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Missing
2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards- Finalist in GLBT Category 2012 New England Book Festival - Winner Gay Fiction 2012 Rainbow Award Winner - 2nd place in Gay Mystery/Thriller
While attending a 20th high school reunion in Alabama, Blain Harrington loses the love of his life in the blink of an eye. He soon realizes that everything is not always as it seems as he sets out on a journey for answers. What do you do when the world you thought you knew crumbles around you? How do you piece it back together? MISSING is gay fiction that plays with genres as Blain's world is turned upside down. Some call it mystery - others read for yourself and see how you would label what is missing in Mr. Harrington's world.
MISSING has been adapted for the screen as the film HE IS GONE. Shooting in 2014. heisgonemovie.com
While attending a 20th high school reunion in Alabama, Blain Harrington loses the love of his life in the blink of an eye. He soon realizes that everything is not always as it seems as he sets out on a journey for answers. What do you do when the world you thought you knew crumbles around you? How do you piece it back together? MISSING is gay fiction that plays with genres as Blain's world is turned upside down. Some call it mystery - others read for yourself and see how you would label what is missing in Mr. Harrington's world.
MISSING has been adapted for the screen as the film HE IS GONE. Shooting in 2014. heisgonemovie.com
216 pages, Paperback
First published August 16, 2012
2 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Drake Braxton
3 books46 followersDrake Braxton was born from straight parents and yet go figure – he came out gay. He’s an avid reader of M/M fiction and wanted to offer a multi-genre voice in the GLBT arena. He loves authors that can mix romance with erotic scenes and still be great story tellers. Someday he hopes to see ‘gay fiction’ moved from the back of the bookstore and mixed in with all other fiction for anyone to read. In the meantime, he’d gladly see his books on any shelf in a store: real or virtual. He is the award-winning author of MISSING published by Seventh Window Publications which as been optioned as a feature film, DESTINY ON THE TRACKS published by Dreamspinner Press, and VACATION FROM HELL, the first in a new series published by Seventh Window Publications.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 30, 2012
At 5% and not sure why I should care about Manny. I know nothing about him. And mc is boring. And secretive. Like just say why you fighting and stop mention this mysterious fight every other paragraph.
When i said as much in group read chat, i thought responses funny so going to share:
867-5309 (Jenny Jen): Blain is a little on the dry side.
LD: Dry humor like the British or just dry as in dishwater dull?
867-5309 (Jenny Jen): Dishwater
Then again, the dude is in shock and running on empty.
I didn't actually care about this because we don't know either character at all. As far as relationship development goes the most we know is they been together for 15 years an blaines a dirty so yeah not sure why we should care abouth them since they both strangers and the mc not even interesting. Only 7% hoping it gets better
Does he have to always refer to Manny as "my husband" it's so annoying.
The way he talks to people annoys me. He's so conceited and rude. He thinks everyone hates him because he's gay, but they hate him because he's an asshole. Poor Manny wish I had any idea at all why he's with this guy. Still been zero character development and still don't care where Manny is
So in the beginning he makes fun of people for their Walmart fashion. Now he's buying clothes at Walmart. He's such a douche and his whole tone of voice bores me
Omg this guy thinks so much. Jesus. Nothing is happening just him thinking the same stuff over and over
Oh Joy, random flash back at 24% at least mate we can finally get to know Manny a little. Since he's still a completely undeveloped character. Nope nothing interesting or developmental from this scene either. We just drifting on with no plot in sight
Wow, he's such an ass and so full of himself. Asking the dean why she denied him, the best teacher his department has ever had! Then he's surprised the reason is
Then he gets drunk, again and goes to tell at dean. Once again he points out he is the best teacher and his peers don't know shit. And if you dont agree with him you're stupid and don't know anything.
He is such an egotistical, selfish jerk that I can't even fill bad for him. Also he's an idiot.
Oh good the idiot alcoholic also likes to drive drunk. Wonderful. So far there has been nothing to like about this character
Wow still nothing I like about this character
Wow, he says his friend gratson an enabler for his drink addiction, so what he do? Go to the bar.
When i said as much in group read chat, i thought responses funny so going to share:
867-5309 (Jenny Jen): Blain is a little on the dry side.
LD: Dry humor like the British or just dry as in dishwater dull?
867-5309 (Jenny Jen): Dishwater
Then again, the dude is in shock and running on empty.
I didn't actually care about this because we don't know either character at all. As far as relationship development goes the most we know is they been together for 15 years an blaines a dirty so yeah not sure why we should care abouth them since they both strangers and the mc not even interesting. Only 7% hoping it gets better
Does he have to always refer to Manny as "my husband" it's so annoying.
The way he talks to people annoys me. He's so conceited and rude. He thinks everyone hates him because he's gay, but they hate him because he's an asshole. Poor Manny wish I had any idea at all why he's with this guy. Still been zero character development and still don't care where Manny is
So in the beginning he makes fun of people for their Walmart fashion. Now he's buying clothes at Walmart. He's such a douche and his whole tone of voice bores me
Omg this guy thinks so much. Jesus. Nothing is happening just him thinking the same stuff over and over
Oh Joy, random flash back at 24% at least mate we can finally get to know Manny a little. Since he's still a completely undeveloped character. Nope nothing interesting or developmental from this scene either. We just drifting on with no plot in sight
Wow, he's such an ass and so full of himself. Asking the dean why she denied him, the best teacher his department has ever had! Then he's surprised the reason is
Then he gets drunk, again and goes to tell at dean. Once again he points out he is the best teacher and his peers don't know shit. And if you dont agree with him you're stupid and don't know anything.
He is such an egotistical, selfish jerk that I can't even fill bad for him. Also he's an idiot.
Oh good the idiot alcoholic also likes to drive drunk. Wonderful. So far there has been nothing to like about this character
Wow still nothing I like about this character
Wow, he says his friend gratson an enabler for his drink addiction, so what he do? Go to the bar.
January 30, 2013
~~~
When you physically experience an apocalyptic, mind-tilt from reading a book -- that's EXCEPTIONAL!
This book is:
A Head Rush
A Heartache
A Challenge
A Journey
A Love Story
An Introspective
and
A Privilege to Read
I am completely drained and completely fulfilled.
I am drained and exhausted, but in the kind of way that makes you know the effort was very worthy.
THE CHARACTERS
Professor Blain Harrington - I miss my husband. But I also miss myself.
Manny - Manny was my family and he was missing.
The extended characters create the vivid fabric that more than supports this story. Strong friends, terrible bigots and sexy yet flawed lovers are just a few of the well developed personae completing this experience.
THE STORY
Here's where this review will be lacking, but not because the story lacks for anything. Instead, I just can't tell you what the story is about without saying too much. I will say that this is a full, rich journey with a realistic ending.
The author could have easily veered off into personal postulation. At times my mind was screaming to be shown the answers, asking to be driven through the "no man's land" safely. Like a good storyteller though, Drake Braxton let me find my way. I hesitate to use the word enlightened, but there is certainly a sense of that at the end, adding an additional element of merit to this read.
THE WRITING
The genius of the writing is even more obvious as I look back at the beginning of the book to write this review. It's a "chicken or the egg" scenario. Which came first Mr. Braxton? The beginning couldn't possibly have been crafted before the ending was formed, could it?
A complicated, complex and involved journey that is a must read. It's just an incredible accomplishment and a privilege to read.
RECOMMENDATION: Exceptional
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
When you physically experience an apocalyptic, mind-tilt from reading a book -- that's EXCEPTIONAL!
This book is:
A Head Rush
A Heartache
A Challenge
A Journey
A Love Story
An Introspective
and
A Privilege to Read
I am completely drained and completely fulfilled.
I am drained and exhausted, but in the kind of way that makes you know the effort was very worthy.
THE CHARACTERS
Professor Blain Harrington - I miss my husband. But I also miss myself.
Manny - Manny was my family and he was missing.
The extended characters create the vivid fabric that more than supports this story. Strong friends, terrible bigots and sexy yet flawed lovers are just a few of the well developed personae completing this experience.
THE STORY
Here's where this review will be lacking, but not because the story lacks for anything. Instead, I just can't tell you what the story is about without saying too much. I will say that this is a full, rich journey with a realistic ending.
The author could have easily veered off into personal postulation. At times my mind was screaming to be shown the answers, asking to be driven through the "no man's land" safely. Like a good storyteller though, Drake Braxton let me find my way. I hesitate to use the word enlightened, but there is certainly a sense of that at the end, adding an additional element of merit to this read.
THE WRITING
The genius of the writing is even more obvious as I look back at the beginning of the book to write this review. It's a "chicken or the egg" scenario. Which came first Mr. Braxton? The beginning couldn't possibly have been crafted before the ending was formed, could it?
A complicated, complex and involved journey that is a must read. It's just an incredible accomplishment and a privilege to read.
RECOMMENDATION: Exceptional
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
September 10, 2012
Good lord. That was a helluva ride. My face must have been priceless in the moment that the major plot twist occurs because my roommate was like "Girl, what's wrong?" and I was trying not to fall out of my chair. I still have whiplash from doing the double take that I did. The book was definitely well written and the grief and the downward spiral it causes in Blain are palpable but I don't know that I ever recovered well from the shock. I'd seen someone else say it was like reading two disjointed stories, and I'd agree. Not that I lost any interest and I totally am feeling the author's balls to the wall approach with the plot BUT it did leave me wondering if a different title would be appropriate AND i'm a bit sad cuz I really was enjoying the criminal intrigue originally set forth by the story. Overall a good read. Only recommend it to people who can handle a good mind-fuck, though.
August 30, 2012
From some of the reviews I read, people are hesitant about giving too much away and rightfully so. I won't risk it either...I'm not even going to add tags. All I'll say is that it was miles away from where I was expecting the book to go and nowhere near a straight line getting there.
September 4, 2012
2.5 stars
This book is very difficult to rate. It started out as a mystery and as a good one, really. I couldn't put it down and felt with poor Blain looking for his missing husband. But then the story changed into something entirely else and had I known that in advance, I'm sure I hadn't bought it. I'm not a fan of reading about people on a self-destructive path. Nevertheless, the writing was very compelling and drove me to read on and not throw it on my DNF-pile. The story ended on a positive note, but that didn't help in my overall opinion. I'm sure I won't do a re-read of this book. Am I glad that I read it - still not sure, but I tend to say 'nope'. So, rating: 1.5 stars for the story, 1 star on top for the writing.
This book is very difficult to rate. It started out as a mystery and as a good one, really. I couldn't put it down and felt with poor Blain looking for his missing husband. But then the story changed into something entirely else and had I known that in advance, I'm sure I hadn't bought it. I'm not a fan of reading about people on a self-destructive path. Nevertheless, the writing was very compelling and drove me to read on and not throw it on my DNF-pile. The story ended on a positive note, but that didn't help in my overall opinion. I'm sure I won't do a re-read of this book. Am I glad that I read it - still not sure, but I tend to say 'nope'. So, rating: 1.5 stars for the story, 1 star on top for the writing.
August 22, 2012
Wow this book was so good. I can't even begin to explain it. I'm not that good with words that's why I'm just a reader, lol This book took me on an emotional roller coaster though, I laughed, cried I wanted to throw my Kindle and was I just sad sometimes and this was all for Blain. I so felt for him and it broke my heart what he had to go through. I'm not saying anything specific about what happened in the book it would spoil it but if you haven't gotten it, buy it you won't be disappointed. One of the best books I've read in a while. I want to give a shout out to Michael I loved him too:-) Highly recommended.
August 26, 2012
Well now, that changes everything....what the heck?
August 31, 2012
Okay - wow. People are loving this book and I just have to say, it wasn't quite for me. I was very excited to read this book based on the current reviews and ratings out there and I always love reading new authors.
What people are calling "exciting twists" to me felt like I read two disjointed books. I was really engaged in the beginning of the book where Blain is searching for his missing husband, Manny. I was told this was a "thriller" and the action started pretty quickly. It's difficult to review this book without spoilers, but let's just say at the point where the big "twist" occurs, I felt like I was left a little high and dry. The whole thriller/mystery rug was swept out from under me, and I felt like I was reading a totally different book from that point on. The second half of the book focuses on Blain and I just didn't like his character at all. It became a story about drinking, drug use, risky sexual behavior, self-destructive choices, and to top it all off, Blain was kind of a huge ass to his best friend, Michael and There really weren't any redeeming qualities that I saw in Blain. By the end of the book, I did get the theme of "second chances" but by then, it was too late in the book to win me over to Blain's side. I think I would like this new Blain, but I just didn't see enough of him in this book to make a connection. Missing was just a little too all over the place for me, plot-wise, but in reading other people's reviews and in talking to my friends, I can definitely see WHY they loved it....it just wasn't for me.
My friend said she hoped it was all just a dream at that Blain would wake up and I said, oh NO! That would have been the worst story ending ever! But that is kind of what I felt to some degree in the middle of the book.
Would I try another book from this author? Most likely. The first book I read from one of my favorite authors Eric Arvin was Woke Up in a Strange Place which everyone else LOVED. Another book that just wasn't for me. But I have LOVED every other book I've read of his, so I will definitely try Drake Braxton again in the future.
What people are calling "exciting twists" to me felt like I read two disjointed books. I was really engaged in the beginning of the book where Blain is searching for his missing husband, Manny. I was told this was a "thriller" and the action started pretty quickly. It's difficult to review this book without spoilers, but let's just say at the point where the big "twist" occurs, I felt like I was left a little high and dry. The whole thriller/mystery rug was swept out from under me, and I felt like I was reading a totally different book from that point on. The second half of the book focuses on Blain and I just didn't like his character at all. It became a story about drinking, drug use, risky sexual behavior, self-destructive choices, and to top it all off, Blain was kind of a huge ass to his best friend, Michael and There really weren't any redeeming qualities that I saw in Blain. By the end of the book, I did get the theme of "second chances" but by then, it was too late in the book to win me over to Blain's side. I think I would like this new Blain, but I just didn't see enough of him in this book to make a connection. Missing was just a little too all over the place for me, plot-wise, but in reading other people's reviews and in talking to my friends, I can definitely see WHY they loved it....it just wasn't for me.
My friend said she hoped it was all just a dream at that Blain would wake up and I said, oh NO! That would have been the worst story ending ever! But that is kind of what I felt to some degree in the middle of the book.
Would I try another book from this author? Most likely. The first book I read from one of my favorite authors Eric Arvin was Woke Up in a Strange Place which everyone else LOVED. Another book that just wasn't for me. But I have LOVED every other book I've read of his, so I will definitely try Drake Braxton again in the future.
August 29, 2012
At the point in the story where all was revealed, I could only say "Wait. What?" Not at all what I was expecting. Suddenly the story veered into the type of gay fiction that I read when I was in my 20's. Absolutely nothing wrong with that, and I suppose it was well-written, but again, a completely different story from what I was expecting. I suppose I have trouble connecting with characters that lead a more stereotypical gay "lifestyle" with lots of drinking, some drugs, risky sexual behavior, groups of guys naked in hot tubs calling each other "girl" etc. Whereas I'd rather be out hiking the John Muir Trail or kayaking. Or watching college football and hoping beyond hope that this year Northwestern will finally win a bowl game. So.....a book that wasn't my cup of tea but obviously from all the five star reviews it resonates with others.
December 21, 2014
Blain is grieving over his missing husband only to realize half way through the story that he is the one who's been missing all this time. Can't say much about this book without giving the plot away. Wonderfully twisted, the plot, the title, the last 15% of the book... one surprise after another, while Blain is literally going out of his mind with guilt and pain of losing a loved one.
September 3, 2012
I can't say a lot about the plot without giving away too much, but this story is not at all what it seems. What begins as a straightforward mystery evolves into something much more complex, and ultimately becomes a tale of recovery and redemption. I appreciated the way this book dealt with friendship; the relationship between Michael and Blain was portrayed especially well. The only thing holding me back from a five-star rating is that I wish the two parts of the story were better entwined.
September 1, 2012
Have you ever picked up one of those books that wrap you in its arms from the first page? This thriller by Drake Braxton is one. It’s hard to believe "Missing" is a breakout novel as Drake writes with the skill of a seasoned author.
Meet Blain Harrington, drama as English professor and husband to his great love Manny. The couple is in Culver Pines, Alabama, and Blain’s hometown to attend his 20th high school reunion; a place that Manny would rather not be. While Blain works the crowd he sees Manny immersed in conversation with an old classmate. When he looks again, Manny is gone.
Miles from home in the midst of a Southern town steeped in old traditions where bigotry and homophobia surround him at every turn, Blain implores the local police to begin a search for Manny only to meet with opposition as the police won’t begin the search until he has been gone at least 48 hours, an eternity to Blain. Thus begins the moment Blain’s life begins to tailspin out of control.
Binge drinking, recreational drugs and wild sexual abandon soon become Blain's coping mechanism when Manny is still missing after several weeks and no new leads to follow. His dearest friend Michael rallies around Blain to be the voice of reason and help him through the process of grieving for his missing love that will take him to rock bottom before he can climb out.
A story of lost love, overcoming addictions and the power of friendship, "Missing" is as hard hitting as it is warm and fuzzy. Drake Braxton has written Blain with such depth of character you can feel his inner turmoil as he fights with himself in a battle of blame and self-loathing, versus a chance to live a full life and perhaps love again. Drake rounds out his cast with Grayson, the middle-aged party boy, and Michael the “mother” of the group who cares for his cubs and hopes for a love to call his own.
I want to tell you so much about this book, but have to restrain myself so I don’t ruin the read for you. I will say this, you will be so drawn into the book, connecting with the characters and wanting to find out what truly happened to Manny that you won’t be able to pull yourself away. This book has the earmark of a best-seller.
"Missing" is a 5 star read. It’s a pack in your suitcase, grab a stolen moment, and relax by a fire kind of read that you must experience. Well done Drake!
Meet Blain Harrington, drama as English professor and husband to his great love Manny. The couple is in Culver Pines, Alabama, and Blain’s hometown to attend his 20th high school reunion; a place that Manny would rather not be. While Blain works the crowd he sees Manny immersed in conversation with an old classmate. When he looks again, Manny is gone.
Miles from home in the midst of a Southern town steeped in old traditions where bigotry and homophobia surround him at every turn, Blain implores the local police to begin a search for Manny only to meet with opposition as the police won’t begin the search until he has been gone at least 48 hours, an eternity to Blain. Thus begins the moment Blain’s life begins to tailspin out of control.
Binge drinking, recreational drugs and wild sexual abandon soon become Blain's coping mechanism when Manny is still missing after several weeks and no new leads to follow. His dearest friend Michael rallies around Blain to be the voice of reason and help him through the process of grieving for his missing love that will take him to rock bottom before he can climb out.
A story of lost love, overcoming addictions and the power of friendship, "Missing" is as hard hitting as it is warm and fuzzy. Drake Braxton has written Blain with such depth of character you can feel his inner turmoil as he fights with himself in a battle of blame and self-loathing, versus a chance to live a full life and perhaps love again. Drake rounds out his cast with Grayson, the middle-aged party boy, and Michael the “mother” of the group who cares for his cubs and hopes for a love to call his own.
I want to tell you so much about this book, but have to restrain myself so I don’t ruin the read for you. I will say this, you will be so drawn into the book, connecting with the characters and wanting to find out what truly happened to Manny that you won’t be able to pull yourself away. This book has the earmark of a best-seller.
"Missing" is a 5 star read. It’s a pack in your suitcase, grab a stolen moment, and relax by a fire kind of read that you must experience. Well done Drake!
August 21, 2013
This was not a typical romance, love story or anything like that. It was more about a man meeting his demons and taking them out to lunch... repeatedly. It was fascinating, annoying and a little crazy. I gasped so loudly that my husband asked what was wrong. What a freakin' ride.
January 6, 2013
I have no idea how to label this book. All I know is that it was brilliant. Harsh, gritty, loving, sexy, confusing, amazing, upsetting, hopeful, crushing, scary, and, finally, absolutely delightful.
Personal growth, awareness and delirious action.
For a debut novel, this is amazing. Actually, it would be amazing for any author and at any stage of his or her writing career; it has a unique voice and a feeling of honesty is seeping through with every page you turn.
Nothing I've even known is for sure anymore. Absolutely riveting. Not even ONE chapter went the way I thought it would. Not even ONE turn of events took off in a direction I was expecting.
And on top of all that? Even the cover is stunning, and to the point.
No excerpts from this one. Just go read it. The storytelling is like a ride on the Blue Tornado in Gardaland.
I'm still clutching my belly, wondering where my shoes are, and if my hat can be seen anywhere, or perhaps it's lost forever.
Up is down, and I have NO idea where down is.
Well done. Well done, Mr Braxton.
***
I was NOT asked to read this book by anyone, I paid for it with my own money, as I do for all the books I read, all the music I listen to and the movies I watch.
Personal growth, awareness and delirious action.
For a debut novel, this is amazing. Actually, it would be amazing for any author and at any stage of his or her writing career; it has a unique voice and a feeling of honesty is seeping through with every page you turn.
Nothing I've even known is for sure anymore. Absolutely riveting. Not even ONE chapter went the way I thought it would. Not even ONE turn of events took off in a direction I was expecting.
And on top of all that? Even the cover is stunning, and to the point.
No excerpts from this one. Just go read it. The storytelling is like a ride on the Blue Tornado in Gardaland.
I'm still clutching my belly, wondering where my shoes are, and if my hat can be seen anywhere, or perhaps it's lost forever.
Up is down, and I have NO idea where down is.
Well done. Well done, Mr Braxton.
***
I was NOT asked to read this book by anyone, I paid for it with my own money, as I do for all the books I read, all the music I listen to and the movies I watch.
December 12, 2012
DNF at 60%
Usually I don't rate DNF books, as it would be a bit unfair... But then, ratings are never really fair :-)
Even though I was expecting a "big plot twist" as many reviews have hinted - the big revelation just made me went from "don't really care for the main character but hope the missing mystery part would keep me interested" to "OK, now I know what this is Really about and I don't really care".
The first person POV definitely is a tricky one here, especially when I don't like the "voice" of the main character. Blaine is a flawed character, flawed but not very likable, unfortunately. I heard him saying that he loved Manny, but I saw little real evidence of it; I heard him proclaiming to be the best professor, but saw no other proof of it (apart from a mention of a student rally because he got fired for sleeping with a student!). Blaine said lots of good and bad things about himself, but I didn't really see/feel those things. While this is reasonably well written, most of the time the sentences seem rather flat.
Stories about addicts can be tiresome and repetitive, it's hard watching someone going on a self-destruct downward spiral, it doesn't help that the person is not exactly sympathetic.
Usually I don't rate DNF books, as it would be a bit unfair... But then, ratings are never really fair :-)
Even though I was expecting a "big plot twist" as many reviews have hinted - the big revelation just made me went from "don't really care for the main character but hope the missing mystery part would keep me interested" to "OK, now I know what this is Really about and I don't really care".
The first person POV definitely is a tricky one here, especially when I don't like the "voice" of the main character. Blaine is a flawed character, flawed but not very likable, unfortunately. I heard him saying that he loved Manny, but I saw little real evidence of it; I heard him proclaiming to be the best professor, but saw no other proof of it (apart from a mention of a student rally because he got fired for sleeping with a student!). Blaine said lots of good and bad things about himself, but I didn't really see/feel those things. While this is reasonably well written, most of the time the sentences seem rather flat.
Stories about addicts can be tiresome and repetitive, it's hard watching someone going on a self-destruct downward spiral, it doesn't help that the person is not exactly sympathetic.
April 11, 2014
Ooohhh! That was very interesting! Didn't know what to expect. As I got closer to the end, I kept waiting for another twist, about some other reality or fantasy!
Wow, Blain went through all kinds of hell. I'm glad he had his friends! This book was really about second chances and forgiving yourself. To trust yourself again, to gain yourself again. I couldn't stop reading, it kept my attention! :)
Wow, Blain went through all kinds of hell. I'm glad he had his friends! This book was really about second chances and forgiving yourself. To trust yourself again, to gain yourself again. I couldn't stop reading, it kept my attention! :)
August 29, 2012
Well, I like books that have something happen in the middle that throws the beginning into a whole new light...and this book has that happen with a vengeance! A story about coming to term with life changes, grief, hitting bottom, and a touch of redemption. It's one of those books that crawls into your mind and doesn't leave easily.
August 24, 2012
This is not what I expected at all! But wow! I couldn't put it down.
November 26, 2012
Look for a full review of this book on my web site soon.
December 29, 2020
Mm but not much romance. Too depressing But not enough happy points. Not for me.
October 27, 2013
While attending a 20th high school reunion in Alabama, Blain Harrington’s husband disappears. The police are no help. Blain sets out to find the love of his life, only to discover that everything is not as it seems. What starts as a search to recover his lover, morphs into a hunt to find himself.
The first half of Braxton’s debut novel is a bit difficult to read, because the protagonist quickly turns into a whiny, self-absorbed, unlikeable fellow. At the halfway point, the author turns the plot on its head and the reader discovers everything that came before is not what it seemed. That’s when the book becomes interesting.
The story follows Blain’s journey of grief, drugs, booze and sex all the way to the bottom, and then the long climb back up. I’m not sure Blain becomes any more likable in the second half of the book, but the reader understands the character’s motives and hardships. Helping Blain along his journey are two close friends, one a saint and the other a devil, who seem to mirror the battle going on inside Blain’s head.
There are sections of this story that are extremely well written, although sizable portions of it are told through tedious dialog. Also, I feel the plot lacks imagination. All in all, however, Missing is an interesting read that I can recommend.
The first half of Braxton’s debut novel is a bit difficult to read, because the protagonist quickly turns into a whiny, self-absorbed, unlikeable fellow. At the halfway point, the author turns the plot on its head and the reader discovers everything that came before is not what it seemed. That’s when the book becomes interesting.
The story follows Blain’s journey of grief, drugs, booze and sex all the way to the bottom, and then the long climb back up. I’m not sure Blain becomes any more likable in the second half of the book, but the reader understands the character’s motives and hardships. Helping Blain along his journey are two close friends, one a saint and the other a devil, who seem to mirror the battle going on inside Blain’s head.
There are sections of this story that are extremely well written, although sizable portions of it are told through tedious dialog. Also, I feel the plot lacks imagination. All in all, however, Missing is an interesting read that I can recommend.
August 26, 2012
A foreign-born gay man goes missing in the United States. Not quite the most interesting premise for a story but, when the man is the legally married husband of a male US citizen, it becomes a bit more complicated what with same-sex marriage recognized only in a handful of states. Move the setting to rural Alabama, hardly a bastion of tolerance, either for gays or for the foreign born, and you have the premise of Missing, the debut novel of new m/m romance author, Drake Braxton.
Blain Harrington attends his high school reunion with his gorgeous Brazilian-born husband who suddenly goes missing during the reunion. Being the hopeless romantic I am, I was first attracted to the book as it was being marketed as an m/m romance. And yet, Braxton bends the rules by bringing many suspenseful moments into the story thereby creating a romantic thriller or perhaps a thrilling romance. There are plenty of plot twists to keep the reader involved in the plot and many a moment for the romantic to shed a tear with just the right amount of sex to titillate. For me, it was quite the page turner on all accounts; the suspense, the romance, the sex, the trifecta! I am anxiously waiting his next release.
Blain Harrington attends his high school reunion with his gorgeous Brazilian-born husband who suddenly goes missing during the reunion. Being the hopeless romantic I am, I was first attracted to the book as it was being marketed as an m/m romance. And yet, Braxton bends the rules by bringing many suspenseful moments into the story thereby creating a romantic thriller or perhaps a thrilling romance. There are plenty of plot twists to keep the reader involved in the plot and many a moment for the romantic to shed a tear with just the right amount of sex to titillate. For me, it was quite the page turner on all accounts; the suspense, the romance, the sex, the trifecta! I am anxiously waiting his next release.
September 9, 2012
Readers often can’t help but become active participants in a mystery story in that a large part of their reading experience is to figure out the “who done it” before the author reveals all, and I am no different. I love a mystery that is chalk full of plot twists and the more challenging it is to solve, the better.
In his debut novel, Missing, Drake Braxton has written a twist of a story that takes the art of a winding plot to an entirely new level. One that completely blindsides the reader leaving them momentarily with figurative whiplash and in wonder of the extremely well nuanced clues they missed. But once the turn of events settle into place they make perfect sense and the story then takes on new meaning. One in which the reader journeys with Blain Harrington, the main character, through the stages of his grief at the loss of his husband Manny and his recovery from alcoholism.
The complete review of Missing by Drake Braxton is available at Indie Reviews.
September 30, 2012
Blain Harrington lives in Boston with his husband Manny. Blain is looking forward to their attendance at his class reunion in small town, Culver Pines, in deep south Alabama. Little did Blain think that his home town might be homophobic and discriminatory toward him and his Latin husband. Manny isn't too enthusiastic about the party held at the Helton Hotel, but he wanders around, talking to a few people. Shortly before midnight, Blain can't find Manny anywhere. He's not in their hotel room, neither does he answer his cell phone. But where is Manny, and who can really help Blain find him? Blair can envision him being held captive in an old shack, or worse: bludgeoned to death. As the first novel by this author, it had a great suspenseful twist and turn of events and I found it a great, moving, sensitive novel. I look forward to more from this very creative and talented author.
August 10, 2014
This is a sad yet intriguing story that's not really a mystery but a book on how vthe MC goes on with his life when someting horrific happens. Blain and Manny have been a couple for seven years, they even had a commitment ceremony on a beach in P-Town.The couple was happy and Blain insist that Manny accompany him to his 20 year high school reunion in the small town he grew up in Alabama. All seems to be going well, as the evening winds down Blain looks for Manny and can't find him.Blain runs into homophobia, racism, and ignorance in his former hometown while trying to find his husband. I won't say more, other than this is a well written story filled with twists and turns. Blain is a seriously flawed and at times unlikeable character.He makes you want to slap him for his narcissism and hug him for all he's gone thru. This is a good read!
October 27, 2012
What an amazing story! I love reading when I feel connected to characters and events and come to care about them and what is happening in the storyline. I do not post spoilers in my reviews. I will tell you that if you enjoy a terrific tale that makes you think and then has twists and turns that make you think again, you will be happy with this book.
Drake draws you into the story and the characters lives and just when you think you might have something figured out, there's a revelation that sets you back on your heels or brings you to the edge of your seat. I found no part of this book slow or meandering, it was a non-stop thrill ride through the lives of the characters.
OK, enough of reading what I have to say, just go get this book and READ it!
Drake draws you into the story and the characters lives and just when you think you might have something figured out, there's a revelation that sets you back on your heels or brings you to the edge of your seat. I found no part of this book slow or meandering, it was a non-stop thrill ride through the lives of the characters.
OK, enough of reading what I have to say, just go get this book and READ it!
August 24, 2012
I have seen this title filling up my Twitter feed, so I purchased it to see what all the fanfare was about. OMG!!! What a great read! I am a HUGE fan of mysteries and this title is among my top five favorites!
The characters are well "fleshed" out and the plot flows along in such a way that you will read twenty pages before you even realize it! And I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that though I THOUGHT I had figured out what was going to happen, I was most pleasantly proved wrong in my presumption upon more reading.
Keep an eye out for more from this author because he has an uncanny grasp of what mystery fans crave! I wish I had more than just two thumbs because they would all be UP!!!
The characters are well "fleshed" out and the plot flows along in such a way that you will read twenty pages before you even realize it! And I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that though I THOUGHT I had figured out what was going to happen, I was most pleasantly proved wrong in my presumption upon more reading.
Keep an eye out for more from this author because he has an uncanny grasp of what mystery fans crave! I wish I had more than just two thumbs because they would all be UP!!!
September 2, 2012
Drake Braxton’s first novel “Missing” is evidence of a very promising writer.
Two aspects in particular impressed me.
Braxton writes realistic and convincing dialogue. Each of the voices of his characters is unique allowing them to be distinguished one from the other and to evoke compelling impressions.
Secondly, Braxton has created a complex storyline that is full of unexpected and exciting twists as well as unrolling on multiple dimensions that give the novel depth.
I very much enjoyed reading “Missing” and look forward to further work from Braxton.
Two aspects in particular impressed me.
Braxton writes realistic and convincing dialogue. Each of the voices of his characters is unique allowing them to be distinguished one from the other and to evoke compelling impressions.
Secondly, Braxton has created a complex storyline that is full of unexpected and exciting twists as well as unrolling on multiple dimensions that give the novel depth.
I very much enjoyed reading “Missing” and look forward to further work from Braxton.
September 5, 2012
this book starts off with a boom! keeps you guessing for the 1st half. i did get a bit frustrated by some of the things the MC did in then 1st half. it left me thinking "huh, that's not how i would have reacted" but then....then... the author throws another curve ball at you. :P
however, it slowed down for me in the 2nd half. can't give details why b/c it will give away too much and the reader needs to experience this story without any possible hints.
however, it slowed down for me in the 2nd half. can't give details why b/c it will give away too much and the reader needs to experience this story without any possible hints.
January 6, 2013
I'm more of an Agatha Christie / Minette Walters type, so came to this book with the expectation of a murder mystery. Surprised in more ways than one, I found myself enjoying its multi-genre storyline, told effectively in simple yet powerfully emotive language. I enjoyed the plot twists, and loved the ending.
I shall be looking forward to more of Mr Braxton's future works.
I shall be looking forward to more of Mr Braxton's future works.
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