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Something Like #4
Something Like Spring
Nothing in this world is permanent. Friends, lovers, even family, can all disappear in the blink of an eye. Without these anchors, it's all too easy to find oneself drifting.
Jason Grant doesn't have much, aside from a beat-up old guitar and knack for getting kicked out of foster homes. His latest placement is set to be just another in a long line of failures. Then he meets Caesar Hubbard, a handsome guy who lives down the hall. For the first time in his life, Jason wants to stay, which means learning to be part of a family, and not letting his feelings--or his actions--ruin his first real chance of falling in love.
Something Like Spring introduces a new character to the Seasons story, one with a troubled past and an equally turbulent future. Jason must traverse a winding road fraught with emotional conflicts and tough decisions... a road that might just lead to a certain couple in Austin.
The Something Like... Series:
Book 1: Something Like Summer
Book 2: Something Like Winter
Book 3: Something Like Autumn
Book 4: Something Like Spring
Book 5: Something Like Lightning
Book 6: Something Like Thunder
Book 7: Something Like Stories
460 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2014
166 people are currently reading
2408 people want to read
About the author
Jay Bell
46 books2,212 followersJay Bell is a proud gay man and the award-winning author behind dozens of emotional and yet hopelessly optimistic stories. His best-selling book, Something Like Summer, spawned a series of heart-wrenching novels, a musically driven movie, and a lovingly drawn comic. When not crafting imaginary worlds, he occupies his free time with animals, art, action figures, and—most ardently—his husband Andreas. Jay is always dreaming up new stories about boys in love. If that sounds like your cup of tea, you can get the kettle boiling by visiting www.jaybellbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
February 18, 2019
4.5
I'm absolutely LOVING this series....
-the writing is so compelling,
-the characters are truly engaging,
-there's angst,happy tears,sad tears,
-this one spans over years( one of my favourite things ),
-I honestly had no idea who Jason would end up with....the Author had me guessing right up until the end,
-and more of Ben and Tim...I can't get enough of these two,
This is fast turning into one of my favourite series.
Highly Recommended.
For a moment, he saw it all through the eyes of a lonely boy who had lost his family. A boy who had never dared dream of a day like this, that a group of strangers could become so many precious things to him—family, friends, and even a lover. (...)
I'm absolutely LOVING this series....
-the writing is so compelling,
-the characters are truly engaging,
-there's angst,happy tears,sad tears,
-this one spans over years( one of my favourite things ),
-I honestly had no idea who Jason would end up with....the Author had me guessing right up until the end,
-and more of Ben and Tim...I can't get enough of these two,
This is fast turning into one of my favourite series.
Highly Recommended.
August 11, 2016
4.5 stars
"Happy couples are boring." Jay Bell said this once, when people were begging to hear more about Ben and Tim from the first book in this series, Something Like Summer. And he didn't want to write a boring story. So he did something pretty smart: he knew that fans wanted to see what they looked like after the dramas, break-ups, lies, and deaths, so when crafting Something Like Spring, he brought the happy couple back, but he funneled the conflict into a new character's story, and showed the happy, not-so-boring couple through the new guy's eyes.
And who is that new guy? That would be Jason Grant, a foster kid from Houston. We first meet him when his caseworker, Michelle Trout (yep, Jace's sister!) drops him off at his 24th foster home. She is hoping that this time, he will not deliberately sabotage the situation -- the Hubbards seem like a really nice family, they're rich, and even better, they adopt. Jason isn't completely sold -- after being in so many homes, he is skeptical of almost everyone -- but he decides to be on his best behavior, if only for Michelle's sake. While he is living with the Hubbards, he falls in love with Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard's biological son, Caesar, and Caesar seems to be in love with him. Very few things last forever, though, and we watch Jason go through all of the sturm and drang of first-love pangs.
Eventually, and as a result of a connection that will be deeply satisfying to readers who love this series, Jason ends up in Austin. He lands on the doorstep of our very own Ben and Tim, who are now one year into their revived relationship. (Recall that in the epilogue of Something Like Winter, Bell skipped three years, so he flipped back the pages and filled in the empty spaces.) They are more in love than they ever have been; Michelle has accepted Tim, though it's clear that she gives him the mental side-eye; Jace's best friend and Michelle's husband, Greg, absolutely despises him (and Tim just avoids him in return); their daughter, Emma, adores both of her uncles; and even though their lives aren't picture-perfect, they are incredibly good. Jason walks into this setting, not as a foster kid (he has aged out of the system by this point), but as a young man who still needs a support network, and some finishing touches on the task of being raised (something that Tim, for instance, did not get because his parents were worthless and Eric died too soon): in short, he is a young man who needs a family.
And in the end, that is so much of what the rest of this story is about: the process of how a family can be built, the mistakes and the right choices that family members make, and the foundation of honesty, confidence, love, and support that family members can give you when you are trying to make the biggest decisions of your life. It was truly enjoyable seeing their family come together, and watching Jason become a man in the midst of it all. In particular, it was wonderful watching Jason become a man who could make the right choices about love.
In addition to that, though, this book is a love letter to fans of the series, and in particular, fans of Ben and Tim. I mean, seriously -- what a ride. What a story. And what a pleasure it has been watching them, over the course of (really, 3 books, even though there are 4 in the series) fall in love, fall apart, reconcile, and finally, have a functional, healthy relationship that is steeped in the belief that miracles do occur. In fact, one of the things that I enjoyed most was watching Tim, who practically raised himself, learn how to be a fabulous parent, and this is something that solidifies his relationship with Ben. Jace may have been Ben's anchor, but Tim is unequivocally his equal. Seeing this confirms that Ben's relationship with Tim is just as good as his relationship with Jace was.
And they are so in love. Say what you will, Tim haters: these men fit. By the end of the book, they have been together for five years, and you just know that Ben looks at Tim and thinks he is the luckiest guy in the world, and Tim will always light up when Ben walks into a room. We know this because Jason is telling us, and because he is searching for a love that is just like theirs. In other words, we have a reliable observer who confirms that these two people, who took him under their collective wing, had so much love to give that it spilled out of each other and washed over him. And not only was Jason lucky to find them, he actually found the love that would, in fact, be as good as theirs.
This was a wonderful way to wrap up this part of the series. Bell says that he will keep writing in this universe, though he hasn't revealed the direction in which he wants to go. I have my suspicions, though, and given his talent as a writer, I'll definitely be intrigued if my guess is correct!
"Happy couples are boring." Jay Bell said this once, when people were begging to hear more about Ben and Tim from the first book in this series, Something Like Summer. And he didn't want to write a boring story. So he did something pretty smart: he knew that fans wanted to see what they looked like after the dramas, break-ups, lies, and deaths, so when crafting Something Like Spring, he brought the happy couple back, but he funneled the conflict into a new character's story, and showed the happy, not-so-boring couple through the new guy's eyes.
And who is that new guy? That would be Jason Grant, a foster kid from Houston. We first meet him when his caseworker, Michelle Trout (yep, Jace's sister!) drops him off at his 24th foster home. She is hoping that this time, he will not deliberately sabotage the situation -- the Hubbards seem like a really nice family, they're rich, and even better, they adopt. Jason isn't completely sold -- after being in so many homes, he is skeptical of almost everyone -- but he decides to be on his best behavior, if only for Michelle's sake. While he is living with the Hubbards, he falls in love with Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard's biological son, Caesar, and Caesar seems to be in love with him. Very few things last forever, though, and we watch Jason go through all of the sturm and drang of first-love pangs.
Eventually, and as a result of a connection that will be deeply satisfying to readers who love this series, Jason ends up in Austin. He lands on the doorstep of our very own Ben and Tim, who are now one year into their revived relationship. (Recall that in the epilogue of Something Like Winter, Bell skipped three years, so he flipped back the pages and filled in the empty spaces.) They are more in love than they ever have been; Michelle has accepted Tim, though it's clear that she gives him the mental side-eye; Jace's best friend and Michelle's husband, Greg, absolutely despises him (and Tim just avoids him in return); their daughter, Emma, adores both of her uncles; and even though their lives aren't picture-perfect, they are incredibly good. Jason walks into this setting, not as a foster kid (he has aged out of the system by this point), but as a young man who still needs a support network, and some finishing touches on the task of being raised (something that Tim, for instance, did not get because his parents were worthless and Eric died too soon): in short, he is a young man who needs a family.
And in the end, that is so much of what the rest of this story is about: the process of how a family can be built, the mistakes and the right choices that family members make, and the foundation of honesty, confidence, love, and support that family members can give you when you are trying to make the biggest decisions of your life. It was truly enjoyable seeing their family come together, and watching Jason become a man in the midst of it all. In particular, it was wonderful watching Jason become a man who could make the right choices about love.
In addition to that, though, this book is a love letter to fans of the series, and in particular, fans of Ben and Tim. I mean, seriously -- what a ride. What a story. And what a pleasure it has been watching them, over the course of (really, 3 books, even though there are 4 in the series) fall in love, fall apart, reconcile, and finally, have a functional, healthy relationship that is steeped in the belief that miracles do occur. In fact, one of the things that I enjoyed most was watching Tim, who practically raised himself, learn how to be a fabulous parent, and this is something that solidifies his relationship with Ben. Jace may have been Ben's anchor, but Tim is unequivocally his equal. Seeing this confirms that Ben's relationship with Tim is just as good as his relationship with Jace was.
And they are so in love. Say what you will, Tim haters: these men fit. By the end of the book, they have been together for five years, and you just know that Ben looks at Tim and thinks he is the luckiest guy in the world, and Tim will always light up when Ben walks into a room. We know this because Jason is telling us, and because he is searching for a love that is just like theirs. In other words, we have a reliable observer who confirms that these two people, who took him under their collective wing, had so much love to give that it spilled out of each other and washed over him. And not only was Jason lucky to find them, he actually found the love that would, in fact, be as good as theirs.
This was a wonderful way to wrap up this part of the series. Bell says that he will keep writing in this universe, though he hasn't revealed the direction in which he wants to go. I have my suspicions, though, and given his talent as a writer, I'll definitely be intrigued if my guess is correct!
May 8, 2020
I couldn't connect with this story and neither warm up to the characters.
The average rate is so high that you shouldn't take my word for it, though.
The Epilogue was amazing. Hence the round up to 3 Stars (I like it.)
The average rate is so high that you shouldn't take my word for it, though.
The Epilogue was amazing. Hence the round up to 3 Stars (I like it.)
January 30, 2014
I am a sobbing, snotty mess and it was worth every word. Jay Bell continues to amaze me with his mastery of character development and interaction. There isn' t a chart big enough to keep track of all these lovable people and how their lives intersect. I have survived Something Like Four Seasons. Full review to come.
One thousand-four hundred-fifty-four. I keep trying to make that number fit into the melody from the song from Rent that always gets stuck in my head, but it won’t work. That is the number of pages to which Jay Bell committed the story of Tim Wyman and Ben Bentley. The books are named for the four seasons of the year, but the period of time spanned by the four books is actually closer to two decades. And those pages, they’re not enough. I feel bereft. I will be thinking about Tim and Ben for way too long. It’s been two days since I finished reading Something Like Spring, and I still can’t start another book because Tim and Ben won’t leave me alone!
Jay Bell shows us Ben and Tim’s lives from every conceivable point-of-view and at many stages of their lives, but as an avid reader of his work, I know there are more moments that he missed. I want them all. And I want all the moments of the lives of all the other characters Jay Bell created to surround Ben and Tim. Victor, Ryan, Caesar, Nathaniel, Kelly, Emma and so many more completely evolved characters. I am a greedy reader. I got so completely immersed in the amazing universe where Tim and Ben live that I lost hours of my life to them. And somehow, it could never be enough.
I have survived Ben and Tim’s story from their meeting in Summer through the end of our voyeuristic voyage (but not necessarily their relationship) in Spring. Not only have I survived, I thrived, stayed up too late, gotten up too early, ordered pizza for dinner too many times to count. I laughed, I cried, I felt the tickle at new love or professions of love in my tummy, I clutched my Kindle tighter as I waited for one character or another to make the right (in my opinion) choice. Mr. Bell has a fabulous sense of humor which he deftly uses to balance the sadness and tragedy that are a part of any realistic story.
The sheer multitude of characters contained in those pages is mind-blowing. I picture a crime procedural television show, where they have all the white boards lined up with the facts of the case laid out. In order to keep track of all his characters and the many ways in which they intersect Jay Bell would need a warehouse full of white boards. And every single character is as engaging as the last. Even the ones you hate, you want to read because they get in your head and won’t leave you alone. Somehow, as only a writer of great characters can do, Jay Bell leaves you wanting only good for the “bad guys”. You are able to recognize that they aren’t bad people, just flawed human beings looking for the same thing everyone else is. They just go about finding it in the wrong way sometimes.
In Something Like Spring, we meet Jason Grant for the first time. Jason is a victim of the American foster care system. He has been in twenty-three foster homes by the age of fifteen, accompanied only by the beat up guitar his mother gave to him when he was little. The home in which we find him being placed is one where the foster parents most often adopt their foster children. All Jason has to do is follow the rules and keep his head down and he will have a permanent home and a family to pay for his college education. Enter Caesar Hubbard.
Caesar is the only genetic child of the family with whom Jason has been placed and his room is temptingly right down the hall from Jason’s. How is he supposed to follow the rules and keep his head down when all he wants to do is sneak into Caesar’s room at night and explore his budding homosexuality? Things are too often not what they appear to be and Jason, in his desperate need to find someone to love and who will love him back just as deeply, believes only the best of what he sees.
Not much is given away in the blurb, so I won’t disclose much of the story. Mr. Bell doesn’t give up much ahead of time. You need to read it for yourself anyway. It will blow you away. I can tell you that Jason’s caseworker is able, once Jason is on his own and struggling to survive, to introduce him to a couple she knows in Austin who are happy to take him in and treat him like family. This is the beginning of a period of happiness unlike Jason has ever known.
I have a wicked headache today. When I cry, I get a sinus headache, and I cried ugly last night when reading the end of Something Like Spring. Today I blame Jay for my abuse of over-the-counter pain medications and any potential damage to my liver caused by said abuse. I won’t hold it against him though, because if he somehow managed to find a heretofore undiscovered fifth season and wrote a book about it, I would savor every word. I have learned that among the tears is so much beauty and love and joy and family that it is all worth it. To quote Jay Bell, “Love is worth the pain.”
And I do love Something Like Spring. I also loved Something Like Summer, Something Like Winter and Something Like Autumn. I am so thankful to the friend who read Summer in a challenge on Goodreads and said those fateful words we have all used. “You have to read this book. It was so good.” She was so right. And now I say to you, “You have to read this book. It is so good!”
Reviewer’s note: Begin reading any Jay Bell Publication early in the day. Best to start on a Saturday morning. Because unless you have will power of steel, you will literally not be able to stop reading until the book is done.
One thousand-four hundred-fifty-four. I keep trying to make that number fit into the melody from the song from Rent that always gets stuck in my head, but it won’t work. That is the number of pages to which Jay Bell committed the story of Tim Wyman and Ben Bentley. The books are named for the four seasons of the year, but the period of time spanned by the four books is actually closer to two decades. And those pages, they’re not enough. I feel bereft. I will be thinking about Tim and Ben for way too long. It’s been two days since I finished reading Something Like Spring, and I still can’t start another book because Tim and Ben won’t leave me alone!
Jay Bell shows us Ben and Tim’s lives from every conceivable point-of-view and at many stages of their lives, but as an avid reader of his work, I know there are more moments that he missed. I want them all. And I want all the moments of the lives of all the other characters Jay Bell created to surround Ben and Tim. Victor, Ryan, Caesar, Nathaniel, Kelly, Emma and so many more completely evolved characters. I am a greedy reader. I got so completely immersed in the amazing universe where Tim and Ben live that I lost hours of my life to them. And somehow, it could never be enough.
I have survived Ben and Tim’s story from their meeting in Summer through the end of our voyeuristic voyage (but not necessarily their relationship) in Spring. Not only have I survived, I thrived, stayed up too late, gotten up too early, ordered pizza for dinner too many times to count. I laughed, I cried, I felt the tickle at new love or professions of love in my tummy, I clutched my Kindle tighter as I waited for one character or another to make the right (in my opinion) choice. Mr. Bell has a fabulous sense of humor which he deftly uses to balance the sadness and tragedy that are a part of any realistic story.
The sheer multitude of characters contained in those pages is mind-blowing. I picture a crime procedural television show, where they have all the white boards lined up with the facts of the case laid out. In order to keep track of all his characters and the many ways in which they intersect Jay Bell would need a warehouse full of white boards. And every single character is as engaging as the last. Even the ones you hate, you want to read because they get in your head and won’t leave you alone. Somehow, as only a writer of great characters can do, Jay Bell leaves you wanting only good for the “bad guys”. You are able to recognize that they aren’t bad people, just flawed human beings looking for the same thing everyone else is. They just go about finding it in the wrong way sometimes.
In Something Like Spring, we meet Jason Grant for the first time. Jason is a victim of the American foster care system. He has been in twenty-three foster homes by the age of fifteen, accompanied only by the beat up guitar his mother gave to him when he was little. The home in which we find him being placed is one where the foster parents most often adopt their foster children. All Jason has to do is follow the rules and keep his head down and he will have a permanent home and a family to pay for his college education. Enter Caesar Hubbard.
Caesar is the only genetic child of the family with whom Jason has been placed and his room is temptingly right down the hall from Jason’s. How is he supposed to follow the rules and keep his head down when all he wants to do is sneak into Caesar’s room at night and explore his budding homosexuality? Things are too often not what they appear to be and Jason, in his desperate need to find someone to love and who will love him back just as deeply, believes only the best of what he sees.
Not much is given away in the blurb, so I won’t disclose much of the story. Mr. Bell doesn’t give up much ahead of time. You need to read it for yourself anyway. It will blow you away. I can tell you that Jason’s caseworker is able, once Jason is on his own and struggling to survive, to introduce him to a couple she knows in Austin who are happy to take him in and treat him like family. This is the beginning of a period of happiness unlike Jason has ever known.
I have a wicked headache today. When I cry, I get a sinus headache, and I cried ugly last night when reading the end of Something Like Spring. Today I blame Jay for my abuse of over-the-counter pain medications and any potential damage to my liver caused by said abuse. I won’t hold it against him though, because if he somehow managed to find a heretofore undiscovered fifth season and wrote a book about it, I would savor every word. I have learned that among the tears is so much beauty and love and joy and family that it is all worth it. To quote Jay Bell, “Love is worth the pain.”
And I do love Something Like Spring. I also loved Something Like Summer, Something Like Winter and Something Like Autumn. I am so thankful to the friend who read Summer in a challenge on Goodreads and said those fateful words we have all used. “You have to read this book. It was so good.” She was so right. And now I say to you, “You have to read this book. It is so good!”
Reviewer’s note: Begin reading any Jay Bell Publication early in the day. Best to start on a Saturday morning. Because unless you have will power of steel, you will literally not be able to stop reading until the book is done.
May 27, 2016
This book men...
So, I need to explain well so this will contain spoilers.
I read Kelly's book first, I have here Nathaniel's book too but I havent read it, they were gifts that's what I haven't read Jace's book either.
Kelly's book feel... incomplete, reading it after finish Tim and Ben's story might not have been the smartest choice, at the end I liked it but not without having my problems with it.
Cheating. That's like my Achilles Heel, I don't know why but that always rub me the wrong way, I just don't like it. It's a very personal thing to me, so read how William and Kelly's relationship falls apart little by little, and the scene and that party of Jason and William, I went ballistic, I know they were broken already but that didn't make it any easy for me, and neither for Kelly.
So I start this book with that in mind, it star really well, for a moment I though this was a completely different Jason, I could see the appeal of Caesar and Jason but something just feel off in the first part of the book.
And then... well, and then Nathaniel comes into the story, to read that... I feel even worse than what I feel in Kelly's book, but Jason is so inocent, he really wanted to be chosen, but things don't always go the way we want.
Then we have William, sweet, inocent William, what a beautiful couple Jason and William don't you think? but they always have to sneak up, be secret for William's relantionship with Kelly and well that I didn't like it.
The time of William for his 4 year dream comes in, Jason and he are already together but again things don't always go the way we want, this is the reason I kept reading I wanted to see how they would end, how they'd survive those 4 years apart with only ocassional visits and well... just damn.
4 Years past and Caesar fucking Hubbard have to appear again of course, and the nostalgia and wherever make Jason be with him again, he really didn't change much, of course we know he break up with Nathaniel long time ago and now he really seems to want Jason. All this have to coincide with the time when William came back home, of course.
We only need to read how Jason talk about Caesar and how he talk about William, we know what men he'd choose , that didn't make it easier, until a party when he talk with Nathaniel and he said that Caesar try to be with him first, again. I was waiting a big fight but what I had was very differnt.
And there is more
He got me there, and finally I could understand him.
The end was so beautiful I couldn't stop crying I was so happy for everything:
It was amazing to revive Tim and Ben story, and finally read about the wedding, It was amazing to read how Jace tried to help Jason It didn't start well but now I'm so glad I read it.
So, I need to explain well so this will contain spoilers.
I read Kelly's book first, I have here Nathaniel's book too but I havent read it, they were gifts that's what I haven't read Jace's book either.
Kelly's book feel... incomplete, reading it after finish Tim and Ben's story might not have been the smartest choice, at the end I liked it but not without having my problems with it.
Cheating. That's like my Achilles Heel, I don't know why but that always rub me the wrong way, I just don't like it. It's a very personal thing to me, so read how William and Kelly's relationship falls apart little by little, and the scene and that party of Jason and William, I went ballistic, I know they were broken already but that didn't make it any easy for me, and neither for Kelly.
So I start this book with that in mind, it star really well, for a moment I though this was a completely different Jason, I could see the appeal of Caesar and Jason but something just feel off in the first part of the book.
And then... well, and then Nathaniel comes into the story, to read that... I feel even worse than what I feel in Kelly's book, but Jason is so inocent, he really wanted to be chosen, but things don't always go the way we want.
Then we have William, sweet, inocent William, what a beautiful couple Jason and William don't you think? but they always have to sneak up, be secret for William's relantionship with Kelly and well that I didn't like it.
The time of William for his 4 year dream comes in, Jason and he are already together but again things don't always go the way we want, this is the reason I kept reading I wanted to see how they would end, how they'd survive those 4 years apart with only ocassional visits and well... just damn.
4 Years past and Caesar fucking Hubbard have to appear again of course, and the nostalgia and wherever make Jason be with him again, he really didn't change much, of course we know he break up with Nathaniel long time ago and now he really seems to want Jason. All this have to coincide with the time when William came back home, of course.
We only need to read how Jason talk about Caesar and how he talk about William, we know what men he'd choose , that didn't make it easier, until a party when he talk with Nathaniel and he said that Caesar try to be with him first, again. I was waiting a big fight but what I had was very differnt.
"I know calling Nathaniel was wrong, but just think how you would feel if William didn’t want you. Think about how much you love him, and then pretend he won’t even answer your calls. I got desperate, and frankly, a little scared, because no one seems to want me anymore. Not my family, not Nathaniel, not even you.”
And there is more
You grew up,” Caesar said, biting his lip. His eyes were wet as he turned to Jason. “You have no idea how amazing you’ve become. You used to be this angry little guy who hated the very thing he needed. Now you’ve got a family and a home and friends, and you’re incredible. It’s good to see you like this, but I’ve lost all of those things, and I don’t think either one of us wants to reverse roles. I can’t be the same person to you I once was, and I don’t want you to take care of me. It doesn’t feel right. And I love you too, but not like I love him.”
He got me there, and finally I could understand him.
The end was so beautiful I couldn't stop crying I was so happy for everything:
I hate when a party is over,” he said.
“Really?” William asked from next to him. “Why?”
“Because endings are sad. They always make me cry.”
“Even when they’re happy?”
“Especially when they’re happy because then I don’t want it to be over.”
It was amazing to revive Tim and Ben story, and finally read about the wedding, It was amazing to read how Jace tried to help Jason It didn't start well but now I'm so glad I read it.
“To the one who nearly got away,”
February 2, 2014
I bought this last night and spent the whole day in bed reading this book. I love Jay Bell as an author because he writes the books I love. Teenagers and college kids trying to make something of themselves, so many authors shy away/refuse/or just write them badly. This man has such a great way with young characters. I just can't deal.
"Something Like Summer" was a knock out for me. I loved Ben but I loved Tim more. The Antichrist so many readers hated as they fell for Jace. "Something Like Winter" gave us Tim's POV and just made me love him more and his relationship with Ben. "Something Like Autumn" I haven't read for obvious reasons (because my heart won't be able to deal). "Something Like Spring" is a story about a whole new character a kid named Jason. A kid whose mother abandoned him in the worst way, a kid who got shipped around until he found a decent enough home - until he fell in love and got his heart broken by his foster brother.
This book is about Jason finding love and a family. His heart gets broken a lot in this book. We watch his journey both beautiful and painful. We watch him make choices and decisions, maybe never life shattering but small changes that help him grow as a person. A young man who goes through ups and downs. There are characters you'll obviously love like William and others you'll probably hate like Caesar. You'll find small parallels between them just like you did with Tim and Jace. I loved Caesar he had it all and yet he had nothing. I hope we read his story one day, maybe he'll find someone who can tame and yet let him be him one day.
Ben and Tim were in this book and their love just shone so elegantly. They were adorable and they were heartbreaking, Ben will never forget or stop loving Jace; but it was nice to see Ben make peace with that (and the same goes for Tim).
A beautiful tale - and I am so sad it ended. The end note from the author was touching. Please don't let go of this world because for a lot of us it is such a special place.
"Something Like Summer" was a knock out for me. I loved Ben but I loved Tim more. The Antichrist so many readers hated as they fell for Jace. "Something Like Winter" gave us Tim's POV and just made me love him more and his relationship with Ben. "Something Like Autumn" I haven't read for obvious reasons (because my heart won't be able to deal). "Something Like Spring" is a story about a whole new character a kid named Jason. A kid whose mother abandoned him in the worst way, a kid who got shipped around until he found a decent enough home - until he fell in love and got his heart broken by his foster brother.
This book is about Jason finding love and a family. His heart gets broken a lot in this book. We watch his journey both beautiful and painful. We watch him make choices and decisions, maybe never life shattering but small changes that help him grow as a person. A young man who goes through ups and downs. There are characters you'll obviously love like William and others you'll probably hate like Caesar. You'll find small parallels between them just like you did with Tim and Jace. I loved Caesar he had it all and yet he had nothing. I hope we read his story one day, maybe he'll find someone who can tame and yet let him be him one day.
Ben and Tim were in this book and their love just shone so elegantly. They were adorable and they were heartbreaking, Ben will never forget or stop loving Jace; but it was nice to see Ben make peace with that (and the same goes for Tim).
A beautiful tale - and I am so sad it ended. The end note from the author was touching. Please don't let go of this world because for a lot of us it is such a special place.
December 27, 2023
This is the 20th book I’ve read in 2023, and it is my number 1 of the year up to this point.
It is no secret that I adore the Something Like … series. Something Like Summer brought me joy, comfort, and emotional release at a time when I was vulnerable and needed it the most. Going into that book, I could never have imagined the grip that it – along with its subsequent entries – would have on me. I fell in love with these characters – these complex, genuine, loveable characters. I was moved by their stories – their emotional, traumatic, affecting stories.
When I finished Something Like Winter, I felt so sad that the story of Ben, Jace, and Tim had ended – we got a book from each of their point of views, right? That was it, right? Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Something Like Spring introduced a new character whose story would be built around that of Ben, Jace and Tim again?
Jason was an incredible, brave, resilient protagonist, and one of my favorites in recent memory (not only because we share a name). 24 foster home placements. Emotional trauma. Neglect. Alone. Jason’s story broke me apart when we learned just how much the foster care system was failing him, despite the best efforts of Michelle, one of the most dedicated caseworkers to ever exist.
It was so rewarding to watch Jason’s long journey of learning to love himself, learning to believe that he was worthy, and learning that family isn’t just a group of people you’re born into – but that we can choose our own family. His journey was filled with pain, rejection, loneliness, and self-hatred. And over the course of the numerous years the story spanned, he overcame those obstacles. I loved Jason more and more with every page I read.
Commence Spoilers
Tim literally taking a bullet for Ben and Jason? William coming back? The adoption? Jesus, y’all. Tears and ugly crying at 4:00 AM.
When I put together that not only were Ben and Tim getting married, but they were adopting Jason? I was a wreck (in the best way possible). Because it was even bigger than just the adoption. It was the lives of every single character intertwining. It was Ben, Jace, Tim, and Jason's stories spilling into each other. It was one of the most beautiful full-circle moments imaginable. It was chosen / found family at its finest.
While I know that I am FAR from the end of the remaining books in the Something Like… series, this was a fantastic conclusion to the Seasons saga that connected everything beautifully.
Jay Bell is a treasure to the literary world – especially the LGBTQ literary world. I could read his books forever (and will be doing just that, because there are so many). I will never stop recommending this series. It has a permanent special place in my heart.
“Everything you lose is a step you take. / So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it – you’ve got no reason to be afraid. / You’re on your own, kid – you can face this. You’re on your own, kid – you always have been.”
- You’re On Your Own, Kid // Taylor Swift
It is no secret that I adore the Something Like … series. Something Like Summer brought me joy, comfort, and emotional release at a time when I was vulnerable and needed it the most. Going into that book, I could never have imagined the grip that it – along with its subsequent entries – would have on me. I fell in love with these characters – these complex, genuine, loveable characters. I was moved by their stories – their emotional, traumatic, affecting stories.
When I finished Something Like Winter, I felt so sad that the story of Ben, Jace, and Tim had ended – we got a book from each of their point of views, right? That was it, right? Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Something Like Spring introduced a new character whose story would be built around that of Ben, Jace and Tim again?
Jason was an incredible, brave, resilient protagonist, and one of my favorites in recent memory (not only because we share a name). 24 foster home placements. Emotional trauma. Neglect. Alone. Jason’s story broke me apart when we learned just how much the foster care system was failing him, despite the best efforts of Michelle, one of the most dedicated caseworkers to ever exist.
It was so rewarding to watch Jason’s long journey of learning to love himself, learning to believe that he was worthy, and learning that family isn’t just a group of people you’re born into – but that we can choose our own family. His journey was filled with pain, rejection, loneliness, and self-hatred. And over the course of the numerous years the story spanned, he overcame those obstacles. I loved Jason more and more with every page I read.
Commence Spoilers
Tim literally taking a bullet for Ben and Jason? William coming back? The adoption? Jesus, y’all. Tears and ugly crying at 4:00 AM.
When I put together that not only were Ben and Tim getting married, but they were adopting Jason? I was a wreck (in the best way possible). Because it was even bigger than just the adoption. It was the lives of every single character intertwining. It was Ben, Jace, Tim, and Jason's stories spilling into each other. It was one of the most beautiful full-circle moments imaginable. It was chosen / found family at its finest.
While I know that I am FAR from the end of the remaining books in the Something Like… series, this was a fantastic conclusion to the Seasons saga that connected everything beautifully.
Jay Bell is a treasure to the literary world – especially the LGBTQ literary world. I could read his books forever (and will be doing just that, because there are so many). I will never stop recommending this series. It has a permanent special place in my heart.
“Everything you lose is a step you take. / So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it – you’ve got no reason to be afraid. / You’re on your own, kid – you can face this. You’re on your own, kid – you always have been.”
- You’re On Your Own, Kid // Taylor Swift
February 5, 2014
♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥ spring's eternal ♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥
Something Like Summer… was my first and so were Ben and Tim, and you know what they say about firsts ….
I came to discover Summer one year ago, late I know, but it honestly was my first - young adult, m/m romance - and my first true love.
Ben and Tim. And in more than one ways Tim. He'll always remain in my heart as the most wonderful person. With Spring you showed me once again just how wonderful he truly is. Thank you! ♥
I remember the day I picked up Something Like Summer… I had no idea what to expect and less why I chose this book as my first. I just did... it was love at first sight so to speak, and it has sparked my interest in that genre as well as given me a reason to read again. I haven't touched a book in years and years and today, one year and 300+ romance novels later Something Like Summer/Winter & Ben and Tim are unbeaten and I know that they never will.
Thank you so much Jay, for another wonderful journey through loss and hope and butterflies - and especially for bringing back Tim and Ben. Spring is everything I could have possibly wished for - and so much more ♥
Ah, sigh. Honestly Jay, Mr. you have outdone yourself - Spring is going to be one of the most loved books in history, I am sure. It's full of history and new beginnings. No other book will bring me to tears over and over - sad tears as well as happy tears! What a crazy emotioncoaster ♥
There will be no review as such from me. My words can never do this story and its characters any justice and I don't want to ruin a single thing of this beautiful piece of work.
I hope the entire world will go and pick up this book! =D
You might just make Jay a rich man after all ;)
Really, it's worth it. Jason, such a wonderful person. I adore him to bits. His story was heartbreaking at times but never too much to handle - I am glad he didn't have to struggle forever.
Even though Ben and Tim weren't the center of everything in Spring I honestly could have never dreamt of getting to see them this happy and in love - and getting to see quite a lot of their time together was the absolute highlight of this year!
Nothing will be able to top this experience. God I am so in love with Ben and Tim, more than ever.
Oh Tim ♥
And walking down memory lane so many times! *sniffls*
It was wonderful ♥ ♥
I am so grateful for this incredibly sweet and beautiful story…
Wait. No honestly. I am not getting paid to say any of this and I don't think Jay needs any flattery from me *laughs* but whatever; I just fell in love with your superb writing Jay, and personally not one of those many authors I came to know has managed to get me the way you did with all your books.
I would lie of course If I'd say they all stink *laugh* - they don't. There are many great authors out there and many great books, but honestly no one will take the place you and your boys have in my heart … *mush mush mush*
Now now, please go back to writing those meals series!
I can't wait for Something Like Breakfast :)
I could imagine a Time series too, how about
....Something Like 1AM?
Has potential for quite a few installments, no?
....whatever it will be, I AM EXCITED!
xxx
Something Like Summer… was my first and so were Ben and Tim, and you know what they say about firsts ….
I came to discover Summer one year ago, late I know, but it honestly was my first - young adult, m/m romance - and my first true love.
Ben and Tim. And in more than one ways Tim. He'll always remain in my heart as the most wonderful person. With Spring you showed me once again just how wonderful he truly is. Thank you! ♥
I remember the day I picked up Something Like Summer… I had no idea what to expect and less why I chose this book as my first. I just did... it was love at first sight so to speak, and it has sparked my interest in that genre as well as given me a reason to read again. I haven't touched a book in years and years and today, one year and 300+ romance novels later Something Like Summer/Winter & Ben and Tim are unbeaten and I know that they never will.
Thank you so much Jay, for another wonderful journey through loss and hope and butterflies - and especially for bringing back Tim and Ben. Spring is everything I could have possibly wished for - and so much more ♥
Ah, sigh. Honestly Jay, Mr. you have outdone yourself - Spring is going to be one of the most loved books in history, I am sure. It's full of history and new beginnings. No other book will bring me to tears over and over - sad tears as well as happy tears! What a crazy emotioncoaster ♥
There will be no review as such from me. My words can never do this story and its characters any justice and I don't want to ruin a single thing of this beautiful piece of work.
I hope the entire world will go and pick up this book! =D
You might just make Jay a rich man after all ;)
Really, it's worth it. Jason, such a wonderful person. I adore him to bits. His story was heartbreaking at times but never too much to handle - I am glad he didn't have to struggle forever.
Even though Ben and Tim weren't the center of everything in Spring I honestly could have never dreamt of getting to see them this happy and in love - and getting to see quite a lot of their time together was the absolute highlight of this year!
Nothing will be able to top this experience. God I am so in love with Ben and Tim, more than ever.
"Half the time he seems self-centered, the other half it's like he lives solely for Ben."
Oh Tim ♥
And walking down memory lane so many times! *sniffls*
"I guess I should have known back then. All the guys after him only left flesh wounds. Benjamin managed to get into my bones on day one."
It was wonderful ♥ ♥
I am so grateful for this incredibly sweet and beautiful story…
Wait. No honestly. I am not getting paid to say any of this and I don't think Jay needs any flattery from me *laughs* but whatever; I just fell in love with your superb writing Jay, and personally not one of those many authors I came to know has managed to get me the way you did with all your books.
I would lie of course If I'd say they all stink *laugh* - they don't. There are many great authors out there and many great books, but honestly no one will take the place you and your boys have in my heart … *mush mush mush*
Now now, please go back to writing those meals series!
I can't wait for Something Like Breakfast :)
I could imagine a Time series too, how about
....Something Like 1AM?
Has potential for quite a few installments, no?
....whatever it will be, I AM EXCITED!
xxx
May 8, 2015
Jason's story in "Something Like Spring" is definitely worthy of being part of the amazing Seasons series and at 460 pages, I loved all of the character detail.
I enjoyed seeing Jason grow from a very cynical, somewhat bitter teenager into a man that anyone, given half a chance, would be proud to call their son or partner.
The first part of the book mainly deals with Jason's failed attempt at first love with the biological son of a wealthy husband and wife looking to create the *perfect* family. In this family, however, if you're deemed less than their ideal, you're out. I doubt I'd have made it there as long as Jason did.
Then the book skips forward a few years to where Jason is no longer in the foster care system, having mostly moved on and creating a meager, unfulfilling life for himself, until the bottom falls out of his paycheck-to-paycheck existence.
Enter Ben and Tim in Jason's hour of need -- thanks to Jace, of all people. Yay, happy dance. After which, Jason's life is almost perfect, except that having front row seats to Ben and Tim's nearly idyllic life makes Jason long for that type of relationship more than ever before.
Enter should be, but not quite single William. LOVE William. He's perfect for Jason, except for the teeny fact that he's already committed to joining the Coast Guard. For 4 years. Ugh, shoot me.
Anyway, 4 years of waiting and hope, then no hope, then loneliness, then old love returns just prior to current/new love and decisions have to be made. It's very *dramatical*. (Yes, that's only a word if you check Urban Dictionary.) hehe
The ending with Ben and Tim, then with Ben, Tim and Jason was very cool. No, they didn't all "do it", so Eyes Up Here, Ladies...
The one thing that really bugged the living shit out of me was
Recommending this book with as many stars as they'll let me click. : )
.
I enjoyed seeing Jason grow from a very cynical, somewhat bitter teenager into a man that anyone, given half a chance, would be proud to call their son or partner.
The first part of the book mainly deals with Jason's failed attempt at first love with the biological son of a wealthy husband and wife looking to create the *perfect* family. In this family, however, if you're deemed less than their ideal, you're out. I doubt I'd have made it there as long as Jason did.
Then the book skips forward a few years to where Jason is no longer in the foster care system, having mostly moved on and creating a meager, unfulfilling life for himself, until the bottom falls out of his paycheck-to-paycheck existence.
Enter Ben and Tim in Jason's hour of need -- thanks to Jace, of all people. Yay, happy dance. After which, Jason's life is almost perfect, except that having front row seats to Ben and Tim's nearly idyllic life makes Jason long for that type of relationship more than ever before.
Enter should be, but not quite single William. LOVE William. He's perfect for Jason, except for the teeny fact that he's already committed to joining the Coast Guard. For 4 years. Ugh, shoot me.
Anyway, 4 years of waiting and hope, then no hope, then loneliness, then old love returns just prior to current/new love and decisions have to be made. It's very *dramatical*. (Yes, that's only a word if you check Urban Dictionary.) hehe
The ending with Ben and Tim, then with Ben, Tim and Jason was very cool. No, they didn't all "do it", so Eyes Up Here, Ladies...
The one thing that really bugged the living shit out of me was
Recommending this book with as many stars as they'll let me click. : )
.
February 24, 2014
What can I say? I'm just a sentimental sap-like-voyeur..on the fringes of these neverending seasons resembling something like life..with an inviting cast of characters one can't help but invest in. Jay Bell brings them to something bigger than life..impossible not to appreciate.
J.Bell's Seasons embodies the essence of -write what you know- as he does it with such unwavering conviction.
There were many moments and passages that resonated, touched, tickled, endeared..and many were noted (certainly not all inclusive) in my reading progress updates.
I am of a dominant possessive persuasion when it comes to reading..and resent any and all offpage action or info dumping. I must consume it to experience it. My parents could never tell me anything either. There were a few moments in this story that I would have appreciated the experience instead of being told it. But my enjoyment of the story made up for it.
One should check any and all sexual expectations at the door, as sexual content is not a huge part of the Seasons series and it doesn't have to be to embrace the lifeblood of the story..(and that's a compliment coming from a sexual word whore) because I don't read the m/m genre for knitting pointers.
But..I do read this Seasons series for something..so much more..
Until we meet again! TEAM WYMAN/CHINCHILLA!
J.Bell's Seasons embodies the essence of -write what you know- as he does it with such unwavering conviction.
There were many moments and passages that resonated, touched, tickled, endeared..and many were noted (certainly not all inclusive) in my reading progress updates.
I am of a dominant possessive persuasion when it comes to reading..and resent any and all offpage action or info dumping. I must consume it to experience it. My parents could never tell me anything either. There were a few moments in this story that I would have appreciated the experience instead of being told it. But my enjoyment of the story made up for it.
One should check any and all sexual expectations at the door, as sexual content is not a huge part of the Seasons series and it doesn't have to be to embrace the lifeblood of the story..(and that's a compliment coming from a sexual word whore) because I don't read the m/m genre for knitting pointers.
But..I do read this Seasons series for something..so much more..
Until we meet again! TEAM WYMAN/CHINCHILLA!
March 23, 2023
DNF at 30%
I was okay with the premise of the story (new teenager in the foster family falling for the couple's own teenager son), but then they went on a date to a shooting range??? An 18 and 16 year old? The hell? (I mean it's a terrible idea at any age!) Could have put up even with that, but then it's revealed that the son already had a relationship with another (former) foster brother... Bruh, I just can't.
I don't know if I will read any of the other books in the series tbh.
I was okay with the premise of the story (new teenager in the foster family falling for the couple's own teenager son), but then they went on a date to a shooting range??? An 18 and 16 year old? The hell? (I mean it's a terrible idea at any age!) Could have put up even with that, but then it's revealed that the son already had a relationship with another (former) foster brother... Bruh, I just can't.
I don't know if I will read any of the other books in the series tbh.
February 16, 2014
One of the signs that you've stumbled across a skilled writer is that you find yourself feeling genuine affection for the characters that he or she has crafted out of thoughts and words on a page. So it was with Something Like Summer, Something Like Winter, and Something Like Autumn, and so it is again with Jay Bell's fourth book in the Seasons series, Something Like Spring.
In this book, we meet Jason Grant, a foster kid who seems to have been unlucky in just about everything in life, including love. While he doesn't share the all same struggles as Bell's earlier characters, he has certain things in common with many of them.
But Jason isn't unlucky in everything. It just so happens that when we're introduced to him, he has a caseworker connected to the universe of characters that Bell has crafted throughout the Seasons series. And while life isn't instantly better or ever perfect because of it, that little fact gives Jason a real chance to figure out what he wants out of his future, a chance he may not have had otherwise.
As much as I enjoyed reading about Jason and seeing how Bell progressed his character over the course of several years, the real treat for me was getting to read a fourth book that included my all-time favorite gay fictional character: Benjamin Bentley. I can't stress enough how much I've loved reading about Ben, his strength, his kindness, and his inherent decency. What's even better about it all is that I've been lucky enough to know people like Ben, people who make the lives of everyone around them better just by being themselves.
Though Jay Bell has run out of seasons, I hope he's serious about not running out of ideas for having Ben, Tim, Jason, and all the rest pop up in future works. You promised, Jay, and you know your readers are going to hold you to it.
In this book, we meet Jason Grant, a foster kid who seems to have been unlucky in just about everything in life, including love. While he doesn't share the all same struggles as Bell's earlier characters, he has certain things in common with many of them.
But Jason isn't unlucky in everything. It just so happens that when we're introduced to him, he has a caseworker connected to the universe of characters that Bell has crafted throughout the Seasons series. And while life isn't instantly better or ever perfect because of it, that little fact gives Jason a real chance to figure out what he wants out of his future, a chance he may not have had otherwise.
As much as I enjoyed reading about Jason and seeing how Bell progressed his character over the course of several years, the real treat for me was getting to read a fourth book that included my all-time favorite gay fictional character: Benjamin Bentley. I can't stress enough how much I've loved reading about Ben, his strength, his kindness, and his inherent decency. What's even better about it all is that I've been lucky enough to know people like Ben, people who make the lives of everyone around them better just by being themselves.
Though Jay Bell has run out of seasons, I hope he's serious about not running out of ideas for having Ben, Tim, Jason, and all the rest pop up in future works. You promised, Jay, and you know your readers are going to hold you to it.
November 16, 2015
Jay Bell is definitely one of the best writers in this genre. His characters are well developed and the reader gets a front row seat at their evolution.
In this book, Jason Grant, an orphan who had been in over twenty foster homes, got to learn about love, family and loyalty as he finally find his place in the world. It was a really bumpy ride especially since Jason created some of his own speed bumps. But his journey allowed us to revisit Ben and Tim, from book 1 Something Like Summer and gave us an update on their relationship.
I did think the pace of this book was uneven especially in the 2nd half of the story and that's why I didn't give this book a 5-star. It just got a bit rushed and choppy in the last quarter of the book. I was wondering whether the author was going with the Lesbian storyline, so I will have to take a peak at the subsequent book to see if Emma gets her own book.
In this book, Jason Grant, an orphan who had been in over twenty foster homes, got to learn about love, family and loyalty as he finally find his place in the world. It was a really bumpy ride especially since Jason created some of his own speed bumps. But his journey allowed us to revisit Ben and Tim, from book 1 Something Like Summer and gave us an update on their relationship.
I did think the pace of this book was uneven especially in the 2nd half of the story and that's why I didn't give this book a 5-star. It just got a bit rushed and choppy in the last quarter of the book. I was wondering whether the author was going with the Lesbian storyline, so I will have to take a peak at the subsequent book to see if Emma gets her own book.
February 25, 2016
This book was fantastic - a truly brilliant end to a remarkable series. Read it in one sitting - I just couldn't put it down!!
Full review to follow...
Full review to follow...
February 24, 2016
4.5. I didn't like this one quite as much as Autumn which is now firmly on my favorites shelf but this is an awesome story as well. I really think it needs to be read right after first three books because it provided me with a lot of closure from those. One of my favorite things about Jay Bell is that he always writes from his heart and outside of the box. He isn't afraid to steer away from being a traditional romance and keep his readers guessing what's going to happen. I loved Jason and seeing characters from previous books was wonderful. The only thing which made me not give a full five stars was I felt that for the length of this book, the ending seemed a bit rushed. But other than that I enjoyed it immensely and I'm looking forward to moving on to the next one. *Note: This really isn't one of those series where you can jump in wherever as they all build on each other so you really ought to read them in order starting with book one.*
October 3, 2014
Эта сраная книжулька заставила меня страдать! Прям переживала за этого придурка малолетнего, как за родного... Так тоскливо было, хоть плач. И не оторваться, бл*дь :(
Читать осторожно: возможен разрыв эмоциональной мышцы и приступы чистосердечного сострадания.
Противопоказания: не рекомендуется черствым и закоренелым читательницам эротики, ибо напоминает о том, что где-то в этом мире живут еще искрящиеся придурковатые романтики.
В случае передозировки: инъекция БДСМ внутревенно, или непосредственно в сердце!!!
Ладно, добавлю звездочку, хорошо всеж таки было местами :)
Читать осторожно: возможен разрыв эмоциональной мышцы и приступы чистосердечного сострадания.
Противопоказания: не рекомендуется черствым и закоренелым читательницам эротики, ибо напоминает о том, что где-то в этом мире живут еще искрящиеся придурковатые романтики.
В случае передозировки: инъекция БДСМ внутревенно, или непосредственно в сердце!!!
Ладно, добавлю звездочку, хорошо всеж таки было местами :)
September 30, 2015
a bit ragged at the end... solid 3. doesnt mean it's bad! just a tough grader.
Ben and Tim withdrawal…
Many reviewers subjected Tim to a rigorous examination pertaining to relatability. These all start with [insert any negative adjective here] and end with [I just couldn’t relate/connect Tim]. This is the laziest type of analysis. No one is asking you to share a Bud on the back porch, so lets get real with reviewing, k?
The ‘this is unbelievable’, fist on table—no I’m not calling you a drunken sailor—statements are misleading. I’d recon that a substantial number of gays battled similar issues. I’d also slap down a fiver and wager that the majority of dissent derives from the options of heterosexuals.
This is unquestionably my favorite tetralogy, which, because 4 consecutive novels seldom happen in literature, doesn’t really say much. Something like Summer has inherited a spot as one of my top 5….ish favorite books. To reinforce the prestige—I jest, because I know full well that this list will stir up some raised eyebrows and a “whattt”?—of this membership, Something Like Summer straddles—pun…. Maybe…— up with Two Boys Kissing, Lover’s Dictionary, Me Before You, Call Me By Your Name/the Hours.
The ‘Something like…’ series was a unique departure from the standard mainstream gay literature, a genre that more often than not is an expansion of a GLADD “Find Yourself: Coming Out 101” “Smile You’re Gay. Be Proud” “It gets better”, etc. pamphlet that has become this festering mantra of the genre, and is frankly bullshit.
Spring wasn’t without its flaws, however.
It contained far too many love triangles, three by my count, and although these were tightly woven into the storyline, it felt contrived at the end. Is this the author sharing the limits of his writing abilities, or is he just cynical of gay relationships? Given Jay’s claim that, ‘happy relationships are boring’ not surprisingly many of the relationships splinter into a soap opera ending. Where they aren’t ending, there is a high degree of suffering. This, in my humble opinion, is EXACTLY where Bell fails us as a community. Can’t we get a bit of normalcy? I’m not suggesting that relationships don’t end. Yet the ending of any relationship doesn’t have to end in overt drama, Mr. Bell. It can be rather subtle. Plus, it would be special if we could avoid the three-way relationships.
As always with Jay Bell, the novel is permeated with pacing issues. Jay is known for piling in an excessive amount of plot lines into the final chapters of this series.
Jason’s budding love life, numerous love triangles, the elucidation of the proposal and the complications, and old ghosts charge violently from the past. Then that scene….
Too little space for character and plot development. ALL of these elements are emotionally manipulative in their stunted, shortened state. All could have been expanded into so much more.
Lastly, I am a strong opponent of an epilogue used at the conclusion of a series/solo novel and feel that they are abandonment from skilled writing, and furthermore weaken the overall book. Moreover, they seem to be exclusively contained to Ben and Tim’s successful relationship. I get it “happy couples are boring”, but in a world often defined by hate of an internal quality, as well as externally, members of the gay community NEED every moment of happiness obtainable. As such, I vehemently reject the notion that happy couples are boring. *
The novels are arranged to correspond with the seasons, and as the storyline overlaps, the symbolism of seasons is a remarkably accurate way of capturing the tumultuous lives of these two gents. In reality, while this is a portrait of a relationship over the course of a decade+, it is also a hugely successful and accurate study in sexual development.
Lets start with how we got here…
Summer/Winter offer very different orientations of the same experience.
Summer/Winter introduced us to two characters; strong, noble, confident, defiant, dorky, Will from Will & Grace like, Benjamin Bentley, and Ben’s insecure, confused, but teddy bear lovable, protective and dedicated counterpart Tim Wyman.
Ben, having conquered the initial phases of his sexuality and claiming stake to it, began venturing into the murky territory of solidifying his expectations of a partner and the workings of a relationship. As onlookers we spy on Ben as he attempts to nurture Tim’s initial confusion over his sexuality, while also struggling to maintain his own sense of self. As much as Ben tries to navigate the two, he decides to preserve his personal integrity and abandons his attempt to mold Tim into his own vision of a partner. In the second half of SLS we watch as Ben stumbles through a life concaved by financial and personal hardship. He gravitates back to his hometown, and finds comfort in a partner that complements himself. Through the viscous cycle of his relationship with Jace, where they endure the splinters of Tim’s manipulation and Ben’s subsequent collision with loss when Jace dies, Ben secures a greater understanding of intimacy, love, forgiveness, and resilience, each resources he will impart on his future relationship with Tim.
In stark contrast to SLS, SLW broadsided me with how relevant Tim’s story was a reflection of my own past—limit your excitement. I didn’t hire anyone to break up a relationship, though there are some quality manipulative skeletons in my closet. His actions, shimmering with genuine love and compassion, were tinged by insecurity, loneliness and only a basic notion of romance and of his own sexuality. His life was stratified into two opposing worlds, one that allowed himself to revel in his love for Ben, and the other a place combining internal struggle with social oppression, denying him the freedom to fully integrate Ben into his life. Tim created a space in an attempt to shield one life from the other, the purpose to preserve his relationship with Ben. In the second half, Tim struggled with his own set of challenges, electing to face his homosexuality. He leans on Eric for wisdom, and later acts on impulses rather than rationale, and manipulates the hell out of Ben. Chaos ensues. Eventually, grieving over a past dwarfed by doubt, Tim is ready to rekindles a life with Ben.
Something Like Winter left us, three years in the future as witnesses to Ben and Tim emerging as equals, but differentiated by their own life experiences, challenges, and strengths. Down on one knee, “Tim reached into his pocket, took out the ring” and honoring Jace for the love he shared with Ben for the moments he himself couldn’t be there, places the ring on Ben’s other finger. This gesture is symbolic because it represents Tim’s emotional and sexual evolution. Likewise this was Ben’s moment to pay tribute to Jace and all that he afforded him and all Ben reciprocated, while also opening space for Tim’s love.
In Something Like Spring we time travel five years backwards from Tim’s clunky, but deliciously adorable proposal. 2006, the year known formally as ‘The year Dick Chaney Shot That Guy’ and the year tears were shed over Pluto’s demotion. 2006 is also the year we first met 16 y/o Jason.
Bruised by the foster care system, and his mostly intentional rebellion against adoption, Jason passes through numerous placements. Fortunately he has the support, and nurturing of his casework, Michelle, whom, if you recall is Jace’s sister. The strength of this bond between adoptee and caseworker is paramount in Jason forgoing his reservations and welcoming, however begrudgingly, the billionth placement. Jason finds himself on the doorstep of a controlling mother, two adopted siblings, one, a psychopathic boy and the other an abrasive older sister.
Then there is Caesar, the charming, seemingly straight, freaking studly, buff lad. Jason becomes straight up obsessive and stalker like. He doesn’t have a remote idea of the separation between fantasy and reality. It is literally straight out of Talented Mr. Ripley….
Thankfully there is no boat, paddle, drowning scene.
It becomes scandalicious, as we grind our teeth at another straight man gone gay plotline—an early 90s theme which presumably garnered praise as a controversial analysis of sexual development, but now is derivative, contrived, and cliché. Don’t stop there, lets cultivate a culture of every straight man’s locker-room fear, as Jason, suffering uncontrollably from ‘adolescent horny syndrome’, awkwardly assaults sleeping Caesar.
The ‘unexpected’ scenario of assaultee and assaulter swooning over one another is delivered like a lifetime movie starring Tori Spelling—old Tori Spelling, you know the one desperate for any TV role. Jason and Caesar are openly gay, so the reader doesn’t have to endure the tortuous internal versus external conflicts we saw in SLS. This inevitably feeds Jason’s obsession with Caesar, as he displaces a past devoid of attachment and blindly throws himself, trust and all, at Caesar. Bottom line is that this is a rough cut of the end of the Tim/Ben saga, with the added addition of a triangle relationship, minus authenticity, and maxed out on heart-wrenching contrivances.
I’m going to proceed with a bit of ambiguity, as the plot lines are a bit redundant and conventional for this genre, this isn’t, however, a bad thing!
2009… Phelps is caught smoking pot, and Jason isn’t doing much better. Living in Huston, and with a GED in his back-pocket, 19-year-old Jason has fought for, and established a life for himself, albeit a bit precarious. His life is nestled between difficult and impossible, and it takes homophobia to shred the gauze that was his life. Homophobia makes itself scarce in this series, and it is a bit disappointing to not see more of a reality-based climate. Given the books intended Y/A audience, and considering the climate of youth homophobia that frequently results in suicide, Jay missed an opportunity to explore the facets of this phenomenon to a greater extent, particularly the use of characters that ‘successfully’ navigate bulling. Nevertheless, Jason railed against the situation, utilizing resiliency most likely derived from his experiences in foster care.
His situation brings him to Austin, and into the lives of a particularly adorable couple. In an SUV of basically strangers weaving into the deepest recesses of the city, Jason stammers cautiously but hopeful into the lives of Ben and Tim.
‘Emma turned and gestured to Jason with one arm, as if presenting him. Ben took a step forward, held out his hand and then dropped it again. ‘
‘Um. Welcome home”, [Ben] said, before looking uncertain. “You are staying, aren’t you? Or do you want to look around first, inspect the premise?’
‘Jason laughed. He couldn’t help himself. When Ben heard this he smiled and offered his hand again. “I have no idea what I’m doing,” he admitted. “Let’s start with the basics. I’m Ben’.
In review form this seems all awkward and weird, but trust me, Jace makes an appearance earlier on that helps as a segue between plot lines.
Ben and Tim have become the couple every gay admires, even when Jay Bell rebels against the idea of happy-go-lucky boring couples. The kind of couple that eats Ben and Jerry’s ice cream from the carton, one spoon shared amongst them both, while an old dog and cat rumbling in the grass. Even with his spidey sense for the inevitable catastrophe, Jason perceives comfort.
An interesting phenomenon occurs, whereby Jason’s arrival becomes the catalyst for uprooting unresolved issues. For some this happens at the first meet and great, and for others, like Jason it has a fairly delayed onset.
Ben assumes the position of nurturer, prompting him to mend his own inherent qualities with those derived from his relationship with Jace, a process that inevitably forces him to further integrate the loss of his former husband.
Outwardly Tim exudes confidence and portrays himself as an adjusted individual, but inside Jason provokes a deluge of insecurities, the source of which is an emotionally numb childhood, that quickly erodes any semblance of paternal instinct.
We see this most clearly in one of his many confessions:
“Yah. Look what a great job they did with me.” Tim’s voice was dripping with sarcasm. “The thing is, I don’t know how to do it right. I can’t raise a kid.”
Jason is easily the most effected by this complex interrelationship. He must give a nod to the past, accepting that the familiarity of a family long lost is in front of him, not behind him, and, as he will discover, so is everything else.
Each will find that hemostasis is only possible vis-à-vis the strength of their family unit, and while work will need to be done independently, this work is only possible if and when they willingly accept how much they, really, genuinely need one another.
Transition from 2009 where we all forgot about Phelps and onward into 2011, the year focused on ‘tiger blood’, Jason perseverates over a crush, Tim tries endlessly to move past his childhood, and Ben continues to be adorable, and that whole sappy proposal happens…. And….And the inevitable tear inducing tragedy.
Tim will inevitably recognize the parallels between Jason past and his own marred childhood, recognizing it deleterious effect on his ability to initiate and sustain intimacy, and more globally its effect on his overall emotional facilities. To a certain extent doing right by Jason is Tim’s way of dissolving the residue of his own childhood, rectifying and forgiving himself for the hurt he caused Ben, and becoming a better partner. To what degree, and even if he is successful is for you to discover.
Ben recognizes earlier on that a sort of symmetry joins Jason and him. While Tim can relate to Jason’s past, and sees the implications like a malady of the soul, Ben acknowledges something only one afflicted with it can recognize; vulnerability. You know, the vulnerability that gets you into trouble over blue running shoes, for instance. Rather than forcefully superimpose his own guiding principles onto Jason, he must help him navigate the formation of his own conceptual map of relationships, support him in understanding that family isn’t translucent, threadbare gauze, but the synchronicity of an unspoken song between one another, and most importantly who to share his spoon with.
Jason will repeat the same events of his earlier life—picnic dates in particular, and a few misguided attachments—, in an almost transparent test of his new life. His conception of love while in his youth group days as “[...] some guy I have to impress or one who feels like he needs to show off. I just want someone who loves me that I can love back. Simple as that.” will transform into something sturdier. As much as Ben (AND TIM!) wants Jason to find that person to share a single spoon with, Jason wants it more. Embracing Ben’s wisdom, and Tim’s tenacity, combined with his own world-view, Jason might just get there. But, most of all, Jason will be content with giving Ben and Tim everything. And maybe, just maybe, family is all he needs.
* It is my hope that Bell reconsiders this orientation, and either byway of short stories or with larger offerings with individuals directly interfacing the couple as the focal point, affords us the opportunities to see more of the life Ben or Tim share. It's been rumored that one of the secondary characters in Spring is to take the reins in next novel. The notion that secondary characters can be cast as primary characters in offshoots is an error in judgment, if not for any other reason than its potential to disrupt the symmetry of the first two consecutive novels. Likewise, Ben and Tim are the only primary characters to survive the Something Like series, and as such we have grown to adore them both—but more so Ben, because honestly... come on. I would be extremely hesitant to indulge any novel, offshoot or otherwise, that does not include Ben and Tim at the forefront.
October 3, 2014
A beautiful, emotional roller-coaster, and perfect end to The Seasons. I love these guys. Jay Bell, you rock! A well deserved bunch of stars!
Oh my, where to begin. Jason is now one of my favourite MCs in this series, I loved the way he never gave up hope, and the amazing young man he grew up to be, despite being bounced around the childcare system and never finding a family that gelled. Yeah, he did do some bad things (like the pearls in the chowder, lol) to get put back at the childrens home because he never felt like he belonged. Then along came the Hubbards, he didn't really belong there either but stuck around because of Caesar. I think that was a real big changing point in his life. Also, his only possession, the guitar that his mother gave him was such a lovely touch.
I liked Caesar, then I didn't, I even hated him at one point but then I realized he wasn't a bad guy really, the heart wants what the heart wants. Now William, he is a different kettle of fish, I fell in love with him as soon as he appeared on the page, a beautiful character. All the secondary characters were brilliant, especially Marcello, Amy, Emma, Kelly.
Ben and Tim can still pull at my heart strings. I smiled, laughed and cried, my emotions changed like the seasons ;) Luckily they're in this book a fare bit. The Love and romance in these books is real and sometimes hard, as life can be and it makes the sweeter moments even more sweet. I don't want to end up saying to much and spoil it for you guys so I'll leave it here.
Highly recommended! Read in order.
Something Like Summer
Something Like Winter
Something Like Autumn
I don't have one favourite, they all are in different ways :)
Can't wait for more, from The Something Like... saga <3
Something Like Lightning
Oh my, where to begin. Jason is now one of my favourite MCs in this series, I loved the way he never gave up hope, and the amazing young man he grew up to be, despite being bounced around the childcare system and never finding a family that gelled. Yeah, he did do some bad things (like the pearls in the chowder, lol) to get put back at the childrens home because he never felt like he belonged. Then along came the Hubbards, he didn't really belong there either but stuck around because of Caesar. I think that was a real big changing point in his life. Also, his only possession, the guitar that his mother gave him was such a lovely touch.
I liked Caesar, then I didn't, I even hated him at one point but then I realized he wasn't a bad guy really, the heart wants what the heart wants. Now William, he is a different kettle of fish, I fell in love with him as soon as he appeared on the page, a beautiful character. All the secondary characters were brilliant, especially Marcello, Amy, Emma, Kelly.
Ben and Tim can still pull at my heart strings. I smiled, laughed and cried, my emotions changed like the seasons ;) Luckily they're in this book a fare bit. The Love and romance in these books is real and sometimes hard, as life can be and it makes the sweeter moments even more sweet. I don't want to end up saying to much and spoil it for you guys so I'll leave it here.
Highly recommended! Read in order.
Something Like Summer
Something Like Winter
Something Like Autumn
I don't have one favourite, they all are in different ways :)
Can't wait for more, from The Something Like... saga <3
Something Like Lightning 
February 9, 2014
I wish I was a writer. I want to write a review so brilliant that people will flock to their favorite bookstore and grab this book and the rest of the series. I want more stars to rate it!
For readers who have not read the rest of the series, this book is still amazing as a stand-alone, but those of us who have been following the series will be thrilled to see a few more years of Ben and Tim and how their story continues. They end up being more than peripheral characters in the book in a way that was reminiscent of Amy Lane's Promises series -- the way people can make their own families, and that love transcends blood. But Seasons touched my heart more than Promises ever did.
I have also, finally, been able to forgive Tim for all the pain he caused Ben for all those years.
None of that detracts from the fact that this is a book about Jason. Orphaned, unplaceable, lonely, wanting to belong but not knowing how to do that, and drifting from foster home to foster home. We meet him in 2006, just before his 16th birthday when he is placed in his final foster home. And his story continues though the next seven years. He is never one to trust easily, or to accept help graciously, and he continues to face what seems to be an unfair amount of hardships and heartbreak as he searches for a true home. He says at one point that what he wants out of a relationship is "humility":
I don't want some guy I have to impress or one who feels like he needs to show off. I just want someone who loves me that I can love back. Simple as that.
Finding that guy is not so easy. And holding on to him once you've found him is even harder, especially when you have to let him go.
I found Jason's story to be absolutely compelling. He truly grows into a thoughtful, compassionate, generous man, who reminded me very much of Jace in Something Like Autumn. I couldn't put the book down, cried a few tears at the end, but ended up ridiculously happy when I finished. This was the best kind of book -- I feel invested in all the characters, in their stories, and they will be beautiful little touch stones in my memory. And to know that Jay Bell is still going to write more in this universe? *sigh*. So happy!
For readers who have not read the rest of the series, this book is still amazing as a stand-alone, but those of us who have been following the series will be thrilled to see a few more years of Ben and Tim and how their story continues. They end up being more than peripheral characters in the book in a way that was reminiscent of Amy Lane's Promises series -- the way people can make their own families, and that love transcends blood. But Seasons touched my heart more than Promises ever did.
I have also, finally, been able to forgive Tim for all the pain he caused Ben for all those years.
None of that detracts from the fact that this is a book about Jason. Orphaned, unplaceable, lonely, wanting to belong but not knowing how to do that, and drifting from foster home to foster home. We meet him in 2006, just before his 16th birthday when he is placed in his final foster home. And his story continues though the next seven years. He is never one to trust easily, or to accept help graciously, and he continues to face what seems to be an unfair amount of hardships and heartbreak as he searches for a true home. He says at one point that what he wants out of a relationship is "humility":
I don't want some guy I have to impress or one who feels like he needs to show off. I just want someone who loves me that I can love back. Simple as that.
Finding that guy is not so easy. And holding on to him once you've found him is even harder, especially when you have to let him go.
I found Jason's story to be absolutely compelling. He truly grows into a thoughtful, compassionate, generous man, who reminded me very much of Jace in Something Like Autumn. I couldn't put the book down, cried a few tears at the end, but ended up ridiculously happy when I finished. This was the best kind of book -- I feel invested in all the characters, in their stories, and they will be beautiful little touch stones in my memory. And to know that Jay Bell is still going to write more in this universe? *sigh*. So happy!
June 20, 2014
I am ashamed to say that I almost didn't read this book. I was apprehensive because Bell was bringing new characters into the mix ... but I have to say aside from Something Like Summer this was by far my favorite book of the series!! Jason and Caesar brought soo much more to this book than I ever could have hoped for .. Although I thought Caesar was a spoiled douch from the start But Jason .. he was just looking for his place in the world .. and I am soo glad he found it with Ben and Tim ..♥ I've loved Ben through this whole series but Tim took some getting used to .. I had a love/hate relationship with him but Spring really showed a different side of him and I'm soo glad I got to see it!! And Im just soo glad they were both in this book .. I wasn't ready to leave them behind! I feel like I know all these people .. Jay Bell is a truly gifted writer because all of these book are on my love shelf and for me thats hard to find in a series .. I always find the next book lacking something .. but thats soo not the case with these books!! And be still my heart that Epilogue! Hands down best Epilogue I have ever read .. it was perfect and I sure hope thats not the last we will see of Jason and William!!! This has been a beautiful series .. whatever else some in the Something Like series .. I cant wait for more!! This is a definite must read series ..♥
November 20, 2014
Something about Jay's books makes me feel like he knows exactly what I need to read. In my mind, he personally swoops out of the sky (helped by Amazon, of course) to put a shiny new book in my hand, and it always hits the spot.
I loved Spring. I was nervous how it would turn out, because it's a departure from the Summer/Winter/Autumn books that all revisited the original story. Of course I was being silly. Jay delivered just as he always does - providing a heartfelt mix of struggle and love that made me care about and ultimately fall for characters who are not technically...well, real people.
I loved Jason. I laughed with him, and I hurt with him, and I cried with him. And I'm sad that his story is done, because unlike Ben and Tim, I don't think he'll get a second, third, and fourth chance to show us what an amazing young man he is.
In short, Jay did another fantastic job.
I loved Spring. I was nervous how it would turn out, because it's a departure from the Summer/Winter/Autumn books that all revisited the original story. Of course I was being silly. Jay delivered just as he always does - providing a heartfelt mix of struggle and love that made me care about and ultimately fall for characters who are not technically...well, real people.
I loved Jason. I laughed with him, and I hurt with him, and I cried with him. And I'm sad that his story is done, because unlike Ben and Tim, I don't think he'll get a second, third, and fourth chance to show us what an amazing young man he is.
In short, Jay did another fantastic job.
February 20, 2024
A phenomenal entry in the series starring Jason Grant, who is shuffled around from foster home to foster home as his struggles with love and finding family lead him to connect with two reunited high school lovers who we all know and love (and with a small cameo from the nicest man in the universe: Jace Holden).
This one made me cry happy tears exclusively which was excellent after all of the heart breaking tears the first three books made me shed.
This one made me cry happy tears exclusively which was excellent after all of the heart breaking tears the first three books made me shed.
July 30, 2022
4.25 Stars
Jay Bell’s Something Like Spring, the 4th book in his ‘Something Like’ series, is definitely a cut above Something Like Winter, the previous volume.
While Something Like Spring is clearly the story of 15-year old orphaned Jason Grant and the two loves of his life, Caesar and William, any book that brings back Jace, Ben, and Tim can do no wrong.
Most of this novel is well written and attention grabbing with multiple well developed secondary characters. Unfortunately all that changes in the last few chapters when Bell introduces far too much drama in far too few pages.
Don’t despair, though, the tear inducing epilogue makes it all worthwhile.
Jay Bell’s Something Like Spring, the 4th book in his ‘Something Like’ series, is definitely a cut above Something Like Winter, the previous volume.
While Something Like Spring is clearly the story of 15-year old orphaned Jason Grant and the two loves of his life, Caesar and William, any book that brings back Jace, Ben, and Tim can do no wrong.
Most of this novel is well written and attention grabbing with multiple well developed secondary characters. Unfortunately all that changes in the last few chapters when Bell introduces far too much drama in far too few pages.
Don’t despair, though, the tear inducing epilogue makes it all worthwhile.
May 28, 2018
It's amazing how Jay Bell can weave the characters from the past to the present; plus, the current book in the series intertwine with the others. looking forward to continuing the series.
July 3, 2023
Slay 💅
May 21, 2015
Something like amazing, awesome, exceptional? It’s just so hard to describe the experience of reading one of Jay Bell’s Something Like stories. Hours after I finished this book, I’m still basking in the warmth and love contained within these pages.
I was sure that I couldn’t possibly like this story, because what more could be said about Ben and Tim and Jace? And I was still reeling from the heartache I felt after the last book, so I was reluctant to expose my heart to one more trip into their world. But I needn’t have worried. Jay Bell handled my heart with care.
This is the story of Jason, an orphan, foster child of the system. Bouncing from home to home, he usually finds a way to get out and get back to the group home where he feels more comfortable. Fortunately, his most recent social worker, Michelle, is amazing to work with and really cares about Jason. When he lands in the home of the Hubbards, a wealthy family willing to adopt a teen, he’s ready to find a way out when he falls head over heels in love with their oldest son, Caesar. The feelings are reciprocated and the sex is all that Jason hoped for. Until he finds out that Caesar is cheating on him with the first guy he had ever loved. Jason tries to keep Caesar the only way he knows how, and the result is disastrous when Mr. Hubbard finds them in bed together. Needless to say, Jason is sent back to the group home.
Michelle is so sympathetic to his plight that she arranges for her brother, Jace, to come to talk to him about the difficulties of being a gay man, and to offer hope for a bright future with the right partner. Jace gives him his number and tells him to call anytime.
He chooses to decline further placement, drops out of school and finds a job to support himself. Though he’s earned his GED, he’s still in a low paying job and finds it hard to meet living expenses. When he’s at his lowest point, he contacts Michelle to ask for help because he’s tried Jace’s number and it’s been disconnected. And this is how he meets Ben and Tim. Michelle arranges for Ben to meet with Jason and Ben just sweeps him up and away and into the vortex of the life, and family, he shares with Tim.
We follow Jason as he learns to accept the love offered to him by Ben and Tim, and by Michelle’s daughter, Emma, who becomes a close friend and confidante. We see him struggle to come to terms with his attraction to William, a young man he meets at a gay youth group meeting, but who appears to already have a boyfriend. Appearances are deceiving and eventually the two get together. We then see what happens when William graduates and begins a four-year hitch in the Coast Guard, becoming a rescue swimmer, which had been his lifelong dream.
And finally, we see what happens when Caesar comes back into Jason’s life shortly before William comes home from the service. Which one will Jason pick? Who is really the love of his life? And what’s happening with Ben and Tim? Will they get married? Whatever happened to Ryan, the young man Tim was involved with for so long? Is there a HEA for anyone here? And the biggest question— will Jay Bell continue this series? All questions are answered in an extraordinarily satisfying way! Don’t miss this. And if you haven’t read this series, start with Summer and work your way through the seasons. You won’t be disappointed.
I was sure that I couldn’t possibly like this story, because what more could be said about Ben and Tim and Jace? And I was still reeling from the heartache I felt after the last book, so I was reluctant to expose my heart to one more trip into their world. But I needn’t have worried. Jay Bell handled my heart with care.
This is the story of Jason, an orphan, foster child of the system. Bouncing from home to home, he usually finds a way to get out and get back to the group home where he feels more comfortable. Fortunately, his most recent social worker, Michelle, is amazing to work with and really cares about Jason. When he lands in the home of the Hubbards, a wealthy family willing to adopt a teen, he’s ready to find a way out when he falls head over heels in love with their oldest son, Caesar. The feelings are reciprocated and the sex is all that Jason hoped for. Until he finds out that Caesar is cheating on him with the first guy he had ever loved. Jason tries to keep Caesar the only way he knows how, and the result is disastrous when Mr. Hubbard finds them in bed together. Needless to say, Jason is sent back to the group home.
Michelle is so sympathetic to his plight that she arranges for her brother, Jace, to come to talk to him about the difficulties of being a gay man, and to offer hope for a bright future with the right partner. Jace gives him his number and tells him to call anytime.
He chooses to decline further placement, drops out of school and finds a job to support himself. Though he’s earned his GED, he’s still in a low paying job and finds it hard to meet living expenses. When he’s at his lowest point, he contacts Michelle to ask for help because he’s tried Jace’s number and it’s been disconnected. And this is how he meets Ben and Tim. Michelle arranges for Ben to meet with Jason and Ben just sweeps him up and away and into the vortex of the life, and family, he shares with Tim.
We follow Jason as he learns to accept the love offered to him by Ben and Tim, and by Michelle’s daughter, Emma, who becomes a close friend and confidante. We see him struggle to come to terms with his attraction to William, a young man he meets at a gay youth group meeting, but who appears to already have a boyfriend. Appearances are deceiving and eventually the two get together. We then see what happens when William graduates and begins a four-year hitch in the Coast Guard, becoming a rescue swimmer, which had been his lifelong dream.
And finally, we see what happens when Caesar comes back into Jason’s life shortly before William comes home from the service. Which one will Jason pick? Who is really the love of his life? And what’s happening with Ben and Tim? Will they get married? Whatever happened to Ryan, the young man Tim was involved with for so long? Is there a HEA for anyone here? And the biggest question— will Jay Bell continue this series? All questions are answered in an extraordinarily satisfying way! Don’t miss this. And if you haven’t read this series, start with Summer and work your way through the seasons. You won’t be disappointed.
February 22, 2014
First and foremost I have to say….
I love you Jay Bell….Thank you so much for bringing ALL of these wonderful characters into my life!
Ok, so…obviously I loved this book and the entire Seasons series. At the end of Jace's book, I wasn't sure where the series would go from there. I mean it felt complete….though I wanted more….always wanted more! Then I heard a new character would be introduced. I was worried that it would be another love interest for either Tim or Ben, and my stomach twisted in a knot! I felt like these guys had been through enough and needed their HEA.
Of course, I should have known that they were in Jay's competent hands! He didn't let me down! I became wrapped up in Jason's life immediately! My heart ached for him!
And we get to see Jace again. I literally gasped and threw my hand over my mouth when I saw him on page! It's Jace OMG, OMG! If just for a moment, Jace was with us again….thank you Jay!
William….at first I didn't like the way Jason pushed himself between William and Kelly. But the more I read, the more I realized that their relationship had dissolved long ago. BUT, I did not like that Jason was left alone again when William graduated.
Emma…sweet, beautiful,funny, REAL Emma. She stole the scenes she was in…Please give her a book Jay! I'm sure you have some nice Lesbian friends that would help out with the love scenes! And if not…..I volunteer!!!
So this book just worked for me. Although Ben and Tim aren't the primary focus, we see them HAPPY!! In LOVE!! LIVING their lives!
The last 10% of the book had me in tears….sweetest scenes EVER!!!!
So I give this 5 stars, but just this once I would like to add an extra star for the series and give it 6 stars!
I love you Jay Bell….Thank you so much for bringing ALL of these wonderful characters into my life!
Ok, so…obviously I loved this book and the entire Seasons series. At the end of Jace's book, I wasn't sure where the series would go from there. I mean it felt complete….though I wanted more….always wanted more! Then I heard a new character would be introduced. I was worried that it would be another love interest for either Tim or Ben, and my stomach twisted in a knot! I felt like these guys had been through enough and needed their HEA.
Of course, I should have known that they were in Jay's competent hands! He didn't let me down! I became wrapped up in Jason's life immediately! My heart ached for him!
And we get to see Jace again. I literally gasped and threw my hand over my mouth when I saw him on page! It's Jace OMG, OMG! If just for a moment, Jace was with us again….thank you Jay!
William….at first I didn't like the way Jason pushed himself between William and Kelly. But the more I read, the more I realized that their relationship had dissolved long ago. BUT, I did not like that Jason was left alone again when William graduated.
Emma…sweet, beautiful,funny, REAL Emma. She stole the scenes she was in…Please give her a book Jay! I'm sure you have some nice Lesbian friends that would help out with the love scenes! And if not…..I volunteer!!!
So this book just worked for me. Although Ben and Tim aren't the primary focus, we see them HAPPY!! In LOVE!! LIVING their lives!
The last 10% of the book had me in tears….sweetest scenes EVER!!!!
So I give this 5 stars, but just this once I would like to add an extra star for the series and give it 6 stars!
February 9, 2014
Review done for Prism Book Alliance. Go here for the full review
In Something Like Spring, we are introduced to a new character, in Jason Grant, as the story’s protagonist. Jason has known he was gay since he was twelve years old and is perfectly comfortable with it. When we first meet him it’s Houston in 2006 and he is an almost sixteen year old who has been at the mercy of the foster system for almost ten years. The only constants in his life are his beloved, battered guitar and his amazing caseworker, Michelle Trout. Although Jason’s previous foster families haven’t necessarily been bad, he never felt like he fit in.
I really liked Jason, and not just because I felt for him with his past. I genuinely loved his personality and so wanted the best for him. He’s intelligent and caring, quick to love but wary of it at the same time, determined, funny, sweet, a little damaged but with a desire to heal, it was such a joy to see him grow from that battered sixteen year old to the confident young man we left at the end. Although this is most definitely Jason’s story, the way other well-known and beloved characters (and the connections to them) are expertly woven through it is wonderfully done and helps tie all four books together. Jason intrigued me from the beginning and his story pulled me in and made me care very much what happened to him.
The ending was absolutely perfect. I may have been crying, yet again, but this time they were definitely tears of joy! Not only to Jason’s story, but to all of the stories that started with Summer. Something Like Spring was a very worthy finish to a superb series. Even the dedication hit me in the heart! I’m very glad to see that although the Seasons series is finished, Jay Bell will be writing more in this world because I’m really not ready to say goodbye.
In Something Like Spring, we are introduced to a new character, in Jason Grant, as the story’s protagonist. Jason has known he was gay since he was twelve years old and is perfectly comfortable with it. When we first meet him it’s Houston in 2006 and he is an almost sixteen year old who has been at the mercy of the foster system for almost ten years. The only constants in his life are his beloved, battered guitar and his amazing caseworker, Michelle Trout. Although Jason’s previous foster families haven’t necessarily been bad, he never felt like he fit in.
I really liked Jason, and not just because I felt for him with his past. I genuinely loved his personality and so wanted the best for him. He’s intelligent and caring, quick to love but wary of it at the same time, determined, funny, sweet, a little damaged but with a desire to heal, it was such a joy to see him grow from that battered sixteen year old to the confident young man we left at the end. Although this is most definitely Jason’s story, the way other well-known and beloved characters (and the connections to them) are expertly woven through it is wonderfully done and helps tie all four books together. Jason intrigued me from the beginning and his story pulled me in and made me care very much what happened to him.
The ending was absolutely perfect. I may have been crying, yet again, but this time they were definitely tears of joy! Not only to Jason’s story, but to all of the stories that started with Summer. Something Like Spring was a very worthy finish to a superb series. Even the dedication hit me in the heart! I’m very glad to see that although the Seasons series is finished, Jay Bell will be writing more in this world because I’m really not ready to say goodbye.
January 6, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Something Like Spring is the fourth book in Jay Bell’s amazing Seasons series and it is just the perfect ending to that wonderful series. I’ll admit I was kind of unsure about this last book before starting it. The first three books in the series follow the same basic story, each told in the POV of one of the main characters. In Spring, we have a different main character in Jason and, for the first time, a totally unique plot. I worried that this story would feel like sort of an add on to the others. But instead, I was thrilled to see how nicely this story rounds off other other three, bringing us back together with characters from the other books and tying things together just beautifully.
Jason has always been lonely, but yet fiercely independent. He makes sure that he gets out before people get rid of him, and he has spent years never quite fitting in. Part 1 of the book covers the time when Jason is living with the Hubbards, and we get a great sense of what Jason’s life has been like. There is a glimmer of hope in there of finding love and a family, but it is buried under so much fear and low expectations. Life with the Hubbards has both its ups and downs, but it does bring Jason love for the first time with their son Caesar. Bell so beautifully captures that feeling of young love, that desperation and all consuming feeling. Even as things fall apart for Jason, we can see how he has changed from the experience of really knowing love for the first time.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Something Like Spring is the fourth book in Jay Bell’s amazing Seasons series and it is just the perfect ending to that wonderful series. I’ll admit I was kind of unsure about this last book before starting it. The first three books in the series follow the same basic story, each told in the POV of one of the main characters. In Spring, we have a different main character in Jason and, for the first time, a totally unique plot. I worried that this story would feel like sort of an add on to the others. But instead, I was thrilled to see how nicely this story rounds off other other three, bringing us back together with characters from the other books and tying things together just beautifully.
Jason has always been lonely, but yet fiercely independent. He makes sure that he gets out before people get rid of him, and he has spent years never quite fitting in. Part 1 of the book covers the time when Jason is living with the Hubbards, and we get a great sense of what Jason’s life has been like. There is a glimmer of hope in there of finding love and a family, but it is buried under so much fear and low expectations. Life with the Hubbards has both its ups and downs, but it does bring Jason love for the first time with their son Caesar. Bell so beautifully captures that feeling of young love, that desperation and all consuming feeling. Even as things fall apart for Jason, we can see how he has changed from the experience of really knowing love for the first time.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 15, 2015
My first and most overriding comment is that I absolutely adore Jay Bell and his writing. The man has a way with words that is truly remarkable. His words can draw me in so totally that hours can pass without me realizing that I really need to put one of his books down and go do something else (like feed the dog or clean the house).
The story he created about Ben and Tim starting in the first book of this series is one of the most endearing stories in the genre. Their relationship is not remotely direct or easy or clear-cut. Their lives do not follow cookie-cutter patterns. So they make their own way, survive the terrible things that come along, and become two of the most memorable characters.
This is the fourth book of the series. I gave it four stars instead of five for one reason -- I think the series has run its course. While I love the characters, this book was a bit too long. The new character introduced in book four is as remarkable as Ben and Tim and has his own terrible struggle, in his case since he has a habit of falling for men who are not available. He, too, survives and thrives and grows into a rich, complex, multi-faceted character. I could have done with a little less of his story with the Hubbards in the beginning because that was tedious and annoying.
But overall, Jay Bell has done it again and has given us a remarkable story. He holds the distinction of being one of the very few people who has written a book that I've read as an e-book, and I have then bought the printed book to put on my shelf. I don't have a lot of shelf space, but his books now have a home on my bookshelf. At some point I will re-read them and I'm sure I will get even more from them on that read. Thank you Mr. Bell.
The story he created about Ben and Tim starting in the first book of this series is one of the most endearing stories in the genre. Their relationship is not remotely direct or easy or clear-cut. Their lives do not follow cookie-cutter patterns. So they make their own way, survive the terrible things that come along, and become two of the most memorable characters.
This is the fourth book of the series. I gave it four stars instead of five for one reason -- I think the series has run its course. While I love the characters, this book was a bit too long. The new character introduced in book four is as remarkable as Ben and Tim and has his own terrible struggle, in his case since he has a habit of falling for men who are not available. He, too, survives and thrives and grows into a rich, complex, multi-faceted character. I could have done with a little less of his story with the Hubbards in the beginning because that was tedious and annoying.
But overall, Jay Bell has done it again and has given us a remarkable story. He holds the distinction of being one of the very few people who has written a book that I've read as an e-book, and I have then bought the printed book to put on my shelf. I don't have a lot of shelf space, but his books now have a home on my bookshelf. At some point I will re-read them and I'm sure I will get even more from them on that read. Thank you Mr. Bell.
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