Gemini

by Rayona Lovely Wilson

Amidst the shadows of depression and solitude, Jack's world takes an unexpected turn as he unearths a startling truth — he has a 9-year-old son named Gemini, a silent soul who has endured untold abuse.



As their paths converge, Jack and Gemini embark on a transformative journey towards recovery. Jack, no stranger to emotional battles, is determined to provide the paternal love and guidance he yearned for throughout his fatherless upbringing.



Together, their stories of resilience, love, and the unbreakable connection that blossoms between a father and son echo through the shadows of their shared past, guiding them through the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead. In this poignant tale of healing, Jack and Gemini find hope and redemption, their unwavering bond illuminating the path to recovery.

253 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2023

Reviews

[Teerria.Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.75/5⭐️

"Gemini" is a deeply moving story that delves into the complexities of father-son relationships, resilience, and emotional healing. The story follows Jack, who discovers he has a nine-year-old son, Gemini, who has suffered severe abuse. Their journey together is not just about coming to terms with the past but also about forging a new path filled with love, understanding, and healing.

What makes this book remarkable is its raw and honest portrayal of sensitive topics like depression, abuse, and the challenges faced by children in the foster care system. The author, known as dopeblackwriter on TikTok, has crafted a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful. The character development, especially in the context of Jack's unresolved issues with his father, is something I wished was explored further. However, the existing portrayal does provide a substantial insight into their evolving relationship.

A particularly touching scene is when Jack takes Gemini for a haircut. It's a simple moment but is handled with such delicacy and understanding, illustrating the novel's capacity to transform potentially traumatic experiences into moments of grace and healing.

As someone who has personal connections to the themes of foster care and childhood trauma, this book resonated with me deeply. Its ability to evoke such strong emotions is a testament to its power and relevance. The pacing is rapid, with significant developments occurring within a span of a month and a half, which might be a bit fast for some but certainly keeps the narrative engaging.

In conclusion, "Gemini" is a compelling read that I would recommend to anyone, especially those interested in stories of personal growth and emotional healing. It's a testament to the strength of human connections and the transformative power of love. Supporting indie authors like dopeblackwriter is also a commendable aspect of choosing this book.

[Bethany Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced copy of this book for my honest review. These are all my own personal thoughts.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 ‼️
This book was so beautifully written. Ranoya did a wonderfully job of sucking you in immediately and making you feel EVERYTHING Gemini and Jack did. I was crying by page 5. This story was tragically heartbreaking and heartwarming both. We see so much character development from both Jack and Gemini in such a short amount of time. A traumatized and abused child showing up on your doorstep when you had no idea he even existed, how would you feel? Gemini couldn’t talk, read or write. His mother neglected him in ways only a monster would. But Jack, although not knowing this child, stepped up to the plate and, without hesitation, took him in. Provided him all his basic needs his mother hadn’t. Clothes, food, shelter, medical care. All the basic necessities any parent would for their child. Gemini is weary of Jack, afraid this man is going to hurt him like all the rest. But he doesn’t. He cares for him, he protects him. This is their story of healing, learning to love and trust after being through so much trauma and pain in both of their lives. I started this book crying, and ended it crying as well. Phenomenal job. Highly recommended.

This title releases November 12, 2023

[Sammy H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I signed up for an ARC of this book because I was intrigued by the idea of reading a book where the child main character, and namesake of the book, Gemini, suffers from a form of mutism because someone close to me suffers from it. This book was done right, respectfully and did not disappoint me.

Jack, our adult main character, finds out he has a child he never knew about when early one morning, he is dropped on his doorstep with a note from his ex. He discovers the boy, Gemini, has gone through immense trauma, is scared, anxiously, doesn’t speak- and is, in fact, his son.

I was brought to tears by the happenings in this story more than once, the characters really came to life and I felt deeply for them, but the author has a way of pulling back at just the right moment, so you never get too much at once so I never felt as though I had to put the book down and walk away.

This book delves into the relationship between a father and son- how it builds and the ties that begin to bind them, the pain of neglect and abuse- but more than anything, it opens your eyes to how resilient and strong we all are, and what can happen if only someone is there to show us patience, understanding and love.

I received and advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[thisBandherbooks ✨☀️🌻Buffy🌻☀️✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

105- 5🌟 I received this book in advance to read and review honestly. I did not base my rating on grammatical errors and typos. Oh. My. Heart. Rayona what did you do to me?!😭 I am not a crier! You had me sobbing like ten pages in! I had to take a few breaks as this was a very heavy and emotional read. BUT it was a beautiful story that I’m so glad I read. It’s a story about how a father showing up makes all the difference to a child, Gemini. A child who was neglected and abused his whole life. He doesn’t speak. He doesn’t like to be touched. He was shipped across the country by his monster of a mother to his father. A man that didn’t even know he had a child. A man who was dealing with his own personal demons. Together they learn how to grow and heal together. Though a heavy journey, it’s a story that needs to be told. Some dads step up!!!
I highly recommend this book. It releases on November 12th 2023

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book and I have to say I was so impressed! As this was an advanced reading it is the first I’ve read from the author and was so taken in by the beautiful cover! Then I was instantly hooked in the book from the beginning with the way it’s written and the development of the characters.
This book has a lot of depth and hard to read topics, for sure, but that was definitely part of the hook for me. There was so much to keep reading for!

I will definitely be looking for more books from this author and highly recommend this one.

[Tykerria Lummus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book and here’s my review.

As soon as I started this book I immediately teared up. Gemini’s story is so sad and heartbreaking and I loved reading about him overcoming his fears and obstacles while forming new relationships with others. Although this book is pretty simple and has some grammatical errors which I’m sure will get fixed , this book left me feeling at peace for some reason. Thank you for giving me an arc of this book I really needed it.

[Christin Dickerson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartbreaking but beautiful story

This story broke my heart and put it back together. The story is one that unfortunately happens to often, but the way the dad took care of Gemini is so refreshing; to see a male as positive role model was amazing too!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. In less than 200 pages it was filled with all the emotions any one person could go through. Beautifully written such a good story. This book follows a nine year old who has been through more than any child should. Jack his father who has been dealing with grief and loss. The two meet by happenstance and it goes through their journey to love,forgiveness, trust and rebuilding. Rayona lovely Wilson writes so beautifully and easily. This was such a great read!

[Taralyn Knox · Rating 4 out of 5]

GO READ THIS BOOK when it releases on Nov. 12! (There are triggers in it, child abuse and SA).

What an absolutely beautiful story of how love can change a child's life.

This book made me cry sad and happy tears. Especially one part, but I can't share cause it's a spoiler!

"Gemini" gave me hope that there are fathers out there who will show up for their kids.

I gave it 4/5 stars, only because there are some issues with the flow of conversations punctuation and grammar mistakes. BUT usually that will keep me from reading a book. It did not this time. Truly beautiful!

I also was not a fan of the ending.

Otherwise, amazing book! ❤️

[Jennifer Diffley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC after voting on the cover design (perfect, by the way)
What a heartbreaking then redemptive story about the power of love.
There are some triggers, SA is hinted at but no graphic details, child abuse is discussed.

There are some typo/grammar/spelling errors that the author/editorial staff will undoubtedly address.

I hope this is a series and I wish this book was longer…it hit everything and answers all of the questions but I just want more about the beautiful relationships woven throughout the story.

[Tameka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and the relationship between Jack and Gemini. Love truly can conquer all

[₊⋆ Nyxia ☾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t even put into words how amazing this book is. I read it in one sitting. Check trigger warnings and grab your tissues.

I never take breaks during books and I had to take so many. This is a very emotional read. It’s one of those stories that needs to be told and heard. I loved this book. It will definitely stick with me.

Gemini. Oh my heart hurt so much. And Jack what an amazing character.

This book has healing for both Gemini and Jack.
You’ll cry, smile then cry again.

This author’s writing is just amazing and beautiful! I’ll definitely be reading more of their work. Those book deserves all the stars and more.

I recommend this book so much!

“𝒲𝑒 𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝒹𝑜 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓉𝑜𝑔𝑒𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇."

[Chelle Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the realness Gemini brings to the table. It tackles the taboo of men's mental health in such a beautiful way that it makes me tear up. This book is just beautiful. The struggle with demons in both father and child, along with the building of their relationship, is nothing short of amazing.

Gemini is a quick read, providing a dual point of view. It reads like you are an actual part of the narrators mind and allows you to feel the anxiety, fear, love, and curiosity.

I received an advanced reader copy of Gemini.

[Michaela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. These are my true thoughts and opinions.

**Trigger warnings: child abuse, neglect, SA**

I loved immersing myself in Gemini and Jack’s story. Gemini is such sweet boy who suffered untold traumas before meeting his father, Jack. Jack’s struggle with the loss of his own father, their difficult relationship, and his subsequent depression, left Jack needing purpose and healing in his life. Gemini’s arrival turned out to be just the thing.

Their journey toward healing was beautiful to witness. The love and trust built between them was heartwarming. There were moments so raw and real that I cried and moments so tender I smiled ear to ear and had to fight back the tears.

Watching Jack learn to be a father, having no solid experience of fatherhood from his own childhood, was really special. His consistent, patient, transparent, and explanatory approach to parenting helped ease and comfort Gemini so many times. It was lovely to see how many wonderful people Jack had in his life that supported them both along the way.

With Jack’s help, Gemini gains more than just physical healing. He grows in confidence, connection, safety, and love.

Sadly, Gemini’s story is only too real for many. Hopefully Gemini’s story will help in the healing journey of those who have suffered similar traumas.

This was a quick and engaging read so it’s a great option for anyone who is falling behind on their reading goal. I do think that this book could have benefited from another round of editing. There are grammar and flow issues throughout. I was not a fan of the writing structure, and I found that it slowed me down and affected my overall experience of the book. That being said, I genuinely cared about Gemini and Jack and I was fully invested in their story. The cover art is absolutely STUNNING. I really adore it. On balance, my rating is ⭐️⭐️⭐️.

[MC Stress Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover of this book gives "heartwarming father/son closeness," and it totally is, but you get your heart broken a few times along the way.

This was my first introduction to Rayona Lovely Wilson, and I absolutely loved it. I wish I could read this again for the first time.

Gemini is a 9yo boy who was shipped across the country with a strange man by his monster of a mother (who didn't even know how old her son was, btw) to be left at the doorstep of another man, his father, whom he also didn't know. Gemini is mute, scared, anxious, and doesn't like to be touched. Throughout the book, Gemini learns to be a real kid and experience love and family.

Jack Taylor is honestly my new book boyfriend. He's a truly good man. He's suffering from his own depression after the loss of his father, yet he doesn't hesitate in the slightest in caring for Gemini and accepting him as his son. He is kind, gentle, and patient with Gemini. He has his heart broken throughout the book as he gets insight into what life was like for Gemini with his mother.

I lost track of how many times I cried, both for happy moments and heartbreaking ones. It is a beautiful story. I'm so glad we get the POV of both Gemini and Jack.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Katie Holland · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming over and over. We have a dual perspective from Gemini and Jack. Gemini's perspective is watching him navigate from his past trauma to learning Jack and his new environment. Jack's perspective is learning how to work through his own depression and having patience with Gemini, allowing Gemini to feel safe and to open up in his own time.

I knew from the description there would be some heavier topics like depression and abuse, so I was prepared. I appreciated that these weren't glossed over but also not unnecessarily descriptive.

Jack's family and friends are very supportive and it was nice to see that they immediately jumped on his side to help him. I really liked seeing a positive, healthy support network.

I'm not a huge fan of the epilogue. It was a perfect ending without that. If I reread it, I would just skip it next time.

I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Emily Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️- I was given an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Gemini is an exquisite exploration of paternal bonds. This book weaves a poignant narrative that delicately navigates the complexities of emotions. The author's eloquent prose paints a vivid picture of the profound connection between father and child. A child that Jack did not know existed but one that he learns to love despite their initial communication difficulties and Gemini’s past, which makes it difficult for him to trust others.

In this narrative , the voices of Jack and Gemini intertwine seamlessly, offering a unique perspective. Jack's external dialogue mirrors his outward interactions and development into the role of fatherhood, while Gemini's internal reflections provide an intimate glimpse into their unique bond and Gemini’s understanding of the world.

Gemini is equally as heartbreaking as it is heartwarming and I would highly recommend reading it.

[Lynn Lezcano · Rating 4 out of 5]

emini is a unique, sweet story of love triumphing over trauma. The characters are well-developed and relatable. As a reader, I found myself caring for Gemini and rooting for Jack.
The story kept me hooked, and the writing was good, but not great. I found there to be a lot unnecessary or repetitive descriptions that took away from the flow of the storyline.
The unique format of writing in stanzas is intriguing, though I feel it could have been done so with more meaning in the line breaks and the flow of the text. I felt like I was reading regular prose that was just formatted in an unusual way.
I am looking for which book to read next from this author!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ This was tragic, beautiful, and inspiring. It’s a sad fact that our children often go through so much trauma at the hands of adults who are suppose to protect them and Gemini is one of those vulnerable children. This book follows the healing of a horribly abused child and the gentle patience and love of a new father. It was angering, heartbreaking, but also had me crying happy tears. I appreciated how the the story addressed so many important issues and taboos. The book was also very easy to read. The dual perspectives flowed well and overall it was really well done.

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

What drew me in first was the cover. It is fantastic!!

Rayona Lovely Wilson is a new author to me and I wasn't sure what to expect. What I discovered was a wonderfully thought out story that pulled all of the emotions out of me.

I would not describe this as an easy read although it is short. There is wonderful character development for both Gemini and Jack.

This book deals with heavy subject matter including child abuse.

Happy Reading!

[Theopatra · Rating 5 out of 5]

when i realized there was going to be dual point of views between jack and gemini it broke me. gemini's point of view broke me but since he didn't talk it was needed. watching them grow and heal and learn was so satisfying and there was even romance without it feeling forced into the story. i was glad the drama was all character driven rather than a bunch of plots that could've been done but weren't needed (or wanted).

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book about a boy who was abused by his mother and goes to live with his father. I loved watching the boy and his father develop a relationship. There are many obstacles they must overcome.

Trigger Warning: this book depicts child abuse/trauma.

[Donise Sheppard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, emotional book about a father's patience and love. I cannot recommend this author enough.