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The Butcher and His Boy
Known only as the Butcher, John’s “special deliveries” usually arrive at his doorstep already deceased. But when a young man is brought to him, brutally injured and barely clinging to life, John bucks the Hand’s authority in order to save him. If he can keep the boy a secret from the criminal empire, he might be able to keep him out of harm’s way.
Bayani has no idea how he wound up in this apartment, woken to the tender care of a handsome stranger. Equal parts terrified and intrigued, Bayani must learn to navigate new surroundings, as well as his burgeoning feelings for his strong and capable caretaker…all while being hunted by his ruthless and sadistic ex who wants him back, dead or alive.
THE BUTCHER AND HIS BOY is a 35K companion novella to a previous published work, NIGHTINGALE, as part of the Virtuous Sinners multi-author series. They can be read separately and in any order.
Trigger warnings for depictions of violence and flashbacks of abuse, torture, and sexual assault. This slow-burn, age-gap romance explores the theme of hurt/comfort and culminates in a happy ending.
Bayani has no idea how he wound up in this apartment, woken to the tender care of a handsome stranger. Equal parts terrified and intrigued, Bayani must learn to navigate new surroundings, as well as his burgeoning feelings for his strong and capable caretaker…all while being hunted by his ruthless and sadistic ex who wants him back, dead or alive.
THE BUTCHER AND HIS BOY is a 35K companion novella to a previous published work, NIGHTINGALE, as part of the Virtuous Sinners multi-author series. They can be read separately and in any order.
Trigger warnings for depictions of violence and flashbacks of abuse, torture, and sexual assault. This slow-burn, age-gap romance explores the theme of hurt/comfort and culminates in a happy ending.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2023
118 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
About the author
Laura Lascarso
30 books500 followersMM+ AUTHOR | Romance so good it hurts
Laura Lascarso wants you to stay up way past your bedtime reading her stories. She aims to inspire more questions than answers in her fiction and believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform a society.
When not writing, Laura can be found screaming “finish” on the soccer fields, rewatching Avatar: The Last Airbender, and trying to convince politicians to act on climate change. She lives in North Florida with her darling husband and two kids. She loves hearing from readers, and she’d be delighted to hear from you.
Join her Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/LaurasLounge
Sign up for her newsletter at www.lauralascarso.com
Laura Lascarso wants you to stay up way past your bedtime reading her stories. She aims to inspire more questions than answers in her fiction and believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform a society.
When not writing, Laura can be found screaming “finish” on the soccer fields, rewatching Avatar: The Last Airbender, and trying to convince politicians to act on climate change. She lives in North Florida with her darling husband and two kids. She loves hearing from readers, and she’d be delighted to hear from you.
Join her Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/LaurasLounge
Sign up for her newsletter at www.lauralascarso.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 23, 2023
3.5
I love me some good Struggling story where both of the mc struggle together to chase their own happiness and happily ever after.
I think I would've liked this better if it was longer to be honest caused everything felt so packed in such a short story.
I liked the tension between the mcs and the main but that leave us no room for romance only for it to be near the end of the story, which happens so quick also.
I love me some good Struggling story where both of the mc struggle together to chase their own happiness and happily ever after.
I think I would've liked this better if it was longer to be honest caused everything felt so packed in such a short story.
I liked the tension between the mcs and the main but that leave us no room for romance only for it to be near the end of the story, which happens so quick also.
January 6, 2024
tw: violence and flashbacks of abuse, torture and sexual assault
”Now he has Bayani, who softens John’s sharp edges and allows him to express himself fully, to be the sort of man who can look at himself in the mirror without recoiling in shame. John is more than just the Butcher to Bayani. Without knowing or even meaning to, the boy has given John a reason to live, and a reason to fight.”
This is a heartbreakingly beautiful romance. It takes so much skill to deliver a fully fleshed story in a hundred-twenty-five-page novella. Although it is a dark romance, it isn’t one in the usual sense. The darkness is not between John, the Butcher, and the Filipino boy he rescues, Bayani. The darkness comes from the horrific abuse Bayani suffered at the hands of Emile, his former employer and lover, who tortured and raped him and left him for dead. Emile brings Bayani to John to dispose of for John is not just a regular butcher. John has been coerced by Emile’s father to work for his shadowy organization called “the Hand”, and dismember and grind any of their “special deliveries”.
Bayani is small, delicate and exquisitely beautiful—or he was so before he arrived at John’s doorstep mutilated after the vicious torture he suffered over days. Emile and his goons think he is dead, and it is only when John puts him on his butcher’s table that he notices Bayani is barely breathing. John decides to save Bayani at significant risk to himself and calls in a medic who is a fellow veteran to treat him.
John is a gentle giant and a lonely veteran who has his own demons. He is kind and empathetic as he takes care of Bayani. He is patient and tender with the traumatized boy when he needs help with the most intimate tasks. As the boy slowly heals and begins trusting once again, they develop a beautiful friendship. Sexual tension is high and feelings grow under the ever present threat that Emile might discover Bayani is still alive. John’s and Bayani’s connection provides a source of hope and lightness amidst the evil. You still get the sense of a slow burn with these few pages. There is only one sex scene (steamy as hell) at the very end, but it makes sense given the context.
One intriguing side character is a femme assassin called Nightingale. I can’t wait to read his book.
”Now he has Bayani, who softens John’s sharp edges and allows him to express himself fully, to be the sort of man who can look at himself in the mirror without recoiling in shame. John is more than just the Butcher to Bayani. Without knowing or even meaning to, the boy has given John a reason to live, and a reason to fight.”
This is a heartbreakingly beautiful romance. It takes so much skill to deliver a fully fleshed story in a hundred-twenty-five-page novella. Although it is a dark romance, it isn’t one in the usual sense. The darkness is not between John, the Butcher, and the Filipino boy he rescues, Bayani. The darkness comes from the horrific abuse Bayani suffered at the hands of Emile, his former employer and lover, who tortured and raped him and left him for dead. Emile brings Bayani to John to dispose of for John is not just a regular butcher. John has been coerced by Emile’s father to work for his shadowy organization called “the Hand”, and dismember and grind any of their “special deliveries”.
Bayani is small, delicate and exquisitely beautiful—or he was so before he arrived at John’s doorstep mutilated after the vicious torture he suffered over days. Emile and his goons think he is dead, and it is only when John puts him on his butcher’s table that he notices Bayani is barely breathing. John decides to save Bayani at significant risk to himself and calls in a medic who is a fellow veteran to treat him.
John is a gentle giant and a lonely veteran who has his own demons. He is kind and empathetic as he takes care of Bayani. He is patient and tender with the traumatized boy when he needs help with the most intimate tasks. As the boy slowly heals and begins trusting once again, they develop a beautiful friendship. Sexual tension is high and feelings grow under the ever present threat that Emile might discover Bayani is still alive. John’s and Bayani’s connection provides a source of hope and lightness amidst the evil. You still get the sense of a slow burn with these few pages. There is only one sex scene (steamy as hell) at the very end, but it makes sense given the context.
One intriguing side character is a femme assassin called Nightingale. I can’t wait to read his book.
October 13, 2024
This was the perfect novella. Romantic and sweet, with a tale of terror and bloodshed interwoven.
Compliments Laura Lascarso's other story in this series Nightingale, beautifully. Which if you haven't read yet, Do It!! It is so good!
Compliments Laura Lascarso's other story in this series Nightingale, beautifully. Which if you haven't read yet, Do It!! It is so good!
November 13, 2024
4 stars
Nice bond, I buy it. John and Bayani share lots of sweet domestic moments (caring, cooking for each other and together, Bayani shaving John's beard, John washing Bayani's hair), and they seem to be a perfect match.
Surprisingly I think this was precisely the length it needed to be to cover the romantic relationship and some plot without getting bogged down.
This has some gruesome details, including recounted rape and assault, and on page murder, but on balance it's not that dark and is very low relationship angst, because the MCs actually manage to communicate about what's happening as well as their feelings.
Bayani's trauma was maybe a bit glossed over, and I wonder if Thomas also has his story, it's a pity he was just left with no comment.
Nice bond, I buy it. John and Bayani share lots of sweet domestic moments (caring, cooking for each other and together, Bayani shaving John's beard, John washing Bayani's hair), and they seem to be a perfect match.
Surprisingly I think this was precisely the length it needed to be to cover the romantic relationship and some plot without getting bogged down.
This has some gruesome details, including recounted rape and assault, and on page murder, but on balance it's not that dark and is very low relationship angst, because the MCs actually manage to communicate about what's happening as well as their feelings.
Bayani's trauma was maybe a bit glossed over, and I wonder if Thomas also has his story, it's a pity he was just left with no comment.
December 12, 2024
John + Bayani
Hurt/Comfort | Age gap | Trauma | Slooooowwww burn
While the story was pretty cute it just wasn't quite there.
I didn't love the writing.
....
"I never knew how dim my days had become until you showed up and brought the sun with you."
"You're pretty all over, baby. So pretty and soft and so perfect."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers below in tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Hurt/comfort
Age gap
Slow burn (they don't even kiss until 80%)
Size difference
Touch him and die, literally
TWs:
Violence
Death
Murder
Rape off page but described in detail (towards mc)
Torture off page but described in detail (towards mc)
Hurt/Comfort | Age gap | Trauma | Slooooowwww burn
While the story was pretty cute it just wasn't quite there.
I didn't love the writing.
....
"I never knew how dim my days had become until you showed up and brought the sun with you."
"You're pretty all over, baby. So pretty and soft and so perfect."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers below in tropes and trigger warnings
Tropes:
Hurt/comfort
Age gap
Slow burn (they don't even kiss until 80%)
Size difference
Touch him and die, literally
TWs:
Violence
Death
Murder
Rape off page but described in detail (towards mc)
Torture off page but described in detail (towards mc)
July 4, 2023
Bayani grabs hold of John’s wrist and has the sudden urge to kiss this beautiful, capable hand—to worship it, but he’s too timid to make the first move.
3.5 stars. A mildly unhinged romance about a butcher who unwillingly works for a mob family, getting rid of their bodies, and the man who mistakenly gets delivered to him alive. It was an interesting hook, and once I started reading it was easy to get through. This was pretty much a whole lot of hurt/comfort; Bayani has been through hell and John nurtures him back to life and then they start catching feelings. The writing didn't wow me, but it had its emotional moments, and the couple was really sweet. While this is slow burn, I still thought the feelings came too early, especially after all of the horrific things Bayani went through. It just wasn't all that realistic? But I guess everyone responds to trauma differently. There's some cuteness, some hotness, revenge and a happy ending. As with all novellas I did wish it was longer, but I ended up enjoying what we got.
Content warnings:
March 14, 2023
Mind the TWs.
This was a beautiful story of triumph over pure evil. What Emile did to Bayani was sadistic and cruel. But at least he got his in the end. A little to merciful imo.
John is the “cleaner” / butcher for the mob. We were introduced to him in Nightingale. That book was excellent too. Both books very dark but done very well. It’s not trauma porn like most authors do. This is a well told series.
Bayani is brought to The Butcher. Emile has left him accidentally alive. John cares for his wounds and slowly but surely they fall in love. Both characters are very traumatized by their pasts but find love in each other. It’s a test of the human spirit. Loved this novella for that reason.
This was a beautiful story of triumph over pure evil. What Emile did to Bayani was sadistic and cruel. But at least he got his in the end. A little to merciful imo.
John is the “cleaner” / butcher for the mob. We were introduced to him in Nightingale. That book was excellent too. Both books very dark but done very well. It’s not trauma porn like most authors do. This is a well told series.
Bayani is brought to The Butcher. Emile has left him accidentally alive. John cares for his wounds and slowly but surely they fall in love. Both characters are very traumatized by their pasts but find love in each other. It’s a test of the human spirit. Loved this novella for that reason.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2024
This was pretty mid.
Of course it’s a novella and won’t have the most amazing plot-line, that’s to be expected. However, it needed more than hurt comfort to propel the characters relationship forward. Otherwise everything seems shallow where the potential was deep.
Trauma exploitation as a plot device only works when you make the character’s recovery plausible. It’s fiction so I’m not going to rag on it too hard. But if it was not a novella I probably would have DNF’d on this fact alone.
This also really needed an edit, nothing insane, but a few formatting and grammatical things disturbed the flow.
I also found a forbidden simile; (check notes). Phallic images should just not be compared to an oyster. Enjoy your time in cringe jail bestie.
Of course it’s a novella and won’t have the most amazing plot-line, that’s to be expected. However, it needed more than hurt comfort to propel the characters relationship forward. Otherwise everything seems shallow where the potential was deep.
Trauma exploitation as a plot device only works when you make the character’s recovery plausible. It’s fiction so I’m not going to rag on it too hard. But if it was not a novella I probably would have DNF’d on this fact alone.
This also really needed an edit, nothing insane, but a few formatting and grammatical things disturbed the flow.
I also found a forbidden simile; (check notes). Phallic images should just not be compared to an oyster. Enjoy your time in cringe jail bestie.
January 27, 2023
I like Lauras writing . It’s always enjoyable. I was super excited to get this spin off from the Nightingale Series where we initially meet the 2 main characters of this story.
It was cute, with the slightly dark undertones that accompany this world so not pure fluff.
The only small niggle that I have is that I personally am not a fan of the “damsel in distress” dynamic and that is very much the jest of this story.
It was cute, with the slightly dark undertones that accompany this world so not pure fluff.
The only small niggle that I have is that I personally am not a fan of the “damsel in distress” dynamic and that is very much the jest of this story.
August 1, 2023
The kindle romance freebies that I have hoarded are HITTING
April 6, 2023
A short dark read set in the world of Nightingale. Can be read as a standalone but adds a little depth to that story as well.
August 16, 2023
This book is fine, I didn’t really connect to the characters but the writing was pretty good. It was easy to read and good for getting out of a slump.
The rest of the book didn’t really speak to me. But it was a fine short novella
The rest of the book didn’t really speak to me. But it was a fine short novella
October 10, 2024
I feel kind of weird for enjoying this as much as I did considering the romance is very Stockholm Syndrome-y. But the characters are just so wholesome and I loved their chemistry. Plus the realistic mlm sex scenes?! Amazing!
December 12, 2023
Somehow both bloody and wholesome. I really enjoyed this one.
June 1, 2023
2.5 ⭐️
I really dislike third person present perspective. It takes me out if the story every time. Just make it first person! Overall, the story was ok but too rushed and too short. I would have liked more tension, more build up and a more exciting climax to the story.
I really dislike third person present perspective. It takes me out if the story every time. Just make it first person! Overall, the story was ok but too rushed and too short. I would have liked more tension, more build up and a more exciting climax to the story.
July 5, 2023
It's told as a third person but still from each MC point of view. I hated that aspect. The story was alright.
July 19, 2023
Not a bad concept but did not like the writing style.
August 12, 2023
mixed feelings
TW: SA/r*pe
The writing itself is good on a technical level, only a few typos/oddities, and the style definitely works for a dark-but-the-characters-have-morals story. My problem(s) are with the content and characterization: Bayani’s culture/race only seem to matter when it comes to food or describing how desirable he is, and his abuse, trauma, and recovery were not handled well.
Despite it being specified that Bayani had only lived in Mississippi for a year, the only time a language barrier/language difference came up at all was because his tongue had been cut out. (Side note, do the Philippines have their own sign language, or is ASL used more or less globally? Because it was pretty clear the plan was for him to go back home, so it doesn’t seem necessary that it had to be specifically *A*SL that he learned). A couple of Filipino dishes were mentioned, and the descriptions of both his home island and him were tourism-commercial-idyllic and felt fetishizing. Especially given how easily Bayani was enthusiastically ready for sex without any kind of therapy or acknowledgment other than “oh good I can still get aroused even though I’ve been abused” (I’m NOT saying a person can’t be hyper-sexual after experiencing abuse/trauma, I’m saying it wasn’t portrayed that way in this because the abuse did not factor into his romantic/sexual feelings at all).
It makes sense that he would have memories come back to him at different times, however as a reader, it felt like it was done mostly for shock value and then a bit to remind us that the bad guy deserves to die in the end. The memories could have been a way to show his recovery, but it was told like a memory and not as a flashback (not just stylistically, but emotionally on the level of “well that was unpleasant but it’s over with”). His injuries heal quickly and without issue—except his knee which “needs surgery” but then they just don’t do anything about it?—and he has zero nightmares, panic attacks, dissociative episodes, trauma responses, etc like nothing. Only incident he had was when directly confronted by his abuser trying to kidnap him again. We heard more about John struggling with nightmares from his time in the marines than Bayani’s emotional/mental recovery.
I didn’t dislike John’s character exactly, but with all the emphasis on “Bayani’s delicate brown skin” he already had white savior vibes, and then throw in how Bayani was described as the “boy” and young and submissive, plus John’s story of being in the military and regretting his friend getting killed and not seeming to regret his friend getting r**ped/sexually abused by an authority figure (and this friend was specified to be a minor who clearly wasn’t enjoying in any way whatsoever on any level what was being done to him, so don’t go thinking he was actually willing and it was only “”technically”” SA because he was a week away from being 18 or something)—all that just makes it hard to like him. The follow up to that story being Bayani comforting JOHN about how he couldn’t blame himself for what happened to his friend was real icky.
So I didn’t really like it, but I guess it wasn’t bad enough for me to stop reading—it is a novella though so part of that was it’s hard not to finish short books since they go so fast. There isn’t anyone I can think of that I’d recommend this to, tbh, and it makes me wary of reading more from this author even though I think I mostly liked the other book of hers I’ve read.
TW: SA/r*pe
The writing itself is good on a technical level, only a few typos/oddities, and the style definitely works for a dark-but-the-characters-have-morals story. My problem(s) are with the content and characterization: Bayani’s culture/race only seem to matter when it comes to food or describing how desirable he is, and his abuse, trauma, and recovery were not handled well.
Despite it being specified that Bayani had only lived in Mississippi for a year, the only time a language barrier/language difference came up at all was because his tongue had been cut out. (Side note, do the Philippines have their own sign language, or is ASL used more or less globally? Because it was pretty clear the plan was for him to go back home, so it doesn’t seem necessary that it had to be specifically *A*SL that he learned). A couple of Filipino dishes were mentioned, and the descriptions of both his home island and him were tourism-commercial-idyllic and felt fetishizing. Especially given how easily Bayani was enthusiastically ready for sex without any kind of therapy or acknowledgment other than “oh good I can still get aroused even though I’ve been abused” (I’m NOT saying a person can’t be hyper-sexual after experiencing abuse/trauma, I’m saying it wasn’t portrayed that way in this because the abuse did not factor into his romantic/sexual feelings at all).
It makes sense that he would have memories come back to him at different times, however as a reader, it felt like it was done mostly for shock value and then a bit to remind us that the bad guy deserves to die in the end. The memories could have been a way to show his recovery, but it was told like a memory and not as a flashback (not just stylistically, but emotionally on the level of “well that was unpleasant but it’s over with”). His injuries heal quickly and without issue—except his knee which “needs surgery” but then they just don’t do anything about it?—and he has zero nightmares, panic attacks, dissociative episodes, trauma responses, etc like nothing. Only incident he had was when directly confronted by his abuser trying to kidnap him again. We heard more about John struggling with nightmares from his time in the marines than Bayani’s emotional/mental recovery.
I didn’t dislike John’s character exactly, but with all the emphasis on “Bayani’s delicate brown skin” he already had white savior vibes, and then throw in how Bayani was described as the “boy” and young and submissive, plus John’s story of being in the military and regretting his friend getting killed and not seeming to regret his friend getting r**ped/sexually abused by an authority figure (and this friend was specified to be a minor who clearly wasn’t enjoying in any way whatsoever on any level what was being done to him, so don’t go thinking he was actually willing and it was only “”technically”” SA because he was a week away from being 18 or something)—all that just makes it hard to like him. The follow up to that story being Bayani comforting JOHN about how he couldn’t blame himself for what happened to his friend was real icky.
So I didn’t really like it, but I guess it wasn’t bad enough for me to stop reading—it is a novella though so part of that was it’s hard not to finish short books since they go so fast. There isn’t anyone I can think of that I’d recommend this to, tbh, and it makes me wary of reading more from this author even though I think I mostly liked the other book of hers I’ve read.
October 19, 2023
3.5 stars.
I was happy to see that there was a spin-off of these characters from Nightingale. They were mentioned briefly in that book and I was intrigued about their story. I really loved both John and Bayani. They were both broken in their own ways and their connection was so pure. I also appreciated how well John took care of Bayani. He didn't take advantage of him in any way, which was what Bayani was used to. They really were very sweet together.
Like most novellas, my issue is I needed it to be longer to delve into the story more. I also didn't love that this switched to 3rd person. I usually don't have much preference in POV but for some reason 3rd bothered me in this book. Overall I did enjoy this mainly because I loved the characters so much.
John reaches down to touch the small hand, holding it in his own much larger one. He apologizes for the sins committed against him, those that have been done to him already and those his body has yet to endure.
“I’m sorry, little one.”
John stares down at the broken angel lying in his bed and wonders with some superstition if the boy’s arrival is a blessing or a curse.
John craves the boy like a bad habit, but he cannot indulge. Not like this.
“No,” John says simply. Bayani tilts his head back to stare up at him—two teardrop eyes and rosebud lips and the sweetest face John has ever known. “I think you’re beautiful,” John says, tucking the boy’s silky black hair behind one ear. Scars or no, Bayani is a beautiful person, not just his appearance, but his fighting spirit and sweet disposition, his tenderness. The thought of anyone taking advantage of this gentle soul makes John want to crack some skulls. If circumstances were different, John might have pursued Bayani in earnest, though considering the risk to his safety, probably not.
John stands so that he’s right behind Bayani and traces his fingertips over Bayani’s cheeks. He turns Bayani’s head slightly so that he may lean down and kiss the scar, one side of his face and then the other. John is so solemn and serious about it that it feels like a sacred rite.
“I see triumph,” John says. “I see a brave boy who battled a monster and survived. I don’t see what he did to you. I only see you, Bayani, and you’re so very beautiful.”
John hugs him from behind, dips his head so that he may nose along Bayani’s neck, the other scar Emile left him. John’s beard brushes the hollow of his throat and Bayani can’t help the few tears that slip out. Bayani loves this sweet, strong man, loves him with all his heart.
What if what they share is only some lesser version of Stockholm Syndrome? John doesn’t want Bayani to feel trapped in the way his mother had been trapped by his father.
True love is being able to leave but choosing, every day, to stay.
Bayani,
I never knew how dim my days had become until you showed up and brought the sun with you. You gave me the will to live but more than that, a reason to fight. If I don't return by tomorrow, run and don't look back. Go where you can live a happy, safe, and peaceful life.
Love always,
John.
“I love you,” Bayani signs and says it out loud too, not caring how the words sound because John loves him, every part of him, the hurt places and the healed ones too. John loves Bayani exactly as he is, and Bayani loves John for his kindness, his strength, his steady spirit, and his unshakable honor.
John falls more in love with the boy every time Bayani makes the sign that is just for him, a closed fist tapping against his heart that says, “I cherish you.”
John will spend the rest of his days making sure Bayani knows just how much he is cherished–endlessly and unconditionally.
Bayani may believe John saved his life, but John knows the opposite to be true, for he had never before known such peace as the boy’s fingers linked with his own, the contentment of a soft cheek pressed against his chest.
I was happy to see that there was a spin-off of these characters from Nightingale. They were mentioned briefly in that book and I was intrigued about their story. I really loved both John and Bayani. They were both broken in their own ways and their connection was so pure. I also appreciated how well John took care of Bayani. He didn't take advantage of him in any way, which was what Bayani was used to. They really were very sweet together.
Like most novellas, my issue is I needed it to be longer to delve into the story more. I also didn't love that this switched to 3rd person. I usually don't have much preference in POV but for some reason 3rd bothered me in this book. Overall I did enjoy this mainly because I loved the characters so much.
John reaches down to touch the small hand, holding it in his own much larger one. He apologizes for the sins committed against him, those that have been done to him already and those his body has yet to endure.
“I’m sorry, little one.”
John stares down at the broken angel lying in his bed and wonders with some superstition if the boy’s arrival is a blessing or a curse.
John craves the boy like a bad habit, but he cannot indulge. Not like this.
“No,” John says simply. Bayani tilts his head back to stare up at him—two teardrop eyes and rosebud lips and the sweetest face John has ever known. “I think you’re beautiful,” John says, tucking the boy’s silky black hair behind one ear. Scars or no, Bayani is a beautiful person, not just his appearance, but his fighting spirit and sweet disposition, his tenderness. The thought of anyone taking advantage of this gentle soul makes John want to crack some skulls. If circumstances were different, John might have pursued Bayani in earnest, though considering the risk to his safety, probably not.
John stands so that he’s right behind Bayani and traces his fingertips over Bayani’s cheeks. He turns Bayani’s head slightly so that he may lean down and kiss the scar, one side of his face and then the other. John is so solemn and serious about it that it feels like a sacred rite.
“I see triumph,” John says. “I see a brave boy who battled a monster and survived. I don’t see what he did to you. I only see you, Bayani, and you’re so very beautiful.”
John hugs him from behind, dips his head so that he may nose along Bayani’s neck, the other scar Emile left him. John’s beard brushes the hollow of his throat and Bayani can’t help the few tears that slip out. Bayani loves this sweet, strong man, loves him with all his heart.
What if what they share is only some lesser version of Stockholm Syndrome? John doesn’t want Bayani to feel trapped in the way his mother had been trapped by his father.
True love is being able to leave but choosing, every day, to stay.
Bayani,
I never knew how dim my days had become until you showed up and brought the sun with you. You gave me the will to live but more than that, a reason to fight. If I don't return by tomorrow, run and don't look back. Go where you can live a happy, safe, and peaceful life.
Love always,
John.
“I love you,” Bayani signs and says it out loud too, not caring how the words sound because John loves him, every part of him, the hurt places and the healed ones too. John loves Bayani exactly as he is, and Bayani loves John for his kindness, his strength, his steady spirit, and his unshakable honor.
John falls more in love with the boy every time Bayani makes the sign that is just for him, a closed fist tapping against his heart that says, “I cherish you.”
John will spend the rest of his days making sure Bayani knows just how much he is cherished–endlessly and unconditionally.
Bayani may believe John saved his life, but John knows the opposite to be true, for he had never before known such peace as the boy’s fingers linked with his own, the contentment of a soft cheek pressed against his chest.
February 8, 2023
John (the Butcher) and Bayani (the Boy) is briefly introduced in
and given very little page time. If you have read Nightingale, you will know that John operates a butchery that is also a front for doing body disposal work for The Hand, the local mafia/ gangsters, and that he’s very protective over Bayani. You will also learn that Bayani doesn’t talk.
The Butcher and His Boy is set during the events of The Nightingale and shows how these two men found not only each other, but also a HEA that neither of them expected.Bayani is a ‘special delivery’ that one of The Hand’s top gun’s son drops off one evening. Three things are very clear to John immediately: the boy is very young; he suffered excruciating pain, trauma, violence, and humiliation before being dumped at this back door; and he is not dead. He makes the decision to save and care for this unknown young man, hiding him from The Hand.
When Bayani comes to after his terrible ordeal, he is not sure if he has escaped The Hand, only to fall into the hands of someone equally horrific, or if he has been saved. Due to his injuries, he is mute and cannot take care of even the most basic of his needs. It is through John’s kind and gentle care that Bayani realises that he has been saved and might even have a future.
The novella is a sweet, slow-burn, which is necessary due to the kind of man John is and the service he provides for The Hand, as well as the trauma Bayani suffered from The Hand. These two need to slowly trust each other and then themselves before they can act on their attraction.
Their HEA is so sweet and well-deserved, and the last chapter made my heart very happy for the two of them.
It is not as dark as the Nightingale, but DEF has very dark overtones with the abuse and degradation that Bayani suffered, so please read the TW and CW carefully before reading this one.
You do not need to have read the Nightingale before reading this, however, some of the actions of the Nightingale make more sense if you have.
and given very little page time. If you have read Nightingale, you will know that John operates a butchery that is also a front for doing body disposal work for The Hand, the local mafia/ gangsters, and that he’s very protective over Bayani. You will also learn that Bayani doesn’t talk.The Butcher and His Boy is set during the events of The Nightingale and shows how these two men found not only each other, but also a HEA that neither of them expected.Bayani is a ‘special delivery’ that one of The Hand’s top gun’s son drops off one evening. Three things are very clear to John immediately: the boy is very young; he suffered excruciating pain, trauma, violence, and humiliation before being dumped at this back door; and he is not dead. He makes the decision to save and care for this unknown young man, hiding him from The Hand.
When Bayani comes to after his terrible ordeal, he is not sure if he has escaped The Hand, only to fall into the hands of someone equally horrific, or if he has been saved. Due to his injuries, he is mute and cannot take care of even the most basic of his needs. It is through John’s kind and gentle care that Bayani realises that he has been saved and might even have a future.
The novella is a sweet, slow-burn, which is necessary due to the kind of man John is and the service he provides for The Hand, as well as the trauma Bayani suffered from The Hand. These two need to slowly trust each other and then themselves before they can act on their attraction.
Their HEA is so sweet and well-deserved, and the last chapter made my heart very happy for the two of them.
It is not as dark as the Nightingale, but DEF has very dark overtones with the abuse and degradation that Bayani suffered, so please read the TW and CW carefully before reading this one.
You do not need to have read the Nightingale before reading this, however, some of the actions of the Nightingale make more sense if you have.
February 8, 2023
The Butcher and His Boy is a beautiful, slow-burn romance that blooms despite the darkness it’s born in.
I’ve had this author on my radar for a while, but reading the review of this novella from another reader put me over the top — and put me on the hunt to find this book. It’s only available currently from subscribing to the author’s newsletter, but it’s definitely worth it. (Be aware: This is a dark romance, so heed the trigger warnings.)
John is a former Marine and a butcher, but because of his father’s debts to the wrong people, he’s had to become The Butcher. When a special delivery one night isn’t quite as deceased as promised, John takes a risk and nurtures him back to health. Bayani has been tortured and raped and left for dead, but time with the steady and steadfast John helps him heal. Of course, John has wounds of his own that he carries, but they develop a beautiful and caring relationship that heals them both. But will Bayani’s past tormentors come back to haunt them, or will the butcher and his boy forge a new life together?
Although this was a dark story — and there were definitely parts that were difficult to read — this was also a beautiful story about two men finding each other and finding peace. It was only 125 pages, but the carefully constructed characters and pacing made it feel like a full-fledged novel. John and Bayani had the time and space to fall in love with each other and get their hard-won HEA. This is a companion novella to Nightingale, but it stands alone perfectly — except now I definitely want to read it and more from Laura Lascarso. Definitely recommend.
I’ve had this author on my radar for a while, but reading the review of this novella from another reader put me over the top — and put me on the hunt to find this book. It’s only available currently from subscribing to the author’s newsletter, but it’s definitely worth it. (Be aware: This is a dark romance, so heed the trigger warnings.)
John is a former Marine and a butcher, but because of his father’s debts to the wrong people, he’s had to become The Butcher. When a special delivery one night isn’t quite as deceased as promised, John takes a risk and nurtures him back to health. Bayani has been tortured and raped and left for dead, but time with the steady and steadfast John helps him heal. Of course, John has wounds of his own that he carries, but they develop a beautiful and caring relationship that heals them both. But will Bayani’s past tormentors come back to haunt them, or will the butcher and his boy forge a new life together?
Although this was a dark story — and there were definitely parts that were difficult to read — this was also a beautiful story about two men finding each other and finding peace. It was only 125 pages, but the carefully constructed characters and pacing made it feel like a full-fledged novel. John and Bayani had the time and space to fall in love with each other and get their hard-won HEA. This is a companion novella to Nightingale, but it stands alone perfectly — except now I definitely want to read it and more from Laura Lascarso. Definitely recommend.
7-tbr-ooit
June 2, 2023Weird.... but this books wasn't mentioned as being part of the Virtuous Sinners collection?
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
Virtuous Sinners is a collection of gay romance stories that center on killers who are guided by a virtuous code. These dark novels are connected only by theme and can be read standalone.
1. I Am God's Dagger by K.A. Merikan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. Dark Valor by Helena Novak
3. Day of Judgment by Aurora Crane & Briar Kearney
4. Speak & Obey by Ki Brightly & M.D. Gregory
5. Moment of Truth by C.J. Vincent
6. Nightingale by Laura Lascarso
7. Man of Carnage by Nicholas Bella
8. Pure Silence by K.L. Hiers
9. The Right Way to Wrong by Ashlynn Mills
�� ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
Virtuous Sinners is a collection of gay romance stories that center on killers who are guided by a virtuous code. These dark novels are connected only by theme and can be read standalone. 1. I Am God's Dagger by K.A. Merikan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. Dark Valor by Helena Novak
3. Day of Judgment by Aurora Crane & Briar Kearney
4. Speak & Obey by Ki Brightly & M.D. Gregory
5. Moment of Truth by C.J. Vincent
6. Nightingale by Laura Lascarso
7. Man of Carnage by Nicholas Bella
8. Pure Silence by K.L. Hiers
9. The Right Way to Wrong by Ashlynn Mills
�� ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
January 11, 2023
I was really looking forward to this story as I remember the Butcher from Nightingale, which is a book I loved.
The only reason I am giving this book 3 stars is because I don’t think it worked as a novella. I think this story would’ve been amazing as a full book.
The trauma Bayani went through, and the love he built with John was precious but it was too rushed. It felt like there were chunks missing.
It’s horrifying the things Bayani suffered and how John brings him back to himself, I can’t believe how endearing John the butcher is. I love how it connected with Nightingale, but as I say, I think this needed to be a full book to build how their relationship develops, especially out of such trauma. Again that’s my personal opinion and not a criticism of the story or writing as I love Laura’s work.
The only reason I am giving this book 3 stars is because I don’t think it worked as a novella. I think this story would’ve been amazing as a full book.
The trauma Bayani went through, and the love he built with John was precious but it was too rushed. It felt like there were chunks missing.
It’s horrifying the things Bayani suffered and how John brings him back to himself, I can’t believe how endearing John the butcher is. I love how it connected with Nightingale, but as I say, I think this needed to be a full book to build how their relationship develops, especially out of such trauma. Again that’s my personal opinion and not a criticism of the story or writing as I love Laura’s work.
January 5, 2024
4.75*
What an amazing hurt/comfort read with gore and violence, but also so much caretaking!
This was just so tender and romantic... and I did not expect that at all! These two were made for each other. The way they respected each other was just tooth-achingly sweet! Though I thought Bayani would struggle physically (and mentally) more. Here it seems all the wounds just disappear and there are little to no problems (I'm not counting the moments when the boy is healing... but after that? Little to no struggle). I think that for the novel to be more realistic/believable, it would have to be longer.
(Though at one point Bayani licks something and I was like... that is not possible...🤔)
What an amazing hurt/comfort read with gore and violence, but also so much caretaking!
This was just so tender and romantic... and I did not expect that at all! These two were made for each other. The way they respected each other was just tooth-achingly sweet! Though I thought Bayani would struggle physically (and mentally) more. Here it seems all the wounds just disappear and there are little to no problems (I'm not counting the moments when the boy is healing... but after that? Little to no struggle). I think that for the novel to be more realistic/believable, it would have to be longer.
(Though at one point Bayani licks something and I was like... that is not possible...🤔)
August 25, 2023
Great Novella
We met the butcher ( John ) in Nightingale in this short we get the story behind the boy ( Bayani ) After John gets a text about a special delivery he goes down to meet Emile Fournier who tells him it was someone who threatened him . As John begins his task he realises Bayani is still alive , he spends weeks nursing him back to health although there are some injuries that will never heal . When Emile realises Bayani is still alive John must do what he can to save the boy who has melted his heart.
We met the butcher ( John ) in Nightingale in this short we get the story behind the boy ( Bayani ) After John gets a text about a special delivery he goes down to meet Emile Fournier who tells him it was someone who threatened him . As John begins his task he realises Bayani is still alive , he spends weeks nursing him back to health although there are some injuries that will never heal . When Emile realises Bayani is still alive John must do what he can to save the boy who has melted his heart.
August 7, 2023
So…..this was a dark story. Im not sure if I like the premise.
If you werent sure, the two characters names are John and Bayani as its mentioned HUNDREDS of times in a span of 140 pages. Ridiculous.
Secondly, Bayani gets physically mutilated, he has no tongue so John and him kiss by John using his tongue to massage the nub of a tongue Bayani has left. Bayani is s+x trafficked yet has no Real qualm over getting over it and getting in the sack with John.
I dunno…….
If you werent sure, the two characters names are John and Bayani as its mentioned HUNDREDS of times in a span of 140 pages. Ridiculous.
Secondly, Bayani gets physically mutilated, he has no tongue so John and him kiss by John using his tongue to massage the nub of a tongue Bayani has left. Bayani is s+x trafficked yet has no Real qualm over getting over it and getting in the sack with John.
I dunno…….
October 29, 2023
Instant Fave❤️
I loved this, now let me tell you why. I am absolute sucker for a big burly guy who is intimidating and a total sweetheart at the same time. Ans although my heart broke for Bayani I like that he was still super sweet and able to overcome what happened to him. (Not trying to give too much away,but I wanted to stab his ex in the eye with a fork)
Anyway, super great read, not too slow or fast, it was a slow burn, but totally worth it. Definitely recommend.
I loved this, now let me tell you why. I am absolute sucker for a big burly guy who is intimidating and a total sweetheart at the same time. Ans although my heart broke for Bayani I like that he was still super sweet and able to overcome what happened to him. (Not trying to give too much away,but I wanted to stab his ex in the eye with a fork)
Anyway, super great read, not too slow or fast, it was a slow burn, but totally worth it. Definitely recommend.
June 3, 2025
this was so gruesome but also so enjoyable! the relationship between bayani and john progresses so naturally and with so much consent, it was really beautiful to witness. also the inclusion of ASL was super interesting to see.
but i do think that all of the detailed recollections of bayani‘s trauma were too much, they almost read like torture porn. i would’ve understood how bad emile is without getting every single detail written out, bc that really broke my heart
but i do think that all of the detailed recollections of bayani‘s trauma were too much, they almost read like torture porn. i would’ve understood how bad emile is without getting every single detail written out, bc that really broke my heart
January 11, 2023
I loved this! Darkish, slow burn and age gap!!! What could possibly be wrong? Add the sizzling hot sex scenes, and I’m a happy girl.
I definitely would have wanted this to be a longer read, I’m a sucker for dark romance. And Laura writes it so good.
Fingers crossed it’ll be expanded some day 😇
I definitely would have wanted this to be a longer read, I’m a sucker for dark romance. And Laura writes it so good.
Fingers crossed it’ll be expanded some day 😇
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