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Perception
Marcel Ritter is an excellent pupil at a German school, has two loyal, best friends, and caring parents.
Still, his life is far from being perfect.
He is the bullying victim of Tim ‘Dumb’ Eschner, soccer hunk and the school’s official dimwit.
When the vice principal witnesses one of Tim’s assaults, Marcel’s problems seem to be solved at last. But his good nature and his fast tongue get him into more trouble than he would prefer.
Forced to work together, they both discover that there is more to the other one than meets the eye.
A feel-good story about change, forgiveness, and love.
This romance novel contains graphic language and descriptions of sexual encounters (m/m).
Word count (story only): approx. 74.200
Still, his life is far from being perfect.
He is the bullying victim of Tim ‘Dumb’ Eschner, soccer hunk and the school’s official dimwit.
When the vice principal witnesses one of Tim’s assaults, Marcel’s problems seem to be solved at last. But his good nature and his fast tongue get him into more trouble than he would prefer.
Forced to work together, they both discover that there is more to the other one than meets the eye.
A feel-good story about change, forgiveness, and love.
This romance novel contains graphic language and descriptions of sexual encounters (m/m).
Word count (story only): approx. 74.200
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 31, 2020
Full disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'd give this book 3.5 stars. I liked this book in many many ways, and [sigh] also disliked it and found it hard to finish. First the good - I loved the plot - set in a German high school, the story focuses on "Dumb" Tim and Marcel, who enter into an unlikely tutoring situation after Tim bullies (and punches) Marcel. Throughout the course of the school year, their perceptions of each other change, and they fall into strong like, then love. There is enough angst in the book caused by scheming classmates, so it is refreshing that both sets of parents are so accepting of Tim and Marcel's love. The honesty and respect between Marcel and Tim is also beautifully expressed.
However ..... while the writing style is clean and concise, it also creates an emotional distance between the reader and the characters. We are "told" so many details rather than weaving a narrative where the MC's feeling s and emotions are fully expressed. In many ways, this is an excellent YA story, but strictly as a "Love Story", IMHO, it felt almost clinical. Also, Marcel's mother was (for lack of a better word), "strange" with her emotions and responses to their relationship. And finally, the Nicholas subplot seemed over the top.
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I'd give this book 3.5 stars. I liked this book in many many ways, and [sigh] also disliked it and found it hard to finish. First the good - I loved the plot - set in a German high school, the story focuses on "Dumb" Tim and Marcel, who enter into an unlikely tutoring situation after Tim bullies (and punches) Marcel. Throughout the course of the school year, their perceptions of each other change, and they fall into strong like, then love. There is enough angst in the book caused by scheming classmates, so it is refreshing that both sets of parents are so accepting of Tim and Marcel's love. The honesty and respect between Marcel and Tim is also beautifully expressed.
However ..... while the writing style is clean and concise, it also creates an emotional distance between the reader and the characters. We are "told" so many details rather than weaving a narrative where the MC's feeling s and emotions are fully expressed. In many ways, this is an excellent YA story, but strictly as a "Love Story", IMHO, it felt almost clinical. Also, Marcel's mother was (for lack of a better word), "strange" with her emotions and responses to their relationship. And finally, the Nicholas subplot seemed over the top.
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March 17, 2014
4.5 stars. Written in English by a German. Written in a Germanic matter of fact way. A typical jock and nerd story yet it was different in a unique way. The jock is not dumb, he just learns differently than most. The nerd is not a total geek. There are friends, parents, other students and teachers in this story. All are there for a good reason. Well done work. Kept me very interested and I cared about the guys.
Niggles:
I liked it very much because it was so differently written then books by Americans, Brits and Aussies.
Niggles:
I liked it very much because it was so differently written then books by Americans, Brits and Aussies.
Read
October 1, 2023I saw this on Smashwords for free and had to pick it up literally only due to "a German love story" - how could I resist with so few stories taking place in Germany?
All in all, this was a sweet story that read slightly wish-fulfilling and fairy-tale-esque: what if my high school bully (who I have a secret crush on I won't let myself feel) turned out to be lovely and smart and the bestest boyfriend ever and actually emotionally abused himself so absolved of all things he did to me and his bully becomes a buddhist and we all live happily ever after and are amazing?
If it had stayed slightly more down to earth, and the dialogue been slightly less stilted (which can be forgiven as the author is not a native speaker which became tangible at times), and if I would have been able to guess where the described structure on the top of the hill is, then this would have been an easy four stars, as it is I'm struggling to give it more than three. (After writing my review I am giving it 3.5)
What did I enjoy?
- the slow, very sweet, very natural, very teenage way of falling in love
- admitting feelings and becoming boyfriends before even kissing
- slow exploration of sex from making out, over grinding to attempts at blowjobs rather than immediate deepthroating, struggling with the condom during anal sex and going to the STD clinic together before going bare (which would make a lot of sense for pupils without much money): just all in all lovely (until one MC bottoms for the first time sans prep and lube huh? That was disjointed)
- all the bear hugs
- I found the parents well written and there exactly the right amount for two young guys still in school and living at home while already being rather grown up
- the writing style outside of the dialogue was very enjoyable
- the sweetness of their romance, although it was bordering on too much at times, it was still ever so sweet
- using the donation from an alumnus to pay for the GEMA :kek:
What could have been better?
Besides the abovementioned points:
- the use of the f-slur. This is from 2012 when it was still more common, and it isn't used very often but for me the German equivalent that would have been used 'Schwuchtel' comes with less weight.
- the whole 'Perception' and singing plot line: was it only there for the title and a couple of thoughts? Because after the initial thoughts on it and slight alienation of friends because it's important it nearly completely drops away as a storyline
- where is the structure on the hill? :(
- caffeine aroma (we've reached petty level here): coffee has aroma, caffeine however does not.
- I think they do a great job of overcoming the bullying trauma together and equally
Quotes
NSFW infos:
- tall lanky guy who most everyone in the school knows is gay and who is bullied (not a virgin, had his virginity taken at 17 (with consent and which is legal in Germany) which is not described on page) Has a 18cm long penis and 4cm girth (I had to laugh at this but the author does explain the male teenage drive to measure one's own penis and compare, so: realistic? :D)
- his bullier who is built like a jock and plays football (virgin) (Compared to the other MC with a cock size of 20cm length and 5cm diameter)
- vers
Nickname:
Big boy
All in all, this was a sweet story that read slightly wish-fulfilling and fairy-tale-esque: what if my high school bully (who I have a secret crush on I won't let myself feel) turned out to be lovely and smart and the bestest boyfriend ever and actually emotionally abused himself so absolved of all things he did to me and his bully becomes a buddhist and we all live happily ever after and are amazing?
If it had stayed slightly more down to earth, and the dialogue been slightly less stilted (which can be forgiven as the author is not a native speaker which became tangible at times), and if I would have been able to guess where the described structure on the top of the hill is, then this would have been an easy four stars, as it is I'm struggling to give it more than three. (After writing my review I am giving it 3.5)
What did I enjoy?
- the slow, very sweet, very natural, very teenage way of falling in love
- admitting feelings and becoming boyfriends before even kissing
- slow exploration of sex from making out, over grinding to attempts at blowjobs rather than immediate deepthroating, struggling with the condom during anal sex and going to the STD clinic together before going bare (which would make a lot of sense for pupils without much money): just all in all lovely (until one MC bottoms for the first time sans prep and lube huh? That was disjointed)
- all the bear hugs
- I found the parents well written and there exactly the right amount for two young guys still in school and living at home while already being rather grown up
- the writing style outside of the dialogue was very enjoyable
- the sweetness of their romance, although it was bordering on too much at times, it was still ever so sweet
- using the donation from an alumnus to pay for the GEMA :kek:
What could have been better?
Besides the abovementioned points:
- the use of the f-slur. This is from 2012 when it was still more common, and it isn't used very often but for me the German equivalent that would have been used 'Schwuchtel' comes with less weight.
- the whole 'Perception' and singing plot line: was it only there for the title and a couple of thoughts? Because after the initial thoughts on it and slight alienation of friends because it's important it nearly completely drops away as a storyline
- where is the structure on the hill? :(
- caffeine aroma (we've reached petty level here): coffee has aroma, caffeine however does not.
- I think they do a great job of overcoming the bullying trauma together and equally
Quotes
"'One day, I'll kiss you in bright daylight. I swear.' His words didn't leave the shadows around us." (p. 159)
"Before I could brace myself, I was already in a bear hug." (p. 160)
"It's your dream, so it's my dream. Simple as that." (p. 234)
NSFW infos:
- tall lanky guy who most everyone in the school knows is gay and who is bullied (not a virgin, had his virginity taken at 17 (with consent and which is legal in Germany) which is not described on page) Has a 18cm long penis and 4cm girth (I had to laugh at this but the author does explain the male teenage drive to measure one's own penis and compare, so: realistic? :D)
- his bullier who is built like a jock and plays football (virgin) (Compared to the other MC with a cock size of 20cm length and 5cm diameter)
- vers
Nickname:
Big boy
May 23, 2012
2 ½ to 3 stars. Overly sweet love story between two high school boys. Too wishful-thinking-perfect-world for me.
STORY BRIEF:
Characters are in the final year of high school. Marcel is the top student, openly but quietly gay. Tim is the worst student and kids call him “Dumb.” Nicholas tells Tim that Marcel is making fun of Tim. As a result, Tim punches Marcel. The vice principal sees this and threatens to expel Tim if it happens again or if his grades don’t improve. Because Marcel is willing, the vice principal arranges for Marcel to tutor Tim for the next four weeks.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
It’s told in first person from Marcel’s point of view. It would have been better to occasionally be in Tim’s head and Nicholas’ head. It also would have been better to be in third person. First person is great for personal essays and memoirs, but not for fiction with multiple characters. It can be done, but it’s rare for first person to be good in this kind of story.
Because we are never in Tim’s head, I don’t know if Tim was gay in the beginning. I don’t know if he changed. I wanted to know a lot more about him.
Another problem was that Marcel had no flaws. He was too perfect. It’s hard to make perfect characters interesting. But I did like the way Marcel figured out how to tutor Tim. His teaching wasn’t working, so Marcel attended one of Tim’s soccer games and studied the way Tim approached soccer. Then Marcel invented a different way to teach Tim that worked. It was thought provoking. It stayed with me.
Another weakness was lack of tension. The story felt simple. It had a wishful thinking quality. The author created a perfect world where everything worked out too easily and too perfectly for the two lovers. I believe gay people experience too much prejudice and too many problems in this world, yet in this story, these problems don’t happen. I would like the world to be this way, but it isn’t. But this is fiction, just know what you are getting. Even in the epilogue, more perfect things happen.
Ok, technically there was a little bit of tension when fellow student Nicholas tries to hurt Tim and Marcel. But Marcel is able to turn things around and solve the problem. Again too perfect-world-ish.
A part I liked was the gradual change in the relationship from dislike, to like, to love, to lust. I also liked the following. “Mr. Mantrewitz’s comments about the portfolio made me realize how childish this move had been from the start. But fortune favors children and fools. And I was still enough of both.”
There are several explicit gay male sex scenes, including rear door activity. The sex scenes had a sweet and loving tone. This is fine. It’s a type. Just don’t expect hot, wild, passionate lust.
DATA:
Digital count story length: 3819 (387 KB). Swearing language: strong. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 7. Setting: current day Germany. Copyright: 2012. Genre: gay male contemporary romance.
DISCLOSURE:
The author sent this book to me free of charge, requesting a review.
STORY BRIEF:
Characters are in the final year of high school. Marcel is the top student, openly but quietly gay. Tim is the worst student and kids call him “Dumb.” Nicholas tells Tim that Marcel is making fun of Tim. As a result, Tim punches Marcel. The vice principal sees this and threatens to expel Tim if it happens again or if his grades don’t improve. Because Marcel is willing, the vice principal arranges for Marcel to tutor Tim for the next four weeks.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
It’s told in first person from Marcel’s point of view. It would have been better to occasionally be in Tim’s head and Nicholas’ head. It also would have been better to be in third person. First person is great for personal essays and memoirs, but not for fiction with multiple characters. It can be done, but it’s rare for first person to be good in this kind of story.
Because we are never in Tim’s head, I don’t know if Tim was gay in the beginning. I don’t know if he changed. I wanted to know a lot more about him.
Another problem was that Marcel had no flaws. He was too perfect. It’s hard to make perfect characters interesting. But I did like the way Marcel figured out how to tutor Tim. His teaching wasn’t working, so Marcel attended one of Tim’s soccer games and studied the way Tim approached soccer. Then Marcel invented a different way to teach Tim that worked. It was thought provoking. It stayed with me.
Another weakness was lack of tension. The story felt simple. It had a wishful thinking quality. The author created a perfect world where everything worked out too easily and too perfectly for the two lovers. I believe gay people experience too much prejudice and too many problems in this world, yet in this story, these problems don’t happen. I would like the world to be this way, but it isn’t. But this is fiction, just know what you are getting. Even in the epilogue, more perfect things happen.
Ok, technically there was a little bit of tension when fellow student Nicholas tries to hurt Tim and Marcel. But Marcel is able to turn things around and solve the problem. Again too perfect-world-ish.
A part I liked was the gradual change in the relationship from dislike, to like, to love, to lust. I also liked the following. “Mr. Mantrewitz’s comments about the portfolio made me realize how childish this move had been from the start. But fortune favors children and fools. And I was still enough of both.”
There are several explicit gay male sex scenes, including rear door activity. The sex scenes had a sweet and loving tone. This is fine. It’s a type. Just don’t expect hot, wild, passionate lust.
DATA:
Digital count story length: 3819 (387 KB). Swearing language: strong. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 7. Setting: current day Germany. Copyright: 2012. Genre: gay male contemporary romance.
DISCLOSURE:
The author sent this book to me free of charge, requesting a review.
December 27, 2012
This fairly long M/M romance reminds me irresitibly of a gay mystery I have read some time ago, "The Math Teacher is Dead" by Robert Manners, available here on Am. as well for a reason I am going to explain soon.
Set in a small German town it depicts a simple but charming love story that develops between the nerd/victim and the jock/bully of the school: forced to get to know each other by chance, they learn first to trust and then to love each other, overcoming the everyday -but oh-so-very-real- problems that stand in the way of their happiness.
It is as simple as that but it is done with a sweet touch, a nice sense of rhythm and a taste for storytelling that are far from common among self-published authors.
Characterization is potentially its main flaw and the link with the M/M mystery novel I quoted above: Marcel is impossibly perfect here just like Danny was there. He is young but he is not only clever and smart, he is also sweet, caring, and most of all mature far beyond his years. His way of reasoning -appealing though it is- is seldom to be found in people twice his age and I had to do a lot of suspension of disbelief to accept it.
After a couple of chapters it is not hard to do but it is relevant and has to be pointed out. The same can be said for the other half of the couple, Tim, whose readiness to better himself, to mend his ways are a bit over the top.
Just like the character of the mystery was the embodiment of gay physical and mental perfection, it is as if this couple were designed to be more ideal than lifelike.
That said, it is also true that Marcel and Tim grow up as characters during the story, fighting for and achieving a well deserved happily ever after.
Side characters are nicely rounded with the possible exception of the villain, Nicholas, whose reasons are never entirely clear.
The author is not a native speaker but his English skills are surprisingly good. There are a few grammar mistakes that must have escaped proofreading but his writing is neat and fluid (and there are no typos at all). Only here and there he uses vocabulary that is not wrong in itself but struck me as different from what a native writer would have used.
Sex scenes are explicit but plot related. I feel like recommending this heart-warming M/M romance to every reader.
Set in a small German town it depicts a simple but charming love story that develops between the nerd/victim and the jock/bully of the school: forced to get to know each other by chance, they learn first to trust and then to love each other, overcoming the everyday -but oh-so-very-real- problems that stand in the way of their happiness.
It is as simple as that but it is done with a sweet touch, a nice sense of rhythm and a taste for storytelling that are far from common among self-published authors.
Characterization is potentially its main flaw and the link with the M/M mystery novel I quoted above: Marcel is impossibly perfect here just like Danny was there. He is young but he is not only clever and smart, he is also sweet, caring, and most of all mature far beyond his years. His way of reasoning -appealing though it is- is seldom to be found in people twice his age and I had to do a lot of suspension of disbelief to accept it.
After a couple of chapters it is not hard to do but it is relevant and has to be pointed out. The same can be said for the other half of the couple, Tim, whose readiness to better himself, to mend his ways are a bit over the top.
Just like the character of the mystery was the embodiment of gay physical and mental perfection, it is as if this couple were designed to be more ideal than lifelike.
That said, it is also true that Marcel and Tim grow up as characters during the story, fighting for and achieving a well deserved happily ever after.
Side characters are nicely rounded with the possible exception of the villain, Nicholas, whose reasons are never entirely clear.
The author is not a native speaker but his English skills are surprisingly good. There are a few grammar mistakes that must have escaped proofreading but his writing is neat and fluid (and there are no typos at all). Only here and there he uses vocabulary that is not wrong in itself but struck me as different from what a native writer would have used.
Sex scenes are explicit but plot related. I feel like recommending this heart-warming M/M romance to every reader.
February 18, 2015
4 stars for never-ending first love
Written in a German school setting, this book reminded me so much of myself, as I found my true love during the same time, and it was just as intense and all-encompassing. Marcel’s and Tim’s love made me all happy and reminiscent.
--
Marcel and Tim are in their last year of school, against all odds they fall in love, and develop a very strong bond that is unbreakable. Nobody else is as important to them, they are there for each other no matter what. Just adorable… I didn’t even care that they are sappy and maybe a bit too much emotional at times.
The author takes his time to develop a plausible friendship and love between Marcel and Tim. Their relationship is tender and passionate, and the sex scenes are an extension of it. I enjoyed them a lot. Since this story plays in a German setting, sex is not a taboo here, like in other YA books from some other countries. It’s a natural part of their relationship, and it also is no issue for their parents. They are aware of it and don’t stand in the way.
--
At first I found it a bit off to read all the German names in an English book, but I got used to it. I didn’t notice it anymore.
The book is written from Marcel’s perspective, in a first person POV. This worked really well, because the author managed to make Tim appear real and three-dimensional, too.
--
I really liked the book. It wasn’t perfect, but I enjoyed it so much, because of my own personal experience during adolescence.
Oh, I didn't mention that this is a free download. That makes it even better ;-)
Written in a German school setting, this book reminded me so much of myself, as I found my true love during the same time, and it was just as intense and all-encompassing. Marcel’s and Tim’s love made me all happy and reminiscent.
--
Marcel and Tim are in their last year of school, against all odds they fall in love, and develop a very strong bond that is unbreakable. Nobody else is as important to them, they are there for each other no matter what. Just adorable… I didn’t even care that they are sappy and maybe a bit too much emotional at times.
The author takes his time to develop a plausible friendship and love between Marcel and Tim. Their relationship is tender and passionate, and the sex scenes are an extension of it. I enjoyed them a lot. Since this story plays in a German setting, sex is not a taboo here, like in other YA books from some other countries. It’s a natural part of their relationship, and it also is no issue for their parents. They are aware of it and don’t stand in the way.
--
At first I found it a bit off to read all the German names in an English book, but I got used to it. I didn’t notice it anymore.
The book is written from Marcel’s perspective, in a first person POV. This worked really well, because the author managed to make Tim appear real and three-dimensional, too.
--
I really liked the book. It wasn’t perfect, but I enjoyed it so much, because of my own personal experience during adolescence.
Oh, I didn't mention that this is a free download. That makes it even better ;-)
August 13, 2012
Reviewed by Stacey Jo: This is your typical geek and jock love story.Marcel Ritter is a very smart student at a German school—the Geek. Tim Eschner,a soccer hunk and known around the school as “Dumb”—is the Jock. Of course, Tim beats up on Marcel and one of these times he does it in front of the Vice Principal. Because of the incident, the Vice Principal forces Marcel to tutor Tim, who is on the verge of flunking out of school. Neither one is thrilled about this, and although Marcel tries hard, they get nowhere because Tim justisn’t catching on. Marcel ends up finding a clever way to connect with Tim and they turn his grades around. They also turn their relationship around in the process. Tim isn’t the evil jock that he puts himself out there to be. There are other influences that caused Tim to go astray. Tim has a very human side to him that is vulnerable and sweet and loving and Marcel is soon falling in love with him. It’s not long before Tim realizes he has feelings to Marcel too.
It’s a coming of age, coming out, first time,realizing that first impressions aren’t always true kind of story. There is sex but Tim is twenty and Marcel is eighteen, so this isn’t young teens—they are adults, or at least the age of consent. I found their relationship to be very sweet, but then I’m a sucker for the Geek/Jock love story as well as the enemies-to-lovers story line. I liked the slow development of their relationship. I didn’t want to put the story down because I was caught up in it. I liked the characters and wanted to see their story unfold.
Did I see any faults in the story? Yes, but they didn’t ruin the story by any means. I thought their conversations were a bit flowery or over-the-top at times. And there was almost no opposition anywhere to their relationship except with two characters: one had her reasons that were resolved before the end and the other character wasn’t targeting them specifically for the gay issue at first. But it just felt like everywhere they went there was a parade of people cheering them on. I hope that one day, sooner than later, we could live in a world that accepting of the gay lifestyle, but this was very unrealistic. But, this is fiction, and I enjoyed the characters and the story itself so I was happy to set aside that aspect and just “go withit”. My only other complaint is that the story is told from Marcel’s point of view and we never get Tim’s point of view, not once. It would have been nice to occasionally get Tim’s point of view, just to get a larger perspective.
It ends with an epilogue eight years later so we can see how things turn out for them. It’s a really sweet happily-ever-after and ties the story up nicely. I also appreciated the fact that author puts a sort of appendix at the end too that explains the grading system used in the book, as well as how German schools compare to British and American schools because as I was reading, I was curious about the explanations in the story since they were unfamiliar to me and therefore didn’t mean anything to me. That was really helpful, so thanks for that. Overall, a good story, even with any shortcomings it might have.
B
http://manohmanreviews.blogspot.ca/20...
It’s a coming of age, coming out, first time,realizing that first impressions aren’t always true kind of story. There is sex but Tim is twenty and Marcel is eighteen, so this isn’t young teens—they are adults, or at least the age of consent. I found their relationship to be very sweet, but then I’m a sucker for the Geek/Jock love story as well as the enemies-to-lovers story line. I liked the slow development of their relationship. I didn’t want to put the story down because I was caught up in it. I liked the characters and wanted to see their story unfold.
Did I see any faults in the story? Yes, but they didn’t ruin the story by any means. I thought their conversations were a bit flowery or over-the-top at times. And there was almost no opposition anywhere to their relationship except with two characters: one had her reasons that were resolved before the end and the other character wasn’t targeting them specifically for the gay issue at first. But it just felt like everywhere they went there was a parade of people cheering them on. I hope that one day, sooner than later, we could live in a world that accepting of the gay lifestyle, but this was very unrealistic. But, this is fiction, and I enjoyed the characters and the story itself so I was happy to set aside that aspect and just “go withit”. My only other complaint is that the story is told from Marcel’s point of view and we never get Tim’s point of view, not once. It would have been nice to occasionally get Tim’s point of view, just to get a larger perspective.
It ends with an epilogue eight years later so we can see how things turn out for them. It’s a really sweet happily-ever-after and ties the story up nicely. I also appreciated the fact that author puts a sort of appendix at the end too that explains the grading system used in the book, as well as how German schools compare to British and American schools because as I was reading, I was curious about the explanations in the story since they were unfamiliar to me and therefore didn’t mean anything to me. That was really helpful, so thanks for that. Overall, a good story, even with any shortcomings it might have.
B
http://manohmanreviews.blogspot.ca/20...
June 1, 2015
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.*
To be honest, one of the reasons I wanted to read this book was the fact that it was written in English but by a German author and set in Germany. I'm Austrian, which is next to Germany but should neeeever be mixed up with Germany. So, I was curious. Would Marcel's and Tim's world actually feel German? Would I realize from how the people behaved?
I found that the language a book is written in truly changes your perception (pun intended!) of where it is set. Although Lipinski is German and describes everything quite well, I had a hard time not picturing an American High School, a suburban neighbourhood or American parents. Interesting experience!
Now to the story. We follow Marcel, who is being bullied for annoying the most popular boy at school by getting better grades. When Tim, the bully, gets caught in action, he faces expulsion because of misbehavior and underachievement in school. Marcel agrees to tutor Tim, surprising himself and Tim. From then on, Tim's nicer qualities are revealed, contempt turns into friendship and friendship into love.
A sweet story, overall, with likeable characters and enough tension so things never got boring. However, there was just too much icing, making everything too sweet at times. Everyone who has been in a happy relationship knows that you're not happy 24-7. You don't love everything the other does. In the beginning you might, but in the beginning there's also some awkwardness, you still have to get to know each other and not everything works out. I kind of missed that in "Perception: A German Love Story". Tim and Marcel were just too perfect with each other - every disturbance there ever was came from the outside. And let me tell you, in reality there would be more cruel remarks from fellow students, teachers, everyone. As open and tolerant as Europe seems to be (Conchiiiitaaaa!!!), there are still a lot of people who do not accept others being different and, additionally, some people who might be tolerant but just plain overburdened with a situation like that because it's new to them.
Having said that, "Perception: A German Love Story" is an easy and enjoyable read, even more so if you're into that genre. It surely is something for optimists, though ;)
Overall, well done, Mario Lipinski! Sie haben Talent :)
To be honest, one of the reasons I wanted to read this book was the fact that it was written in English but by a German author and set in Germany. I'm Austrian, which is next to Germany but should neeeever be mixed up with Germany. So, I was curious. Would Marcel's and Tim's world actually feel German? Would I realize from how the people behaved?
I found that the language a book is written in truly changes your perception (pun intended!) of where it is set. Although Lipinski is German and describes everything quite well, I had a hard time not picturing an American High School, a suburban neighbourhood or American parents. Interesting experience!
Now to the story. We follow Marcel, who is being bullied for annoying the most popular boy at school by getting better grades. When Tim, the bully, gets caught in action, he faces expulsion because of misbehavior and underachievement in school. Marcel agrees to tutor Tim, surprising himself and Tim. From then on, Tim's nicer qualities are revealed, contempt turns into friendship and friendship into love.
A sweet story, overall, with likeable characters and enough tension so things never got boring. However, there was just too much icing, making everything too sweet at times. Everyone who has been in a happy relationship knows that you're not happy 24-7. You don't love everything the other does. In the beginning you might, but in the beginning there's also some awkwardness, you still have to get to know each other and not everything works out. I kind of missed that in "Perception: A German Love Story". Tim and Marcel were just too perfect with each other - every disturbance there ever was came from the outside. And let me tell you, in reality there would be more cruel remarks from fellow students, teachers, everyone. As open and tolerant as Europe seems to be (Conchiiiitaaaa!!!), there are still a lot of people who do not accept others being different and, additionally, some people who might be tolerant but just plain overburdened with a situation like that because it's new to them.
Having said that, "Perception: A German Love Story" is an easy and enjoyable read, even more so if you're into that genre. It surely is something for optimists, though ;)
Overall, well done, Mario Lipinski! Sie haben Talent :)
Read
March 2, 2013This was quite interesting story, especially since it was set for once in an European country, German, and not the US. Interesting since, you realize that being young is the same, whatever you are in a big US city or a small European town.
I liked the story because it was sweet and simple, and very, very romantic. Marcel and Tim are in school together, but they are on the opposite side of it: Marcel from an ordinary family, living in a complex building, he has only his brain as support for a better future; his family is supporting, even of him being gay, but they are not well-off like Nicholas’s parents. Nicholas is Marcel’s nemesis, another clever boy who wants to be the only star of their high school; to reach his target, Nicholas is using Tim, another misfit like Marcel, but for different reasons: Tim is struggling in learning like other students, and for that he is considered to be “dumb”. When Tim physically attacks Marcel, on a twist of events, they are put together as tutor and pupil, Marcel will have to help Tim pass his middle term tests, otherwise he will be expelled.
The love story between the two is pure romance, sometime even too good to be true: support from their families, from friends, even from totally strangers; but I don’t know, I was expecting for this novel to be more dramatic, and so it was a pleasant surprise to instead not having drama at all. Maybe if I have to find a fault in these guys, is that sometime they were speaking more like in an old fashioned romance novel than instead like two high school boys.
But in the end, I like my old fashioned romance novels, and so I liked these two, they were destined to be happy together and the fact we knew that since the beginning it was not a demerit from my point of view.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007ZFK3VE/?...
I liked the story because it was sweet and simple, and very, very romantic. Marcel and Tim are in school together, but they are on the opposite side of it: Marcel from an ordinary family, living in a complex building, he has only his brain as support for a better future; his family is supporting, even of him being gay, but they are not well-off like Nicholas’s parents. Nicholas is Marcel’s nemesis, another clever boy who wants to be the only star of their high school; to reach his target, Nicholas is using Tim, another misfit like Marcel, but for different reasons: Tim is struggling in learning like other students, and for that he is considered to be “dumb”. When Tim physically attacks Marcel, on a twist of events, they are put together as tutor and pupil, Marcel will have to help Tim pass his middle term tests, otherwise he will be expelled.
The love story between the two is pure romance, sometime even too good to be true: support from their families, from friends, even from totally strangers; but I don’t know, I was expecting for this novel to be more dramatic, and so it was a pleasant surprise to instead not having drama at all. Maybe if I have to find a fault in these guys, is that sometime they were speaking more like in an old fashioned romance novel than instead like two high school boys.
But in the end, I like my old fashioned romance novels, and so I liked these two, they were destined to be happy together and the fact we knew that since the beginning it was not a demerit from my point of view.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007ZFK3VE/?...
May 5, 2020
I quite liked this book. It actual contained a real story!!! Just didn't run from one sexual encounter to the next. The characters were well developed the premise was believable and although not really high on anxiety it had enough tension to hold my interest in where it was going. It had a happy ending which is a plus for me. All in all a pretty high step above most free reads that I have come across.
It was a bit awkward to read in the English version. I am not sure whether it was translated from German or it was written in English by a non-native English speaking person. It has some unusual phrasing. IE: "Around nine o'clock, my mom came to my room to ask me "for" breakfast. Where most English speakers would have said she came to ask me "to" breakfast. There were several instances of that particular phrasing the jumped out at me. Others included "Christina and Tim "came" along just fine because their personalities complement each other." Not sure if author meant "Christina and Tim "got" along or what. Or another one "She'll come down, she always does." It should have been "She'll calm down, she always does. Those could have been poor editing and proofreading.
It was a good read for me and I think if you're looking for a pleasant MM read instead of MM erotica you will too.
It was a bit awkward to read in the English version. I am not sure whether it was translated from German or it was written in English by a non-native English speaking person. It has some unusual phrasing. IE: "Around nine o'clock, my mom came to my room to ask me "for" breakfast. Where most English speakers would have said she came to ask me "to" breakfast. There were several instances of that particular phrasing the jumped out at me. Others included "Christina and Tim "came" along just fine because their personalities complement each other." Not sure if author meant "Christina and Tim "got" along or what. Or another one "She'll come down, she always does." It should have been "She'll calm down, she always does. Those could have been poor editing and proofreading.
It was a good read for me and I think if you're looking for a pleasant MM read instead of MM erotica you will too.
dnf
May 2, 2023Dnf @ 59%
July 13, 2015
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book. Couldn't stop reading once I started as I couldn't wait to see what happened with Marcel and Tim. Would love to read more about them and the change in Nicholas (hint-hint author Mario!) and I would love to see this made into a series.
Loved how the hatred between Marcel and Tim changed to understanding and love. You can't help but love Marcel who was so big hearted, ready to forgive Tim almost immediately, even though Tim left him bruised up on a regular basis. I started out disliking Tim and considering him weak for following Nicholas, when he should have realised much sooner what type of person Nicholas really was. But I soon grew to like Tim too and by the end of the story thought that he and Marcel made a great couple.
I have to admit that I would have liked to have seen a little more angst in the story both because thats just the type of book I like to read and also because I think that would have given the book more depth. Marcel and Tim seemed to have it a little too easy and I just can't imagine that Germany is that different from America in how homosexuals would be treated. Nicholas seemed to be the only one who was really nasty to them and even that was not because of homosexuality.
Overall I liked this story and can't wait to read some more from this author.
I loved this book. Couldn't stop reading once I started as I couldn't wait to see what happened with Marcel and Tim. Would love to read more about them and the change in Nicholas (hint-hint author Mario!) and I would love to see this made into a series.
Loved how the hatred between Marcel and Tim changed to understanding and love. You can't help but love Marcel who was so big hearted, ready to forgive Tim almost immediately, even though Tim left him bruised up on a regular basis. I started out disliking Tim and considering him weak for following Nicholas, when he should have realised much sooner what type of person Nicholas really was. But I soon grew to like Tim too and by the end of the story thought that he and Marcel made a great couple.
I have to admit that I would have liked to have seen a little more angst in the story both because thats just the type of book I like to read and also because I think that would have given the book more depth. Marcel and Tim seemed to have it a little too easy and I just can't imagine that Germany is that different from America in how homosexuals would be treated. Nicholas seemed to be the only one who was really nasty to them and even that was not because of homosexuality.
Overall I liked this story and can't wait to read some more from this author.
dnf
May 22, 2012Ok. I'm at about 3% and now I quit. The blurb was really promising and I was so looking forward to reading this book. Perhaps my problem is that I have read quite some books about highschool-kids or that I have 3 kids attending the German school system, my youngest is right now finishing his exams. So, whatever - I think the storyline with a German vice principal suggesting tutoring between two students is rather unbelievable. Yes, this is fiction, but nevertheless I think the main parameters should be comprehensible.
On top of that the whole writing style was like an imitation of several other books I read before. Several names of authors come to mind. I think the whole writing was rather stilted and formulaic.
So, off to the unfinished shelf with this book.
On top of that the whole writing style was like an imitation of several other books I read before. Several names of authors come to mind. I think the whole writing was rather stilted and formulaic.
So, off to the unfinished shelf with this book.
July 28, 2015
This line from the book sums it up:
"There he was: my Orion, my Hercules."
A monumental gay romance story. Perfect for MM readers who enjoy some sex in their story and a ton of love-struck romance.
"There he was: my Orion, my Hercules."
A monumental gay romance story. Perfect for MM readers who enjoy some sex in their story and a ton of love-struck romance.
May 30, 2017
3.5 Stars
I liked it. But, during the course of my reading, I felt that it became more unrealistic. For me, unrealistic because I did not see much of Marcel's imperfections that make him human. It seems to me that he is so perfect and loving and understanding and generous and all those positive characteristics a human has, but I did not see much of his other side. The side that makes him more human. I guess this is in the eyes of Tim who sees Marcel as like that. Moreover, the moments that the two were showing their affection and love for each other was sweet at first. But then, it became too much for me, so cheesy and cringy. Although I do think that it's because it's first love and they were at the "honeymoon phase" but still...it would have been better if it was a bit toned down.
Nevertheless, I still liked it. This is one of the books that I really read word by word (yeah sometimes when I read I just skipped some parts). I also like the style of writing. Easy to understand for a commoner such as me. With regard to the "feels" of the story. I felt the love of Marcel and Tim for each other. Also, this taught me a lesson on friends, that like Marcel, we should give unconditional love to the people we love and care about. It also taught me more about pets. I have a dog and this book made me love my dog even more because animals do not see nor care about our flaws. They love us for who and what we are.
So yeah, overall, this is a very good read.
I liked it. But, during the course of my reading, I felt that it became more unrealistic. For me, unrealistic because I did not see much of Marcel's imperfections that make him human. It seems to me that he is so perfect and loving and understanding and generous and all those positive characteristics a human has, but I did not see much of his other side. The side that makes him more human. I guess this is in the eyes of Tim who sees Marcel as like that. Moreover, the moments that the two were showing their affection and love for each other was sweet at first. But then, it became too much for me, so cheesy and cringy. Although I do think that it's because it's first love and they were at the "honeymoon phase" but still...it would have been better if it was a bit toned down.
Nevertheless, I still liked it. This is one of the books that I really read word by word (yeah sometimes when I read I just skipped some parts). I also like the style of writing. Easy to understand for a commoner such as me. With regard to the "feels" of the story. I felt the love of Marcel and Tim for each other. Also, this taught me a lesson on friends, that like Marcel, we should give unconditional love to the people we love and care about. It also taught me more about pets. I have a dog and this book made me love my dog even more because animals do not see nor care about our flaws. They love us for who and what we are.
So yeah, overall, this is a very good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2017
I received a copy of this book from the author through the instafreebie program. This was the first book I've read by M. Lipinski.
I learned as much about the educational system in Germany as I did about the coming together of Marcel and Tim. I was fascinated comparing our system of education, here in the U.S., versus that of students in Germany.
Through the machinations of an 'entitled' student, Tim and Marcel's early days were fraught with tension, pain and fear. Once they really learned about each other, and came to understand their differences and similarities, were they able to get beyond their past...even though there were moments when backsliding did occur! The characters, Tim and Marcel, were well rounded and complex. I loved the exchange between Marcel and Reinhard as well as the character, Principal Landau.
Both sets of parents were integral figures in the story, as were friends Christina and Daniel. Marcel's mom finally accepted Tim and others in the story went on to become successful.
My only wish were that I learn about Nicholas's future. Whether he entered counseling and confronted his past behavior...or if he found himself destitute and incarcerated because he wasn't able to stop his self-destructive behavior!
I look forward to reading more by this wonderful author.
I learned as much about the educational system in Germany as I did about the coming together of Marcel and Tim. I was fascinated comparing our system of education, here in the U.S., versus that of students in Germany.
Through the machinations of an 'entitled' student, Tim and Marcel's early days were fraught with tension, pain and fear. Once they really learned about each other, and came to understand their differences and similarities, were they able to get beyond their past...even though there were moments when backsliding did occur! The characters, Tim and Marcel, were well rounded and complex. I loved the exchange between Marcel and Reinhard as well as the character, Principal Landau.
Both sets of parents were integral figures in the story, as were friends Christina and Daniel. Marcel's mom finally accepted Tim and others in the story went on to become successful.
My only wish were that I learn about Nicholas's future. Whether he entered counseling and confronted his past behavior...or if he found himself destitute and incarcerated because he wasn't able to stop his self-destructive behavior!
I look forward to reading more by this wonderful author.
January 26, 2019
In most ways, I found this to be a very sweet and endearing enemies to lovers story. Although set during the final year of high school for the main characters, Marcel, Tim, and their friends, they all felt a bit older in their mannerisms and level of maturity. Tim is my absolute favorite. He enters the story right at the beginning as the bad boy dumb jock but which we quickly learn is not true. He’s an incredibly sensitive and sweet man with a heart of gold. This story is also a jock-nerd pairing as Marcel is the quintessential nerd. But these two go so well together.
Where I struggled a bit was with the writing style. It is definitely apparent that the author is not a native English speaker and/or this piece was written in German then translated. Everything was very litteral vice the idiosyncratic manner of speaking which gave it a somewhat institutional feel. I think this also affected the emotional feel because the constant repetitive I Love You’s began to get annoying (yes, they were in that touchy-feely new boyfriend stage, but still...). And the character descriptors......does everybody in Germany have blond hair? I think not.
Where I struggled a bit was with the writing style. It is definitely apparent that the author is not a native English speaker and/or this piece was written in German then translated. Everything was very litteral vice the idiosyncratic manner of speaking which gave it a somewhat institutional feel. I think this also affected the emotional feel because the constant repetitive I Love You’s began to get annoying (yes, they were in that touchy-feely new boyfriend stage, but still...). And the character descriptors......does everybody in Germany have blond hair? I think not.
September 12, 2018
An absolutely charming love story! I was delighted by how this sweet story manages to avoid boring tropes, while dealing with serious topics in a convincing way. The characters come out as deeply touching and real in their struggles and feelings.
The writting left me puzzled at times, but overall felt refreshing and incredibly soft!
It's not a story that will leave a powerful mark on my mind, but it definitely felt good to read, and lifted my mood. One thing I didn't enjoy was perhaps the last few chapters, not realistic enough for me, but they definitely went well with the atmosphere and message of this book.
While it felt more like a young adult romance, I would still recommend it for it's softness and the way it delivers such sweet, soft feelings.
The writting left me puzzled at times, but overall felt refreshing and incredibly soft!
It's not a story that will leave a powerful mark on my mind, but it definitely felt good to read, and lifted my mood. One thing I didn't enjoy was perhaps the last few chapters, not realistic enough for me, but they definitely went well with the atmosphere and message of this book.
While it felt more like a young adult romance, I would still recommend it for it's softness and the way it delivers such sweet, soft feelings.
October 7, 2020
Young adult novel set in northwestern Germany, the plot follows a nerd and a emotionally bullied physical bully as they finish their gymnasium studies and accept their sexual identities. Marcel and Tim are filled out well, and the supporting cast is truly supportive, while the principal bully really gets short shrift. Settings are done well, creating a good story worth reading.
As I am a gatherer of books, I collect books and ebooks from a variety of sources: Goodreads wins, BookBub, BookFunnel, emails from authors and publishers, Smashwords, and others. I do lose track of their sources. But, as a reader, I feel I should give an honest, unencumbered review for all I read.
As I am a gatherer of books, I collect books and ebooks from a variety of sources: Goodreads wins, BookBub, BookFunnel, emails from authors and publishers, Smashwords, and others. I do lose track of their sources. But, as a reader, I feel I should give an honest, unencumbered review for all I read.
April 8, 2018
Brain box nerd rises to challenge and sees good person inside bully. If not it would be so easy. But lovely written though I felt at time a bit long drawn out. Does the ending give us an night to a road to Damascus story great Nick. Liked though will not sit with one f my all time favourites but will read more of Mario
August 12, 2023
1 star
DNFed at 15%
The bully MC beats up the victim MC, and the victim MC kind of just…forgives him? With no groveling or character development whatsoever? The victim MC kind of just obsesses over the bully MC and makes his entire mind and life revolve around him in a way that just seemed pathetic and unhealthy. It didn’t help that the writing was subpar.
DNFed at 15%
The bully MC beats up the victim MC, and the victim MC kind of just…forgives him? With no groveling or character development whatsoever? The victim MC kind of just obsesses over the bully MC and makes his entire mind and life revolve around him in a way that just seemed pathetic and unhealthy. It didn’t help that the writing was subpar.
May 17, 2017
Started out interesting, but I just can't stand this much crying and this many feelings.
October 16, 2017
It was sweet, like a Disney movie romance and I quite enjoyed reading it.
Read
December 10, 2021DNF
September 12, 2022
This was an enemy to lover story and I thought it was sweet. A boy seems to hate one of his class mates and sic's a bully onto him. Great read.
May 23, 2017
Great read, cute and very fluffy. Exactly what i needed.
May 24, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Wow. I absolutely loved this book. Usually, I read fast, but this book made me want to slow down and absorb what I was reading. I didn't want it to end! Maybe it was the mood I was in that was looking for a really sweet, feel good book. I don't typically read a lot of YA books, so I am surprised at how much I loved this. I also know absolutely nothing about the German school system, and I felt that it was written well enough for me to understand it and not feel lost. The author wrote this very well in English for not having English as a first language. I never would have known from the writing.
Marcel was the smart kid in school who got bullied by Tim because Nicholas (Tim's friend) didn't like Marcel. Tim was Nicholas' brute, and was failing out of school. He was older (had to repeat years a couple of times) and had the school nickname "Dumb". When Tim gets caught punching Marcel in school one day, the administrator is about to kick him out of school. Marcel feels bad at seeing Tim's reaction to it and agrees to tutor him so he can finish school.
We see right from the beginning how big of a heart Marcel has, and we learn very quickly that what we see on the surface of Tim is very little of who he is. Tim has so much guilt about his bullying of Marcel and has trouble believing that Marcel could forgive him, let alone like him. His struggle was so touching to read. I loved watching Tim grow and I loved watching Marcel guide him and remind him that he is not dumb and that he deserves happiness.
These guys go from enemies to acquaintances to friends to lovers, and every step of the process is filled with love and encouragement and hope. I was glad to read an epilogue that takes place 8 years later that tells how they struggled together as they went out on their own (together of course), but also how they persevered and were made stronger because of it all.
LOVED it!
Wow. I absolutely loved this book. Usually, I read fast, but this book made me want to slow down and absorb what I was reading. I didn't want it to end! Maybe it was the mood I was in that was looking for a really sweet, feel good book. I don't typically read a lot of YA books, so I am surprised at how much I loved this. I also know absolutely nothing about the German school system, and I felt that it was written well enough for me to understand it and not feel lost. The author wrote this very well in English for not having English as a first language. I never would have known from the writing.
Marcel was the smart kid in school who got bullied by Tim because Nicholas (Tim's friend) didn't like Marcel. Tim was Nicholas' brute, and was failing out of school. He was older (had to repeat years a couple of times) and had the school nickname "Dumb". When Tim gets caught punching Marcel in school one day, the administrator is about to kick him out of school. Marcel feels bad at seeing Tim's reaction to it and agrees to tutor him so he can finish school.
We see right from the beginning how big of a heart Marcel has, and we learn very quickly that what we see on the surface of Tim is very little of who he is. Tim has so much guilt about his bullying of Marcel and has trouble believing that Marcel could forgive him, let alone like him. His struggle was so touching to read. I loved watching Tim grow and I loved watching Marcel guide him and remind him that he is not dumb and that he deserves happiness.
These guys go from enemies to acquaintances to friends to lovers, and every step of the process is filled with love and encouragement and hope. I was glad to read an epilogue that takes place 8 years later that tells how they struggled together as they went out on their own (together of course), but also how they persevered and were made stronger because of it all.
LOVED it!
December 19, 2015
Enemies to Lovers; this is definitely my type of romance. I’m in love with these two guys; the emotions, the intense love affair, and the character dynamics; everything resonates with me. Marcel is academic, slightly nerdy but confident, editor of his high school newspaper and openly gay. Marcel’s sensitivity is so amazingly sweet; his hearts is so tender, that if I could bottle his sweet sensitivity and keep it with me always, I would be in heaven.
The story begins with Marcel taking on the project of tutoring Tim; the jock who beats and bullies him. Though Marcel’s original goal is to disarm Tim by showing compassion and kindness, Marcel quickly learns that Tim has a gentle and caring side as well. Additionally, he learns that Tim suffers from low self-esteem due to being called dumb by other students. Through their time studying together, the two become best friends, enjoying every moment together until Marcel realizes he has fallen in love with Tim.
In addition to being a sweet romance, this is a story about coming out and working to overcome past mistakes. Though the love scenes are extremely sexy and moving, the build up to the two coming together is so full of tension that the first time they are together just blew me away. I have the honor of reading an advanced copy of this author’s next book and I’ll definitely read all his publications to come.
Note: Perception is now free on Goodreads and Smashwords.
The story begins with Marcel taking on the project of tutoring Tim; the jock who beats and bullies him. Though Marcel’s original goal is to disarm Tim by showing compassion and kindness, Marcel quickly learns that Tim has a gentle and caring side as well. Additionally, he learns that Tim suffers from low self-esteem due to being called dumb by other students. Through their time studying together, the two become best friends, enjoying every moment together until Marcel realizes he has fallen in love with Tim.
In addition to being a sweet romance, this is a story about coming out and working to overcome past mistakes. Though the love scenes are extremely sexy and moving, the build up to the two coming together is so full of tension that the first time they are together just blew me away. I have the honor of reading an advanced copy of this author’s next book and I’ll definitely read all his publications to come.
Note: Perception is now free on Goodreads and Smashwords.
May 28, 2015
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
This tells the story of two school boys, one of whom bullies the other. Tim beats up Marcel on behalf of another pupil, Nicholas, who Tim believes is his best friend. After one of the teachers catches Tim hitting Marcel, he decides that the boys should work together. Tim is failing three of his classes and Marcel is a top student. I enjoyed the story itself. The two boys work well together and Marcel goes above and beyond to find a teaching method that suits Tims needs, ultimately helping him get good grades.
What I did have a problem with was the language used and the way the boys speak to each other, the whole situation was incredibly unlikely. They sounded like a pair of middle aged aristocrats who were forever being incredibly nice and polite to each other. They didn't talk the way teenage boys would and because of this I didn't feel any chemistry or connection between them. That really let it down.
This tells the story of two school boys, one of whom bullies the other. Tim beats up Marcel on behalf of another pupil, Nicholas, who Tim believes is his best friend. After one of the teachers catches Tim hitting Marcel, he decides that the boys should work together. Tim is failing three of his classes and Marcel is a top student. I enjoyed the story itself. The two boys work well together and Marcel goes above and beyond to find a teaching method that suits Tims needs, ultimately helping him get good grades.
What I did have a problem with was the language used and the way the boys speak to each other, the whole situation was incredibly unlikely. They sounded like a pair of middle aged aristocrats who were forever being incredibly nice and polite to each other. They didn't talk the way teenage boys would and because of this I didn't feel any chemistry or connection between them. That really let it down.
August 4, 2020
I read this book whilst cruising around New Zealand with my family. Upon reading the first few pages I was hooked. Much to my parents dismay, I ended up finding a nice quiet spot at the back of the ship and didn't return until hours later when I had finished the book... I found it truly impossible to put down.
If I had to offer any criticism at all, I guess parts of the story were a little unrealistic and would not be likely to happen in reality. However, at the end of the day it's a work of fiction and I really enjoyed where the author took the story and how he developed the characters.
A feel good romance and a story that stays with you, long after you finish the last page! Highly recommended & one that I'll definitely pick up again!
If I had to offer any criticism at all, I guess parts of the story were a little unrealistic and would not be likely to happen in reality. However, at the end of the day it's a work of fiction and I really enjoyed where the author took the story and how he developed the characters.
A feel good romance and a story that stays with you, long after you finish the last page! Highly recommended & one that I'll definitely pick up again!
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