery to their story. Both boys are very different, yet both so vulnerable and both exhibit the passion of virginal innocence, yet in different ways. Paul with a street-sense tough exterior yet vulnerable heart; Sam a more “heart-on-his-sleeve” type of guy.
I am actually glad that this book was self-published(via Smashwords). Had it gone the traditional publisher route, particularly with an American publisher, I fear much of the Aussie English terminology would have been edited from the text, to the detriment of the tone and feel of the book. The phraseology added so much to the mood of the moments. The sexual encounters in this book were love scenes in the truest sense. “His golden skin glowed in the soft incandescent lighting, which glistened his eyes in rapturous adventure. His swoony face signified a tapestry of emotions, of pleasurable discovery, fascination, excitement and contentment. His presence stole my heart.” Instead of utterances of expletives and clenching channels, Mr. South delivers the “opium of romance” with passages such as, “’I want to hear the mounting body noises and the blasts of canons and roars of comets and the fanfares of trumpets. I want to see the white lights and flashing stars and feel the uncontrollable shudders, the electric bolts and jolts and spasms. Then I want to experience the afterglow and twilight pleasures…’” The poetic writing style places you right in the emotional intensity of the moment.
In addition to the beautiful love story there is a paranormal element as well as an element of mystery, as we follow the main characters in their pursuit of justice in a case involving persons of power and privilege and a corrupted justice system. The story contains a cast of characters that warm your heart with their fierce dedication and loyalty to one another and show us what being a family is all about. A beautifully written story delivered with a writing style that you just don’t see too much anymore.
I am actually glad that this book was self-published(via Smashwords). Had it gone the traditional publisher route, particularly with an American publisher, I fear much of the Aussie English terminology would have been edited from the text, to the detriment of the tone and feel of the book. The phraseology added so much to the mood of the moments. The sexual encounters in this book were love scenes in the truest sense. “His golden skin glowed in the soft incandescent lighting, which glistened his eyes in rapturous adventure. His swoony face signified a tapestry of emotions, of pleasurable discovery, fascination, excitement and contentment. His presence stole my heart.” Instead of utterances of expletives and clenching channels, Mr. South delivers the “opium of romance” with passages such as, “’I want to hear the mounting body noises and the blasts of canons and roars of comets and the fanfares of trumpets. I want to see the white lights and flashing stars and feel the uncontrollable shudders, the electric bolts and jolts and spasms. Then I want to experience the afterglow and twilight pleasures…’” The poetic writing style places you right in the emotional intensity of the moment.
In addition to the beautiful love story there is a paranormal element as well as an element of mystery, as we follow the main characters in their pursuit of justice in a case involving persons of power and privilege and a corrupted justice system. The story contains a cast of characters that warm your heart with their fierce dedication and loyalty to one another and show us what being a family is all about. A beautifully written story delivered with a writing style that you just don’t see too much anymore.
January 31, 2014
I don't usually read any books under 220 pages not because of any other reason than I prefer full novels. The product description and reviews had me curious about this book so thought I would give it a go.
I have to say, the first few pages had me wondering if I had made a mistake, everything seemed to be happening very fast and I found myself thinking this just would not happen this way in real life. As I continued to read and got more drawn into the the story I understood that it didn't matter if I thought this would happen in reality! This was a beautifully written book dealing with rape, murder mental abuse, acceptance, love, sexuality and family. The characters grew on me and I adored Paul and Sam and the relationship that developed between them. I enjoyed the way the pieces of the puzzle was put together to bring the murderers to justice and overall I loved the writing, storyline as well as the characters. After reading Paul and Sam I found out his book is based on true events which breaks my heart but also gives me hope that if more authors write books like this more people will be educated! I will most certainly be reading more from Justin South.
Highly recommended!
I have to say, the first few pages had me wondering if I had made a mistake, everything seemed to be happening very fast and I found myself thinking this just would not happen this way in real life. As I continued to read and got more drawn into the the story I understood that it didn't matter if I thought this would happen in reality! This was a beautifully written book dealing with rape, murder mental abuse, acceptance, love, sexuality and family. The characters grew on me and I adored Paul and Sam and the relationship that developed between them. I enjoyed the way the pieces of the puzzle was put together to bring the murderers to justice and overall I loved the writing, storyline as well as the characters. After reading Paul and Sam I found out his book is based on true events which breaks my heart but also gives me hope that if more authors write books like this more people will be educated! I will most certainly be reading more from Justin South.
Highly recommended!
December 22, 2013
I think romance writers could learn a lot from Justin South. So many romances are written in such a formulaic way. There are two people who don't like each other, but are secretly in love; then the author spends half the book coming up with reasons to keep them apart and then, when they do get together, something has to break them up. It's very frustrating to read. Paul & Sam was not that kind of book at all. It is a story of two people who fell in love, simply and beautiful. And not only did they fall in love, it turns out they'd loved each other from afar for years before hand.
Some people may find the love story too simple or unrealistic, but to me, Justin South has written the story of the love we'd all like to find; especially for those of us whose sexuality, gender, etc. means that finding any love at all, much less one so perfect, may never happen. He proves that books, especially romances, can be easy and enjoyable to read. There don't have to be complications. He added plenty of that in the mystery to be solved. The story is not all wine and roses, covering murder, rape and the homophobia that still exists within the general community. I also love that this was written from an Aussie point of view including the language, giving insights into what it's like to be gay there.
I can't wait to read more of his writing. Each page was joy even when the issues were tough because I knew that the characters would be there to help each other through it.
Some people may find the love story too simple or unrealistic, but to me, Justin South has written the story of the love we'd all like to find; especially for those of us whose sexuality, gender, etc. means that finding any love at all, much less one so perfect, may never happen. He proves that books, especially romances, can be easy and enjoyable to read. There don't have to be complications. He added plenty of that in the mystery to be solved. The story is not all wine and roses, covering murder, rape and the homophobia that still exists within the general community. I also love that this was written from an Aussie point of view including the language, giving insights into what it's like to be gay there.
I can't wait to read more of his writing. Each page was joy even when the issues were tough because I knew that the characters would be there to help each other through it.
December 9, 2013
This is my first read by this author. I had no expectations upon entering his realm and I must say, I was not at all disappointed. The characterizations are descriptive yet holds the reader's interest without distracting from the story; enticing you to become their friends. The scene descriptions and plot development are easily imagined, coaxing the reader to continue the journey and discover the author's intent.
[Caution: possible tiny spoiler alert. But it's non-descriptive and vague and really is an itsy bitsy thing.]
I have to admit though, I was a bit skeptical at the insertion of the paranormal. I had to stop and ponder how this would be beneficial to the author's up-to-then quite realistic tale. But I didn't stop very long, he had me hooked and I simply had to march on to learn what magic would hold this all together. Well, I needn't have worried. It seems this author is quite adept at surprising the reader while maintaining the story's platform; no magic required.
[End of possible itsy bitsy spoiler]
As this is, in part, a murder mystery I should interject that I was engrossed from beginning to end. Complete with thickening plot and unexpected surprises, it held me and lured me to its ultimate conclusion and heartwarming epilogue.
This is a definite 5 out of 5 for me and I am certainly looking forward to reading another tale that Justin has to weave for us.
[Caution: possible tiny spoiler alert. But it's non-descriptive and vague and really is an itsy bitsy thing.]
I have to admit though, I was a bit skeptical at the insertion of the paranormal. I had to stop and ponder how this would be beneficial to the author's up-to-then quite realistic tale. But I didn't stop very long, he had me hooked and I simply had to march on to learn what magic would hold this all together. Well, I needn't have worried. It seems this author is quite adept at surprising the reader while maintaining the story's platform; no magic required.
[End of possible itsy bitsy spoiler]
As this is, in part, a murder mystery I should interject that I was engrossed from beginning to end. Complete with thickening plot and unexpected surprises, it held me and lured me to its ultimate conclusion and heartwarming epilogue.
This is a definite 5 out of 5 for me and I am certainly looking forward to reading another tale that Justin has to weave for us.
May 27, 2014
Je le décomposerai en 2 parties, une première qui est emplie d’espoir, d’amour, de tendresse, bref de sentiments très positifs. La seconde en revanche est plus sombre car il est l’heure de certaines révélations pourtant l’espoir est toujours présent, ce qui empêche le récit de s’alourdir de noirceur.
La première partie est assez déroutante car je ne sais pas si on peut réellement compter cela comme un point négatif mais l’excès de "positivité" n’est pas habituel. On se demande même si le livre ne va pas se transformer en histoire mièvre et à l’eau de rose. C’est presque à la limite de l’excès de sentiments mais cette limite n’est pas franchie.
Heureusement la seconde partie comblera ceux qui ne sont pas amateurs d’excès de bons sentiments. Nous y découvrirons une intrigue qui se développe, des révélations importantes, nécessaire à l’évolution des personnages principaux.
Au final je dois dire que le style de l’auteur est superbe et qu’il retranscrit sans problème les sentiments, c’est sensible et poétique à la fois, même les scènes sexuelles sont très belles et débordent de sentiments, un juste dosage. Le seul bémol que j’aurais est au niveau du traitement de l’histoire en elle même qui est un peu déroutant.
La première partie est assez déroutante car je ne sais pas si on peut réellement compter cela comme un point négatif mais l’excès de "positivité" n’est pas habituel. On se demande même si le livre ne va pas se transformer en histoire mièvre et à l’eau de rose. C’est presque à la limite de l’excès de sentiments mais cette limite n’est pas franchie.
Heureusement la seconde partie comblera ceux qui ne sont pas amateurs d’excès de bons sentiments. Nous y découvrirons une intrigue qui se développe, des révélations importantes, nécessaire à l’évolution des personnages principaux.
Au final je dois dire que le style de l’auteur est superbe et qu’il retranscrit sans problème les sentiments, c’est sensible et poétique à la fois, même les scènes sexuelles sont très belles et débordent de sentiments, un juste dosage. Le seul bémol que j’aurais est au niveau du traitement de l’histoire en elle même qui est un peu déroutant.
November 9, 2013
I am not really sure how to rate this book. It is written very eloquently and almost poetically. The words, the descriptions and the storytelling are told with a very upper crust, highly educated flair. At one point I compared the writing to high school classics...and a little Shakespearean, but with farts. Strange, but true.
So my 3 star rating has nothing to do with the quality of the writing. My main issue was twofold: The story line and plot were a little unbelievable and unrealistic, and the style of writing was a little over the top for my personal tastes.
I loved the premise of a twin brother (Tim)from beyond grave psychically offering clues to the twin left behind, Sam, and his new lover, Paul. The mystery was not very mysterious to the reader, it was easily figured out from the get-go...you are just along for the ride while the rest of the family puts the pieces together.
I believe that there will be many who adore this kind of romantic prose, but for me it just didn't work out that well.
So my 3 star rating has nothing to do with the quality of the writing. My main issue was twofold: The story line and plot were a little unbelievable and unrealistic, and the style of writing was a little over the top for my personal tastes.
I loved the premise of a twin brother (Tim)from beyond grave psychically offering clues to the twin left behind, Sam, and his new lover, Paul. The mystery was not very mysterious to the reader, it was easily figured out from the get-go...you are just along for the ride while the rest of the family puts the pieces together.
I believe that there will be many who adore this kind of romantic prose, but for me it just didn't work out that well.
December 3, 2013
I completely adored both of the characters in this long awaited story. I say long awaited because I've been anticipating it for quite some time and when it finally came out, I jumped out of my chair in excitement. The story does need a little editing, but meh, it's nothing that can't be fixed. If you can get over that you'd enjoy the story also.
Justin always amazes me with his creative stories and I do and always will look forward to reading more in the future that he publishes.
Kudos to you Justin!
Justin always amazes me with his creative stories and I do and always will look forward to reading more in the future that he publishes.
Kudos to you Justin!
Read
February 12, 2014After beginning attempts..to get to the plot..we're going to call it a day and go with the best thing about this self-loathsome woes-me-I'm-such-a-POS point of view of Paul..is going to be this beautiful cover art. The omnipresent depressive narration was like a mountain I had no inspiration to climb.
August 19, 2019
Beautiful
I love this author’s writing. It’s so beautiful. The words take on a life of their own and are filled with emotion. I can see the story unfold before me. Paul is my hero. I loved his goodness. I read the other book in the collection, Alex and Drew, a few years ago and it is so sweet. I just may have to read it again. I hope the author writes another story in this collection.
I love this author’s writing. It’s so beautiful. The words take on a life of their own and are filled with emotion. I can see the story unfold before me. Paul is my hero. I loved his goodness. I read the other book in the collection, Alex and Drew, a few years ago and it is so sweet. I just may have to read it again. I hope the author writes another story in this collection.
September 11, 2016
3.5 stars
Rejected and scorned by his homophobic parents, Paul works a part-time dead end job, occasionally whoring himself out and always searching for a true friend, a companion, anyone who can ease the loneliness and pain of his squalid existence. After a particularly nasty off page rape occurs, Left alone on a darkened beach, Sam finds himself approached by an older man who takes him home to tend to his needs. There he is introduced to the Saunders Family and as fate would have it realizes that he is known to them.
Two years earlier, Paul was surfing and saw a young man, Mark Saunders, drowning in the surf. He rescued him and proceeded to resuscitate him until the medics arrived. In other words, Paul saved the young man's life. It turns out that Mark is a first cousin and close family member to the Saunders. He is, in fact their son Sam's best friend. But the near drowning not only left Mark visibly scarred due to the ramming he took from a stranger's surf board, but emotionally crippled as well. The Saunders family view Paul as their hero and set about welcoming him into their home and into their lives. In a strange yet touching moment, Sam confesses to Paul that he has been "in love" with his hero for the last two years. Now, Sam asks Paul to stay, to live with him and his family and to give their feelings for each other a chance to grow.
However, Paul grapples with real feelings of inadequacy. He fears deep inside that he will never deserve the love this family and Sam, in particular, heaps upon him. Plus there is the unfinished business of the two men who left Sam there on the beach, beaten and raped. As one revelation after another comes to surface it is with dawning horror that Paul realizes these two men have left a string of rapes and possibly even a murder in their wake. Now it is up to Paul to help investigators get to the bottom of the mystery and he hopes that Sam will be strong enough to survive what they unearth.
The mystery elements in this novel were solid and compelling. The sheer number of repeating horrors performed by the two accused men were dealt with realistically and carefully. These were serial rapists who went after both closeted gay boys and or homeless gay youth who would never tell of the disgusting exploits and invasions perpetrated by the two criminals. Couple that with the realization that the two men had fathers who are well placed in the judicial system and the daunting task of bringing them to justice made for a fascinating and riveting story.
Paul and Sam was also a coming of age and first love novel. While I felt at times this was a bit overdone, I also realized that the Aussie vernacular that was used throughout the novel added to the overblown feeling the dialogue had at times It was occasionally hard for me to understand due to all the colloquialisms and slang terms. However, after reading the entire story, I could see how the impact would have been lessened had the language been forced or "americanized". I did feel that the language and phrasing used by Paul and Sam sometimes made them seem "older" than they were chronologically. At times, the dialogue was a bit stiff and seemed overly flowery with a few too many descriptive words thrown in. One cannot deny, however, the sweet love these two boys had for each other and how that progressed and grew as the novel went on.
I believe the final element, the idea that Sam's deceased twin brother, Tim, "spoke" to both Sam and Paul was the thing that left me rather confused. The idea that there was a "paranormal" feel to the conversations did not play well throughout the novel. I felt that having Tim project emotions and dialogue from beyond the grave muddied an already loaded plot line and simply lent an air of unbelievability to the story overall.
Paul and Sam is a good mystery novel with a heavy handed love story thrown in for good measure.
Rejected and scorned by his homophobic parents, Paul works a part-time dead end job, occasionally whoring himself out and always searching for a true friend, a companion, anyone who can ease the loneliness and pain of his squalid existence. After a particularly nasty off page rape occurs, Left alone on a darkened beach, Sam finds himself approached by an older man who takes him home to tend to his needs. There he is introduced to the Saunders Family and as fate would have it realizes that he is known to them.
Two years earlier, Paul was surfing and saw a young man, Mark Saunders, drowning in the surf. He rescued him and proceeded to resuscitate him until the medics arrived. In other words, Paul saved the young man's life. It turns out that Mark is a first cousin and close family member to the Saunders. He is, in fact their son Sam's best friend. But the near drowning not only left Mark visibly scarred due to the ramming he took from a stranger's surf board, but emotionally crippled as well. The Saunders family view Paul as their hero and set about welcoming him into their home and into their lives. In a strange yet touching moment, Sam confesses to Paul that he has been "in love" with his hero for the last two years. Now, Sam asks Paul to stay, to live with him and his family and to give their feelings for each other a chance to grow.
However, Paul grapples with real feelings of inadequacy. He fears deep inside that he will never deserve the love this family and Sam, in particular, heaps upon him. Plus there is the unfinished business of the two men who left Sam there on the beach, beaten and raped. As one revelation after another comes to surface it is with dawning horror that Paul realizes these two men have left a string of rapes and possibly even a murder in their wake. Now it is up to Paul to help investigators get to the bottom of the mystery and he hopes that Sam will be strong enough to survive what they unearth.
The mystery elements in this novel were solid and compelling. The sheer number of repeating horrors performed by the two accused men were dealt with realistically and carefully. These were serial rapists who went after both closeted gay boys and or homeless gay youth who would never tell of the disgusting exploits and invasions perpetrated by the two criminals. Couple that with the realization that the two men had fathers who are well placed in the judicial system and the daunting task of bringing them to justice made for a fascinating and riveting story.
Paul and Sam was also a coming of age and first love novel. While I felt at times this was a bit overdone, I also realized that the Aussie vernacular that was used throughout the novel added to the overblown feeling the dialogue had at times It was occasionally hard for me to understand due to all the colloquialisms and slang terms. However, after reading the entire story, I could see how the impact would have been lessened had the language been forced or "americanized". I did feel that the language and phrasing used by Paul and Sam sometimes made them seem "older" than they were chronologically. At times, the dialogue was a bit stiff and seemed overly flowery with a few too many descriptive words thrown in. One cannot deny, however, the sweet love these two boys had for each other and how that progressed and grew as the novel went on.
I believe the final element, the idea that Sam's deceased twin brother, Tim, "spoke" to both Sam and Paul was the thing that left me rather confused. The idea that there was a "paranormal" feel to the conversations did not play well throughout the novel. I felt that having Tim project emotions and dialogue from beyond the grave muddied an already loaded plot line and simply lent an air of unbelievability to the story overall.
Paul and Sam is a good mystery novel with a heavy handed love story thrown in for good measure.
November 8, 2013
Paul’s life has been anything but a fairy tale. Mistreated, abused and abandoned by his family for being gay; Paul continually makes the wrong choices in his life. He’s had his moments though. Like when he pulled a young injured surfer out of the water and saved his life. Circumstance and another bad decision will change his life forever this time. The question is, will it be a change for the better? … or worse!
Sam lost his twin brother Tim to a random act of violence. He almost lost his cousin to a random accident, but the quick thinking of a certain young man saved his cousins life. Sam has idolized that hero in his mind ever since. So when his father brings home a drifter that is down on his luck Sam is overjoyed to come face to face with his hero, Paul. Sam and his family are genuine, down to earth, good Samaritans. So when they make Paul an offer, to become part of their family and become Sam’s life partner, Paul has his reservations. The mutual attraction and animal magnetism that he shares with Sam help him make the right decision.
As the story unfolds we meet Sam’s cousin and Paul develops an interesting connection with Tim, Sam’s dead twin. In a unique twist we learn that these random coincidences that occur throughout the story may not be so random after all. They are all, in fact, linked.
There was so much potential in this book that when I finished, I was aggravated that it was never fully recognized. It read like a rough draft for a high school English paper. The storyline of twists and turns and everything converging in the end was so intriguing, that is what kept me reading. At times the dialogue of various characters ran together, this confused me and I had to go back to be sure I was hearing the correct character. The base of the plot, a down on his luck drifter who is completely alone with no family gets the family of his dreams and finds the love of his life, was endearing. The execution, however, did not translate that well in print.
If you can get past the mediocre writing and see just the meat of the story, this might be an enjoyable read for you. I’m giving this one a 2.5 because I’m torn. While the writing wasn’t up to par, the storyline itself was engaging. Hell, that cover alone is worth grabbing a copy just so you can stare at it, pet it!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviewers*
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Sam lost his twin brother Tim to a random act of violence. He almost lost his cousin to a random accident, but the quick thinking of a certain young man saved his cousins life. Sam has idolized that hero in his mind ever since. So when his father brings home a drifter that is down on his luck Sam is overjoyed to come face to face with his hero, Paul. Sam and his family are genuine, down to earth, good Samaritans. So when they make Paul an offer, to become part of their family and become Sam’s life partner, Paul has his reservations. The mutual attraction and animal magnetism that he shares with Sam help him make the right decision.
As the story unfolds we meet Sam’s cousin and Paul develops an interesting connection with Tim, Sam’s dead twin. In a unique twist we learn that these random coincidences that occur throughout the story may not be so random after all. They are all, in fact, linked.
There was so much potential in this book that when I finished, I was aggravated that it was never fully recognized. It read like a rough draft for a high school English paper. The storyline of twists and turns and everything converging in the end was so intriguing, that is what kept me reading. At times the dialogue of various characters ran together, this confused me and I had to go back to be sure I was hearing the correct character. The base of the plot, a down on his luck drifter who is completely alone with no family gets the family of his dreams and finds the love of his life, was endearing. The execution, however, did not translate that well in print.
If you can get past the mediocre writing and see just the meat of the story, this might be an enjoyable read for you. I’m giving this one a 2.5 because I’m torn. While the writing wasn’t up to par, the storyline itself was engaging. Hell, that cover alone is worth grabbing a copy just so you can stare at it, pet it!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviewers*
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com
February 24, 2014
You have got to kidding...
You have got to kidding...
This is a teenage bad run on day dream... so totally far fetched...no one talks like this and long winded and descriptive. The hole time I was waiting for this over dramatized sticky sweet Brady bunch family to turn into crazed ax murders...no such luck!! This story did not move me what so ever. Tears do not make a deep emotional story and not the 20 descriptive words used to say their crying. Reality is harsh and can be really brutal. the scars that burn into your mind doesn't leave you all trusting and ready to live all happy go lucky. The author really should see life as it really is....really see it, touch it , breath it , live it and then write from the soul....The real emotion over this should come from the reader. Unless he is the teenager day dreaming....
You have got to kidding...
This is a teenage bad run on day dream... so totally far fetched...no one talks like this and long winded and descriptive. The hole time I was waiting for this over dramatized sticky sweet Brady bunch family to turn into crazed ax murders...no such luck!! This story did not move me what so ever. Tears do not make a deep emotional story and not the 20 descriptive words used to say their crying. Reality is harsh and can be really brutal. the scars that burn into your mind doesn't leave you all trusting and ready to live all happy go lucky. The author really should see life as it really is....really see it, touch it , breath it , live it and then write from the soul....The real emotion over this should come from the reader. Unless he is the teenager day dreaming....
November 16, 2014
This is a story that runs the gamut between the despair of depression and the hopefulness of young love. It has a lot going on in different directions (a bit of murder mystery, some ability to communicate with the deceased, a young romance and new family) but does carry a strong positive message indicating that things can get better when you least expect it.
I would have liked to see a little more angst in the development of the relationship between Paul and Sam – it felt just a little too arranged and clinical – and perhaps a tone down on the excessive descriptions of everything. Beyond this, I really enjoyed the basic underlying story in this book and it has a gorgeous cover to boot!
I would have liked to see a little more angst in the development of the relationship between Paul and Sam – it felt just a little too arranged and clinical – and perhaps a tone down on the excessive descriptions of everything. Beyond this, I really enjoyed the basic underlying story in this book and it has a gorgeous cover to boot!
November 9, 2013
A new to me author, I tried this after reading a glowing review. It sounded like the kind of angsty story I love, and it kind of was. Some of the dialogue seemed unrealistic, and it could have used a another round of editing. I liked the mystery part of the plot, and Sam's innocence.
But most of my issues are with the first third of the book, which are...kind of creepy.
SPOILERS
All of the hero worship stuff and long-distance crushes were fine, but the whole thing with the dad offering him Sam in some kind of contracted marriage thingy when the two had only met six hours ago? Weird. And creepy. I didn't track with the insta-love thing, or with Paul being psychic and talking to Sam's dead brother.
But most of my issues are with the first third of the book, which are...kind of creepy.
SPOILERS
All of the hero worship stuff and long-distance crushes were fine, but the whole thing with the dad offering him Sam in some kind of contracted marriage thingy when the two had only met six hours ago? Weird. And creepy. I didn't track with the insta-love thing, or with Paul being psychic and talking to Sam's dead brother.
March 26, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I have never read an Australian author's works before, so I find his writing different and interesting. The only word I would use to describe the book is quaint. It is like reading something from a previous era. This book tell the story of Paul, as a homeless gay teenager, and how his guardian angel instrumented a chance encounter for him to meet the person who will change his life forever for the better. How he met Sam, but it is much more than just their story. There are drama, love and intrigues all mix in together. It is above all a story about hope. I am not going to out any spoilers. You will have to read it for yourself. Justin South is a great writer, and I am looking forward to read more of his works.
January 2, 2015
This enjoyable fantasy is simplistic and totally unrealistic. Paul wishes for a loving boyfriend after being tricked by some cruel guys. Those guys end up being the culprits for all the horrors in the world. They and their parents are stand-ins for the worst in humanity.
Meanwhile Paul gets swooped up by an angel and his family. They take him in, adopt him, and demand he become their son's lover. This son happens to look identical to a guy he's been lusting after, and Paul just happens to be the hero from an incident two years previous to their meeting.
Oh, and all the guys they encounter just happen to be gay, including possibly Paul's brother whom the family also rescues.
On the positive side it was a fun uplifting read, and I did not see a single error,
Meanwhile Paul gets swooped up by an angel and his family. They take him in, adopt him, and demand he become their son's lover. This son happens to look identical to a guy he's been lusting after, and Paul just happens to be the hero from an incident two years previous to their meeting.
Oh, and all the guys they encounter just happen to be gay, including possibly Paul's brother whom the family also rescues.
On the positive side it was a fun uplifting read, and I did not see a single error,
November 3, 2013
There was a point in this story—a plot that’s part hardship, part murder mystery, part supernatural drama, part implausible machination—in which some of the characters were portrayed as so entirely flawless that I anxiously, and gleefully, awaited the “Stepford Wives” moment, the moment in which it would be revealed that these people who had so insistently dragged Paul (a downtrodden, sexually assaulted, homeless boy) into their midst, were up to far more sinister pursuits than it appeared on the surface.
See the entire 2.5 star review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
See the entire 2.5 star review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
April 3, 2014
I am giving this book 4 stars because in places it was really good and I enjoyed it. The reason it isn't getting the full 5 stars is because there were places I found it just didn't seem real. For me those parts didn't make much sense. But other than that I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book.
Cover: 4 stars
Sex/steaminess: 3 stars
Story line: 3 stars
Characters: 3 stars
Overall rating: 4 stars
Personal rating: 4 stars
Book Pairing: M/M
Cover: 4 stars
Sex/steaminess: 3 stars
Story line: 3 stars
Characters: 3 stars
Overall rating: 4 stars
Personal rating: 4 stars
Book Pairing: M/M
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July 8, 2014Heartwarming
This was a better sweet story, with so many twists and turns. I can't understand how Paul's family could be cold and stupid. Everyone should have a family likes Sam's they are there for their sons no matter what. There truly some sick people in the world, and some special ones that look out for you even when you can't see them.
This was a better sweet story, with so many twists and turns. I can't understand how Paul's family could be cold and stupid. Everyone should have a family likes Sam's they are there for their sons no matter what. There truly some sick people in the world, and some special ones that look out for you even when you can't see them.
July 8, 2014
Got lost on the way to the end of this crazy murder mystery. I had to also suspend belief while reading. I loved Alex and Drew Paul and Sam was just weird. I couldn't find the book on amazon to leave a review. Best part of the book the cover hot hot hot.
December 28, 2013
Review is coming. I promise ^o^
November 11, 2013
REVIEW TO COME
June 29, 2014
I really enjoyed this book, the way the characters were linked as story developed. I was in tears by first page in chapter two. Looking forward to Reading Justin's books when published
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