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Special Needs #2
Special Needs 2
“Special Needs” is book two out of a two part series.
--- Caretaking. Like a boss. ---
So, Ryan isn’t disabled. Okay, he is, but he’s only got a foot missing, that’s hardly a reason to pretend he’s paraplegic and ride around in a wheelchair! Now Liam has to deal with being lied to since the moment they met, and he is not a happy camper. He doesn’t understand why sweet, innocent Ryan would do such a thing. What if there are other things his boyfriend lied about? Or ex-boyfriend for that matter.
Ryan is in a state of complete panic at the sole thought of losing Liam, his first proper boyfriend ever. But the show must go on and after the fire in his hotel, Ryan can’t only focus on his love life. He’s a serious businessman after all. Marketing, networking and promoting will be his new love life. Who needs a boyfriend anyway, when in the end, every guy is either a devotee, or freaks out about his transability? Yet... maybe if Liam stayed around the hotel, they could at least make up and become friends.
There is one more option to consider - walking. If Ryan started walking, would Liam want to be with him again? But how far can he bend to Liam’s wishes before he breaks?
_______________
Length 135,000 words
Genre: contemporary erotic m/m romance, dramedy
Themes (may contain SPOILERS): disability, deception, alternative lifestyles, tattoos, self-image issues, financial trouble, boss/employee, abduction, transability, communication issues, self-harm, BIID
Erotic content: explicit m/m sexual scenes (including role play)
--- Caretaking. Like a boss. ---
So, Ryan isn’t disabled. Okay, he is, but he’s only got a foot missing, that’s hardly a reason to pretend he’s paraplegic and ride around in a wheelchair! Now Liam has to deal with being lied to since the moment they met, and he is not a happy camper. He doesn’t understand why sweet, innocent Ryan would do such a thing. What if there are other things his boyfriend lied about? Or ex-boyfriend for that matter.
Ryan is in a state of complete panic at the sole thought of losing Liam, his first proper boyfriend ever. But the show must go on and after the fire in his hotel, Ryan can’t only focus on his love life. He’s a serious businessman after all. Marketing, networking and promoting will be his new love life. Who needs a boyfriend anyway, when in the end, every guy is either a devotee, or freaks out about his transability? Yet... maybe if Liam stayed around the hotel, they could at least make up and become friends.
There is one more option to consider - walking. If Ryan started walking, would Liam want to be with him again? But how far can he bend to Liam’s wishes before he breaks?
_______________
Length 135,000 words
Genre: contemporary erotic m/m romance, dramedy
Themes (may contain SPOILERS): disability, deception, alternative lifestyles, tattoos, self-image issues, financial trouble, boss/employee, abduction, transability, communication issues, self-harm, BIID
Erotic content: explicit m/m sexual scenes (including role play)
248 pages, ebook
First published December 9, 2013
3 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Merikan
130 books3,031 followers(Goodreads profile run by Kat)
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 4, 2023
I’ve been struggling on what to say for this review, because I loved these characters, but the story left me with very mixed emotions. Ryan and Liam are complex, they have depth, they’re hilarious, they are also really fucked up, make terrible decisions, and hurt each other.
Warning! There will be spoilers from the first book in the rest of my review below!
🛑
🛑
🛑
Writing a love story with two very unique characters is tough, but to also including the subject of transability and Body Integrity Identity Disorder, had to be a massive undertaking by these authors.
Liam reflected my frustrations with Ryan in this quote.
“Oh, isn’t that right. Your dirty secret is that you aren’t fucking paralyzed! Do you know how offensive this is? All those people who actually have this problem, and you spit in their faces!”
I wish this conversation had continued. Ryan never really recognized this as an issue, and his lack of therapy was concerning. However, his achingly raw POV in this book hurt my heart, and made me feel so much compassion for him.
It was humorous to watch Liam and Ryan stumble around their communication style. Basically, they don’t mean to hurt each other, they just seem to be on different wavelengths. Yes, they continue to lie to each other and that drove me nuts!
I’m impressed with the amount of emotions this book rung out of me. I sat with my feelings for these characters for a very long time. Hence my four-star rating.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the off the charts, smokin hot, role-playing, sex scenes!! 🔥
I feel like the trigger warnings need to be much stronger, as I wasn’t expecting what I read in this story…and I’m not one to complain about TW.
Warning! There will be spoilers from the first book in the rest of my review below!
🛑
🛑
🛑
Writing a love story with two very unique characters is tough, but to also including the subject of transability and Body Integrity Identity Disorder, had to be a massive undertaking by these authors.
Liam reflected my frustrations with Ryan in this quote.
“Oh, isn’t that right. Your dirty secret is that you aren’t fucking paralyzed! Do you know how offensive this is? All those people who actually have this problem, and you spit in their faces!”
I wish this conversation had continued. Ryan never really recognized this as an issue, and his lack of therapy was concerning. However, his achingly raw POV in this book hurt my heart, and made me feel so much compassion for him.
It was humorous to watch Liam and Ryan stumble around their communication style. Basically, they don’t mean to hurt each other, they just seem to be on different wavelengths. Yes, they continue to lie to each other and that drove me nuts!
I’m impressed with the amount of emotions this book rung out of me. I sat with my feelings for these characters for a very long time. Hence my four-star rating.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the off the charts, smokin hot, role-playing, sex scenes!! 🔥
I feel like the trigger warnings need to be much stronger, as I wasn’t expecting what I read in this story…and I’m not one to complain about TW.
December 13, 2013
Uniquely Awesome.
Liam and Ryan's journey is one worth taking. These two guys are quite possibly the best crafted "alternative" characters--and yeah, I'm cringing even having to include that designation--I've ever read. They may be fringe cases in society, but Merikan has made them so human, so real that even if bits perplex you at times that you still understand and relate to them as people not caricatures.
Book Two starts right in the middle of the chaos that we were abandoned to at the conclusion of SPECIAL NEEDS #1. Liam and Ryan are at a severe crisis point and there is great unhappiness in the land. A shocker really. But that Ryan is much more than you imagine and he lives large and bright and there are whole chunks of the book in which you are going to have internalized his disability that you will be like, oh yeah, cool…his wheelchair.
Liam and Ryan are supernova hot, ridiculously cute and terrifyingly scary at times. They've picked the rollercoaster inspired relationship over the carousel. Hence my complete infatuation with them and desire to beat them upside the head at times. The bad idea fairy needs to stop hitting Liam, poor, sweet misguided tatted sex god.
The secondary characters continue to be great and Rod and Fay drift to background as Rufio and Cole take up the major supporting functions. Rufio is funny and takes up a couple of roles sacrificed by other characters. Cole, Liam's brother is a fine addition to making Liam more complicated and instigating a whole slew of new things--some good, some bad. And for fans of Matt, he's back.
If I was to rate this strictly on technical matters it would be lower. There is so much really in-depth and serious issues with Ryan and Liam that the mystery element of the story introduced and teased a couple times in Book 1 is delayed in being readdressed. And it was quick and while complete the timing of it really does remind me of a disturbingly mental version of Scooby Doo, the analogy that I used in my review of Book 1 is totally valid. Read it and see. Sometimes I love my awesomeness.
Highlights from this story include a petting zoo, swim lesson, porn convention, and more fans of Ryan's website.
Having never read a book that departs from the simple representations of characterizing an individual in a wheelchair and the obvious effects that has on both the person and their relationship I was stunned reading SPECIAL NEEDS. It was an educational experience for me. I had zero awareness of Ryan's body identity issues or transability. While I'm clearly still ignorant of many things regarding both, I am no longer oblivious.
Reading this book was like finding an unexpected gem. I am truly grateful for its existence and my having read it.
Recommended to readers looking for a different approach to alternative characters and enjoy a fun take on kinky play.
Favorite quote:
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~
Liam and Ryan's journey is one worth taking. These two guys are quite possibly the best crafted "alternative" characters--and yeah, I'm cringing even having to include that designation--I've ever read. They may be fringe cases in society, but Merikan has made them so human, so real that even if bits perplex you at times that you still understand and relate to them as people not caricatures.
Book Two starts right in the middle of the chaos that we were abandoned to at the conclusion of SPECIAL NEEDS #1. Liam and Ryan are at a severe crisis point and there is great unhappiness in the land. A shocker really. But that Ryan is much more than you imagine and he lives large and bright and there are whole chunks of the book in which you are going to have internalized his disability that you will be like, oh yeah, cool…his wheelchair.
"He might think I’m a Little Merman, but really, under these scales, hides a Mega Shark.”
Liam and Ryan are supernova hot, ridiculously cute and terrifyingly scary at times. They've picked the rollercoaster inspired relationship over the carousel. Hence my complete infatuation with them and desire to beat them upside the head at times. The bad idea fairy needs to stop hitting Liam, poor, sweet misguided tatted sex god.
"I’m like a Happy Meal without the toy.”
Liam gave him an incredulous look. “Are you kidding? You’re like a Happy Meal with two toys.”
The secondary characters continue to be great and Rod and Fay drift to background as Rufio and Cole take up the major supporting functions. Rufio is funny and takes up a couple of roles sacrificed by other characters. Cole, Liam's brother is a fine addition to making Liam more complicated and instigating a whole slew of new things--some good, some bad. And for fans of Matt, he's back.
If I was to rate this strictly on technical matters it would be lower. There is so much really in-depth and serious issues with Ryan and Liam that the mystery element of the story introduced and teased a couple times in Book 1 is delayed in being readdressed. And it was quick and while complete the timing of it really does remind me of a disturbingly mental version of Scooby Doo, the analogy that I used in my review of Book 1 is totally valid. Read it and see. Sometimes I love my awesomeness.
Highlights from this story include a petting zoo, swim lesson, porn convention, and more fans of Ryan's website.
Being in a wheelchair at a gay porn convention was a fantastic experience. He got to have his gaze at exactly the level he needed it to be to enjoy himself most.This is all in addition to the scorching fun Liam's creativity and Ryan's fantasy sharing bring to the bed play. Fans of piercings will really enjoy all the fun time spent exploring the ins and out of them. Kinky doctor role playing--start reading. Throw in some toys and healthy serving of rimming and you got some good times ahead.
And over the fireplace, Ryan’s dildo octopus was embracing the shark with a silly grin. No one needed to know what was behind that hug.
Having never read a book that departs from the simple representations of characterizing an individual in a wheelchair and the obvious effects that has on both the person and their relationship I was stunned reading SPECIAL NEEDS. It was an educational experience for me. I had zero awareness of Ryan's body identity issues or transability. While I'm clearly still ignorant of many things regarding both, I am no longer oblivious.
Reading this book was like finding an unexpected gem. I am truly grateful for its existence and my having read it.
Recommended to readers looking for a different approach to alternative characters and enjoy a fun take on kinky play.
Favorite quote:
"He might think I’m a Little Merman, but really, under these scales, hides a Mega Shark.”
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~
August 21, 2015
I'll keep this short. I was disappointed with how abruptly the first book ended and gave it 3 bitchy stars. Having said that I really enjoyed the two Special Needs books so I'm awarding this one the big 5.
Don't get me wrong- it's not perfect but I felt like I was watching my favorite TV series week after week not because it's fabulous, you know there are probably better shows out there, but you find yourself so enthralled in the main characters and the supporting ones you get very attached.
As always, the book was quirky, weird, sexy and engaging.
Don't get me wrong- it's not perfect but I felt like I was watching my favorite TV series week after week not because it's fabulous, you know there are probably better shows out there, but you find yourself so enthralled in the main characters and the supporting ones you get very attached.
As always, the book was quirky, weird, sexy and engaging.
Read
April 29, 2014OUT NOW! :D
Featuring, THE PARASNATCHER
AllRomance: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/prod...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Special-Needs-2...
Or you can get vol.1&2 as a bundle! :)
AllRomance: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/prod...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H7Q6R1Q
Featuring, THE PARASNATCHER
AllRomance: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/prod...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Special-Needs-2...
Or you can get vol.1&2 as a bundle! :)
AllRomance: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/prod...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H7Q6R1Q
December 21, 2013
**Contains mild spoilers if you haven’t read Book #1**
Book #2 of Special Needs is all kinds of fresh and tidy. K.A Merikan has done some housekeeping and this is much, much better! Special Needs continues after that torturous cliffhanger and Ryan is so busted! His web of deceit has caught up to him and Liam is (understandably) struggling to deal with it. I mean, why does anyone pretend to be paralyzed for God’s sake? I wanted to punch Ryan in his nuts and tattoo a knob on his forehead for the pain he caused Liam. I never dreamed Ryan (the attention seeking git) would win me over again, this was the last straw, so Merikan had some work to do.
The author brings to light a disorder that I frankly have never heard of before. “The term “transability” refers to the desire of able-bodied people to become disabled, or to enact/perform disability, through medical or other means.” The existence of transability is both shocking and morbidly fascinating to me, but it’s real, especially for Ryan, and with this justification for Ryans actions Merikan wins me over. What’s incredible is that she can introduce this ‘weird’ and (to me) sad topic and still deliver a story that is also funny (if you like your humour somewhat dark), witty and sexy.
Our boys are growing up and finally facing truths and dealing with their issues. There is so much emotion in this book: rage, sadness, guilt and shame. Ryan and Liam are so good when they get their shit together. Their journey is still a rocky one but when they find acceptance and trust once again, the chemistry consumes and the sex is fantastic (especially if you can understand Ryan’s particular fetish/need).
Merikan introduces a new (vanilla) gay member of staff which provides some fun on his behalf – the poor bugger. The sex hotel is still dying a death and Ryan is still the WORST businessman ever! I mean, who doesn’t think of advertising a kinky sex themed hotel on fetlife? Gah! *head on desk* And then there is Roger the dodgy neighbour with his basket of liquor, tape and rope. Hmmm …you know where that’s going don’t you? Yup no surprise there, just the extent of it! Geez!
I hope you all like role play because these guys LOVE to play Doctor/patient and something with a nautical theme (lol – don’t ask, these guys are unique okay). Personally I giggled my way through these scenes and rolled my eyes a lot, albeit with a smile on my face. There is something endearing about them as a couple, despite all the drama. Yes, they still drive me nuts and Liam is the most immature (!!!) thirty plus year old man I’ve ever met! Together they can be so ridiculously silly, and cheesy, and then act like petulant children but, that’s just it …a big fat BUT ….the truth is, they are good, caring, insecure, strange, messed up, kinky, loving and utterly loyal … so I love them. Even with horrible mismatched tattoos and blue hair – I loved them!
Overall book 2 is much better than book 1, the writing and plotline seems tighter, and the editing is a million times better. Nothing was left hanging and I felt highly satisfied by the end of this 250 000 word rocky love story. This story as a whole is so worth your time and money. I know that this is not for everyone, the characters are not your norm, and the kink is …an acquired taste. But if you want something different, I urge you to give it a go. This is a truly unique story that I will never forget.
Book #2 of Special Needs is all kinds of fresh and tidy. K.A Merikan has done some housekeeping and this is much, much better! Special Needs continues after that torturous cliffhanger and Ryan is so busted! His web of deceit has caught up to him and Liam is (understandably) struggling to deal with it. I mean, why does anyone pretend to be paralyzed for God’s sake? I wanted to punch Ryan in his nuts and tattoo a knob on his forehead for the pain he caused Liam. I never dreamed Ryan (the attention seeking git) would win me over again, this was the last straw, so Merikan had some work to do.
The author brings to light a disorder that I frankly have never heard of before. “The term “transability” refers to the desire of able-bodied people to become disabled, or to enact/perform disability, through medical or other means.” The existence of transability is both shocking and morbidly fascinating to me, but it’s real, especially for Ryan, and with this justification for Ryans actions Merikan wins me over. What’s incredible is that she can introduce this ‘weird’ and (to me) sad topic and still deliver a story that is also funny (if you like your humour somewhat dark), witty and sexy.
Our boys are growing up and finally facing truths and dealing with their issues. There is so much emotion in this book: rage, sadness, guilt and shame. Ryan and Liam are so good when they get their shit together. Their journey is still a rocky one but when they find acceptance and trust once again, the chemistry consumes and the sex is fantastic (especially if you can understand Ryan’s particular fetish/need).
Merikan introduces a new (vanilla) gay member of staff which provides some fun on his behalf – the poor bugger. The sex hotel is still dying a death and Ryan is still the WORST businessman ever! I mean, who doesn’t think of advertising a kinky sex themed hotel on fetlife? Gah! *head on desk* And then there is Roger the dodgy neighbour with his basket of liquor, tape and rope. Hmmm …you know where that’s going don’t you? Yup no surprise there, just the extent of it! Geez!
I hope you all like role play because these guys LOVE to play Doctor/patient and something with a nautical theme (lol – don’t ask, these guys are unique okay). Personally I giggled my way through these scenes and rolled my eyes a lot, albeit with a smile on my face. There is something endearing about them as a couple, despite all the drama. Yes, they still drive me nuts and Liam is the most immature (!!!) thirty plus year old man I’ve ever met! Together they can be so ridiculously silly, and cheesy, and then act like petulant children but, that’s just it …a big fat BUT ….the truth is, they are good, caring, insecure, strange, messed up, kinky, loving and utterly loyal … so I love them. Even with horrible mismatched tattoos and blue hair – I loved them!
Overall book 2 is much better than book 1, the writing and plotline seems tighter, and the editing is a million times better. Nothing was left hanging and I felt highly satisfied by the end of this 250 000 word rocky love story. This story as a whole is so worth your time and money. I know that this is not for everyone, the characters are not your norm, and the kink is …an acquired taste. But if you want something different, I urge you to give it a go. This is a truly unique story that I will never forget.
July 31, 2016
This is a wonderful sequel to Ryan and Liam's story from 'Special Needs 1' with a lot of additional detail about who they are and how they relate now that Ryan's "secret" of not being a paraplegic is out. The tone and humor of the writing is wonderful, the issues they grapple with totally real, and the secondary characters I liked so much in part one were back and made sure there was never a dull moment. Ryan and Liam are still just like big kids, very playful and not always aware of the consequences of what they do or say, but they get to struggle with some really grown-up issues.
Liam has a real problem with the fact that Ryan turns out to "just" be missing a foot and doesn’t need his wheelchair. He loved Ryan anyway, but the deception gets to him. He hatches a plan to make Ryan walk, thinking all will be well as soon as his no-longer boyfriend will be able to enjoy life the way Liam does. Even though he means well, he doesn't understand Ryan at all and drives him to the point of total despair just by trying to do what he thinks is the right thing. He needs to learn to listen to what Ryan really needs. Yes, it is highly unusual, but in the end, Liam needs to decide if he can love him the way he is – transability and all.
Ryan is extremely conflicted. Not just does he have to deal with trying to make his sex hotel a success, he also loves Liam and will do anything to make him happy. Liam clearly wants him to walk, so he tries extremely hard to completely change his life. The problem is that it makes him extremely unhappy to the point where he is ready to give up and jumps into the ocean. Only once Liam saves his life can they start a real dialogue. I was fascinated by his explanations and the solution, although it seems "weird" to a normal-bodied person, made sense for Ryan.
This second part is as fun and entertaining as the first, written in a way that made me laugh despite the serious issues Liam and Ryan have to deal with. The web of lies may have been cut at the end of book one, but what follows is a series of misunderstandings that are no less difficult to deal with. This novel also contains some fascinating insights into transability, defined as "The desire of able-bodied people to become disabled, or to enact/perform disability, through medical or other means." This novel questions most people's assumption that able-bodiedness is the norm and the most desirable state of being, showing that there are other people out there who may have a different way of looking at things.
If you like stories written with a snark-like sense of humor, if you enjoy reading about men who couldn’t be called average by any stretch of the imagination who struggle with real issues between them, and if you're looking for a read with lots of kinky scenes and some very hot between-the-sheets activity, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Liam has a real problem with the fact that Ryan turns out to "just" be missing a foot and doesn’t need his wheelchair. He loved Ryan anyway, but the deception gets to him. He hatches a plan to make Ryan walk, thinking all will be well as soon as his no-longer boyfriend will be able to enjoy life the way Liam does. Even though he means well, he doesn't understand Ryan at all and drives him to the point of total despair just by trying to do what he thinks is the right thing. He needs to learn to listen to what Ryan really needs. Yes, it is highly unusual, but in the end, Liam needs to decide if he can love him the way he is – transability and all.
Ryan is extremely conflicted. Not just does he have to deal with trying to make his sex hotel a success, he also loves Liam and will do anything to make him happy. Liam clearly wants him to walk, so he tries extremely hard to completely change his life. The problem is that it makes him extremely unhappy to the point where he is ready to give up and jumps into the ocean. Only once Liam saves his life can they start a real dialogue. I was fascinated by his explanations and the solution, although it seems "weird" to a normal-bodied person, made sense for Ryan.
This second part is as fun and entertaining as the first, written in a way that made me laugh despite the serious issues Liam and Ryan have to deal with. The web of lies may have been cut at the end of book one, but what follows is a series of misunderstandings that are no less difficult to deal with. This novel also contains some fascinating insights into transability, defined as "The desire of able-bodied people to become disabled, or to enact/perform disability, through medical or other means." This novel questions most people's assumption that able-bodiedness is the norm and the most desirable state of being, showing that there are other people out there who may have a different way of looking at things.
If you like stories written with a snark-like sense of humor, if you enjoy reading about men who couldn’t be called average by any stretch of the imagination who struggle with real issues between them, and if you're looking for a read with lots of kinky scenes and some very hot between-the-sheets activity, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 9, 2017
First Read 12/12/13 - 4 Stars
Wow. Such a great follow-up to Special Needs 1. The reader really gets to know Ryan and Liam a lot more in this book. Fantastic characters all around. Fans of the first won't be disappointed in the second.
I hope there will be a Special Needs 3. Don't worry, Merikan doesn't leave you hanging, but there is room for another.
Second Read 4/9/15 - 4.5 Stars
I LOVE Liam and Ryan. They are sooo freaking adorable together. I loved this story just as much as I did before. So much happens throughout this story, that I forgot most of it. I really hope that there will be a follow-up story. These two need more books. It would be a crime not to write more about them. Also, Rufio needs his own book.
Wow. Such a great follow-up to Special Needs 1. The reader really gets to know Ryan and Liam a lot more in this book. Fantastic characters all around. Fans of the first won't be disappointed in the second.
I hope there will be a Special Needs 3. Don't worry, Merikan doesn't leave you hanging, but there is room for another.
Second Read 4/9/15 - 4.5 Stars
I LOVE Liam and Ryan. They are sooo freaking adorable together. I loved this story just as much as I did before. So much happens throughout this story, that I forgot most of it. I really hope that there will be a follow-up story. These two need more books. It would be a crime not to write more about them. Also, Rufio needs his own book.
January 4, 2014
In this second book of series the matters become more serious for Ryan and Liam but them are a amazing couple so nothing get them apart nor disability nor the BIID, and I enjoyed very much of their love story, so hot,so sweet...so kinky. I have fun and sometime I was sorry for Ryan and mad to Liam but I have loved the book all of it. Fantastic cover and environment too of that that seem real,as feel your bare feet in the sand or in the water of ocean.
January 16, 2014
Review posted today here:
April 27, 2017
I actually finished this a couple days ago and, like everything else about this book, it took me forever to pull my thoughts together.
It's easily one of the strangest stories, romance or otherwise, that I've read in a long, long time. Our two main characters, Liam and Ryan, are out there.
They both have issues, though Ryan has the lion's share with his transability, BIID, cutting, eating disorders, suicidal tendencies, etc. The pretty boy man with the blue hair, tats and piercings galore. It's all about Ryan you see. Not that that is a bad thing. He's one fascinating, crazy, special individual.
Liam is Ryan's caretaker, lover and soulmate. Former manwhore, he loves to cook and have sex.
Liam is completely devoted to Ryan.
I'll admit I had a hard time sustaining the connection between these two. I completely fell off the path a time or two and had a hard time getting back on. For me, it was simply too long.
We learn all of their secrets here and they are many.
I loved the quirkiness. The crazy, wackadoo goings on. The far out ending that I knew was coming and when it got here I still managed to be surprised.
It's unique and distinctly it's own story, if a little too long.
It's easily one of the strangest stories, romance or otherwise, that I've read in a long, long time. Our two main characters, Liam and Ryan, are out there.
They both have issues, though Ryan has the lion's share with his transability, BIID, cutting, eating disorders, suicidal tendencies, etc. The pretty boy man with the blue hair, tats and piercings galore. It's all about Ryan you see. Not that that is a bad thing. He's one fascinating, crazy, special individual.
Liam is Ryan's caretaker, lover and soulmate. Former manwhore, he loves to cook and have sex.
Liam is completely devoted to Ryan.
I'll admit I had a hard time sustaining the connection between these two. I completely fell off the path a time or two and had a hard time getting back on. For me, it was simply too long.
We learn all of their secrets here and they are many.
I loved the quirkiness. The crazy, wackadoo goings on. The far out ending that I knew was coming and when it got here I still managed to be surprised.
It's unique and distinctly it's own story, if a little too long.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2018
Im not really sure how I feel about this. I love the characters, and its super hot. But just weird, maybe a bit too much for me. And I wanted to know if Rufio lost his virginity! 😂
May 4, 2014
I have received this book for free in return for an honest review. It will contain some spoilers.
3,5 stars rounded up because the book is different, it made me think, and it kept in the back of my mind all week. An important thing is that because of my profession (I’m a psychologist) I’ve probably read this book on a different level than most people would, so my review might be completely irrelevant for anyone else.
Let's start by saying that I loved book one for its realism and its originality and I couldn't wait to find out what would happen once Liam found out Ryan was faking his disability.
The good thing was that Liam broke up with Ryan. The unbelievable part was Liam didn't move out and Ryan didn't throw him out. Apart from everything else, Ryan is the worst business owner ever. He was no money (and no use) for a cook, just like he has no use for a caretaker (because most disabled people I met prefer taking care of themselves as much as possible).
I didn't mind that last bit so much because from book one was obvious that Ryan is seriously disturbed, and I entertained myself with trying to fit the correct personality disorder to Ryan. I missed the boat with thinking Ryan had Factitious disorder, while the authors were going for
What I didn’t like was that all other issues Ryan had were suddenly solved as well. Maybe the self-esteem part, maybe. But pushing down kids that insult you is not normal behavior. Not even when you’re forced to feed a goat, because 1) you should’ve told that new caregiver of yours (Rufio) that you don’t like animals (and who doesn’t like animals? Makes him seriously unlikable imo) 2) you don’t assault kids. Not even if they insult you about not being able to walk (and well, you can walk, so don’t be a fuss about it!). Apart from being too dependent, he’s also too theatrical. He cuts himself. He tries to commit suicide in an impulse. To summarize: he’s very seriously disturbed, and that’s more than simply the BDD, because he showed much of that in book 1 as well.
I shouldn’t blame Liam for falling for that. He can’t see into Ryan’s head like we do, and he’s not that smart anyway. I do blame the authors for that being magically solved the moment he’s back with Liam and Liam accepting him.
Also I didn’t like Liam at all in this book. He was so immature, and at times portrayed as almost mentally challenged. Maybe that was what the authors were going for? That whole hiking plan was so unbelievable stupid. Apart from the complete insanity of having your brother act like an old lover, there’s the stupidity of thinking a guy that has spend most of the last 10 years voluntary in a wheelchair and who has a badly fitting prostatic foot is able to walk for days.
I might give the impression that I didn’t like the book at all, and that isn’t true. There was much to enjoy: the banter between them, the teasing of Rufio, the very, very, very hot sex (though I still don’t really understand the mega-ism of being tied to a plush octopus), some great quotes (forgot to highlight them while reading, you simply have to to believe me).
3,5 stars rounded up because the book is different, it made me think, and it kept in the back of my mind all week. An important thing is that because of my profession (I’m a psychologist) I’ve probably read this book on a different level than most people would, so my review might be completely irrelevant for anyone else.
Let's start by saying that I loved book one for its realism and its originality and I couldn't wait to find out what would happen once Liam found out Ryan was faking his disability.
The good thing was that Liam broke up with Ryan. The unbelievable part was Liam didn't move out and Ryan didn't throw him out. Apart from everything else, Ryan is the worst business owner ever. He was no money (and no use) for a cook, just like he has no use for a caretaker (because most disabled people I met prefer taking care of themselves as much as possible).
I didn't mind that last bit so much because from book one was obvious that Ryan is seriously disturbed, and I entertained myself with trying to fit the correct personality disorder to Ryan. I missed the boat with thinking Ryan had Factitious disorder, while the authors were going for
What I didn’t like was that all other issues Ryan had were suddenly solved as well. Maybe the self-esteem part, maybe. But pushing down kids that insult you is not normal behavior. Not even when you’re forced to feed a goat, because 1) you should’ve told that new caregiver of yours (Rufio) that you don’t like animals (and who doesn’t like animals? Makes him seriously unlikable imo) 2) you don’t assault kids. Not even if they insult you about not being able to walk (and well, you can walk, so don’t be a fuss about it!). Apart from being too dependent, he’s also too theatrical. He cuts himself. He tries to commit suicide in an impulse. To summarize: he’s very seriously disturbed, and that’s more than simply the BDD, because he showed much of that in book 1 as well.
I shouldn’t blame Liam for falling for that. He can’t see into Ryan’s head like we do, and he’s not that smart anyway. I do blame the authors for that being magically solved the moment he’s back with Liam and Liam accepting him.
Also I didn’t like Liam at all in this book. He was so immature, and at times portrayed as almost mentally challenged. Maybe that was what the authors were going for? That whole hiking plan was so unbelievable stupid. Apart from the complete insanity of having your brother act like an old lover, there’s the stupidity of thinking a guy that has spend most of the last 10 years voluntary in a wheelchair and who has a badly fitting prostatic foot is able to walk for days.
I might give the impression that I didn’t like the book at all, and that isn’t true. There was much to enjoy: the banter between them, the teasing of Rufio, the very, very, very hot sex (though I still don’t really understand the mega-ism of being tied to a plush octopus), some great quotes (forgot to highlight them while reading, you simply have to to believe me).
September 26, 2023
I should not have read the second book.
This book managed to piss me off so much that it took me almost 2 weeks to be a little less angry so I could write this review. Thank God these are fictional characters because I would’ve had to add a few more people to my “They Deserve Violence” list. As far as I’m concerned everyone in this book can catch these hands.
I will say there are some positives. One being you get a conclusion to the mystery element of the fire, and missing women. Although, let’s be honest, it was pretty obvious halfway through the first book who the villain was. Didn’t really take a lot of deductive reasoning skills to suss that one out. I also appreciated the realistic conclusion to what was gonna happen with the hotel. But that’s about where my positives end.
This book managed to piss me off so much that it took me almost 2 weeks to be a little less angry so I could write this review. Thank God these are fictional characters because I would’ve had to add a few more people to my “They Deserve Violence” list. As far as I’m concerned everyone in this book can catch these hands.
I will say there are some positives. One being you get a conclusion to the mystery element of the fire, and missing women. Although, let’s be honest, it was pretty obvious halfway through the first book who the villain was. Didn’t really take a lot of deductive reasoning skills to suss that one out. I also appreciated the realistic conclusion to what was gonna happen with the hotel. But that’s about where my positives end.
April 5, 2015
I do not expect this review to be in any way coherent. This is going to be one of those rambling *squee/flail/rant* things that happen when you just love a book way too much, but you have to get it out.
[As a note, this is going to cover Parts 1 and 2 of Special Needs, mainly because I nearly choked when I hit the end of Part 1 and was starting Part 2 10 minutes later.]
This is one of those instances where you just need more than five stars. I don't know how many I would give it, but it would probably look something like this:
★★★★★★★★★★★★!★★★!!!★★★★★★★★★★★★★!★★★★!!!!!
Pretty much.
Liam and Ryan were so amazingly perfect for each other. I love this story from front to back and about smacked someone a couple of times when RL wouldn't stop interrupting me, damnit! I cried and laughed so hard reading this. Everything about this book just worked for me, from the kinks, to the issues, to the absolute passion and love they show. Just perfect.
I've never seen a book that dealt with this issue, but K.A. handles it so well. Being inside Ryan's head was such an experience, and she makes it so damn believable that I just wanted to cry when he couldn't express his feelings to Liam. He was trying so damn hard.
Really this is just a beautiful romance and it's abso-fucking-lutely perfect. No questions. Even the ending, which was a bit bittersweet, was so right. Because in real life, not everything works out just the way we would want it.
And the sex? Let's just say that the Psych Ward scene is the hottest thing I've ever read in my life, hands down. I have no words for how turned on I was there. Whew!
So really, the only thing that would make this better, would be having a hard copy so that I could give it a hug. Seriously. *hint, wink, nudge, virtual cookies?*
[As a note, this is going to cover Parts 1 and 2 of Special Needs, mainly because I nearly choked when I hit the end of Part 1 and was starting Part 2 10 minutes later.]
This is one of those instances where you just need more than five stars. I don't know how many I would give it, but it would probably look something like this:
★★★★★★★★★★★★!★★★!!!★★★★★★★★★★★★★!★★★★!!!!!
Pretty much.
Liam and Ryan were so amazingly perfect for each other. I love this story from front to back and about smacked someone a couple of times when RL wouldn't stop interrupting me, damnit! I cried and laughed so hard reading this. Everything about this book just worked for me, from the kinks, to the issues, to the absolute passion and love they show. Just perfect.
I've never seen a book that dealt with this issue, but K.A. handles it so well. Being inside Ryan's head was such an experience, and she makes it so damn believable that I just wanted to cry when he couldn't express his feelings to Liam. He was trying so damn hard.
Really this is just a beautiful romance and it's abso-fucking-lutely perfect. No questions. Even the ending, which was a bit bittersweet, was so right. Because in real life, not everything works out just the way we would want it.
And the sex? Let's just say that the Psych Ward scene is the hottest thing I've ever read in my life, hands down. I have no words for how turned on I was there. Whew!
So really, the only thing that would make this better, would be having a hard copy so that I could give it a hug. Seriously. *hint, wink, nudge, virtual cookies?*
December 24, 2013
This book starts right where the first one ends. Almost like the two books were one, just split in half. I’m so thankful there wasn’t an entire recap. For one, it wasn’t needed. This was such a unique story, the reader isn’t likely to forget what he/she read from the first book. I say this is a unique story because the authors chose to write about a subject that I’ve never heard about before, Body Integrity Identity Disorder, or BIID. I was fascinated by the whole concept of this disorder, and I really enjoyed watching how the main two characters dealt with it.
See the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
See the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
April 7, 2023
“Every time I walk, I feel like I’m someone else.”
This picks up immediately where we leave off in book one. As difficult truths come out, a delicious (yet sometimes frustrating) push and pull begins.
Excellent depiction of Liam’s emotions regarding the betrayal.
The humor—often dark—is back. The staff meetings, tears on the french fries tattoo, Liam’s burger analogies, Liam’s sexually-charged T-shirts: “I’m shy, but I have a big dick.” The petting zoo outing has gotta be top 5 most hilarious Merikan setups ever. The goat and the shoved child had me in stitches.
Some communication issues remain. From time to time, it’s as though these two aren’t just on different chapters; they’re reading entirely different books, in different languages.
Their disagreements are extremely realistic. Both leads are incredibly troubled. When the two do argue, it almost always ends up being constructive; they each learn more about the other guy. A Merikan specialty.
After the incident at the pier, EVERYTHING finally comes out. Quite the reckoning.
Whether it’s straight-on sex or very involved role play, these two are absolute fire together. Phenomenal variety, detail, verbiage, and just overall descriptive writing.
Ryan shines in this one. His bitchiness is such a win. Ryan is written as a normal person. He’s authentic—not some author’s idea of how a disabled boy should be. Ryan’s immaturity is also portrayed super well. Who sends “I hate you” in a text? That would be Ryan!
Great to see Matt returning for a few cameo appearances.
It’s not possible to discuss the mental health aspects of the book without spoiling major themes. Suffice to say that this installment is at times both painful and unsettling.
With two novels and all of the craziness these guys have to overcome, the epilogue feels a bit abbreviated—could be sweeter and longer.
“It’s nice to see you with someone who seems like he’s made for you.”
“Yeah, he’s…a special guy.”
This picks up immediately where we leave off in book one. As difficult truths come out, a delicious (yet sometimes frustrating) push and pull begins.
Excellent depiction of Liam’s emotions regarding the betrayal.
The humor—often dark—is back. The staff meetings, tears on the french fries tattoo, Liam’s burger analogies, Liam’s sexually-charged T-shirts: “I’m shy, but I have a big dick.” The petting zoo outing has gotta be top 5 most hilarious Merikan setups ever. The goat and the shoved child had me in stitches.
Some communication issues remain. From time to time, it’s as though these two aren’t just on different chapters; they’re reading entirely different books, in different languages.
Their disagreements are extremely realistic. Both leads are incredibly troubled. When the two do argue, it almost always ends up being constructive; they each learn more about the other guy. A Merikan specialty.
After the incident at the pier, EVERYTHING finally comes out. Quite the reckoning.
Whether it’s straight-on sex or very involved role play, these two are absolute fire together. Phenomenal variety, detail, verbiage, and just overall descriptive writing.
Ryan shines in this one. His bitchiness is such a win. Ryan is written as a normal person. He’s authentic—not some author’s idea of how a disabled boy should be. Ryan’s immaturity is also portrayed super well. Who sends “I hate you” in a text? That would be Ryan!
Great to see Matt returning for a few cameo appearances.
It’s not possible to discuss the mental health aspects of the book without spoiling major themes. Suffice to say that this installment is at times both painful and unsettling.
With two novels and all of the craziness these guys have to overcome, the epilogue feels a bit abbreviated—could be sweeter and longer.
“It’s nice to see you with someone who seems like he’s made for you.”
“Yeah, he’s…a special guy.”
December 4, 2019
I wanted to read this book so badly after I finished the first one because it ended in a cliffhanger. Liam found out that Ryan was able to walk, how things were going to progress from there? By making the stupid decisions ever, that’s how. They don’t communicate, don’t explain why they do what they do. But sure, I get they’re not the most emotional mature men ever. I’m glad the authors later on improved a little bit about that. And that they finally explained the BIID illness Ryan has. I’d say in that aspect, the this one is different because it’s sightly more serious. It made me think, and it kept in the back of my mind.
What I didn't like was that all other issues Ryan had were suddenly solved as well. I expected more from Liam, that maybe he’d tried to get some help for him. They’re together and it’s surely super fun to read all these smut scenes, the banter, the bonding, but sometimes it got too cringing or/and weird. I’m not a quitter, though, so when I reached the end of it, I was with a smile on my face, so all in all, I’d say it’s worth reading if you give it a try.
What I didn't like was that all other issues Ryan had were suddenly solved as well. I expected more from Liam, that maybe he’d tried to get some help for him. They’re together and it’s surely super fun to read all these smut scenes, the banter, the bonding, but sometimes it got too cringing or/and weird. I’m not a quitter, though, so when I reached the end of it, I was with a smile on my face, so all in all, I’d say it’s worth reading if you give it a try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2021
Je connaissais les DR des auteurs, et ici on se retrouve dans une romance particulière. Vraiment très particulière. BDSM et fétichisme flirtent allègrement dans l'hôtel très particulier dont Ryan, jeune homme de 25 ans en fauteuil roulant, est le propriétaire. Lorsqu'il embauche Liam pour être son aide soignant, ils ne sont pas au bout de leur surprise. Et nous non plus. Il faut avoir l'esprit très ouvert pour lire et apprécier cette romance, et si certaines choses peuvent être très dérangeantes dans le tome 1, une grande partie d'entre elles trouvent une explication dans le tome 2. Je le mets en 4 cœurs parce que je n'ai pratiquement pas dormi des deux dernières nuits pour finir la duologie!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2020
2.5-3
I liked it, in a weird sort of way. It was definitely a unique reading experience. Ryan (25, owner of an erotic hotel) and Liam (31, drifter with a penchant for fucking his bosses) are both really flawed people, but they make it work in the end. They go through deception, lies, jealousy, self harm, accepting disability, transability... Lots of drama, porn stars and kinky sex.
It did felt too long to me, spanning 2 books with sooo many incidents and happenings and the bonus of a mystery, which is introduced right at the beginning of first book and gets concluded at the end of second one.
I liked it, in a weird sort of way. It was definitely a unique reading experience. Ryan (25, owner of an erotic hotel) and Liam (31, drifter with a penchant for fucking his bosses) are both really flawed people, but they make it work in the end. They go through deception, lies, jealousy, self harm, accepting disability, transability... Lots of drama, porn stars and kinky sex.
It did felt too long to me, spanning 2 books with sooo many incidents and happenings and the bonus of a mystery, which is introduced right at the beginning of first book and gets concluded at the end of second one.
June 29, 2020
Kinky quirky romance
The MCs are very immature and their banter is often weird and funny. I was very unhappy about the cliffhanger ending of part 1, but everything is resolved in this book. "Transability" is a new entity for me and I loved how its tackled here. Ryan and Liam are a good pair and their kinks match perfectly. Ryan is really quirky and his ideas and imagination is really out of the world! There are plenty of sexy times and kinky role play in the second part as compared to first one.
Recommended read.
The MCs are very immature and their banter is often weird and funny. I was very unhappy about the cliffhanger ending of part 1, but everything is resolved in this book. "Transability" is a new entity for me and I loved how its tackled here. Ryan and Liam are a good pair and their kinks match perfectly. Ryan is really quirky and his ideas and imagination is really out of the world! There are plenty of sexy times and kinky role play in the second part as compared to first one.
Recommended read.
February 15, 2022
3.5 stars. This was a sweet conclusion to Liam and Ryan's story, and one heck of a trip to get there. I wanted to strangle them both and shout 'COMMUNICATE' into their faces, BUT THEY GOT THERE. FINALLY. My only critique is that the ending plot device, which was sort of mentioned in the first book, only had two chapters so it was a little out the blue, I almost thought it wasn't going to get mentioned at all. (And the overall story was maybe a teeny bit dragged out, but I'm sure most would disagree with me, blame it on my short attention span please!)
October 15, 2017
My issues with this were how dishonest with each other Ryan & Liam were and how much anxiety and hurt could have been avoided. If. They. Had. Just. Communicated. With. Each. Other!
April 29, 2014
3.5 Liam Loving Stars!!!
eARC for Honest Review from Author
Finally the conlusion to Ryan and Liam.
After book one we are left with the lie that Ryan really isn't disabled. WTF????
Liam the sweetheart that he is, tries to motivate Ryan into normal standards of walking. Ryan is desperate for Liam's returned love and adoration that he will put his happiness aside.
The more Liam falls for Ryan the more he is blind to what Ryan is truly going through and how he is coping. Since Ryan can't be is trueself he turns to pain to cope.
This story deals with so many different elements that aren't most peoples normals but they are topics that some people cope with and should be addressed. The main themes in here are transability, body integrity identity disorder and self harm.
Not everyone feels normal in their own skin and everyone copes differently. Once Liam realizes what Ryan needs he gives it to him. By doing this Liam finaly gets his HEA from his boss.
I really did love this story the only thing that got to me was it was LONG. I think I got spoiled with all of K.A. Merikan's short stories so, this one felt like a long one and dragged on for a bit. However, it was fun, quirky and kinky all rolled up into one.
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eARC for Honest Review from Author
Finally the conlusion to Ryan and Liam.
After book one we are left with the lie that Ryan really isn't disabled. WTF????
Liam the sweetheart that he is, tries to motivate Ryan into normal standards of walking. Ryan is desperate for Liam's returned love and adoration that he will put his happiness aside.
The more Liam falls for Ryan the more he is blind to what Ryan is truly going through and how he is coping. Since Ryan can't be is trueself he turns to pain to cope.
This story deals with so many different elements that aren't most peoples normals but they are topics that some people cope with and should be addressed. The main themes in here are transability, body integrity identity disorder and self harm.
Not everyone feels normal in their own skin and everyone copes differently. Once Liam realizes what Ryan needs he gives it to him. By doing this Liam finaly gets his HEA from his boss.
I really did love this story the only thing that got to me was it was LONG. I think I got spoiled with all of K.A. Merikan's short stories so, this one felt like a long one and dragged on for a bit. However, it was fun, quirky and kinky all rolled up into one.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Follow along with Twitter Live Read and Breathe Twitter
January 6, 2015
I'm almost positive that the reason this books was 3.5 stars rounded down to three instead of four, is that I haven't read the first book. But, this was availeable and though I was only supposed to check out the first couple of pages, I ended up reading it through.
K. A. Merikan books usually have that certain something that makes one or both the MCs stand apart from all regular joes and in this case it really worked. I got sucked into the story of Ryan's transability so completely and found the writing truly wonderful in that regard. His struggle to be 'normal' was palpable as was his growing anxiety.
There is another thing that' colored by me not reaidng book one, I think, and that is that I hated Liam. He was a cruel drama queen that didn't entirely manage to redeem himself even at the end. I think I that will change once I get around to reading book one. Also his brother. WTF.
In this case, me not liking Liam didn't affect my rating. Ultimately, Special Needs simply didn't give me that happy-rush as my favorite books do and I could not pinpoint what exactly it is that makes the difference.
Partly the star dropping is about me not getting the entire story arc, but part is that I thought this could've been just a tad tighter. There are authors that clearly love writing, like absolutely love it, and at times it translates to books that have air in them. I think, for me, Special Needs 2 would've made more of an impact had it been cut down a bit.
if you are looking a book about MCs that are 'different', I whole heartedly recommend this. While the transability is pretty much center stage, it is introduced as an intricate part of Ryan, as somehting who he is, instead of this huge obstacle in his life. Yes, there is struggle, but ultimately that brings satisfaction as Ryan gains confidence.
K. A. Merikan books usually have that certain something that makes one or both the MCs stand apart from all regular joes and in this case it really worked. I got sucked into the story of Ryan's transability so completely and found the writing truly wonderful in that regard. His struggle to be 'normal' was palpable as was his growing anxiety.
There is another thing that' colored by me not reaidng book one, I think, and that is that I hated Liam. He was a cruel drama queen that didn't entirely manage to redeem himself even at the end. I think I that will change once I get around to reading book one. Also his brother. WTF.
In this case, me not liking Liam didn't affect my rating. Ultimately, Special Needs simply didn't give me that happy-rush as my favorite books do and I could not pinpoint what exactly it is that makes the difference.
Partly the star dropping is about me not getting the entire story arc, but part is that I thought this could've been just a tad tighter. There are authors that clearly love writing, like absolutely love it, and at times it translates to books that have air in them. I think, for me, Special Needs 2 would've made more of an impact had it been cut down a bit.
if you are looking a book about MCs that are 'different', I whole heartedly recommend this. While the transability is pretty much center stage, it is introduced as an intricate part of Ryan, as somehting who he is, instead of this huge obstacle in his life. Yes, there is struggle, but ultimately that brings satisfaction as Ryan gains confidence.
February 21, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
So what worked for me so well in this story are the same elements that drew me to the first book. First off, I really loved Ryan and Liam. They are such an interesting couple, neither your typical romance hero. I loved how different they are, both physically and in personality, but how well the two men mesh together. We see them fall in love in the first book, and here that relationship really grows. Ryan especially is a fascinating character. He manages to project both a frailness and a strength at the same time. In many ways Ryan is still so young and naive. He wants things to work with the hotel and with Liam, and he can’t always understand why things don’t happen the way he expects. Part of it is intentional, as Ryan loves the feeling of being cared for and protected, and part of it seems to just be a bit of naiveté about the world. At the same time, Ryan can be strong and independent. He won’t be pushed around and he works hard for the things he really wants. It is an interesting balance, as we see this blue haired, pierced goth guy who also wears footie pirate pajamas and likes to be cuddled.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
So what worked for me so well in this story are the same elements that drew me to the first book. First off, I really loved Ryan and Liam. They are such an interesting couple, neither your typical romance hero. I loved how different they are, both physically and in personality, but how well the two men mesh together. We see them fall in love in the first book, and here that relationship really grows. Ryan especially is a fascinating character. He manages to project both a frailness and a strength at the same time. In many ways Ryan is still so young and naive. He wants things to work with the hotel and with Liam, and he can’t always understand why things don’t happen the way he expects. Part of it is intentional, as Ryan loves the feeling of being cared for and protected, and part of it seems to just be a bit of naiveté about the world. At the same time, Ryan can be strong and independent. He won’t be pushed around and he works hard for the things he really wants. It is an interesting balance, as we see this blue haired, pierced goth guy who also wears footie pirate pajamas and likes to be cuddled.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
May 19, 2016
While what Ryan's thoughts are hard to comprehend....I still kept taking his side. Wanting to yell at Liam that if he loved him, he had to accept him. Yet I can see how that could be hard to do at first. What Ryan's feeling, is just out of my realm of thought. But, everyone should be allowed to be who they are.
Last book left me yelling WTF? and confused. This one has me walking away satisfied with the outcome.
The book isn't perfect...but it was a heck of a journey.
I think it's one of those books, that while you might not remember all of the details a year from now, you will still remember the feeling. I love a book, that touches you enough, that when you see the cover a year later, it can still make you smile....or yell and scream depending on the book.
Last book left me yelling WTF? and confused. This one has me walking away satisfied with the outcome.
The book isn't perfect...but it was a heck of a journey.
I think it's one of those books, that while you might not remember all of the details a year from now, you will still remember the feeling. I love a book, that touches you enough, that when you see the cover a year later, it can still make you smile....or yell and scream depending on the book.
October 6, 2014
I did really like the story and how they managed to work out their relationship between them. Something that did bug me about the series was they kept saying caretaker which means someone who looks after and cares for a building or home, I think they should have said caregiver. Also I never got to find out if Rufio lost his virginity to Adam or not. I enjoyed the ending and would like to hear about the move, did Ryan write the porno and if they ever get married.
August 30, 2015
I may review this at a later date (my list is piling up).
Some trigger warnings though:
Some trigger warnings though:
November 25, 2016
3.5 rounded up. 1st one was better but all in all enjoyed the liam/ryan ride.
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