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You Promised Me Two Years
When Tyler became Connor’s interpreter, he thought all that entailed was translating the Prophet’s cryptic messages about future events.
However, it doesn’t take him long to realize Connor needs more than that. First and foremost, he needs a friend, someone who will stand up for him at the Academy, the elite school they both attend and where Connor, despite his talent, is far from popular. He also needs someone who understands that, for him, the talent of prophecy is a curse he would get rid of if he only could, a curse that pushes him toward substance abuse and oblivion.
It also doesn’t take Tyler very long before he starts seeing Connor as more than a friend, and he’s lucky enough to have Connor return his feelings. Just as things begin to settle down, however, the arrival of a new Prophet at the Academy threatens Connor’s hard-won and still-fragile peace of mind.
Through it all, Tyler is all too aware that every day brings Connor closer to being eighteen, the age of his prophesized death, two years after their first meeting.
[Because it deals with themes such as drugs and sexuality and includes some swearing, this book is intended for mature young adults.]
However, it doesn’t take him long to realize Connor needs more than that. First and foremost, he needs a friend, someone who will stand up for him at the Academy, the elite school they both attend and where Connor, despite his talent, is far from popular. He also needs someone who understands that, for him, the talent of prophecy is a curse he would get rid of if he only could, a curse that pushes him toward substance abuse and oblivion.
It also doesn’t take Tyler very long before he starts seeing Connor as more than a friend, and he’s lucky enough to have Connor return his feelings. Just as things begin to settle down, however, the arrival of a new Prophet at the Academy threatens Connor’s hard-won and still-fragile peace of mind.
Through it all, Tyler is all too aware that every day brings Connor closer to being eighteen, the age of his prophesized death, two years after their first meeting.
[Because it deals with themes such as drugs and sexuality and includes some swearing, this book is intended for mature young adults.]
162 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2014
10 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Angela Yseult
6 books109 followersBeing a teenager can be complicated.
Being a teenager when you happen to be a Shifter, when the universe is your playground, when you live with vampires or your world is under siege by demons is even more complicated.
Or at least, that’s what Angela’s characters tell her; her own teenage years were fairly uneventful… and still, rather complicated at times, too.
Being a teenager when you happen to be a Shifter, when the universe is your playground, when you live with vampires or your world is under siege by demons is even more complicated.
Or at least, that’s what Angela’s characters tell her; her own teenage years were fairly uneventful… and still, rather complicated at times, too.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 3, 2021
I was impressed with the writing since I've really been struggling to keep my focus on what I'm reading these days and this one had me hooked from beginning to end. The world-building was interesting, too, even though we really didn't see much of it beyond the parts that affected the MCs' daily lives.
But I really needed Connor to stop being such a self-absorbed asshole. I know he was dealing with an unimaginably shitty situation, but Tyler was amazing, and I really struggled with Connor's behavior at times. Especially at the end.
I also wish she hadn't ended the book at the resolution of the personal/romance storyline. I really would have liked to see the resolution to the other storyline that we spent so much time with, which would have been the perfect opportunity to address my Connor/Tyler problems as well.
I loved that Connor was asexual, and I really liked the way it was presented, but there was one comment Tyler made before he knew that I really needed some followup on. It just ended too soon! I still liked it and would still recommend.
But I really needed Connor to stop being such a self-absorbed asshole. I know he was dealing with an unimaginably shitty situation, but Tyler was amazing, and I really struggled with Connor's behavior at times. Especially at the end.
I also wish she hadn't ended the book at the resolution of the personal/romance storyline. I really would have liked to see the resolution to the other storyline that we spent so much time with, which would have been the perfect opportunity to address my Connor/Tyler problems as well.
I loved that Connor was asexual, and I really liked the way it was presented, but there was one comment Tyler made before he knew that I really needed some followup on. It just ended too soon! I still liked it and would still recommend.
June 12, 2021
I liked this and the concept was really interesting. I'm not always a big fan of YA books but this one worked for me. The worldbuilding was intriguing although we didn't get a lot of it except how it applied directly to the MC's. The romance was a definite slow build and with one of the MC's being asexual there wasn't much steam at all which was actually great considering how young the characters are. My biggest issue was that it ended to soon. I really needed a bit more between the two MC's once they worked through things and I really wanted to see the resolution with Christenson (that thread was just left hanging).
December 19, 2014
I loved the premise of this book as the idea that there are people that can see events and make a difference to the outcome is intriguing. Connor’s ability to communicate with only a select few is an interesting twist and some of his statements are almost funny. Tyler, as his interpreter, is a very patient young man and sweet beyond words. I would have loved another chapter as I really wanted the details of what happened to Christensen, just a description of him getting what he deserved would have been good!
May 31, 2020
3.5*
I just came across You Promised Me Two Years earlier this month when I was looking for some quick, easy reads, and I'm so glad I did! Although to be honest, this wasn't really quick or easy, even though it's a relatively short read.
I'm not sure how to categorize it, either. Futuristic? Syfy? I just don't know! But I do know that I really enjoyed it, and even ended up shedding a few tears.
It started out a little slow for me at first, but soon I was caught up in and engrossed in Tyler and Connor's world. Tyler is a real sweetheart, and I found Connor to be such a vulnerable soul- I was so glad he had Tyler by his side, to support him and fight for him.
I loved the end of the book- the reason behind the tears and for rounding this up to 4* instead of down to 3. I do wish there had been more resolution in regards to one big aspect of the story, but I'll serve that justice in my head.
I just came across You Promised Me Two Years earlier this month when I was looking for some quick, easy reads, and I'm so glad I did! Although to be honest, this wasn't really quick or easy, even though it's a relatively short read.
I'm not sure how to categorize it, either. Futuristic? Syfy? I just don't know! But I do know that I really enjoyed it, and even ended up shedding a few tears.
It started out a little slow for me at first, but soon I was caught up in and engrossed in Tyler and Connor's world. Tyler is a real sweetheart, and I found Connor to be such a vulnerable soul- I was so glad he had Tyler by his side, to support him and fight for him.
I loved the end of the book- the reason behind the tears and for rounding this up to 4* instead of down to 3. I do wish there had been more resolution in regards to one big aspect of the story, but I'll serve that justice in my head.
December 17, 2022
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. Connor was a Prophet who could see into the future, but the way he spoke was unusual, so he needed an interpreter. When Tyler first started interpreting for Connor, Connor was unfriendly, distant and surly. As time went on, Tyler and Connor became closer. Although this was a very low-heat story, I think the relationship worked for these young men (they're in their teens.)
March 4, 2016
*4.5 stars*
I didn’t even finish reading the blurb before I knew I just HAD TO have “You Promised Me Two Years by Angela Yseult”. I love unusual fantasy books and this sounded too good to pass up. And I wasn’t disappointed. I thoroughly enjoyed every word of this book.
Connor is a Prophet. He has visions of the future but needs an interpreter to translate for him. He speaks English, but not in a way most people understand. To most people, he’s talking nonsense. Only special people, so-called interpreters, can understand the real meaning behind the “nonsense”.
Tyler is one of those special people and he’s chosen to be Connor’s interpreter. Connor’s very first prophecy is his own death. Two years from now, he’ll die, with Tyler by his side.
I immediately fell in love with both MCs, even though Connor’s a bit difficult in the beginning. Neither of them is perfect. I loved that neither of them was perfect. Connor has a habit of stubborn sulking and Tyler gives in too easily, just to make Connor happy. Connor is a bit of a genius, both in science and with the violin, but his flaws made him incredibly likeable all the same. Some of my favourite scenes were definitely Connor playing the violin for Tyler.
Their love story was so wonderful. It was very easy to understand their feelings for each other. There was no major relationship angst. Sure, they did have some misunderstandings but they always worked it out eventually. The complications definitely weren’t the focus of the relationship. Most of the time they spent together on page as a couple was incredibly loving and trusting. Connor finds ways to express his feelings without words and Tyler learns to interpret the smallest sounds Connor makes.
But just when I was sitting there, all happy, with a dopey smile on my face, I got a reminder that this relationship couldn’t last, that time was short. It was heartbreaking to watch Connor’s struggle with his life as a Prophet. Being a Prophet comes with certain expectations that he often didn’t accept, making his life a lot harder and making my heart break for him over and over again. It was so easy to relate to Tyler’s frustration at his inability to really make a difference for Connor.
But there is so much more to this book than the simple love story. There’s the sudden appearance of another Prophet, who seems hell-bent on discrediting Connor’s abilities. Connor and Tyler both have their troubles with their families and Connor’s death is looming over all of it, of course.
I loved the setting. It’s very unusual and the author definitely has a great imagination. She obviously put a lot of work into essentially creating a new language for Connor.
By now you’re probably wondering why I knocked off half a star. Well, once again I missed the world building. The basics were covered pretty well, but I would have loved more, especially because this is such an unusual premise. A little more in-depth world building and this book would have been perfect.
To sum it up, “You Promised Me Two Years” is a bittersweet love story, with plenty of plot outside the romance, lovable protagonists and an intriguing fantasy setting. I just wish the author had explained even more about the fantasy aspects. I’d love to read another book set in this world and I’ll definitely take a look at the author’s other works.
I agree with the blurb that this works best for “mature young adults”. Some of the themes might be disturbing if you’re too young.
The cover by Jonathan Chong is absolutely gorgeous. It looks so very magical and catches the feeling of the book perfectly. Great eye catcher and one of the most beautiful covers I’ve seen in a while.
I didn’t even finish reading the blurb before I knew I just HAD TO have “You Promised Me Two Years by Angela Yseult”. I love unusual fantasy books and this sounded too good to pass up. And I wasn’t disappointed. I thoroughly enjoyed every word of this book.
Connor is a Prophet. He has visions of the future but needs an interpreter to translate for him. He speaks English, but not in a way most people understand. To most people, he’s talking nonsense. Only special people, so-called interpreters, can understand the real meaning behind the “nonsense”.
Tyler is one of those special people and he’s chosen to be Connor’s interpreter. Connor’s very first prophecy is his own death. Two years from now, he’ll die, with Tyler by his side.
I immediately fell in love with both MCs, even though Connor’s a bit difficult in the beginning. Neither of them is perfect. I loved that neither of them was perfect. Connor has a habit of stubborn sulking and Tyler gives in too easily, just to make Connor happy. Connor is a bit of a genius, both in science and with the violin, but his flaws made him incredibly likeable all the same. Some of my favourite scenes were definitely Connor playing the violin for Tyler.
Their love story was so wonderful. It was very easy to understand their feelings for each other. There was no major relationship angst. Sure, they did have some misunderstandings but they always worked it out eventually. The complications definitely weren’t the focus of the relationship. Most of the time they spent together on page as a couple was incredibly loving and trusting. Connor finds ways to express his feelings without words and Tyler learns to interpret the smallest sounds Connor makes.
But just when I was sitting there, all happy, with a dopey smile on my face, I got a reminder that this relationship couldn’t last, that time was short. It was heartbreaking to watch Connor’s struggle with his life as a Prophet. Being a Prophet comes with certain expectations that he often didn’t accept, making his life a lot harder and making my heart break for him over and over again. It was so easy to relate to Tyler’s frustration at his inability to really make a difference for Connor.
But there is so much more to this book than the simple love story. There’s the sudden appearance of another Prophet, who seems hell-bent on discrediting Connor’s abilities. Connor and Tyler both have their troubles with their families and Connor’s death is looming over all of it, of course.
I loved the setting. It’s very unusual and the author definitely has a great imagination. She obviously put a lot of work into essentially creating a new language for Connor.
By now you’re probably wondering why I knocked off half a star. Well, once again I missed the world building. The basics were covered pretty well, but I would have loved more, especially because this is such an unusual premise. A little more in-depth world building and this book would have been perfect.
To sum it up, “You Promised Me Two Years” is a bittersweet love story, with plenty of plot outside the romance, lovable protagonists and an intriguing fantasy setting. I just wish the author had explained even more about the fantasy aspects. I’d love to read another book set in this world and I’ll definitely take a look at the author’s other works.
I agree with the blurb that this works best for “mature young adults”. Some of the themes might be disturbing if you’re too young.
The cover by Jonathan Chong is absolutely gorgeous. It looks so very magical and catches the feeling of the book perfectly. Great eye catcher and one of the most beautiful covers I’ve seen in a while.
March 8, 2014
You Promised Me Two Years is one of the best YA love stories I have read in a while. The setting is fascinating - an alternative reality where Prophets are held in high regard, and they are paired with interpreters who can make sense of the words they say. But the strong point of this author is that she writes characters who are dimensional and who truly come alive for the reader. They felt like friends by the end of the story. You can feel what Tyler and Connor go through. I was as frustrated as Tyler with how stubborn and moody Connor can be, and I think the reader falls in love with Connor right along with Tyler through reading the pages of this story. The nemesis of the story, Christensen, is well placed and a worthy foil to Connor. He offers a good amount of tension and drama to the story, as well as a bit of mystery to unravel. I so enjoyed this story, and was left wanted to know more about Connor and Tyler. I look forward to reading more stories by Angela Yseult.
March 30, 2019
I don't pick up a lot of YA books in the m/m genre but this turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The only thing holding this back from a 5 star read is the fact I never really got the world dynamics completely. I liked how Tyler becomes a solid base for Conner who has a backlog of problems. Their romance is rather sweet yet also has a darker lining as Tyler constantly fights Conner's drug addiction and black moods. I wasn't sure exactly how this would end
May 28, 2020
Think a young adult high school Sherlock Holmes paranormal M/M romance and you'd be on the right track, because the gawkily sweet story of a boy who can see the future but only speak in riddles and his latest interpreter is surprisingly full of heart.
In the world of the book, 16 year old Connor is a Prophet, but his gift is somewhat negated by his difficult nature. Tyler is just the latest of those with a less astounding but equally vital gift: he can take Connor's mixed up words and find the true meanings behind them. Government agencies can take Connor's predictions and use them to prevent catastrophe... Mostly. Connor's rather jaded about it all, and on their first meeting at his elite Academy, he tells Tyler not to get too attached to his job because in two years time Connor expects to die. Not satisfied with being kept at arm's length, Tyler tries to forge a friendship with the prickly Connor, but ends up with something more as he discovers just what is going on in that brilliant mind.
Three words to describe this story would be cute, awkward and imaginative. The simple world building contained within the Academy and Connor's home is all you really need. The budding relationship is kept clean, but with plenty of awkward moments about the... realities of teenage bodies and minds (). It's cute and fuzzy stuff as Tyler breaks through Connor's stand-offish exterior to understand the hurt boy within. I loved their bizarre conversations where Connor's words started to make sense even without Tyler translating them! Later in the story we meet the Moriarty to Connor's Holmes, adding a much needed specific antagonist.
There are incidents of drug-use, though none happen on-screen and nor is it glamourised in the aftermath. There is no explicit violence or sex (just kissing and non-explicit #awkward touching).
My only sadness about the story is that there's a lot of sequences where telling is done rather than showing. It'd be even more immersive if we'd witnessed some of the conversations hinted at (like with Tyler's family visiting Connor's) or seen scenes in more depth (we're told they kiss, but it doesn't feel so much like we're present as receiving a report of events). I also felt like the ending came too soon - Connor came to a major realisation, but it's not acted upon nor obviously set up for a sequel to address it ()
A really sweet young adult story, soft without being sickly, and with a few hard-hitting themes. The style lends itself to being enjoyed by the younger end of the YA audience who are ready for some social issues in their fiction.
In the world of the book, 16 year old Connor is a Prophet, but his gift is somewhat negated by his difficult nature. Tyler is just the latest of those with a less astounding but equally vital gift: he can take Connor's mixed up words and find the true meanings behind them. Government agencies can take Connor's predictions and use them to prevent catastrophe... Mostly. Connor's rather jaded about it all, and on their first meeting at his elite Academy, he tells Tyler not to get too attached to his job because in two years time Connor expects to die. Not satisfied with being kept at arm's length, Tyler tries to forge a friendship with the prickly Connor, but ends up with something more as he discovers just what is going on in that brilliant mind.
Three words to describe this story would be cute, awkward and imaginative. The simple world building contained within the Academy and Connor's home is all you really need. The budding relationship is kept clean, but with plenty of awkward moments about the... realities of teenage bodies and minds (). It's cute and fuzzy stuff as Tyler breaks through Connor's stand-offish exterior to understand the hurt boy within. I loved their bizarre conversations where Connor's words started to make sense even without Tyler translating them! Later in the story we meet the Moriarty to Connor's Holmes, adding a much needed specific antagonist.
There are incidents of drug-use, though none happen on-screen and nor is it glamourised in the aftermath. There is no explicit violence or sex (just kissing and non-explicit #awkward touching).
My only sadness about the story is that there's a lot of sequences where telling is done rather than showing. It'd be even more immersive if we'd witnessed some of the conversations hinted at (like with Tyler's family visiting Connor's) or seen scenes in more depth (we're told they kiss, but it doesn't feel so much like we're present as receiving a report of events). I also felt like the ending came too soon - Connor came to a major realisation, but it's not acted upon nor obviously set up for a sequel to address it ()
A really sweet young adult story, soft without being sickly, and with a few hard-hitting themes. The style lends itself to being enjoyed by the younger end of the YA audience who are ready for some social issues in their fiction.
November 8, 2017
I don’t usually like young adult romance that much.
THIS is one of the rare exceptions.
Sweet and engaging. A bit of angst without being over the top. The plot develops slowly and it is a bit slow in the beginning. I actually liked the slow pace and how the relationship progressed over time. I think the evolvement of both their lives and relationship seemed more real and natural because of it.
There are mentions of drug use and even a couple of scenes where one of the MC’s uses drugs, but those are well written showing the severity of the consequences without being explicit or gory. There is a romantic relationship between Tyler and Connor, but it never really escalates to sexual (with one non-explicit scene where Connor touches Tyler). The fact is that Connor is asexual (the word is never used) and though he loves Tyler it never developed to sexual attraction. It just sweet young love.
I loved the ending and the last premonitions Connor does... it’s just the perfect End.
This is one book I would gladly let my own children read. Ok, my 10-year old probably needs a couple of years to fully appreciate this story. My 17-year old.... I’ll probably force it on her and demand that she reads it!
THIS is one of the rare exceptions.
Sweet and engaging. A bit of angst without being over the top. The plot develops slowly and it is a bit slow in the beginning. I actually liked the slow pace and how the relationship progressed over time. I think the evolvement of both their lives and relationship seemed more real and natural because of it.
There are mentions of drug use and even a couple of scenes where one of the MC’s uses drugs, but those are well written showing the severity of the consequences without being explicit or gory. There is a romantic relationship between Tyler and Connor, but it never really escalates to sexual (with one non-explicit scene where Connor touches Tyler). The fact is that Connor is asexual (the word is never used) and though he loves Tyler it never developed to sexual attraction. It just sweet young love.
I loved the ending and the last premonitions Connor does... it’s just the perfect End.
This is one book I would gladly let my own children read. Ok, my 10-year old probably needs a couple of years to fully appreciate this story. My 17-year old.... I’ll probably force it on her and demand that she reads it!
April 3, 2018
This one was really, really good. I had somewhat low expectations, because the idea of Prophets and interpreters could either be tackled really well or very poorly, but I think for the most part it was handled with care and the Prophet aspect was really used to go into Connor's character and how he thinks. I wish they had spent more time on Tyler and his family - his family gets a very, very brief passing mention and that's it, and we know next to nothing about what made Tyler an interpreter and how that shapes him. I loved that it turned out that Connor is asexual, and how Tyler and Connor handled that together in their relationship. That was an unexpected twist. Overall, a great book, and the ending was super well handled.
February 18, 2020
Interpret love.
This is such a beautiful book between Connor a prophet and Tyler his interpreter. Teenagers in a boarding school for highly intelligent students, the relationship started off Rocky but blossomed into such a wonderful thing. There was very little sexual contact but a lot of sweet kisses, a real joy to read. The last chapter was a very emotional look into their future. Thank you for this.
This is such a beautiful book between Connor a prophet and Tyler his interpreter. Teenagers in a boarding school for highly intelligent students, the relationship started off Rocky but blossomed into such a wonderful thing. There was very little sexual contact but a lot of sweet kisses, a real joy to read. The last chapter was a very emotional look into their future. Thank you for this.
June 12, 2018
Amazing! Connor is so complicated, but I just keep thinking of the boy he was when his parents died, unable to get them to listen, really listen to his warning. Tyler is steadfast and lovely, but lonely and aching to help ease Connor's pain. Two years... definitely not enough time! Gotta go back and read the beginning again right NOW!
May 21, 2020
Wow, just wow.. What a fantastic book. Talk about letting me on the edge of my seat the entire read.
What a fascinating storyline and so unique. How prophets have to work with interpreters in this world. It all makes me hate that the story ended. I want to know more, to watch those scenes of the future. I want to know more!
What a fascinating storyline and so unique. How prophets have to work with interpreters in this world. It all makes me hate that the story ended. I want to know more, to watch those scenes of the future. I want to know more!
July 14, 2014
I knew coming into this book that the characters would be exceptional, with just enough of a twist to make them familiar but not ordinary, as they face situations that will have a familiar feel to readers from all walks of life. Yseult writes for the YA market, and also under another penname (Kallysten) for adults, and every title from her that I read manages to strike that balance between action / conflict and characters.
In this story, set in an alternate reality, we meet Tyler and Connor. Both are students at an exclusive government-run school, with a focus on the uniquely gifted or talented qualities of its students. Tyler is hand-picked to be an interpreter for Connor, a young man that is classified as a Prophet, for his ability to predict future events. From the very beginning of the story, Connor tells Tyler that he will only be his interpreter for two years, for he has foreseen his own death at age 18.
Tyler almost instantly connects to Connor, part of the initial attraction is physical, but the two seem to have a curious ability to communicate, with Connor’s oddly phrased utterances that make little sense in common conversation. Tyler is also kind-hearted, and unwilling to allow the other students at school to bully Connor, or to bully him. Comfortable with his own choices and preferences, Tyler has been bullied and scorned before, coming out and having relationships while in high school is a brave choice, and not one that all people will accept.
Connor has been predicting and seeing things since he was a young child: his sister has always understood his gift and words, but a prediction that Connor made at ten that wasn’t believed have further shattered his own confidence and he despises the gifts he has been given. Feeling and seeing the death and destruction is not an easy load to bear – put that onus onto a child and the weight must be intolerable. And Connor, to shut out the visions and pain, has turned to ‘dreams’ an injectable drug that seems to be similar to heroin, with near disastrous results for the users.
This is a story that shows a relationship developing, with honest affection and caring between Tyler and Connor. Tyler will correct Connor’s rude and bad behaviors, he will protect him from the bullies, and convince him to play along with some of the expectations for the continued benefits and rewards. In return, Connor learns to open up and trust in Tyler’s intentions to be with him, be a friend, and to care for him – even when Connor isn’t particularly nice.
And the story unfolds, readers are placed in Tyler’s head: watching him struggle with the frustrations inherent in dealing with Connor, and his worries about his two year partnership’s end. We get glimpses of Tyler’s reasons for moving across country to avoid his family, and his own desire to make a mark, his battles with Connor’s sister in trying to get her to trust in him, and to make her relationship with her brother better, and his desire to protect Connor from the newly arrived “prophet” Christensen and his apparent vendetta against Connor.
I was expecting a tearful read: yes there were several moments that did make my heart ache for either Connor or Tyler or the both of them. But, Yseult managed to turn every tearful moment around and give moments that rang out with pure joy and lightness. Emotionally honest with elements that will feel familiar to every reader, the insecurities, conflicts and relationship between Tyler and Connor and their interactions with the world feels familiar and realistic.
I loved that Yseult did not make huge proclamations about the boys’ sexual preferences, keeping their relationship sweetly innocent with hugs and kisses, wholly appropriate for the ages, and far less daring than many other reads for this genre.
Be aware – yes there is the aftermath of drug use in a completely honest and realistic portrayal that combines the danger with possible reasons why it would be a choice. And the characters are unapologetically and openly homosexual, there is a male / male romance storyline that is underneath the bigger and more important element that is the honesty of the relationship: their friendship, trust, pains and struggles to move forward. A truly unique and innovative read that will please many readers – and is the perfect choice for a thoughtful teen or YA reader.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
In this story, set in an alternate reality, we meet Tyler and Connor. Both are students at an exclusive government-run school, with a focus on the uniquely gifted or talented qualities of its students. Tyler is hand-picked to be an interpreter for Connor, a young man that is classified as a Prophet, for his ability to predict future events. From the very beginning of the story, Connor tells Tyler that he will only be his interpreter for two years, for he has foreseen his own death at age 18.
Tyler almost instantly connects to Connor, part of the initial attraction is physical, but the two seem to have a curious ability to communicate, with Connor’s oddly phrased utterances that make little sense in common conversation. Tyler is also kind-hearted, and unwilling to allow the other students at school to bully Connor, or to bully him. Comfortable with his own choices and preferences, Tyler has been bullied and scorned before, coming out and having relationships while in high school is a brave choice, and not one that all people will accept.
Connor has been predicting and seeing things since he was a young child: his sister has always understood his gift and words, but a prediction that Connor made at ten that wasn’t believed have further shattered his own confidence and he despises the gifts he has been given. Feeling and seeing the death and destruction is not an easy load to bear – put that onus onto a child and the weight must be intolerable. And Connor, to shut out the visions and pain, has turned to ‘dreams’ an injectable drug that seems to be similar to heroin, with near disastrous results for the users.
This is a story that shows a relationship developing, with honest affection and caring between Tyler and Connor. Tyler will correct Connor’s rude and bad behaviors, he will protect him from the bullies, and convince him to play along with some of the expectations for the continued benefits and rewards. In return, Connor learns to open up and trust in Tyler’s intentions to be with him, be a friend, and to care for him – even when Connor isn’t particularly nice.
And the story unfolds, readers are placed in Tyler’s head: watching him struggle with the frustrations inherent in dealing with Connor, and his worries about his two year partnership’s end. We get glimpses of Tyler’s reasons for moving across country to avoid his family, and his own desire to make a mark, his battles with Connor’s sister in trying to get her to trust in him, and to make her relationship with her brother better, and his desire to protect Connor from the newly arrived “prophet” Christensen and his apparent vendetta against Connor.
I was expecting a tearful read: yes there were several moments that did make my heart ache for either Connor or Tyler or the both of them. But, Yseult managed to turn every tearful moment around and give moments that rang out with pure joy and lightness. Emotionally honest with elements that will feel familiar to every reader, the insecurities, conflicts and relationship between Tyler and Connor and their interactions with the world feels familiar and realistic.
I loved that Yseult did not make huge proclamations about the boys’ sexual preferences, keeping their relationship sweetly innocent with hugs and kisses, wholly appropriate for the ages, and far less daring than many other reads for this genre.
Be aware – yes there is the aftermath of drug use in a completely honest and realistic portrayal that combines the danger with possible reasons why it would be a choice. And the characters are unapologetically and openly homosexual, there is a male / male romance storyline that is underneath the bigger and more important element that is the honesty of the relationship: their friendship, trust, pains and struggles to move forward. A truly unique and innovative read that will please many readers – and is the perfect choice for a thoughtful teen or YA reader.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
March 29, 2014
4 1/2 STARS
This m/m fantasy is an emotionally gripping and mesmerizing romantic read. Tyler thought that all he would be doing was translating the messages of a prophet, but it doesn’t take long for him to realize that Connor needs more. He needs a friend and someone that understands him and the closer he gets to Connor the more he falls for him. Just as he thinks things will be okay, a new prophet arrives at school and turns their lives upside down. And Tyler can’t forget that the date for Connor’s prophesized death is getting closer and closer.
This steady to fast paced plot keeps reader intrigued with suspense and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written words that encourage vivid images and make the reader feel as if they are part of the story. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
The relationship between Connor and Tyler builds slowly throughout the story as they get to know each other, but things are complicated by Connor’s status as a prophet and his looming prophesized death. The reader can’t help but get emotionally caught up in Connor’s story and empathize with all his emotional issues and Tyler captures the heart with his loyalty to his friend and all the emotional drama he has to handle to save Connor from himself.
The story itself is quite unique with an intriguing concept that captures the imagination and keeps the reader engaged to throughout. The antagonist angle adds lots of suspense and depth to the story and the characters are captivating and believable.
I found this heartwarming and sweet romance to be an enjoyable read. When I first started the book, I was a little worried that the dialogue would be a problem for me because of the way Connor talked (phrases that had a meaning). But to be honest, the author worked it into the story so smoothly that there was no problem, there was no confusion and it enhanced the story, especially toward Connor’s emotional wellbeing.
This m/m fantasy is an emotionally gripping and mesmerizing romantic read. Tyler thought that all he would be doing was translating the messages of a prophet, but it doesn’t take long for him to realize that Connor needs more. He needs a friend and someone that understands him and the closer he gets to Connor the more he falls for him. Just as he thinks things will be okay, a new prophet arrives at school and turns their lives upside down. And Tyler can’t forget that the date for Connor’s prophesized death is getting closer and closer.
This steady to fast paced plot keeps reader intrigued with suspense and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written words that encourage vivid images and make the reader feel as if they are part of the story. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
The relationship between Connor and Tyler builds slowly throughout the story as they get to know each other, but things are complicated by Connor’s status as a prophet and his looming prophesized death. The reader can’t help but get emotionally caught up in Connor’s story and empathize with all his emotional issues and Tyler captures the heart with his loyalty to his friend and all the emotional drama he has to handle to save Connor from himself.
The story itself is quite unique with an intriguing concept that captures the imagination and keeps the reader engaged to throughout. The antagonist angle adds lots of suspense and depth to the story and the characters are captivating and believable.
I found this heartwarming and sweet romance to be an enjoyable read. When I first started the book, I was a little worried that the dialogue would be a problem for me because of the way Connor talked (phrases that had a meaning). But to be honest, the author worked it into the story so smoothly that there was no problem, there was no confusion and it enhanced the story, especially toward Connor’s emotional wellbeing.
May 7, 2022
3.5 stars
October 15, 2015
Featured on All Our Worlds!
This story grabbed my attention right away. A boy who can see the future but speaks only in riddles, and the boy trying to protect both of them in the face of seemingly inevitable disaster.
I really liked the chapter style. The book was told in snippets, some going on for pages, some no longer than a paragraph. The important events and emotions came across without being slowed down by the need to transition from scene to scene. It suited the plot perfectly: a collection of scenes is how a life really feels, and it’s how Connor sees the future.
The characters’ emotions were honest, both the good ones and the bad ones. Tyler struggles with his attraction to Connor, Connor fights doubt and despair about his abilities. Things about Connor’s life were revealed slowly, while he continued to hold his own, refusing to become a figure of pity. Tyler’s devotion, dedication, and uncertainty all rang true and impacted the story.
I felt some parallels between Connor and autistic characters. Talking in a way that’s incomprehensible to most, having specific interests, disliking arbitrary social stuff, facing bullying from people who don’t understand. Tyler can interpret for him, so the communication problem is minimized, but the officials who want to make use of Connor’s abilities still take no account of his wants or feelings.
I’m looking forward to more from this author!
This story grabbed my attention right away. A boy who can see the future but speaks only in riddles, and the boy trying to protect both of them in the face of seemingly inevitable disaster.
I really liked the chapter style. The book was told in snippets, some going on for pages, some no longer than a paragraph. The important events and emotions came across without being slowed down by the need to transition from scene to scene. It suited the plot perfectly: a collection of scenes is how a life really feels, and it’s how Connor sees the future.
The characters’ emotions were honest, both the good ones and the bad ones. Tyler struggles with his attraction to Connor, Connor fights doubt and despair about his abilities. Things about Connor’s life were revealed slowly, while he continued to hold his own, refusing to become a figure of pity. Tyler’s devotion, dedication, and uncertainty all rang true and impacted the story.
I felt some parallels between Connor and autistic characters. Talking in a way that’s incomprehensible to most, having specific interests, disliking arbitrary social stuff, facing bullying from people who don’t understand. Tyler can interpret for him, so the communication problem is minimized, but the officials who want to make use of Connor’s abilities still take no account of his wants or feelings.
I’m looking forward to more from this author!
July 8, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
Connor and Tyler meet but Tyler is nervous because he’s never met anyone like Connor before. Tyler is an interpreter but he has a sad message. It’s like finding out the ending before you’ve even begun – and I hate to say that I used to be guilty of that very thing.
This is a sad tale showing how the young can become dependent on drugs. We as adults need to listen more when children cry out for help – it just may make a difference. With everything going on with the news lately, I find it interesting that I read this story at the same time.
It’s a story that makes me sad - I wish that in some way I could trade places with Tyler. But the author also shows a caring relationship can grow just from trying to be friends. It’s a great book to read when the weather is bad – it just seems to help set the mood. Would I read this book again? – Yes. Would I recommend this author? – Yes. But it’s not a book to read if you have a lot going on because it is one of those books where you want to concentrate on everything that you’re reading. You may be surprised to see that this is a YA as well as M/M but adults can most certainly read this book and like it as well.
Connor and Tyler meet but Tyler is nervous because he’s never met anyone like Connor before. Tyler is an interpreter but he has a sad message. It’s like finding out the ending before you’ve even begun – and I hate to say that I used to be guilty of that very thing.
This is a sad tale showing how the young can become dependent on drugs. We as adults need to listen more when children cry out for help – it just may make a difference. With everything going on with the news lately, I find it interesting that I read this story at the same time.
It’s a story that makes me sad - I wish that in some way I could trade places with Tyler. But the author also shows a caring relationship can grow just from trying to be friends. It’s a great book to read when the weather is bad – it just seems to help set the mood. Would I read this book again? – Yes. Would I recommend this author? – Yes. But it’s not a book to read if you have a lot going on because it is one of those books where you want to concentrate on everything that you’re reading. You may be surprised to see that this is a YA as well as M/M but adults can most certainly read this book and like it as well.
March 15, 2014
I was blown away! In the beginning, I thought this was going to be just another YA, coming-of-age story. I was so wrong. I came away feeling like I was just taught a lesson in love and understanding by two 18 year old boys. Outstanding characters in an amazing story line. Even when everything, even time, seemed to be working against Connor and Tyler, they still managed to find forgiveness with each other. It isn't a long story but there is so much story packed into the pages without feeling like it's too much. The story line is a little different, so it takes a minute to adjust to the way things work in their world but you catch on quick.
YA is not my preferred genre but I can honestly say that this is one of my favorite books that I have read this year. I can't express enough how much I enjoyed reading this book. Author, Angela Yseult, has an brilliant imagination! I can't wait to see what's next for this fabulous author!
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
YA is not my preferred genre but I can honestly say that this is one of my favorite books that I have read this year. I can't express enough how much I enjoyed reading this book. Author, Angela Yseult, has an brilliant imagination! I can't wait to see what's next for this fabulous author!
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2014
Loved this book. The concept was intriguing, with one MC as a Prophet whose words come out in ways that are incomprehensible to any but an interpreter. The world building was effective in creating an alternate universe of the US, with an Academy where kids with special gifts were schooled, and a government Department of the Future.
Connor's struggles in dealing with his gift, and Tyler's efforts to help him, made for a moving tale of hurt/comfort. The introduction of Christenson added a suspenseful element. I would have liked to have the resolution of that element be a little less pat and treated almost as an aside, but the focus on Connor and Tyler at that point made for a satisfying conclusion.
Connor's struggles in dealing with his gift, and Tyler's efforts to help him, made for a moving tale of hurt/comfort. The introduction of Christenson added a suspenseful element. I would have liked to have the resolution of that element be a little less pat and treated almost as an aside, but the focus on Connor and Tyler at that point made for a satisfying conclusion.
January 2, 2016
So, this story was pretty sweet. I loved the connection between Connor and Tyler (sooooo cute). The end did seem slightly rushed, like, it gave us a distinct resolution but I feel like towards the end it was more tell than show. Other than that, I was really into this story, it was quite refreshing to read after some of the latest books I've picked up. I appreciated the way intimacy was described in this, it was slow and full of meaning which is rare these days. I definitely enjoyed reading it and I'll be looking forward to more work by this author!
January 6, 2015
Great from start to finish. A sweet love story that didn't try to bite off more than it could chew.
March 8, 2016
elég jó volt a közepe táján kissé túlburjánzott nyáladzás ellenére, meg hogy a befejezés gyakorlatilag a six feet under fináléjának visszafogott, némiképp béna lenyúlása szerintem.
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