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The Coil
Sandwich-maker Mattie Green has one goal: escape San Diego, move to New York, and attend art school. But to make this a reality, he needs to get his GED—not easy, since he can’t read or write. Until he can, he’s stuck working at the diner and selling himself on the side.
Mattie’s legitimate job isn’t without perks. Every day the quiet, sophisticated Simon Castle comes by to work on his latest book. Mattie wants more than to pour Simon’s coffee and make his lunch, but he’s sure Simon is out of his league—until suddenly he’s not.
Simon Castle's life is complicated, built around his career and a son who requires a lot of time and attention. It’s not a life well-suited to the inclusion of even a part-time prostitute, so he resolves to keep his relationship with Mattie casual. However, the longer he knows Mattie, the deeper his feelings become. The idea of him with another man tortures Simon, but he can't ask Mattie to be his alone and jeopardize Mattie's hopes for New York—no matter how much he wants Mattie to stay.
Mattie’s legitimate job isn’t without perks. Every day the quiet, sophisticated Simon Castle comes by to work on his latest book. Mattie wants more than to pour Simon’s coffee and make his lunch, but he’s sure Simon is out of his league—until suddenly he’s not.
Simon Castle's life is complicated, built around his career and a son who requires a lot of time and attention. It’s not a life well-suited to the inclusion of even a part-time prostitute, so he resolves to keep his relationship with Mattie casual. However, the longer he knows Mattie, the deeper his feelings become. The idea of him with another man tortures Simon, but he can't ask Mattie to be his alone and jeopardize Mattie's hopes for New York—no matter how much he wants Mattie to stay.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2012
13 people are currently reading
920 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Gilbert
4 books182 followersL.A. Gilbert currently lives in a small British town where not much of anything ever really occurs. Jumping from job to job, she has no real qualifications in anything and is blithely proud of it. Between spectacularly failing driving test after test, she generally spends her free time reading about beautiful gay men, if not attempting to write about them. She is perhaps not the most outgoing of people, but is certainly one of the most cheerful.
Her aspirations are to eventually leave England and see a real, live whale (London's zoo is poorly lacking in that respect) and to perhaps one day hold in her hands a published copy of her own work.
One down.
Her aspirations are to eventually leave England and see a real, live whale (London's zoo is poorly lacking in that respect) and to perhaps one day hold in her hands a published copy of her own work.
One down.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
December 4, 2013
2.5 stars. I mildly liked this book.
It's only the second book by this author I've read. I thought that this would be like The Ghost on My Couch, so I was ready for cute and sweet, but this was completely different.
If I want dark and angsty then I want dark and angsty. I found this had too much angst to be adorable, but not enough to be a hair-rending tearjerker. It was wishy-washy (even Mattie's prostitution was wishy-washy) and I get the feeling that Gilbert was trying to write in a way that didn't come naturally, because she thought that was what people wanted her to do.
One thing I particularly didn't enjoy was the structure of the book. The story takes place over three and a half years. The opening is at the end of those three and a half years, then we skip backwards to the beginning to see how the MCs got there. So immediately there is no tension, no suspense, because we can see exactly what happened, and we only have to learn the details of how we got there.
Also the characters were fairly bland. It seems to me that Mattie only likes Simon because he has no self-esteem and this is the first person who ever treated him halfway decently. And I do mean half-way decently, because Simon is a huge jerk, and I am uncomfortable about why Mattie keeps forgiving him and going back. I think it's because Simon is his only option. In a different book Simon would be the bad guy who the true love rescues Mattie from.
And although Simon annoys me with how he treats Mattie, that's all we get, that's his entire personality. He's a weird blank space. I don't understand why Simon even likes Mattie: he seems to be convenient for Simon, because he won't press for more than Simon can offer.
With these guys there's the sense that they are both the easy option for the other, rather than Ghost on my Couch, where there was a sense that these two men had actually found the one person who would love them and treasure them for themselves.
Also, Mattie's whole schtick is that he's an artist, but nowhere do we hear about what he paints. What kind of art is it? Details help me create a world in my mind when I read the book, and would tell me a lot about the kind of person Mattie is supposed to be.
Simon's son is autistic, and it's nice to see an autistic character, but it does mean there's a certain lack of emotion when he is involved in scenes. However, he was very well-written, and this was the best feature of the book.
It's only the second book by this author I've read. I thought that this would be like The Ghost on My Couch, so I was ready for cute and sweet, but this was completely different.
If I want dark and angsty then I want dark and angsty. I found this had too much angst to be adorable, but not enough to be a hair-rending tearjerker. It was wishy-washy (even Mattie's prostitution was wishy-washy) and I get the feeling that Gilbert was trying to write in a way that didn't come naturally, because she thought that was what people wanted her to do.
One thing I particularly didn't enjoy was the structure of the book. The story takes place over three and a half years. The opening is at the end of those three and a half years, then we skip backwards to the beginning to see how the MCs got there. So immediately there is no tension, no suspense, because we can see exactly what happened, and we only have to learn the details of how we got there.
Also the characters were fairly bland. It seems to me that Mattie only likes Simon because he has no self-esteem and this is the first person who ever treated him halfway decently. And I do mean half-way decently, because Simon is a huge jerk, and I am uncomfortable about why Mattie keeps forgiving him and going back. I think it's because Simon is his only option. In a different book Simon would be the bad guy who the true love rescues Mattie from.
And although Simon annoys me with how he treats Mattie, that's all we get, that's his entire personality. He's a weird blank space. I don't understand why Simon even likes Mattie: he seems to be convenient for Simon, because he won't press for more than Simon can offer.
With these guys there's the sense that they are both the easy option for the other, rather than Ghost on my Couch, where there was a sense that these two men had actually found the one person who would love them and treasure them for themselves.
Also, Mattie's whole schtick is that he's an artist, but nowhere do we hear about what he paints. What kind of art is it? Details help me create a world in my mind when I read the book, and would tell me a lot about the kind of person Mattie is supposed to be.
Simon's son is autistic, and it's nice to see an autistic character, but it does mean there's a certain lack of emotion when he is involved in scenes. However, he was very well-written, and this was the best feature of the book.
April 23, 2019
3 Stars
This was my second read by this author and it wasn’t as good as the first and as good as I expected! Toward the middle, it dragged a lot. It wasn’t really anything special. Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s a standalone novel. All in all, it was an okay read and hope you enjoy it more than me!
This was my second read by this author and it wasn’t as good as the first and as good as I expected! Toward the middle, it dragged a lot. It wasn’t really anything special. Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s a standalone novel. All in all, it was an okay read and hope you enjoy it more than me!
May 23, 2013
Ok, where to start..
I really enjoyed the author's other books so when i saw she was coming out with this one and a rent boy story on top of that, I knew I had, had, had to have it!
I think loving her other books so much I had a preconceived notion going into this and they were promptly blown away.
I loved Mattie, he is absolutely wonderful, vulnerable, strong , pragmatic, idealistic and just plain sweet!
I am also very happy he has Ty as a BF, he needed someone who was really in his corner and telling him uncomfortable things without judgment! *sigh* I so wish Ty had been the love interest!
Jamie, sweet Jamie, he plays a major role in this book, both on page and as a plot device.
Now Simon...hmm..I am very conflicted about him. I admired him, he is a great father and a good man, he was also a selfish and immature at times, I thought. I found it ironic that he kept harping on the 7 yr. age difference, since he often acted like a spoiled teenager. He wanted it all, but only on his terms and says things without thinking about the repercussions.
Now Simon redeemed himself in the end, I thought his decision to do what was best for Mattie was great, I just had a huge problem with the way it was done.
Now, despite my niggles I still liked this story and I might have made Simon sound worse than he is, I just liked Mattie so much that I had trouble with him being happy with the scraps he was thrown, until he wasn't anymore! Thank goodness, and ironically Simon really helped Mattie see that!
I also have to add that I love the title of this book and when Mattie explains it...I know exactly what he means and it was such a great metaphor.
I really enjoyed the author's other books so when i saw she was coming out with this one and a rent boy story on top of that, I knew I had, had, had to have it!
I think loving her other books so much I had a preconceived notion going into this and they were promptly blown away.
I loved Mattie, he is absolutely wonderful, vulnerable, strong , pragmatic, idealistic and just plain sweet!
I am also very happy he has Ty as a BF, he needed someone who was really in his corner and telling him uncomfortable things without judgment! *sigh* I so wish Ty had been the love interest!
Jamie, sweet Jamie, he plays a major role in this book, both on page and as a plot device.
Now Simon...hmm..I am very conflicted about him. I admired him, he is a great father and a good man, he was also a selfish and immature at times, I thought. I found it ironic that he kept harping on the 7 yr. age difference, since he often acted like a spoiled teenager. He wanted it all, but only on his terms and says things without thinking about the repercussions.
Now Simon redeemed himself in the end, I thought his decision to do what was best for Mattie was great, I just had a huge problem with the way it was done.
Now, despite my niggles I still liked this story and I might have made Simon sound worse than he is, I just liked Mattie so much that I had trouble with him being happy with the scraps he was thrown, until he wasn't anymore! Thank goodness, and ironically Simon really helped Mattie see that!
I also have to add that I love the title of this book and when Mattie explains it...I know exactly what he means and it was such a great metaphor.
August 27, 2016
I’ve read this authors previous two books, The Ghost on my Couch and Witness, and enjoyed them both very much. But this book takes it to a whole new level.
To say I enjoyed this book is a complete understatement.
This book had everything I love in my romance stories, a geeky guy, a really hot guy that’s insecure and a kid. But this had so much more. This had a real story, a real love story.
The feelings of both Mattie and Simon are laid bare. I admit I spent a fair portion of this book wiping my eyes, especially when I read how Simon felt when his mother turned her back on him.
Then Mattie explaining how he felt. The falling through the cracks? OMG that could have been any one of us.
Seeing these two together, the early struggles and later the way they fit so easily together was a true romance.
Jamie was an added delight. This is no perfectly sweet kid or obnoxious brat. Jamie is a real little boy. He will steal your heart and make your arms ache to hold him.
A wonderful story. Recommended to all looking for a true love story.
ETA Not much I can add except this NEEDS a follow on. I want to see how these guys are doing. Just how did Jamie cope with the move or did they stay and Mattie moved back, and a big part of me hopes they adopted a kid together. I can see these guys helping another special kid.
To say I enjoyed this book is a complete understatement.
This book had everything I love in my romance stories, a geeky guy, a really hot guy that’s insecure and a kid. But this had so much more. This had a real story, a real love story.
The feelings of both Mattie and Simon are laid bare. I admit I spent a fair portion of this book wiping my eyes, especially when I read how Simon felt when his mother turned her back on him.
Then Mattie explaining how he felt. The falling through the cracks? OMG that could have been any one of us.
Seeing these two together, the early struggles and later the way they fit so easily together was a true romance.
Jamie was an added delight. This is no perfectly sweet kid or obnoxious brat. Jamie is a real little boy. He will steal your heart and make your arms ache to hold him.
A wonderful story. Recommended to all looking for a true love story.
ETA Not much I can add except this NEEDS a follow on. I want to see how these guys are doing. Just how did Jamie cope with the move or did they stay and Mattie moved back, and a big part of me hopes they adopted a kid together. I can see these guys helping another special kid.
October 17, 2012
I had one thing going for me when I picked up this story. I was spoiled by friends who read this first (and yes, I did look for the spoilers). For me, it's a GREAT thing because it helps managing my expectation. It makes me enjoy the story more because I'm not getting blindsided with anything. And you know what? I LOVE this!
Mattie
Mattie is wonderful! I love his determination to get GED, to get out from his poor situation, and keeping his eyes of going to New York. He's funny and sweet and endearing. Unfortunately, I agree with what Emma said in her review, that the part with Mattie being a prostitute to help himself financially is a bit "wishy-washy" (Emma's words). I'm not sure if it's a necessary plot because it feels like a half-cooked idea.
Simon
I know that he totally acts like a stupid idiot. A VERY STUPID IDIOT (I'm seething and wanting to slap him right there on Chapter Seven). However, I also feel I could give him second chance because he's actually a decent guy, with an adorable child. His stupidity might stems from various things: his mother practically kicked him out when he told her he was gay, his sister died and leaving him with Jamie, and then his lover left him after realizing that taking care of Jamie was a lot of work. He didn't have the balance in his life to see the right thing to do. He worries so much about everything, especially if it involves Jamie.
In a sense, Mattie is "luckier" because Mattie has his best friend-Ty, to help him from time to time, including keeping him in track. Simon? Not so much. So of course, he screw things up. Older doesn't mean wiser :). So, I'm happy that Mattie finally speaks up, demands Simon to "do something and fight for them", and sets things straight. I LOVE that part.
Jamie
He's adorable -- I want MORE of him. I'm complaining that I don't get enough of him
Other secondary characters: Ty, Sarah, Simon's Mom
They're all great -- it's lovely to have secondary characters that are so supportive. Even Simon's mother, despite the rough beginning, she comes through for her son and grandson
Now, I know other reviewers don't really like the way that Simon tells Mattie to go to New York, without any type of contact what-so-ever. I share Ty's position here; I think Mattie settles to be with Simon and Jamie because Mattie thinks that this kind of happiness is 'closer', something that he can hold on to (since Simon loves him). While New York is something different, something scarier. I don't want THAT for Mattie after everything he has been through. I don't want him to settle. So I applaud Simon for pushing Mattie to go.
I actually love the idea of the blank postcards as "promise". For me, it means a whole lot more than said/written words. It brings a nostalgic sense, like in the old days, where lovers during wartime cannot contact one another for years, and only hang on to letters or memories. With so many technology today to communicate, it feels different :)
And that ending? That ending is PERFECT :)
Mattie
Mattie is wonderful! I love his determination to get GED, to get out from his poor situation, and keeping his eyes of going to New York. He's funny and sweet and endearing. Unfortunately, I agree with what Emma said in her review, that the part with Mattie being a prostitute to help himself financially is a bit "wishy-washy" (Emma's words). I'm not sure if it's a necessary plot because it feels like a half-cooked idea.
Simon
I know that he totally acts like a stupid idiot. A VERY STUPID IDIOT (I'm seething and wanting to slap him right there on Chapter Seven). However, I also feel I could give him second chance because he's actually a decent guy, with an adorable child. His stupidity might stems from various things: his mother practically kicked him out when he told her he was gay, his sister died and leaving him with Jamie, and then his lover left him after realizing that taking care of Jamie was a lot of work. He didn't have the balance in his life to see the right thing to do. He worries so much about everything, especially if it involves Jamie.
In a sense, Mattie is "luckier" because Mattie has his best friend-Ty, to help him from time to time, including keeping him in track. Simon? Not so much. So of course, he screw things up. Older doesn't mean wiser :). So, I'm happy that Mattie finally speaks up, demands Simon to "do something and fight for them", and sets things straight. I LOVE that part.
Jamie
He's adorable -- I want MORE of him. I'm complaining that I don't get enough of him
Other secondary characters: Ty, Sarah, Simon's Mom
They're all great -- it's lovely to have secondary characters that are so supportive. Even Simon's mother, despite the rough beginning, she comes through for her son and grandson
Now, I know other reviewers don't really like the way that Simon tells Mattie to go to New York, without any type of contact what-so-ever. I share Ty's position here; I think Mattie settles to be with Simon and Jamie because Mattie thinks that this kind of happiness is 'closer', something that he can hold on to (since Simon loves him). While New York is something different, something scarier. I don't want THAT for Mattie after everything he has been through. I don't want him to settle. So I applaud Simon for pushing Mattie to go.
I actually love the idea of the blank postcards as "promise". For me, it means a whole lot more than said/written words. It brings a nostalgic sense, like in the old days, where lovers during wartime cannot contact one another for years, and only hang on to letters or memories. With so many technology today to communicate, it feels different :)
And that ending? That ending is PERFECT :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2012
Damn that was great.
Mattie and Simon both have to make hard choices in their life.
Mattie is an illiterate young man and artist working low paid job, hooking occasionally to have extra cash so he can pay for his reading and writing classes and painter’s supplies, dreaming about acquiring GED and studying at an art school in New York. He is so sweet and compassionate, determined to make his life only better.
Simon is single parent living his life for his wonderful little son Jamie, who’s autistic. He was left struggling all alone by a person that he thought that would be his life partner so welcoming new people into his and Jamie’s life is not easy for him. I was teary eyed while reading first chapter where I met Simon and Jamie and learned about everyday routine they had developed, about how wonderful, fulfilling and yet heartbreaking raising autistic child may be.
Mattie was lucky to have such a wonderful friend in Ty and lover who put him first and gave him chance to realize his dreams, to grow and get to know himself though this decision was painful for them both.
I say it again. It was really great book.
Mattie and Simon both have to make hard choices in their life.
Mattie is an illiterate young man and artist working low paid job, hooking occasionally to have extra cash so he can pay for his reading and writing classes and painter’s supplies, dreaming about acquiring GED and studying at an art school in New York. He is so sweet and compassionate, determined to make his life only better.
Simon is single parent living his life for his wonderful little son Jamie, who’s autistic. He was left struggling all alone by a person that he thought that would be his life partner so welcoming new people into his and Jamie’s life is not easy for him. I was teary eyed while reading first chapter where I met Simon and Jamie and learned about everyday routine they had developed, about how wonderful, fulfilling and yet heartbreaking raising autistic child may be.
Mattie was lucky to have such a wonderful friend in Ty and lover who put him first and gave him chance to realize his dreams, to grow and get to know himself though this decision was painful for them both.
I say it again. It was really great book.
July 19, 2013
This book has a very true to life portrayal of what it's like to parent an autistic child, and the challenges, joys and life changes that go with that. Simon is impressive as a single father to his dead sister's child Jamie. He adores Jamie, and works to make his life as good as possible.
When something goes wrong, Simon blames himself for failing to smooth Jamie's path enough, and that felt very true to life - we all want to make the world give our kids a break, especially when they face extra challeges. But although he admits to having resented Jamie once, in very understandable circumstances, he's otherwise amazingly (almost unbelievably) patient with all of Jamie's limitations and reactions - he surprised me a little by never once even being irritated at Jamie in his thoughts. His love for his child is his guiding principle and unvaried. Having his child's teacher as an accepted and available babysitter probably does help him keep his sanity, and Sarah is a nice secondary character. In some ways, I actually liked the times Simon was obnoxious to Mattie, because they were understandable if not admirable human reactions that made Simon feel more real. And there were real issues between the two men that made the conflicts work.
Mattie is a guy with no education, no money, a dead end job, and a dream of getting his GED and going to art school in New York. He's working every angle he can, and occasionally tricking to make ends meet. Falling for the cute single dad who comes into the cafe wasn't part of the plan. But maybe love and family are a better goal than art school. Mattie's recurring fear, though, is whether Simon can live with the things Mattie's done to get by, and consider Mattie his equal. Mattie is sweet, strong and unsure of himself. He has some hard times to get through, and keeps his integrity as best he can. His interactions with Jamie are adorable. And his best friend Ty was fun, if nosy, a bit domineering and overprotective.
I enjoyed a lot of this story, but it also hit a few of my pet peeves. The epilogue was sweet and lovely, but lost a little of its glow because of my feeling that it should have been unnecessary.
Having said that, I read this all in one day - it flowed well, held my interest, Jamie was beautifully portrayed, and I did care about both main characters.
When something goes wrong, Simon blames himself for failing to smooth Jamie's path enough, and that felt very true to life - we all want to make the world give our kids a break, especially when they face extra challeges. But although he admits to having resented Jamie once, in very understandable circumstances, he's otherwise amazingly (almost unbelievably) patient with all of Jamie's limitations and reactions - he surprised me a little by never once even being irritated at Jamie in his thoughts. His love for his child is his guiding principle and unvaried. Having his child's teacher as an accepted and available babysitter probably does help him keep his sanity, and Sarah is a nice secondary character. In some ways, I actually liked the times Simon was obnoxious to Mattie, because they were understandable if not admirable human reactions that made Simon feel more real. And there were real issues between the two men that made the conflicts work.
Mattie is a guy with no education, no money, a dead end job, and a dream of getting his GED and going to art school in New York. He's working every angle he can, and occasionally tricking to make ends meet. Falling for the cute single dad who comes into the cafe wasn't part of the plan. But maybe love and family are a better goal than art school. Mattie's recurring fear, though, is whether Simon can live with the things Mattie's done to get by, and consider Mattie his equal. Mattie is sweet, strong and unsure of himself. He has some hard times to get through, and keeps his integrity as best he can. His interactions with Jamie are adorable. And his best friend Ty was fun, if nosy, a bit domineering and overprotective.
I enjoyed a lot of this story, but it also hit a few of my pet peeves. The epilogue was sweet and lovely, but lost a little of its glow because of my feeling that it should have been unnecessary.
Having said that, I read this all in one day - it flowed well, held my interest, Jamie was beautifully portrayed, and I did care about both main characters.
October 14, 2012
The ending was AMAZING. So many parts of this story drove me crazy but the epilogue made all the badness, sadness and craziness just go away.
I need to think before i finish my review but i wanted to put it out there that the ending was spot on.
Update:
Strong story about a single dad raising an autistic child who's reluctant to bring a man into his son's life. Simon is a successful writer who adopts his sisters newborn after she dies in childbirth. His partner, who doesn't want to be a parent, leaves him. His homophobic mother tries to legally take Jamie away. And so Simon feels he has no choice but to give up his life to care for Jamie. His only support is Sarah, his friend and Jamie's teacher.
Mattie is a very young, illiterate but aspiring art student who struggles to survive on his minimum wage job. He hooks on the side to buy food, art supplies and rent money when he's short. He hates it but feels he has no choice.
Mattie and Simon are both hot for each other and both feels the other is "out of his league". They make it work in a casual sense. Soon though, they both begin to feel more but Simon won't risk Jamie by bringing Mattie into his life, and Mattie needs more, he wants to be seen as a person not just a "nobody".
This story was a little over 200 pages but it felt like a 1000 page book to me. It was good, but until the ending, I was hoping for more.
I need to think before i finish my review but i wanted to put it out there that the ending was spot on.
Update:
Strong story about a single dad raising an autistic child who's reluctant to bring a man into his son's life. Simon is a successful writer who adopts his sisters newborn after she dies in childbirth. His partner, who doesn't want to be a parent, leaves him. His homophobic mother tries to legally take Jamie away. And so Simon feels he has no choice but to give up his life to care for Jamie. His only support is Sarah, his friend and Jamie's teacher.
Mattie is a very young, illiterate but aspiring art student who struggles to survive on his minimum wage job. He hooks on the side to buy food, art supplies and rent money when he's short. He hates it but feels he has no choice.
Mattie and Simon are both hot for each other and both feels the other is "out of his league". They make it work in a casual sense. Soon though, they both begin to feel more but Simon won't risk Jamie by bringing Mattie into his life, and Mattie needs more, he wants to be seen as a person not just a "nobody".
This story was a little over 200 pages but it felt like a 1000 page book to me. It was good, but until the ending, I was hoping for more.
November 19, 2014
Somebody find me somebody to explain this book to me!
'Cause I think I'm broken. Not broken because of the FEELZ, but broken because I didn't feel a thing!
I want a different book. I want a book that makes me feel the angst the characters live in. I want a book that makes me worry. A book that manages to pass on the feeling of loneliness, sadness, desperation and defeatism, and also a book of brightness, happiness, overcoming and hope. The MCs live that but I didn't. I felt curiosity and a little bit of liking but nothing further than that. I want empathy and to be on the verge of emotions but that didn't happen. It was just ok and disappointing.
'Cause I think I'm broken. Not broken because of the FEELZ, but broken because I didn't feel a thing!
I want a different book. I want a book that makes me feel the angst the characters live in. I want a book that makes me worry. A book that manages to pass on the feeling of loneliness, sadness, desperation and defeatism, and also a book of brightness, happiness, overcoming and hope. The MCs live that but I didn't. I felt curiosity and a little bit of liking but nothing further than that. I want empathy and to be on the verge of emotions but that didn't happen. It was just ok and disappointing.
October 11, 2012
3.5 stars. I love this author, and Witness is probably among my top five favorite m/m romances ever. This book feels like L.A. Gilbert really took to heart all the reviewers who said Witness was too nice and decided to pile on the angst. Part of me liked it, and the other part feels conflicted.
What I loved: Mattie. What a sweetheart. I really ached for him as he struggled with making ends meet and earning his GED.
What I was lukewarm on: Simon. Simon was a harder nut to crack. It was harder to understand his motivations. Even though the reasons were made clear in the story, I hated how he treated Mattie. He atones for it the best he can, but it still rubbed me the wrong way.
What didn't ring true:
Overall, the writing is good. I was engaged enough to read this almost in one gulp. Be aware that this is also a very kid-centric story, if you're sensitive to that sort of thing. (I'm neutral on it.) Simon's autistic son, Jamie, plays a huge role in the book.
What I loved: Mattie. What a sweetheart. I really ached for him as he struggled with making ends meet and earning his GED.
What I was lukewarm on: Simon. Simon was a harder nut to crack. It was harder to understand his motivations. Even though the reasons were made clear in the story, I hated how he treated Mattie. He atones for it the best he can, but it still rubbed me the wrong way.
What didn't ring true:
Overall, the writing is good. I was engaged enough to read this almost in one gulp. Be aware that this is also a very kid-centric story, if you're sensitive to that sort of thing. (I'm neutral on it.) Simon's autistic son, Jamie, plays a huge role in the book.
November 2, 2015
Awww fuck, where to begin :') :')
I abso-fucking-lutely LOVED the book :D
The story was amazing, the characters were amazing.. This book is amazing, and its not only for people who like m-m but for anyone who just wants to read an absolutely heart warming book. The sex was not graphic or even detailed. It was just mentioned. Thats it, so I guess people who dont read m-m too can read this book. So seriously, do read. Its beautiful, pure and amazing.
Simon, I seriously wanted to bitch slap you at least 3times in this book, but hell :') I LOVE YOU. Strong strong strong man who loved with all his heart but seriously you are seriously too thick at times.. :D <3
Mattie <3 Omfg.. HOT and just so strong and brilliant and just amazing. Love so pure, will so strong. He is just amazing and so bloody sweet!!!
Jamie, I love you little man :D
Ty & Sahra, Such amazing friends <3
"I’m losing masculine points by the second here.” “Scratch your balls or something.” - LOL!!!!
I abso-fucking-lutely LOVED the book :D
The story was amazing, the characters were amazing.. This book is amazing, and its not only for people who like m-m but for anyone who just wants to read an absolutely heart warming book. The sex was not graphic or even detailed. It was just mentioned. Thats it, so I guess people who dont read m-m too can read this book. So seriously, do read. Its beautiful, pure and amazing.
Simon, I seriously wanted to bitch slap you at least 3times in this book, but hell :') I LOVE YOU. Strong strong strong man who loved with all his heart but seriously you are seriously too thick at times.. :D <3
Mattie <3 Omfg.. HOT and just so strong and brilliant and just amazing. Love so pure, will so strong. He is just amazing and so bloody sweet!!!
Jamie, I love you little man :D
Ty & Sahra, Such amazing friends <3
"I’m losing masculine points by the second here.” “Scratch your balls or something.” - LOL!!!!
November 17, 2012
4.5 stars
Wonderful book! From beginning to end I was drawn in. Jamie was just too cute in all his specialness - is that a word? Well, the whole book was a joy to read, although the Kleenex were nearby and in use, sniff. And Mattie - I so felt with him. And with how he at some point stood up for himself! Yes! And Ty was the best friend. Simon on the other hand really needed a good hard shake several times during the story. The end was just wonderful and fitting.
Wonderful book! From beginning to end I was drawn in. Jamie was just too cute in all his specialness - is that a word? Well, the whole book was a joy to read, although the Kleenex were nearby and in use, sniff. And Mattie - I so felt with him. And with how he at some point stood up for himself! Yes! And Ty was the best friend. Simon on the other hand really needed a good hard shake several times during the story. The end was just wonderful and fitting.
December 21, 2015
Rating clarification: The second star is for the fairly accurate portrayal of the high-functioning autistic child.
January 23, 2013
This novel fell into a category that I've come cross a few times, it held a lot of promise but sadly on finishing it I was left feeling a bit underwhelmed. Like a lot of books it starts off great, a good hook at the beginning in its prologue and introductions to some good characters. There are some serious subjects to explore like autism and a single gay parent having to cope with it and of course as mentioned in the books description - prostitution and what makes a person turn to that! Unfortunately both subjects didn't have the impact I thought they would, especially Matties foray into prostitution. Apart from one iffy moment with one of his ' clients ' and Simons jealousies the whole subject seemed pushed in the background and Matties own background didn't seem bleak enough to put him in that position, OK he was short of money but he had a job and a roof over his head, the despair needed to push somebody into doing something as dark as that just wasn't present in Mattie as a character!At the beginning Jamie who is a high functioning autistic 4 year old, features heavily and is a lovely little character who pulls your heartstrings but when Simon ( his dad) and Mattie get together he disappears into the background more and we hear about him but don't see as much of him afterwards. Don't get me wrong he's ' there ' but he doesn't feature when Simon and Mattie are together as he's with his teacher and Simons friend Sarah - a very nice character. In fact Mattie meets him once in the beginning at the cafe but doesn't again until fairly near the end. Towards mid story I got a little bored with it because it seemed to lose momentum and got bogged down with too many relationship issues between Simon and Mattie whose romance was a bit hit and miss for myself. I liked Simon and understood why he worried so much about his and Jamie's future but he also came over as a bit selfish sometimes, especially regarding Mattie , who was a very endearing and likeable person. There were moments that I enjoyed very much but overall I was disappointed hence the 3.5* rating. Very well written and some great characters but some of her subjects were underused and she could have pushed the boundaries a little more on others. Readable but not a keeper.
November 25, 2016
Simon is an author, who raises his nephew Jamie, a 5-year-old autistic boy. Mattie works in a sandwich shop, he dreams of being an artist, but to get into art school in New York he needs his GED first, not an easy task, if you hardly know how to read and write. Still, even if he struggles he fights and if he needs to hustle a little on the side to make enough money for living, that`s okay for him.
When they meet both know, that there is no space in their life for a relationship. They become friends with benefits but both can`t deny their feelings to themselves.
There is a lot going on here, raising an autistic child is not an easy task and Mattie has enough problems going on as well.
The book starts very cleverly 3 years after they first met and they are not together anymore- or so it seems. That really made me wonder how that happened and what happened and why???
The story is really heartwarming, it was a great read and I enjoyed it a lot. There was a lot going on and it always felt right and true to the story. Both main characters were very lovable, believable and their struggle and their fears felt real as well.
For me, this was above average and I would give it solid 4.5 stars and a general recommendation!
P.S. One thing that really doesn`t fit this book is its cover. You understand it when reading as the story about that coil is revealed, but seeing the cover you expect a completely different kind of book and it absolutely is not what you would expect, so go for the blurb and if this appeals to you, the book is great, don`t expect any ideas the cover might give you resembling the story!
When they meet both know, that there is no space in their life for a relationship. They become friends with benefits but both can`t deny their feelings to themselves.
There is a lot going on here, raising an autistic child is not an easy task and Mattie has enough problems going on as well.
The book starts very cleverly 3 years after they first met and they are not together anymore- or so it seems. That really made me wonder how that happened and what happened and why???
The story is really heartwarming, it was a great read and I enjoyed it a lot. There was a lot going on and it always felt right and true to the story. Both main characters were very lovable, believable and their struggle and their fears felt real as well.
For me, this was above average and I would give it solid 4.5 stars and a general recommendation!
P.S. One thing that really doesn`t fit this book is its cover. You understand it when reading as the story about that coil is revealed, but seeing the cover you expect a completely different kind of book and it absolutely is not what you would expect, so go for the blurb and if this appeals to you, the book is great, don`t expect any ideas the cover might give you resembling the story!
March 18, 2013
There was a time when I could write coherently about why I loved a book but apparently this is not one of those times so...
*SQUEEEEEE*
Awwwwwww.
No way!!
Oh. My. GOD.
LOVE!
*dies of cuteness*
YES!!
*brought back to life by the amazing*
*sigh of contentment*
The End.
Note: For all those people who don't like kids in their book, there's a kid in this one. A wonderfully, adorable, smart and lovely little boy.
*SQUEEEEEE*
Awwwwwww.
No way!!
Oh. My. GOD.
LOVE!
*dies of cuteness*
YES!!
*brought back to life by the amazing*
*sigh of contentment*
The End.
Note: For all those people who don't like kids in their book, there's a kid in this one. A wonderfully, adorable, smart and lovely little boy.
October 9, 2013
Beautiful and touching! I cried buckets in the best way possible. My cousin has Aspergers and I remember growing up with him and how difficult that could be at times. He’s nowhere near as bad as Jamie is, but he definitely struggled growing up. It turned so many every day things into a struggle. This book touched my heart because of Jamie. While I loved Mattie and Simon’s relationship, Jamie made me love this book.
Simon Castle never expected to be a father. But when his sister passed away during childbirth her newborn son Jamie became his life. It didn’t take too many years before he realized that there was something different about the adorable baby he’d fallen completely in love with. Jamie is autistic. Simon’s life changed irrevocably at that point. The adaptations he had to make lost him his long time boyfriend who just wasn’t ready or interested in being a father, let alone to an autistic child. Still Simon regrets nothing he still has his writing, the help of a wonderful woman in Simon’s teacher Sara, and the most adorable little boy ever.
Mattie Green has clawed his way up out of nothing and is struggling to right the sinking ship his life had been. Having slipped through the cracks with social services Mattie never finished high school. Barely able to get any sort of menial job without a high school diploma he makes sandwiches for minimum wage while turning tricks at night for a little extra cash. He loathes the situation he’s in and depises himself every time he takes on another john, even if all he’s willing to do is oral. But Mattie wants better for himself. He has big dreams of attending art school in New York City. For now though he bides his time working to be able to get his GED and mooning over the guy who comes in to the café to write all day, and well isn’t his son just the most adorable thing ever?
Yes, yes he is! I could just feel Simon’s pain at not being able to wrap his son up in a hug and solve all his pain for him. I wanted nothing more than for Simon than to be able to make it all go away for Jamie. Despite everything though Jamie is such a happy kid! You just know reading this book how fabulous of a father Simon is. I really felt like Ms. Gilbert understood what it was like to raise a child dealing with something as stressful and difficult as autism. I can’t imagine how painful it is to have to sit back and watch your child scream and suffer knowing there’s nothing you can do to make it better, that in fact anything you do is probably going to make it worse.
For all that Jamie is the most adorable cutest little boy ever (aww somebody tame that cowlick!) Simon and Mattie’s romance was just heart wrenching. These two want to make things work together and yet their inability to talk at times cause so many problems. Mattie just trips over himself and falls for the man before him. This of course does nothing to help disperse the feelings of loathing and disgust he has for himself and what he does to make ends meet. Simon’s past, having been burned before, makes it so difficult for him to trust. To open up and allow someone into not just his heart but Jamie’s is terrifying. Each time Simon would fail Mattie, would snap at him and say something so devastatingly hurtful my heart would break. Mattie has such strength to be able to forgive and forget. Wow!
I loved the way this story was put together, letting us know of Mattie’s terror at seeing Simon again after a 3-year separation. It made me want to know their story desperately, to know not only what had caused the distance, but what love could possibly have withstood it. Only the most perfect love for the ages. Jamie and Simon have the greatest support system ever in Sarah and after some trials (which was a lovely little subplot) Simon’s mom, but they’re just not complete without Mattie.
This book is going on my favorites list for sure! Just such a cathartic release and reminds me of so much in my own life. I loved these two characters and how their flaws and rough edges just seemed to interlock with each other. Brilliant piece of writing that will touch your soul.
Simon Castle never expected to be a father. But when his sister passed away during childbirth her newborn son Jamie became his life. It didn’t take too many years before he realized that there was something different about the adorable baby he’d fallen completely in love with. Jamie is autistic. Simon’s life changed irrevocably at that point. The adaptations he had to make lost him his long time boyfriend who just wasn’t ready or interested in being a father, let alone to an autistic child. Still Simon regrets nothing he still has his writing, the help of a wonderful woman in Simon’s teacher Sara, and the most adorable little boy ever.
Mattie Green has clawed his way up out of nothing and is struggling to right the sinking ship his life had been. Having slipped through the cracks with social services Mattie never finished high school. Barely able to get any sort of menial job without a high school diploma he makes sandwiches for minimum wage while turning tricks at night for a little extra cash. He loathes the situation he’s in and depises himself every time he takes on another john, even if all he’s willing to do is oral. But Mattie wants better for himself. He has big dreams of attending art school in New York City. For now though he bides his time working to be able to get his GED and mooning over the guy who comes in to the café to write all day, and well isn’t his son just the most adorable thing ever?
Yes, yes he is! I could just feel Simon’s pain at not being able to wrap his son up in a hug and solve all his pain for him. I wanted nothing more than for Simon than to be able to make it all go away for Jamie. Despite everything though Jamie is such a happy kid! You just know reading this book how fabulous of a father Simon is. I really felt like Ms. Gilbert understood what it was like to raise a child dealing with something as stressful and difficult as autism. I can’t imagine how painful it is to have to sit back and watch your child scream and suffer knowing there’s nothing you can do to make it better, that in fact anything you do is probably going to make it worse.
For all that Jamie is the most adorable cutest little boy ever (aww somebody tame that cowlick!) Simon and Mattie’s romance was just heart wrenching. These two want to make things work together and yet their inability to talk at times cause so many problems. Mattie just trips over himself and falls for the man before him. This of course does nothing to help disperse the feelings of loathing and disgust he has for himself and what he does to make ends meet. Simon’s past, having been burned before, makes it so difficult for him to trust. To open up and allow someone into not just his heart but Jamie’s is terrifying. Each time Simon would fail Mattie, would snap at him and say something so devastatingly hurtful my heart would break. Mattie has such strength to be able to forgive and forget. Wow!
I loved the way this story was put together, letting us know of Mattie’s terror at seeing Simon again after a 3-year separation. It made me want to know their story desperately, to know not only what had caused the distance, but what love could possibly have withstood it. Only the most perfect love for the ages. Jamie and Simon have the greatest support system ever in Sarah and after some trials (which was a lovely little subplot) Simon’s mom, but they’re just not complete without Mattie.
This book is going on my favorites list for sure! Just such a cathartic release and reminds me of so much in my own life. I loved these two characters and how their flaws and rough edges just seemed to interlock with each other. Brilliant piece of writing that will touch your soul.
September 16, 2013
4.5 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Ok... full disclosure... I only bought this book because of the cover. I thought it was going to be BDSM - I was wrong. Of course I could have read the blurb to get clued into that little fact, as well as the fact that the book had a kid in it (something I tend to steer clear of) BUT had I done so I probably wouldn't have got the book, and therefore would have missed out on a stunning and beautiful reading experience.
Mattie has had a pretty crap life - a drunken father who couldn't really care less about him and a mother who up and left when he was little. He fell through the cracks at school - finishing off unable to read or write. He works at a San Diego Diner preparing sandwiches and cleaning up - a minimum wage job that has him struggling to make ends meet. He has dreams though of making something better of, and for, himself. He wants to go to art school in New York. Of course to do this he needs a GED, which means adult classes, which cost money. He is also putting together a portfolio of his work to send along to the NY college, art supplies are not cheap - more money needed! How does he supplement his earnings? The only way he sees is by hooking. He hates doing it. He often hates himself but copes by distancing himself mentally from his actions by only doing certain things with the johns - keeping a part of himself separate for one day, when he meets someone special.
Simon on the other hand had a great life and he had a great family... until things went to shit! :-( Leaving him with a son, Jamie. His long term partner Tim tried be fit in with Simon's new life as a Dad, but just couldn't cope and so he leaves. Simon decides that Jamie will now be his sole focus. But when he meets Mattie their connection is instant and powerful - they both feel that a casual relationship will work. This is all Simon wants; and Mattie's "sideline" shows that he is quite capable of doing casual... so, casual is the name of the game. Riiiight.
I really hope I haven't spoilered the book too much. What I have shared is the background story, almost like setting the scene for the main story - which, to me, is the journey of these two guys from what they have come to expect in life, to the knowledge that they can, in fact, have everything they ever wanted. Simon is just wonderful, nobly putting his son before everything - never dreaming that a guy as gorgeous as Mattie would ever want a guy like him. He is full of admiration for Mattie and the way he is trying to turn his life around, he obviously starts to fall for Mattie... hard! As Mattie does for him. But Mattie had these dreams of New York - everything he has done is geared up to moving the other side of America - how can Simon fit in? Who has to compromise? It really is a wonderful journey for these guys. They both have such good, supportive friends too - Karen, Jamie's teacher, is an absolute rock for Simon; and Ty, Mattie's friend, is incredible - he is there for Mattie, fighting in his corner - never letting him take his eye off the prize.
I really, really loved this book - it was so different to the books I normally make a beeline for - and I am glad to have read it. Just beautiful. Go. Buy the Book. I reckon you'll love it too!
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Ok... full disclosure... I only bought this book because of the cover. I thought it was going to be BDSM - I was wrong. Of course I could have read the blurb to get clued into that little fact, as well as the fact that the book had a kid in it (something I tend to steer clear of) BUT had I done so I probably wouldn't have got the book, and therefore would have missed out on a stunning and beautiful reading experience.
Mattie has had a pretty crap life - a drunken father who couldn't really care less about him and a mother who up and left when he was little. He fell through the cracks at school - finishing off unable to read or write. He works at a San Diego Diner preparing sandwiches and cleaning up - a minimum wage job that has him struggling to make ends meet. He has dreams though of making something better of, and for, himself. He wants to go to art school in New York. Of course to do this he needs a GED, which means adult classes, which cost money. He is also putting together a portfolio of his work to send along to the NY college, art supplies are not cheap - more money needed! How does he supplement his earnings? The only way he sees is by hooking. He hates doing it. He often hates himself but copes by distancing himself mentally from his actions by only doing certain things with the johns - keeping a part of himself separate for one day, when he meets someone special.
Simon on the other hand had a great life and he had a great family... until things went to shit! :-( Leaving him with a son, Jamie. His long term partner Tim tried be fit in with Simon's new life as a Dad, but just couldn't cope and so he leaves. Simon decides that Jamie will now be his sole focus. But when he meets Mattie their connection is instant and powerful - they both feel that a casual relationship will work. This is all Simon wants; and Mattie's "sideline" shows that he is quite capable of doing casual... so, casual is the name of the game. Riiiight.
I really hope I haven't spoilered the book too much. What I have shared is the background story, almost like setting the scene for the main story - which, to me, is the journey of these two guys from what they have come to expect in life, to the knowledge that they can, in fact, have everything they ever wanted. Simon is just wonderful, nobly putting his son before everything - never dreaming that a guy as gorgeous as Mattie would ever want a guy like him. He is full of admiration for Mattie and the way he is trying to turn his life around, he obviously starts to fall for Mattie... hard! As Mattie does for him. But Mattie had these dreams of New York - everything he has done is geared up to moving the other side of America - how can Simon fit in? Who has to compromise? It really is a wonderful journey for these guys. They both have such good, supportive friends too - Karen, Jamie's teacher, is an absolute rock for Simon; and Ty, Mattie's friend, is incredible - he is there for Mattie, fighting in his corner - never letting him take his eye off the prize.
I really, really loved this book - it was so different to the books I normally make a beeline for - and I am glad to have read it. Just beautiful. Go. Buy the Book. I reckon you'll love it too!
October 28, 2012
I really like LA Gilbert's other stories and will continue to read anything she writes. It is a good story, but alas not a big favorite for me this time round. I started out really liking this story until it got to the end and then I just felt irritated.
SPOILER FROM HERE.
The angst at the end with Mattie going off to college was too unrealistic for me. In these days of globalisation, social media and global communication why would they split up for 3 years and make themselves miserable when all they need to do is pick up the phone, Facebook each other , send emails or skype??
Skype is free!!
Also Simon was supposed to be an author. So don't authors travel and use means of communication?? Simon was well off too and could have afforded to pay for his boyfriend to travel during the holiday. (Have Visa will travel) This ending cast a shadow over the rest of the story for me. I think it would have been more enjoyable and realistic for me if I had seen them struggling with a long distance relationship rather then sending each other post cards. I don't regret reading it, just didn't like what I felt was unnecessary angst towards the end.
SPOILER FROM HERE.
The angst at the end with Mattie going off to college was too unrealistic for me. In these days of globalisation, social media and global communication why would they split up for 3 years and make themselves miserable when all they need to do is pick up the phone, Facebook each other , send emails or skype??
Skype is free!!
Also Simon was supposed to be an author. So don't authors travel and use means of communication?? Simon was well off too and could have afforded to pay for his boyfriend to travel during the holiday. (Have Visa will travel) This ending cast a shadow over the rest of the story for me. I think it would have been more enjoyable and realistic for me if I had seen them struggling with a long distance relationship rather then sending each other post cards. I don't regret reading it, just didn't like what I felt was unnecessary angst towards the end.
March 1, 2013
I might actually have enjoyed this book more if I could have suspended my disbelief on 3 notes:
1. A prostitute that only gives blowjobs - highly improbable (and he's all angsty and whiney and ashamed about it)
2. A writer that is able to support himself, send his kid to a private school and live in a very nice house after writing only 2 books
3. Having to pay for adult education literacy classes.
I was really, really trying hard to enjoy this book, but I kept saying, "Oh come on! This is ridiculous!"
But the absolute worst part is I paid $5.38 on Amazon for this ebook, and I could have sent this to a writer that posts their books for free on the internet, without ever expecting a payment, and who I actually loved reading.
1. A prostitute that only gives blowjobs - highly improbable (and he's all angsty and whiney and ashamed about it)
2. A writer that is able to support himself, send his kid to a private school and live in a very nice house after writing only 2 books
3. Having to pay for adult education literacy classes.
I was really, really trying hard to enjoy this book, but I kept saying, "Oh come on! This is ridiculous!"
But the absolute worst part is I paid $5.38 on Amazon for this ebook, and I could have sent this to a writer that posts their books for free on the internet, without ever expecting a payment, and who I actually loved reading.
June 29, 2014
I always struggle reading books that feature characters with disabilities, especially kids because of my own child with DS. But this one was written in such a way that it was an encouragement rather than a stabbing pain to my chest. I appreciated the honesty about some of the emotional struggles and feelings that creep in regardless of the depth of your love. I could absolutely relate to the "highs" you feel when your child crosses over some imaginary border and does something unexpected. I love that autism and the resulting behavior was explained without getting preachy. Jamie absolutely stole the show for me.
I'm going to leave the actual reviewing of this book to others. I typically don't even rate books like this because they just hit too close to home for me, but because this is a challenge read I'm required to rate it. I loved Simon and Mattie's story, but the rating is mostly based on the handling of sweet Jamie. 4.5 emotional stars
I'm going to leave the actual reviewing of this book to others. I typically don't even rate books like this because they just hit too close to home for me, but because this is a challenge read I'm required to rate it. I loved Simon and Mattie's story, but the rating is mostly based on the handling of sweet Jamie. 4.5 emotional stars
thanks-but-no-thanks
October 11, 2012Another book designed to squeeze as much angst as possible. Will be popular with many GR members, but not for me.
February 10, 2021
This is the first book that I’ve read from my box of books my two friends dropped on me…that I didn’t really care for. The characters were intolerable and unbelievable. I felt sorry for Mattie, especially seeing how Simon was absolutely horrible to him. Simon was so self centered that he couldn’t see beyond what was going to benefit Simon while at the same time, if Simon had asked Mattie to move Heaven and Earth for him…Mattie would have only asked “how far” and "where do you want them?". I don’t find any other books by this author in my box so maybe my friends had the same reaction that I did.
September 16, 2013
The Coil by LA Gilbert
5 stars!!
“Whether it came down to nature or God, people are what they are, and it’s never wrong. Nature is not wrong. Nature is one certainty, the one truth that is visible to people, and he hung onto that.”
My oh my, I absolutely adored this book, I have been reading a lot of the M/M genre recently, as it was so kindly pointed out my repertoire was severely lacking if I had not at least had a dabble and I must say, I am getting hooked!!
This is the story of Mattie and Simon. I was hooked the minute I read the prologue, I love an agonising prologue, but this just pulls you right in and as you are reading the story you can’t help but wonder how the prologue ties in to the story as it is all going so well. Then bam! There you have it, you can’t quite believe it but you did just read it on the page and your heart breaks, well mine did, several times throughout this story!
Simon is a successful writer, but deep down he is really very lonely. His life was turned upside down when his sister died and left him with her little baby Jamie. Simon adopted him and began to bring him up as his own, his long term partner could not hack being “a family” and left when it became apparent that Jamie had problems, it turned out he was autistic. So Simon has been a single parent family for years, Jamie is such an adorable little boy though, yes he has his issues but he makes up for it in spades, the little boy is totally infectious and you cannot help but fall in love with him during this book. Simon’s life revolves around Jamie and as such he has found a little coffee shop near Jamie’s school, where he can go and have breakfast, have his coffee and write. He stays there all day till it is time to pick Jamie up from school. This is where Simon meets Mattie.
“People who loved you, people who chose you, who made you their family and made you belong, they’re the ones that you have to hold onto with everything you have.”
Mattie, totally ADORABLE!! He has issues, lots of issues, he fell through the system as a child, he could not read or write and has been working to fund earning his GED through college even though he is in his 20’s, he is determined to make himself a better person. He is a talented artist and needs his GED to get into Art School in New York, this is his one life’s ambition. He barely makes ends meet as it is as the sandwich maker in the café that Simon frequents daily, he often goes without food and art supplies in order to pay his rent but he has other ways of making up the deficit and it is not pretty. He is basically a male prostitute with a difference, he does not have sex, he just does blow jobs as long as it is covered up!
“Confession time…I am insanely attracted to you.”
Ty, what an amazing best friend to Mattie, he was so supportive and only had his best friends interests at heart, even if that made him a meddling so and so sometimes, but the line of the book came from him, he had me in hysterics!
“He was looking because he thinks you’re hot. I’m losing masculine points by the second here”
“Scratch your balls or something” He discretely scratched his balls. “That’s better.”
If you want hot sex scenes this is not necessarily the book for you although there is a bit in there, this story concentrates on the emotional and relationship side. It is breathtakingly beautiful. This book shows you the highs and lows of bringing up a child single handed with autism, the struggles of being illiterate and trying to make something of yourself, falling in love, fighting for that love, struggling with that love, giving up that love and getting it back. It is a roller coaster of emotions and I felt every single one.
“This is me, telling you that you are still the guy I tell my secrets to…you always will be.”
I loved Simon and Jamie with a passion, he does make some ridiculous choices but I could understand why, but it didn’t make them any easier to read about. I adored Mattie, he had been through so much, yet he was still selfless. He gave everything and Jamie adored him, hurdle number 1 complete but will it be enough? Can Simon overcome Mattie’s lifestyle choices, can Mattie let Simon in enough to help or will pride get in the way, can Simon let Mattie into the little bubble that Simon calls his and Jamie’s life?
“I didn’t do anything with him because of you. I’m f**king broke and can’t pay my rent, but I turned down free cash because it felt disrespectful to you.” He took another shuddering breath. “F**k you, Simon.”
You will go through a plethora of emotions whilst reading this book, sadness, happiness, anger, you will laugh and you will cry but you will feel better for reading it. I totally connected with all the characters, Jamie was the star of the book for me, that little kid could have asked me for anything and I would have said yes! As Mattie said, Jamie is…
“No less, just different.”
Totally and utterly loved it, highly recommended.
www.theromancecover.com
5 stars!!
“Whether it came down to nature or God, people are what they are, and it’s never wrong. Nature is not wrong. Nature is one certainty, the one truth that is visible to people, and he hung onto that.”
My oh my, I absolutely adored this book, I have been reading a lot of the M/M genre recently, as it was so kindly pointed out my repertoire was severely lacking if I had not at least had a dabble and I must say, I am getting hooked!!
This is the story of Mattie and Simon. I was hooked the minute I read the prologue, I love an agonising prologue, but this just pulls you right in and as you are reading the story you can’t help but wonder how the prologue ties in to the story as it is all going so well. Then bam! There you have it, you can’t quite believe it but you did just read it on the page and your heart breaks, well mine did, several times throughout this story!
Simon is a successful writer, but deep down he is really very lonely. His life was turned upside down when his sister died and left him with her little baby Jamie. Simon adopted him and began to bring him up as his own, his long term partner could not hack being “a family” and left when it became apparent that Jamie had problems, it turned out he was autistic. So Simon has been a single parent family for years, Jamie is such an adorable little boy though, yes he has his issues but he makes up for it in spades, the little boy is totally infectious and you cannot help but fall in love with him during this book. Simon’s life revolves around Jamie and as such he has found a little coffee shop near Jamie’s school, where he can go and have breakfast, have his coffee and write. He stays there all day till it is time to pick Jamie up from school. This is where Simon meets Mattie.
“People who loved you, people who chose you, who made you their family and made you belong, they’re the ones that you have to hold onto with everything you have.”
Mattie, totally ADORABLE!! He has issues, lots of issues, he fell through the system as a child, he could not read or write and has been working to fund earning his GED through college even though he is in his 20’s, he is determined to make himself a better person. He is a talented artist and needs his GED to get into Art School in New York, this is his one life’s ambition. He barely makes ends meet as it is as the sandwich maker in the café that Simon frequents daily, he often goes without food and art supplies in order to pay his rent but he has other ways of making up the deficit and it is not pretty. He is basically a male prostitute with a difference, he does not have sex, he just does blow jobs as long as it is covered up!
“Confession time…I am insanely attracted to you.”
Ty, what an amazing best friend to Mattie, he was so supportive and only had his best friends interests at heart, even if that made him a meddling so and so sometimes, but the line of the book came from him, he had me in hysterics!
“He was looking because he thinks you’re hot. I’m losing masculine points by the second here”
“Scratch your balls or something” He discretely scratched his balls. “That’s better.”
If you want hot sex scenes this is not necessarily the book for you although there is a bit in there, this story concentrates on the emotional and relationship side. It is breathtakingly beautiful. This book shows you the highs and lows of bringing up a child single handed with autism, the struggles of being illiterate and trying to make something of yourself, falling in love, fighting for that love, struggling with that love, giving up that love and getting it back. It is a roller coaster of emotions and I felt every single one.
“This is me, telling you that you are still the guy I tell my secrets to…you always will be.”
I loved Simon and Jamie with a passion, he does make some ridiculous choices but I could understand why, but it didn’t make them any easier to read about. I adored Mattie, he had been through so much, yet he was still selfless. He gave everything and Jamie adored him, hurdle number 1 complete but will it be enough? Can Simon overcome Mattie’s lifestyle choices, can Mattie let Simon in enough to help or will pride get in the way, can Simon let Mattie into the little bubble that Simon calls his and Jamie’s life?
“I didn’t do anything with him because of you. I’m f**king broke and can’t pay my rent, but I turned down free cash because it felt disrespectful to you.” He took another shuddering breath. “F**k you, Simon.”
You will go through a plethora of emotions whilst reading this book, sadness, happiness, anger, you will laugh and you will cry but you will feel better for reading it. I totally connected with all the characters, Jamie was the star of the book for me, that little kid could have asked me for anything and I would have said yes! As Mattie said, Jamie is…
“No less, just different.”
Totally and utterly loved it, highly recommended.
www.theromancecover.com
October 22, 2012
This author does not disappoint. Can't wait till Feb/March 2013. Dear Author, do you think you could write 3 books per year? Just to make me happy... *wink wink* ;3
June 4, 2016
3.5 stars. Well written story about a single father of an autistic child who falls for a guy turning tricks to make ends meet. Just too pc and cute for my tastes, I prefer the dark side too much..
August 10, 2016
I couldn't find anything wrong with this story except for a few "then" vs "than" improper usage. Mattie's situation was truly believable. I understood why he was in a low paying job. I read another story where the guy was struggling and a reviewer didn't understand why the guy didn't just work another job to better his life. Mattie didn't have many options being illiterate and no high school diploma.
Although Mattie hooked, I like that he had standards and he was always safe. I like how Mattie and Simon met. I have a new respect for parents who raise kids with disabilities. I didn't see Jamie as a plot device either.
The struggles that Mattie and Simon faced were very realistic. I'm glad that Simon did not come across as wanting to be Mattie's savior. I understood why Simon wanted to take things slow but also understood when he got jealous. Mattie brought a tear to my eyes. I felt for him when he was made to feel less than by Simon's behavior.
I enjoyed the scene where Simon and his mother had their battle. I felt the mom's pain. She still had her beliefs but she was willing to put those aside to have a relationship with her son. She showed true redemption.
Great read!
Although Mattie hooked, I like that he had standards and he was always safe. I like how Mattie and Simon met. I have a new respect for parents who raise kids with disabilities. I didn't see Jamie as a plot device either.
The struggles that Mattie and Simon faced were very realistic. I'm glad that Simon did not come across as wanting to be Mattie's savior. I understood why Simon wanted to take things slow but also understood when he got jealous. Mattie brought a tear to my eyes. I felt for him when he was made to feel less than by Simon's behavior.
I enjoyed the scene where Simon and his mother had their battle. I felt the mom's pain. She still had her beliefs but she was willing to put those aside to have a relationship with her son. She showed true redemption.
Great read!
October 27, 2012
I'll admit that the reason I was attracted to the book was because there was a rent boy involved. I'm a bit of a lover of taboo subjects -- a BDSM polyamorous relationship between a rent boy and a couple of brothers would be a dream read for me. But the reason that I ended up loving this book -- and by loving this book, I mean LOVING this book -- is for the complete opposite reason. Sure, there was a bit of a rent boy aspect (though much more minor than you would think), but I loved this book because it was beautifully written and real and lovely and one of the best love stories I've read. As a mom of an autistic child, I connected to that aspect of the book. But I also loved the format of the story, the realness of the characters and the relationships, and the confrontation scene between Simon and his mother was so beautiful, it made me cry. After having read so many books that feel so contrived -- what a crazy misunderstanding! He's been shot again?, etc. -- everything in this book felt so authentic. And it was so, so good.
March 14, 2016
So I kept reading. Things got better and I fell even harder for Mattie, Simon & Jamie. Sweet precious little Jamie. And then, well it all went for shit...damn you Simon, I already knew you were a truly decent guy, just one facing challenging circumstances then when I wasn't looking you turned noble, you did the right thing, not the easy thing, just the right thing and I was hooked I had to keep reading, I had to know. So I kept reading quietly in the night and I found out and I cried to the very end, I closed the book and I silently cried myself to sleep. Happy and content in my knowledge. Thank you, Ms Gilbert for giving me sweet dreams to end my day on.
June 27, 2013
People who loved you, people who
chose you, who made you their family and made you belong, they’re the ones you have to hold onto
with everything you have.
Awesome read about Love, Friendship, Family, Hardships in life and Perseverance. I don't know how to really put it in words. It had me wanting to read it quick and finishing it in one sitting. All I can say is that, go check it out! :)
chose you, who made you their family and made you belong, they’re the ones you have to hold onto
with everything you have.
Awesome read about Love, Friendship, Family, Hardships in life and Perseverance. I don't know how to really put it in words. It had me wanting to read it quick and finishing it in one sitting. All I can say is that, go check it out! :)
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