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Ailene #0.5
Purpose
If Jax could write his own story, he would add a true friend to spend his life with.
Jax Braeden has always felt different. Life at home is rough, and he struggles to find someone to truly connect with. All of this changes when a shy boy named Liam Hayfield steps into his life.
With Liam by his side, Jax braves the rough waters of high school, figures out his sexuality, and learns the true meaning of love and friendship. But Liam’s life is filled with secrets, and once they start to unravel, they both find themselves in danger.
One day, Jax and Liam wake up at a mental health clinic, unable to remember who they are or what they mean to each other.
Will they find their way back to one another . . . and to themselves?
Jax Braeden has always felt different. Life at home is rough, and he struggles to find someone to truly connect with. All of this changes when a shy boy named Liam Hayfield steps into his life.
With Liam by his side, Jax braves the rough waters of high school, figures out his sexuality, and learns the true meaning of love and friendship. But Liam’s life is filled with secrets, and once they start to unravel, they both find themselves in danger.
One day, Jax and Liam wake up at a mental health clinic, unable to remember who they are or what they mean to each other.
Will they find their way back to one another . . . and to themselves?
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 8, 2024
1 person is currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Annabel den Dekker
6 books45 followersAnnabel den Dekker is a queer author from the Netherlands. When she’s not writing, she can be found strolling through nature, daydreaming about her favorite characters or conjuring up new stories. She’s also an avid admirer of books, music and TV series, and delights in sharing them with others.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 29, 2024
What a journey 😍 such a good book
We get to step in a world where things are not what it seems and a lot is hide from the eye.
This book was so good, I got to come back to the same world I was whne i read Ailene and to see another perspective from it with diferent points of views and knowledge of what is happening, it was very exciting to step on it and explore this side.
The characters are amazingly written, the depth on them, the diferent layers and the way we can see them in completely diferent environments, but above all see their personality shine through the ups and downs and all the difficult situations they where put in and oh mine, what situations. Above all adversities we see them rise and keep what made them themselves and that is such a powerful message.
I feel this book, behind it all is about strength specifically mentally, not having afraid to step up and take the risk sometimes, getting out of your confort zone, figh against adversities and not letting them change you into something you are not and about love, about caring and know how to care of others.
I love this book and how it show us more about a world I really liked and more of characters that we didn't know much about yet and can't wait to see what comes next.
We get to step in a world where things are not what it seems and a lot is hide from the eye.
This book was so good, I got to come back to the same world I was whne i read Ailene and to see another perspective from it with diferent points of views and knowledge of what is happening, it was very exciting to step on it and explore this side.
The characters are amazingly written, the depth on them, the diferent layers and the way we can see them in completely diferent environments, but above all see their personality shine through the ups and downs and all the difficult situations they where put in and oh mine, what situations. Above all adversities we see them rise and keep what made them themselves and that is such a powerful message.
I feel this book, behind it all is about strength specifically mentally, not having afraid to step up and take the risk sometimes, getting out of your confort zone, figh against adversities and not letting them change you into something you are not and about love, about caring and know how to care of others.
I love this book and how it show us more about a world I really liked and more of characters that we didn't know much about yet and can't wait to see what comes next.
September 13, 2024
The author gives us a masterclass on how to explore a story of love and connection set in a magical and futuristic world. I was completely immersed and invested in this young adult story from the opening lines. The author has the astonishing ability to paint a vivid picture with her descriptive acrobats. This enchanting story is set in the Timberland. This is a universe where treetops form emerald seas stretched as far as the eye can see and robots and mystical creatures roam freely over lush landscapes. I quickly fell in love with Liam, Jax, and Alexander. The author sensitively explores identity, self-discovery and the intrinsic need for love and acceptance through the eyes of her characters. But make no mistake, she does not shy away from exploring dark and complex themes to give her the story depth, fully rounded characters and a truly sensory experience. This is a story of celebrating difference, love, hope and healing. I absolutely loved reading this outstanding novel. It gave me everything I needed for an easy five-star review
March 31, 2025
This was such an amazing book!!
September 17, 2024
I love this one even more than Ailene! It's a beautiful story about love and friendship. It explores questioning one's sexuality and accepting who you are. There's found family and asking yourself if forgiveness is worth it with certain people. I can't wait to read more from Annabel!
featured
May 24, 2025Jax Braeden from Purpose is asexual!
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
October 2, 2024
Purpose is a young adult, Sci-fi romance and the second novel from author Annabel Den Dekker. I will say here that I’m not exactly a Sci-fi connoisseur outside classic Star Trek and Dr Who
Christmas specials. I am, however, a fan of romance across various genres.
While I cannot comment on much of the Sci-fi elements, what I did notice is how the world in Timberland is so much more advanced than ours, yet behind in many issues. For example, there are robotics and transportation that is beyond what we have, yet things like slavery are still legal. The characters also face many social issues such as bullying, discrimination, alcoholism and domestic violence. It highlights the importance of discussing issues and acknowledging how far we have come, as well as how much hard work we still need to do. Otherwise, we can end up going backwards, no matter how far we advance technologically.
The book follows teenagers Liam and Jax. Both are smart teenagers with very different family issues. The stories here are incredibly relatable, with struggles of self-worth and identity. The Ace
representation in this book is wonderful. It explores how being Ace isn’t black and white, and how
labels can mean different things to different people.
Another Sci-fi element is the ‘special abilities’ which certain individuals have. In Purpose, I
wondered if these were symbolic of trans identities, sexuality or possibly neurodivergence. Without
giving away too much, characters in the book aim to ‘cure’ those with special abilities, believing
them to be dangerous to others and to society. With the examples I have given, focus on a ‘cure’
does not consider individual happiness and, above all else, that these are things that cannot be
changed, nor things that need to be changed. You are you are, and nothing can change that.
Purpose is a casual read with relatable characters in a new world with messages of hope and progress.
Christmas specials. I am, however, a fan of romance across various genres.
While I cannot comment on much of the Sci-fi elements, what I did notice is how the world in Timberland is so much more advanced than ours, yet behind in many issues. For example, there are robotics and transportation that is beyond what we have, yet things like slavery are still legal. The characters also face many social issues such as bullying, discrimination, alcoholism and domestic violence. It highlights the importance of discussing issues and acknowledging how far we have come, as well as how much hard work we still need to do. Otherwise, we can end up going backwards, no matter how far we advance technologically.
The book follows teenagers Liam and Jax. Both are smart teenagers with very different family issues. The stories here are incredibly relatable, with struggles of self-worth and identity. The Ace
representation in this book is wonderful. It explores how being Ace isn’t black and white, and how
labels can mean different things to different people.
Another Sci-fi element is the ‘special abilities’ which certain individuals have. In Purpose, I
wondered if these were symbolic of trans identities, sexuality or possibly neurodivergence. Without
giving away too much, characters in the book aim to ‘cure’ those with special abilities, believing
them to be dangerous to others and to society. With the examples I have given, focus on a ‘cure’
does not consider individual happiness and, above all else, that these are things that cannot be
changed, nor things that need to be changed. You are you are, and nothing can change that.
Purpose is a casual read with relatable characters in a new world with messages of hope and progress.
October 8, 2024
"I know it's hard to believe right now, but you know what? I'm going to show you how amazing you are every day, if that's what it takes."
-----
Content warning (not a complete list): bullying, alcoholism/ alcoholic character, kidnapp!ng, mention of suic!de, and physical @buse.
For more information, check the content warning in the book.
-----
This is a standalone.
Ending: hea
Spicy: kissing is as spicy as it gets, 0
-----
Purpose is a YA, queer romance about two teenage boys who feel like they don't belong in the world, but that belong with each other. It's a unique read with its gray- aroace character and mixture of genres such as sci-fi, romance and YA. If you're looking for a heartwarming book with representation, this might be for you.
Jax was someone who didn't relate well with other people. He felt different, especially when it came to romance and his s3xuality. Liam was a boy with very low self esteem and damaging beliefs about himself. These two had a hard life. I felt so bad for them. I grew to care for them and rooted for their happiness.
I was curious on how the romance would be with portrayed. I found it to be enlightening and unique. I loved seeing Jax navigate his feelings of romance and s3xuality. I also enjoyed Jax be patient with Liam as Liam battled his insecurities and low self worth. Their romance was cute, patient and supportive.
While this is a heartwarming book, there's some darkness to it. Check the triggers. I found this to be a lovely book. I really enjoyed the gray aroace rep. Especially aro, I don't think there are much aro characters in books.
PS I loved Alexander and Felix.
This was an ARC read and review. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
-----
Content warning (not a complete list): bullying, alcoholism/ alcoholic character, kidnapp!ng, mention of suic!de, and physical @buse.
For more information, check the content warning in the book.
-----
This is a standalone.
Ending: hea
Spicy: kissing is as spicy as it gets, 0
-----
Purpose is a YA, queer romance about two teenage boys who feel like they don't belong in the world, but that belong with each other. It's a unique read with its gray- aroace character and mixture of genres such as sci-fi, romance and YA. If you're looking for a heartwarming book with representation, this might be for you.
Jax was someone who didn't relate well with other people. He felt different, especially when it came to romance and his s3xuality. Liam was a boy with very low self esteem and damaging beliefs about himself. These two had a hard life. I felt so bad for them. I grew to care for them and rooted for their happiness.
I was curious on how the romance would be with portrayed. I found it to be enlightening and unique. I loved seeing Jax navigate his feelings of romance and s3xuality. I also enjoyed Jax be patient with Liam as Liam battled his insecurities and low self worth. Their romance was cute, patient and supportive.
While this is a heartwarming book, there's some darkness to it. Check the triggers. I found this to be a lovely book. I really enjoyed the gray aroace rep. Especially aro, I don't think there are much aro characters in books.
PS I loved Alexander and Felix.
This was an ARC read and review. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
October 7, 2024
“Even if our minds are broken our hearts are still connected.”
This was my first book by Annabel and I really enjoyed this I usually do not read YA or Sci-Fi but I really loved how heartwarming this story was.
This is apart of the Ailene universe I did not read it prior but I kind of wish I did but you can still follow along without reading it.
Jax and Liam’s story is very relatable we start with them in school trying to figure out who they are, Jax is struggling with his sexuality and Liam is dealing with bullying and both are still healing from loss and struggling with their home life.
As their relationship grows so many secrets and emotions start to emerge, giving this story so many emotional and heartwarming moments.
If you are a fan of Sci-FI Young Adult stories this is one for you.
~~What to Expect~~
🎹MM Romance
🎹Young Adult Sci-Fi
🎹Friends to Lovers
🎹Amnesia
🎹Hurt/Comfort
🎹3rd Person POV
🎹Ace Rep
🎹Found Family
~~Quotes~~
💚You know I love every version of you, but the one where you’re entirely yourself has to be my favorite.
💚We are two pieces that fit together. One can exist without the other but when united everything around us becomes infinitely better.
This was my first book by Annabel and I really enjoyed this I usually do not read YA or Sci-Fi but I really loved how heartwarming this story was.
This is apart of the Ailene universe I did not read it prior but I kind of wish I did but you can still follow along without reading it.
Jax and Liam’s story is very relatable we start with them in school trying to figure out who they are, Jax is struggling with his sexuality and Liam is dealing with bullying and both are still healing from loss and struggling with their home life.
As their relationship grows so many secrets and emotions start to emerge, giving this story so many emotional and heartwarming moments.
If you are a fan of Sci-FI Young Adult stories this is one for you.
~~What to Expect~~
🎹MM Romance
🎹Young Adult Sci-Fi
🎹Friends to Lovers
🎹Amnesia
🎹Hurt/Comfort
🎹3rd Person POV
🎹Ace Rep
🎹Found Family
~~Quotes~~
💚You know I love every version of you, but the one where you’re entirely yourself has to be my favorite.
💚We are two pieces that fit together. One can exist without the other but when united everything around us becomes infinitely better.
September 12, 2024
I love Jax and Liam! Their story is so cute! Liam joins a new school but sadly gets bullied until Jax takes him under his wing. Jax can see how kind and generous Liam is and how the other kids take advantage of him but he puts a stop to it. Jax meeting Liam has been a godsend in a way, they spend time together and slowly realise they're growing feelings for each other.
This book goes into the knowledge of Asexual and Gay, I didn't really know much about being asexual but Annabel explains Jax's feelings well. It opens your eyes to a new way of writing/reading books that are written and come out in the current time. I like the idea of Felix being pronouns of they/them although it took a little while to get used to.
This book is in two parts, the first part is Liam and Jax, discovering their feelings for each other, learning about Jax's dad and meeting Liam's mum, Winter. This leads onto part two where Winter, shows her true colours and what her job at the Asylum really entails. I wasn't expecting that!
Following on from Ailene, book one, It was nice to continue the story and look forward to more from Annabel in future, maybe a spin off with Alexander and Felix?
This book goes into the knowledge of Asexual and Gay, I didn't really know much about being asexual but Annabel explains Jax's feelings well. It opens your eyes to a new way of writing/reading books that are written and come out in the current time. I like the idea of Felix being pronouns of they/them although it took a little while to get used to.
This book is in two parts, the first part is Liam and Jax, discovering their feelings for each other, learning about Jax's dad and meeting Liam's mum, Winter. This leads onto part two where Winter, shows her true colours and what her job at the Asylum really entails. I wasn't expecting that!
Following on from Ailene, book one, It was nice to continue the story and look forward to more from Annabel in future, maybe a spin off with Alexander and Felix?
October 9, 2024
While I am a romance junkie at heart, MM romance is relatively new to me. It’s books like this that will keep me coming back! The emotions oozed off of the pages, even when there were struggles and roadblocks.
This story is so much more than a love story though.
When the boys end up at the clinic they have to relearn who they are and what is important to them. Secrets and struggles get in the way, bit with a little help they rediscover who they are, and grow into who they are meant to be.
The sci-fi elements take it to a whole different level. It is interesting to me how den Dekker was able to address so many current day issues. It’s troubling to see that even I. This advanced world that has been created racism, discrimination, bullying and other horrible issues still run rampant. It was however, heartwarming to see so many fight against this. I guess I took it as a statement that while we still have a ways to go, there will always be people trying to make the world a better place.
I read this quite some time ago, and it still lingers in the back of my mind. It’s like remembering something or someone whom you miss, but they still make you smile!
This story is so much more than a love story though.
When the boys end up at the clinic they have to relearn who they are and what is important to them. Secrets and struggles get in the way, bit with a little help they rediscover who they are, and grow into who they are meant to be.
The sci-fi elements take it to a whole different level. It is interesting to me how den Dekker was able to address so many current day issues. It’s troubling to see that even I. This advanced world that has been created racism, discrimination, bullying and other horrible issues still run rampant. It was however, heartwarming to see so many fight against this. I guess I took it as a statement that while we still have a ways to go, there will always be people trying to make the world a better place.
I read this quite some time ago, and it still lingers in the back of my mind. It’s like remembering something or someone whom you miss, but they still make you smile!
October 10, 2024
I was one of the lucky few who got to read this book early on and let me tell you it had me hooked from the prologue.
You can clearly see Annabel has grown as a writer in comparison to her previous book (which was also a great read!). This book definitely shows she's learned how to keep you reading (I say to myself one more chapter and then just keep reading until it's suddenly 3am and I've finished the book).
This book had me in a chokehold from start to finish. I loved the characters, especially the bond between Jax and Alexander was *chefs kiss*. The love in this book just makes me so happy, not just the romantic love but especially the love between friends. I love how Annabel makes sure that friendships are just as important as romantic relationships.
The last page of the last chapter still gives me goosebumps when I even think about it and only one other book has ever done that for me.
I just really love this book and the person that wrote it, don't miss out and read this wonderful book that you definitely need in your life.
You can clearly see Annabel has grown as a writer in comparison to her previous book (which was also a great read!). This book definitely shows she's learned how to keep you reading (I say to myself one more chapter and then just keep reading until it's suddenly 3am and I've finished the book).
This book had me in a chokehold from start to finish. I loved the characters, especially the bond between Jax and Alexander was *chefs kiss*. The love in this book just makes me so happy, not just the romantic love but especially the love between friends. I love how Annabel makes sure that friendships are just as important as romantic relationships.
The last page of the last chapter still gives me goosebumps when I even think about it and only one other book has ever done that for me.
I just really love this book and the person that wrote it, don't miss out and read this wonderful book that you definitely need in your life.
October 9, 2024
My favorite thing about this book was that it’s so different from anything I usually read. YA, Sci-Fi and Amnesia are things I rarely seek out in Queer Romance, but I am so glad I went outside my comfort zone for this book.
The writing is beautiful, the character development is fantastic, and it deals with heavy subjects without feeling completely weighed down throughout the book.
The relationship development between Jax and Liam was so heartwarming and beautiful, and I loved that we got to experience two forms of that love. We also got introduced to some wonderful side characters who added so much to this love story. The found-family aspect was great and I definitely finished this book wanting to know even more about these characters.
I also plan to read “Ailene” so I can experience more from this world. And, hopefully, we’ll get at least one more story in the future. If you are on the fence about this book, you should definitely take the plunge. You will not be disappointed!
The writing is beautiful, the character development is fantastic, and it deals with heavy subjects without feeling completely weighed down throughout the book.
The relationship development between Jax and Liam was so heartwarming and beautiful, and I loved that we got to experience two forms of that love. We also got introduced to some wonderful side characters who added so much to this love story. The found-family aspect was great and I definitely finished this book wanting to know even more about these characters.
I also plan to read “Ailene” so I can experience more from this world. And, hopefully, we’ll get at least one more story in the future. If you are on the fence about this book, you should definitely take the plunge. You will not be disappointed!
October 8, 2024
This was such a beautiful book! I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love right along with our main characters Jax and Liam. They've found themselves in a mental health facility, not remembering who they are or where they're from.
Watching them rediscover themselves through each other broke my heart and put it back together all at once. It was so sweet and heartwarming, and so, so romantic. This gave all the warm cozy feels, and I'm so glad I got to fall in love with Jax and Liam!
Watching them rediscover themselves through each other broke my heart and put it back together all at once. It was so sweet and heartwarming, and so, so romantic. This gave all the warm cozy feels, and I'm so glad I got to fall in love with Jax and Liam!
October 24, 2024
heart-warming is right
Purpose is a sweet, queer romance that is more science fantasy than science fiction. The characters were young, earnest, vulnerable, and likable. There is real tenderness at the heart of the story and in their interactions. The writing was clear and easy to follow — except I did get confused once when the POV switched from Jax to Liam. The chapters were just the right length. I normally don’t read this genre but really enjoyed this! :-)
Purpose is a sweet, queer romance that is more science fantasy than science fiction. The characters were young, earnest, vulnerable, and likable. There is real tenderness at the heart of the story and in their interactions. The writing was clear and easy to follow — except I did get confused once when the POV switched from Jax to Liam. The chapters were just the right length. I normally don’t read this genre but really enjoyed this! :-)
September 30, 2024
I really enjoyed Ailene, but this one was a tad conflicting for me.
I truly loved the story, I just didn’t enjoy the execution. It felt very rushed to me, and felt like I was reading fanfiction or something written by a teenager.
But honestly - the story itself is so cool, I will recommend it to anyone who enjoys sci-fi, lgbtqai+ stories, and very very YA written stories.
I truly loved the story, I just didn’t enjoy the execution. It felt very rushed to me, and felt like I was reading fanfiction or something written by a teenager.
But honestly - the story itself is so cool, I will recommend it to anyone who enjoys sci-fi, lgbtqai+ stories, and very very YA written stories.
October 9, 2024
I really liked this book. Just like the first book of this author ,the way you get to know the characters really makes you 'feel' the characters. It just pulls you in and never let you go. I really liked that.
October 15, 2024
Not my usual read but I loved this! So heartwarming
October 8, 2024
"Purpose " is a YA scifi story. We follow Jax and Liam two sixteen year olds. Jax never felt like he fit in with the other teenagers but when a new shy kid, Liam, starts at his school he finally makes a true friend, someone he can relate with. The two teenagers eventually fall in love but they go through hell before they finally get their happily ever after.
The book had me hooked form the prologue. It was a flashforward and a very powerful one. I couldn't wait to find out how Jax ended up in such a horrible situation. The pacing of the book was great and the author kept my attention from the beginning until the end.
Jax and Liam were both absolutely precious and I wanted to protect them at all costs. They were so sweet together. And I loved the ace representation.
In this world some people have superpowers and a lot of the situations they faced reminded of how the Xmen were treated and I really really love the Xmen so this book was just perfect for me.
I enjoyed it very very much. It was an amazing coming of age story and I highly recommend it.
The book had me hooked form the prologue. It was a flashforward and a very powerful one. I couldn't wait to find out how Jax ended up in such a horrible situation. The pacing of the book was great and the author kept my attention from the beginning until the end.
Jax and Liam were both absolutely precious and I wanted to protect them at all costs. They were so sweet together. And I loved the ace representation.
In this world some people have superpowers and a lot of the situations they faced reminded of how the Xmen were treated and I really really love the Xmen so this book was just perfect for me.
I enjoyed it very very much. It was an amazing coming of age story and I highly recommend it.
October 3, 2024
This story focuses on Jax, an asexual teen, and his dramatic love story with Liam, a sheltered boy with a troubled past. It's st in the same universe as Ailene, a bit before that story and we see some very well known characters!
Jax is a very strong kid, trying to figure out his identity, despite his dysfunctional home life. He goes out of his way to help everyone, since he feels like no one can help him. Liam, on the other hand, suffer through a lot of traumatic events that lead to self-hatred. By meeting each other, they both find a way to learn to heal and to grow as people, acknowledging their trauma is a party of them, but that it shouldn't control them.
Winter is a very evil character. The way she treats people with powers is inhumane. I understand she's been through trauma herself, but being abused is not an excuse to become an abuser. In a way, Liam breaks that cycle.
So does Jax, who's alcoholic father beats him and mistreats him. By the end, the father gets treatment and attempts to build a better relationship with his son. I'm not so sure it will work. Or that it's even a good idea, but every case is a case and it should always be the child's decision whether or not to keep in contact with their parents, even when they're abusive (of course, when they're over 18).
This is, overall, a story of overcoming mental blocks and prejudices, with the help of loved ones! Both characters go through a lot to discover their "Purpose".
TW:torture, alcoholism, bad parenting, abusive parents, torture
Jax is a very strong kid, trying to figure out his identity, despite his dysfunctional home life. He goes out of his way to help everyone, since he feels like no one can help him. Liam, on the other hand, suffer through a lot of traumatic events that lead to self-hatred. By meeting each other, they both find a way to learn to heal and to grow as people, acknowledging their trauma is a party of them, but that it shouldn't control them.
Winter is a very evil character. The way she treats people with powers is inhumane. I understand she's been through trauma herself, but being abused is not an excuse to become an abuser. In a way, Liam breaks that cycle.
So does Jax, who's alcoholic father beats him and mistreats him. By the end, the father gets treatment and attempts to build a better relationship with his son. I'm not so sure it will work. Or that it's even a good idea, but every case is a case and it should always be the child's decision whether or not to keep in contact with their parents, even when they're abusive (of course, when they're over 18).
This is, overall, a story of overcoming mental blocks and prejudices, with the help of loved ones! Both characters go through a lot to discover their "Purpose".
TW:torture, alcoholism, bad parenting, abusive parents, torture
December 14, 2024
Trigger warnings for Purpose include: alcoholism, anxiety, bullying, death & dying, domestic violence, physical abuse and mentions of suicidal thoughts.
☆
☆
There were a few things that touched me with this book. First thing being the way it shows that friendships can be strong and still remain platonic with no opening for romantic feelings to come into the equation.
~
The second thing that stood out to me was the way that aspec identities are mentioned and talked about in such a way as to show that they aren't negative.
~
“And it wouldn’t be wrong if you’ve never had or never will have such feelings. You do know that, don’t you?”
~
"You kept me from taking my own life, and sometimes I hated you for it, but I was mostly so grateful.”
~
I loved this book wholeheartedly, and I'm so glad I got the chance to read it. It was also nice to be able to draw some parallels between this and Ailene, and to link different characters in Purpose to where they are in Ailene.
•
Thank you to author Annabel den Dekker for sending me an ARC copy of this book.
☆
☆
There were a few things that touched me with this book. First thing being the way it shows that friendships can be strong and still remain platonic with no opening for romantic feelings to come into the equation.
~
The second thing that stood out to me was the way that aspec identities are mentioned and talked about in such a way as to show that they aren't negative.
~
“And it wouldn’t be wrong if you’ve never had or never will have such feelings. You do know that, don’t you?”
~
"You kept me from taking my own life, and sometimes I hated you for it, but I was mostly so grateful.”
~
I loved this book wholeheartedly, and I'm so glad I got the chance to read it. It was also nice to be able to draw some parallels between this and Ailene, and to link different characters in Purpose to where they are in Ailene.
•
Thank you to author Annabel den Dekker for sending me an ARC copy of this book.
October 8, 2024
Jax and Liam meet at school, both in need of someone to trust. As their friendship develops and feelings deepen, disaster strikes. Finding themselves in a mental health clinic, unable to remember how they got there or who they are, let alone what they mean to each other, they have to fight to find themselves and each other, again.
Perfect for fans of Heartstopper, Purpose is based in the world of Ailene (den Dekker's first novel). It's a really sweet first-love story that at its core explores friendships and connections. I was invested in the story right from the start, the writing style keeping me engaged throughout. Den Dekker has a wonderful ability to allow how much she cares for her characters to seep through the pages and while I think this really shows with Liam, her side characters are also perfectly rounded. RJ-7 has to be the dearest robot written!
Highly recommended for those looking for Y/A, coming of age stories with queer representation.
Perfect for fans of Heartstopper, Purpose is based in the world of Ailene (den Dekker's first novel). It's a really sweet first-love story that at its core explores friendships and connections. I was invested in the story right from the start, the writing style keeping me engaged throughout. Den Dekker has a wonderful ability to allow how much she cares for her characters to seep through the pages and while I think this really shows with Liam, her side characters are also perfectly rounded. RJ-7 has to be the dearest robot written!
Highly recommended for those looking for Y/A, coming of age stories with queer representation.
September 24, 2024
📖 Purpose by Anabelle den Dekker
The previous books that I have read, have been emotionally and mentally draining for me, no matter how beautifully they were written. 'Purpose' is the amazing and soothing escape my heart needed.
Alexander and Jax's relationship is the kind of relationship everyone deserves. The way Alexander helped both Liam and Jax understand the downfall of hiding things from each other is adorable.
Jax and Liam faced highs and lows together. Moreover, they were destined to be together all along.
The people belonging to aro/ace spectrum is integrated in the book and trust me it is commendable. It is a difficult decision to carefully write regarding people belonging anywhere on the spectrum, and the way it is done is perfect.
It is a sci-fi romantic novel, and the way it has proportionate amounts of all the emotions a book must have to hit the right spots, ’Purpose' does it. This baby has it all. You did an amazing job Annabel.
—Love S
The previous books that I have read, have been emotionally and mentally draining for me, no matter how beautifully they were written. 'Purpose' is the amazing and soothing escape my heart needed.
Alexander and Jax's relationship is the kind of relationship everyone deserves. The way Alexander helped both Liam and Jax understand the downfall of hiding things from each other is adorable.
Jax and Liam faced highs and lows together. Moreover, they were destined to be together all along.
The people belonging to aro/ace spectrum is integrated in the book and trust me it is commendable. It is a difficult decision to carefully write regarding people belonging anywhere on the spectrum, and the way it is done is perfect.
It is a sci-fi romantic novel, and the way it has proportionate amounts of all the emotions a book must have to hit the right spots, ’Purpose' does it. This baby has it all. You did an amazing job Annabel.
—Love S
October 22, 2024
Even though Jax and Liam live in a different world, their feelings and issues are so very human. With tense moments with sharp twists and brief but powerful phrases that perfectly summarize emotional arcs, an incredible journey can be found within the cozy cover of this book.
March 2, 2025
Purpose is a beautifully emotional read that I really enjoyed, especially for its portrayal of self-discovery and love. Jax and Liam felt like real teens, full of uncertainty and vulnerability, which made their journey so relatable. The representation of asexuality was interesting, something I hadn’t come across before. The world of Timberland was fascinating, with its mix of technology and magic, but I did wish for a bit more depth in the world-building at some points. The pacing was fast at times, and I would’ve liked to see a little more exploration of the setting. Still, the themes of friendship, growth, and love made it a book that stuck with me, and I appreciate how it tackled difficult topics with care and hope.
October 10, 2024
This was so heartwarming and lovely. All the characters were lovable. Well, except some, but there has to be conflict somewhere lol. Definitely recommend this. And make sure to read Ailene!
November 9, 2024
I was lucky enough to get to ARC read this book. I loved getting to revisit some characters from Ailene and dive back into that world. It's such a unique and adorable story and it can totally be read as a standalone.
The characters were easy to relate to even though they each had their own unique traits & personalities. The strength and perseverance these characters showed just made them so loveable. I didn't want to put the book down and was sad when it was over. I truly wish I could read this one for the first time again.
The characters were easy to relate to even though they each had their own unique traits & personalities. The strength and perseverance these characters showed just made them so loveable. I didn't want to put the book down and was sad when it was over. I truly wish I could read this one for the first time again.
April 22, 2025
I might be biased since I'm the author, but I love this book with my whole heart. I've already read it maybe 20 times, and I still get excited about rereading. Yep, I'm properly obsessed.
Here's some extra info:
Genres: Young Adult, Romance, Science Fiction, LGBTQIA+
Tropes: Amnesia, (strangers to) best friends to lovers, outsider, found family, hurt/comfort
Rep: gray-aroace, asexual, gay, non-binary
Trigger warnings: alcoholism, anxiety, bullying, death/dying, domestic violence, physical abuse, suicidal thoughts (only mentioned)
Enjoy reading everyone!!
Here's some extra info:
Genres: Young Adult, Romance, Science Fiction, LGBTQIA+
Tropes: Amnesia, (strangers to) best friends to lovers, outsider, found family, hurt/comfort
Rep: gray-aroace, asexual, gay, non-binary
Trigger warnings: alcoholism, anxiety, bullying, death/dying, domestic violence, physical abuse, suicidal thoughts (only mentioned)
Enjoy reading everyone!!
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