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When I'm Gone
Chase
My world forever changed for the worse four years ago. My mistake cost my best friend everything. The only person he truly loved- his little brother. Gone, without a trace. The guilt consumes me. Though we've tried, there's no moving past it. The loss is too great. Until one day, a knock on the door gives me the chance to fix what I ruined. Except, what if it comes at the cost of losing my best friend? What if I do everything I can to save Easton and it's still not enough?
Easton
I just want a clean break. A fresh start. The last thing I want to do is ask my brother for help after he abandoned me when I needed him the most, but I have nowhere else to go. When his best friend takes me in to keep the peace, I realize how truly broken I am. There's nothing left of me, all the things that used to make me special got lost somewhere along the way. My past haunts me in ways I never could have expected. I'm getting attached to Chase fast, but how can he want me like this?
When I'm Gone is a m/m romance and Book 1 in the Unwell Series. Please note this book is the first in a duet that features the same main characters and therefore ends on a cliffhanger. Trigger warning can be found in the beginning of the book and is encouraged for readers who may find certain content upsetting.
My world forever changed for the worse four years ago. My mistake cost my best friend everything. The only person he truly loved- his little brother. Gone, without a trace. The guilt consumes me. Though we've tried, there's no moving past it. The loss is too great. Until one day, a knock on the door gives me the chance to fix what I ruined. Except, what if it comes at the cost of losing my best friend? What if I do everything I can to save Easton and it's still not enough?
Easton
I just want a clean break. A fresh start. The last thing I want to do is ask my brother for help after he abandoned me when I needed him the most, but I have nowhere else to go. When his best friend takes me in to keep the peace, I realize how truly broken I am. There's nothing left of me, all the things that used to make me special got lost somewhere along the way. My past haunts me in ways I never could have expected. I'm getting attached to Chase fast, but how can he want me like this?
When I'm Gone is a m/m romance and Book 1 in the Unwell Series. Please note this book is the first in a duet that features the same main characters and therefore ends on a cliffhanger. Trigger warning can be found in the beginning of the book and is encouraged for readers who may find certain content upsetting.
- GenresM M RomanceAbuse
388 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2024
74 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 20, 2025
DNF at 21% - The writing and pace of the story is throwing me off…
December 19, 2024
Heartbreaking Story
This was a really hard read, in so far as the emotional impact of Easton’s story a d the effect it had on His brother Brady and his best friend Chase. The issues dealt with here could certainly be TW’s for some people so be warned and read TW’s, though I didn’t see any at-the beginning of this book.
Easton always had me the feeling that he was going to snap, not cope anymore, even though he was surrounded by love from his brother and Chase and his loving family.
There is a lot of internal meanderings from Chase and Easton which slowed my page turning a bit.
This is a debut book and for such a serious topic Autumn Hendrix did an excellent job. Also in creating and developing so many different characters in the story, mostly Chase’s family members.
No mention Is given about book 2, but I hate standing on this cliff edge, I’ve no head for heights at this emotional level of heartache.
This was a really hard read, in so far as the emotional impact of Easton’s story a d the effect it had on His brother Brady and his best friend Chase. The issues dealt with here could certainly be TW’s for some people so be warned and read TW’s, though I didn’t see any at-the beginning of this book.
Easton always had me the feeling that he was going to snap, not cope anymore, even though he was surrounded by love from his brother and Chase and his loving family.
There is a lot of internal meanderings from Chase and Easton which slowed my page turning a bit.
This is a debut book and for such a serious topic Autumn Hendrix did an excellent job. Also in creating and developing so many different characters in the story, mostly Chase’s family members.
No mention Is given about book 2, but I hate standing on this cliff edge, I’ve no head for heights at this emotional level of heartache.
December 21, 2024
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book
Series: Unwell Duet Book #1
Check your triggers prior to reading. There are heavy topics discussed throughout.
Character Development: 3.9/5 • Easton, sweet summer baby. He is one of the most dynamic characters I have read this year. His struggles and traumas are real, raw and in your face. You can feel and sense his emotions. Add in lovable teddy bear Chase, who just wants to love him. Those two are meant for each other.
Plot: 4/5 • The plot was well written. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end. The story was mainly Easton healing. Trying to come to terms with what we thought was true vs reality.
Writing Style: 4/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors. There was a decent sized side-cast but it was not overwhelming. I knew who everyone was and where they fit.
Spice Level: 3/5 • Chase and Easton are so good together. Their sweet chemistry and raw lust for each other was top notch.
Overall Rating: 5/5 • For most of the book I was either full blown sobbing or welling tears. It was an emotional roller coaster. The ending about ripped me apart. I still feel very raw. There have never been two men that deserve each other more. I cannot wait for the 2nd part to this book. As a debut book, this was outstanding. I can feel like book hangover already. ♥
If you are one that doesn't do well with cliffhangers, I would suggest waiting until the 2nd part is out before reading.
Tropes:
• Brother's Best Friend
• Hurt/Comfort
• Anxiety/Depression Rep
• Found Family
• Books ends in Cliffhanger (no HFN or HEA)
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
Format: E-Book
Series: Unwell Duet Book #1
Check your triggers prior to reading. There are heavy topics discussed throughout.
Character Development: 3.9/5 • Easton, sweet summer baby. He is one of the most dynamic characters I have read this year. His struggles and traumas are real, raw and in your face. You can feel and sense his emotions. Add in lovable teddy bear Chase, who just wants to love him. Those two are meant for each other.
Plot: 4/5 • The plot was well written. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end. The story was mainly Easton healing. Trying to come to terms with what we thought was true vs reality.
Writing Style: 4/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors. There was a decent sized side-cast but it was not overwhelming. I knew who everyone was and where they fit.
Spice Level: 3/5 • Chase and Easton are so good together. Their sweet chemistry and raw lust for each other was top notch.
Overall Rating: 5/5 • For most of the book I was either full blown sobbing or welling tears. It was an emotional roller coaster. The ending about ripped me apart. I still feel very raw. There have never been two men that deserve each other more. I cannot wait for the 2nd part to this book. As a debut book, this was outstanding. I can feel like book hangover already. ♥
If you are one that doesn't do well with cliffhangers, I would suggest waiting until the 2nd part is out before reading.
Tropes:
• Brother's Best Friend
• Hurt/Comfort
• Anxiety/Depression Rep
• Found Family
• Books ends in Cliffhanger (no HFN or HEA)
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
December 13, 2024
Can not wait for the duet! As you delve into the lives of the characters there are so many surprises. Laugh, cry, gasp and question humanity’s moral compass. Very well written, draws you in and all you want is more!
March 24, 2025
DNF at 26%
So corny. Basically head over heels, cutting best friend out, no communication. He calls him Chaos after meeting him one time when they were younger. Can you imagine giving your best friend’s brother a nickname after one day? And then never see him for five years and start calling him that name again? Aiming for the kind of “stars aligning” and super protective/cutesy vibe and I don’t like it, it doesn’t work.
An example: chase asks him where he’s been all along (because he’s perfect for him) and he replies “searching for a sign.” This is at 26% of the way through. The second or third day after he reappears in his brother’s life. Ugh, just give up, I am.
So corny. Basically head over heels, cutting best friend out, no communication. He calls him Chaos after meeting him one time when they were younger. Can you imagine giving your best friend’s brother a nickname after one day? And then never see him for five years and start calling him that name again? Aiming for the kind of “stars aligning” and super protective/cutesy vibe and I don’t like it, it doesn’t work.
An example: chase asks him where he’s been all along (because he’s perfect for him) and he replies “searching for a sign.” This is at 26% of the way through. The second or third day after he reappears in his brother’s life. Ugh, just give up, I am.
dnf
February 21, 2025Dnf 34% (2/21/25)
There’s something off about the pacing and wording.
There’s something off about the pacing and wording.
June 9, 2025
Writing was very inconsistent and had odd pacing. Could not get invested at all.
January 9, 2025
Ok, I think I made a mistake by choosing to read this book to review. Because even though I know it ends on a cliffhanger, let me tell you that there are cliffhangers and then there are CLIFFHANGERS. And this one belongs to the last ones! I don't know how I'm going to do until the next one comes out! I also want to tell you to pay attention to the TW. If you are like me who don't have any, go in blind, but if not, please take care of yourself.
That being said, I LOVED the book. It's hard to believe that it's a debut.
What Easton had to suffer, everything he had to go through and endure, was so, so painful, it's almost impossible to describe. And not only him but his brother Brady and Chase, Brady's best friend, too. First, not knowing where Easton was, if he was alive or not. And then, when he comes back.
Maybe at times it seems like the story drags a bit, with some monologues or internal thoughts, or some family situations, etc. But I think it all contributes to the development of each character and their growth and how they face the different moments or issues.
I'm not going to say much more, because I'm sure I'll end up giving spoilers and I want to avoid them. So if you want to read a book where there's angst and drama, but also moments that are funny or full of love, and others that are really steamy and sexy, please read this one!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
That being said, I LOVED the book. It's hard to believe that it's a debut.
What Easton had to suffer, everything he had to go through and endure, was so, so painful, it's almost impossible to describe. And not only him but his brother Brady and Chase, Brady's best friend, too. First, not knowing where Easton was, if he was alive or not. And then, when he comes back.
Maybe at times it seems like the story drags a bit, with some monologues or internal thoughts, or some family situations, etc. But I think it all contributes to the development of each character and their growth and how they face the different moments or issues.
I'm not going to say much more, because I'm sure I'll end up giving spoilers and I want to avoid them. So if you want to read a book where there's angst and drama, but also moments that are funny or full of love, and others that are really steamy and sexy, please read this one!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
December 16, 2024
I messed up.
I didn't read the whole blurb. Just skimmed over the part about content warnings and totally missed that this book has a cliffhanger ending. And I do mean CLIFFHANGER. I don't say that to discourage anyone from reading the book now, because it was an engaging read, but since I missed that critical piece of information, I came to the end and felt more like I'd slammed into a wall than been left dangling off a cliff.
Do heed the content warnings. This book does include on-page domestic abuse and sexual assault. It also includes suicidal ideation, depression, and a number of other mental health issues. I had no problem with any of them, but please take care of yourself.
I was drawn in from the beginning and fell in love with the two MCs. There were a few inconsistencies in the story, minor ones, then there's a plot twist at the end that didn't fully land for me, but I was invested enough in the story to stay up until 5 am to finish it...and hit that cliffhanger ending.
I do want to read the next book because I truly liked the characters, and I hope the author keeps writing because I enjoyed their voice.
3.5 rounded up
I didn't read the whole blurb. Just skimmed over the part about content warnings and totally missed that this book has a cliffhanger ending. And I do mean CLIFFHANGER. I don't say that to discourage anyone from reading the book now, because it was an engaging read, but since I missed that critical piece of information, I came to the end and felt more like I'd slammed into a wall than been left dangling off a cliff.
Do heed the content warnings. This book does include on-page domestic abuse and sexual assault. It also includes suicidal ideation, depression, and a number of other mental health issues. I had no problem with any of them, but please take care of yourself.
I was drawn in from the beginning and fell in love with the two MCs. There were a few inconsistencies in the story, minor ones, then there's a plot twist at the end that didn't fully land for me, but I was invested enough in the story to stay up until 5 am to finish it...and hit that cliffhanger ending.
I do want to read the next book because I truly liked the characters, and I hope the author keeps writing because I enjoyed their voice.
3.5 rounded up
December 13, 2024
What can I say I am a sucker for the brother's best friend trope. From the blurb I knew that I wanted to know more about Easton and Chase, This review is hard to write without giving a way any spoilers, so what I can say is...
You need to read this story, watching how Easton and Chase fall in love. Chase had so much love to give to Easton. I was so engrossed in this book I didn't want to put it down and even though I had to go to work, I read it every available second I had.
There are some upsetting subjects in this book so please read the trigger warnings. However they were written with such sensitivity I'm sure I read a lot of this book with a lump in my throat. As for the ending, well that is the reason I am writing this review a few days after I have finished the book. My heart is breaking and I need the second book.
This is the first time I have come across this author and I can say without a doubt that I will looking out for more of their books as they get published. As for this story make sure you have the tissues handy.
You need to read this story, watching how Easton and Chase fall in love. Chase had so much love to give to Easton. I was so engrossed in this book I didn't want to put it down and even though I had to go to work, I read it every available second I had.
There are some upsetting subjects in this book so please read the trigger warnings. However they were written with such sensitivity I'm sure I read a lot of this book with a lump in my throat. As for the ending, well that is the reason I am writing this review a few days after I have finished the book. My heart is breaking and I need the second book.
This is the first time I have come across this author and I can say without a doubt that I will looking out for more of their books as they get published. As for this story make sure you have the tissues handy.
January 9, 2025
The plot of When I'm Gone is stunningly lovely, poignant, and engrossing. I found it impossible to put down once I started reading it. The story is both tragic and hopeful because of Easton's struggle to recover and rebuild and because of Chase's resolute will to make apologies. I was left eagerly anticipating the next book at the finish, and there are a few unexpected turns. This is a must-read for romance fans who appreciate nuanced plots and characters. There are a number of trigger warnings because the book touches on some sensitive subjects. Her consideration for her audience's feelings in that area is well valued.
I received a copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 8, 2025
This book was the second book of trying a new genre and it was SO GOOD! I need more of the story and the second can’t come out fast enough!! The characters are written so well and cause you to root for them even before you realize it. The friendship of Chase and Brady is so important and shows how family isn’t always by blood. Not to mention the stance Brady has as an ally is one I hope doesn’t have a different ending! The TW’s at the beginning are a good reference for what you’ll see through the book and the way they were talked about and used helped advance the plot. Knowing it was going to be a cliffhanger from the blurb prepared me to be left hanging but it was a bigger cliff than I expected in a good way. Come on book 2!!
December 21, 2024
Chokehold
Let me start off by saying that I never leave reviews. Ever. But this book needs to be shared. I found the recommendation when the author shared it in another author group. It had me in a chokehold throughout the whole thing. Easton has some battles he's faced in life. Some hard fought battles with depression. If that's a TW for you, then this book isn't for you. Chase tries so very hard to give him all he needs. This one ends on a cliffhanger, and if the reality is how the author leads you to believe. Then you better buckle up for book 2 bc this ending Wrecked me.
Let me start off by saying that I never leave reviews. Ever. But this book needs to be shared. I found the recommendation when the author shared it in another author group. It had me in a chokehold throughout the whole thing. Easton has some battles he's faced in life. Some hard fought battles with depression. If that's a TW for you, then this book isn't for you. Chase tries so very hard to give him all he needs. This one ends on a cliffhanger, and if the reality is how the author leads you to believe. Then you better buckle up for book 2 bc this ending Wrecked me.
December 30, 2024
When I’m Gone is an incredibly captivating, emotional, and beautiful story. I got hooked right away and couldn’t put it down. Easton’s journey to rebuild himself and heal and Chase’s unwavering determination to make amends create a raw and powerful narrative that is both heartbreaking and full of hope. There are some surprising twists, and the ending left me excited for the next book. Highly recommend if you enjoy romance novels with deep emotions and complex characters. The book does deal with some difficult topics, and as such the author included multiple trigger warnings. Her sensitivity to her readers in that regard is much appreciated.
December 13, 2024
I got the pleasure of reading this book before it was published. All I can say is wow!
This was one of my first ever MM books I read and I fell in love with Easton and Chase immediately. The character growth and absolute heartache in this book… 👌🏻 from the very first chapter, I couldn’t get enough of their story and the journey Easton goes through to heal from all the trauma, how Chase helps him and is there for him in every way.… ugh so beautifully written. I will 100% be reading every book Autumn Hendrix writes. Thank you for this amazing story!
This was one of my first ever MM books I read and I fell in love with Easton and Chase immediately. The character growth and absolute heartache in this book… 👌🏻 from the very first chapter, I couldn’t get enough of their story and the journey Easton goes through to heal from all the trauma, how Chase helps him and is there for him in every way.… ugh so beautifully written. I will 100% be reading every book Autumn Hendrix writes. Thank you for this amazing story!
June 22, 2025
Great Read! Ends on a cliffhanger though....
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was a great read. It dealt with several hard topics well. Please check trigger warnings. I hated the book ended on a cliffhanger though abd can't wait for the conclusion. My only complaint is editing errors...sometimes words added that don't make sense...sometimes words missing. It was very disrupting to reading and sometimes I couldn't even figure out what this author meant. I loved the story though and hated that it ended so abruptly. Look forward to the next book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was a great read. It dealt with several hard topics well. Please check trigger warnings. I hated the book ended on a cliffhanger though abd can't wait for the conclusion. My only complaint is editing errors...sometimes words added that don't make sense...sometimes words missing. It was very disrupting to reading and sometimes I couldn't even figure out what this author meant. I loved the story though and hated that it ended so abruptly. Look forward to the next book.
Read
December 18, 2025This book has so much potential but there were things that were to cringey for me that i had to dnf it. Tell me why is Chase giving Easton pet names when he met him again. He met the guy 1 time. On their second meeting he is calling him Chaos? And sweetheart? Chase is only 24 and talks to Easton like he is 30. Why is Easton trusting Chase the second time they meet after 4 years? How can someone who has just fled an abusive relationship finding comfort with a person he is meeting for the second time?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
Good book but
Way way too much detail. A great plot and great characters but the descriptions and mute details go on and on forever. Also there is way too much sex and manipulation for my taste. The book would be a better read and would not be so boring if a lot of unnecessary details were left out. I will skim “ read quickly “ through the next book just to see what happens next.
Way way too much detail. A great plot and great characters but the descriptions and mute details go on and on forever. Also there is way too much sex and manipulation for my taste. The book would be a better read and would not be so boring if a lot of unnecessary details were left out. I will skim “ read quickly “ through the next book just to see what happens next.
December 11, 2024
This book had me in an absolute chokehold, I could not put this book down for even a second. The story between Chase and Easton was so beautiful, I loved them so so much. This is such a beautifully written story which does touch on some sensitive subjects so please do check the trigger warning. The ending of this book absolutely killed me, I need to know what happens in book two.
December 15, 2024
Please write fast…
This is an amazing book and I am anxiously waiting for the next book.
You get through all the feels and I was hooked from the first page. The story is captivating, the writing is flawless and the characters are great.
Please write fast - I need to know what happens ….
This is an amazing book and I am anxiously waiting for the next book.
You get through all the feels and I was hooked from the first page. The story is captivating, the writing is flawless and the characters are great.
Please write fast - I need to know what happens ….
December 22, 2024
Wow
This book is amazing! I need the next one now!! I don't know what to say and not give spoilers. It's sweet, spicy, I loved seeing the mc learn to live again. But there is a major cliffhanger at the end, so be prepared. That being said you don't read this your missing out big time!!
This book is amazing! I need the next one now!! I don't know what to say and not give spoilers. It's sweet, spicy, I loved seeing the mc learn to live again. But there is a major cliffhanger at the end, so be prepared. That being said you don't read this your missing out big time!!
June 26, 2025
grrrr
The ending has me up at 3:35 in the morning panicking because WTH!!!! This can’t happen. Ugh.
Great story great message about over coming. I need more of chase and Easton like RIGHT NOW. I need to know how this ends.
Their story touched my heart and I cried. Poor Easton I want to hug you after everything you went through.
The ending has me up at 3:35 in the morning panicking because WTH!!!! This can’t happen. Ugh.
Great story great message about over coming. I need more of chase and Easton like RIGHT NOW. I need to know how this ends.
Their story touched my heart and I cried. Poor Easton I want to hug you after everything you went through.
Read
December 5, 2025Dnf @42%.
I wasn’t really enjoying this but I was trying to hold out and see how their relationship progressed beyond being totally obsessed right away but now Chase’s mother’s pregnant and I’m done.
Chase’s family is weirding me out, I’m not finding them endearing at all and so far they’ve been pretty heavily involved in the story.
I wasn’t really enjoying this but I was trying to hold out and see how their relationship progressed beyond being totally obsessed right away but now Chase’s mother’s pregnant and I’m done.
Chase’s family is weirding me out, I’m not finding them endearing at all and so far they’ve been pretty heavily involved in the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2025
Heartbreaking but good
This story is a full of triggers so be mindful of your heart.
With that said, it is so well written. Chase and Easton are so special. Easton is a ball of hurt and Chase is the perfect fit.
This is a dual POV and ends on a cliffhanger. Book 2 of the duet is already out.
This story is a full of triggers so be mindful of your heart.
With that said, it is so well written. Chase and Easton are so special. Easton is a ball of hurt and Chase is the perfect fit.
This is a dual POV and ends on a cliffhanger. Book 2 of the duet is already out.
January 2, 2025
New author for me. Good plot. I didn’t realize it would end on a cliffhanger so now I’m invested even more.
Chase and Easton were well written and Brady was the quintessential best friend (Labrador retriever) from the beginning.
Definitely will continue this series.
Chase and Easton were well written and Brady was the quintessential best friend (Labrador retriever) from the beginning.
Definitely will continue this series.
August 28, 2025
cannot wait for the next book
I could not put this down. The characters came to life for me and I wanted to get to know Chases family more and learn more about Brady and Easton. I hope the this was not really the end for them
I could not put this down. The characters came to life for me and I wanted to get to know Chases family more and learn more about Brady and Easton. I hope the this was not really the end for them
February 13, 2025
best book i’ve read this year. beautifully done. absolutely devastating. had me in tears for half the book
Read
March 4, 2025DNF 29% in Jan 2025?
March 31, 2025
Chase and Easton’s story is an angst filled read. It’s part 1 of 2 so do. It count on getting your HEA here but if you want to get to know them and start the journey now. This book is worth the read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews