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Pieces of Home
All he’d ever wanted was to go home.
Ryan Davis has lived in hell for the last fifteen years. Kidnapped at age eight, then beaten, broken, and forced into silence, Rye managed to exist, to survive. When a chance phone call gives him an opportunity to escape, he takes it. But escape doesn’t mean safety, and freedom doesn’t mean happiness. And even if he can manage to find home, the pieces of what used to be may never fit back together.
Jacob Wright has adapted. In fact, Jake would probably say he loves his life—living in a beautiful home on a secluded beach on the Northern California coast. It wasn’t the life he’d planned. But accidents happen. And an accident was what stole his livelihood and limited his mobility six years ago. He’s happy now, if not still living carefully, avoiding things that used to make him happier.
When Rye shows up on Jake’s beach, lost, fearful, and on the verge of death, Jake has to become a caretaker for a man who can’t seem to speak, and Rye has to put his trust in a stranger to survive. An unexpected and tenuous friendship grows, forming a deep bond full of possibilities that neither of them had imagined.
But even as they start to recognize what’s in their hearts, the past seems intent on reminding them both how truly broken they are . . .
Pieces of Home is a slow burn, hurt/comfort MM romance that focuses on the growth of a deep friendship and how two broken men find each other, help each other, and heal each other. It’s a story of strangers to friends to lovers, featuring a small town setting, forced proximity, PTSD/cPTSD trauma and healing, demi rep, and a hard-fought happily-ever-after.
Content kidnapping (of a minor); verbal and physical abuse (off page but referenced), including that of a minor; cPTSD; PTSD; trauma-induced selective mutism; trauma-induced dissociative amnesia; life-threatening injury (off page but referenced) resulting in chronic pain (shown on page); death of a side character (off page); death of a parent (in the past, referenced); references to drinking and smoking. See inside preview for additional content warnings.
Ryan Davis has lived in hell for the last fifteen years. Kidnapped at age eight, then beaten, broken, and forced into silence, Rye managed to exist, to survive. When a chance phone call gives him an opportunity to escape, he takes it. But escape doesn’t mean safety, and freedom doesn’t mean happiness. And even if he can manage to find home, the pieces of what used to be may never fit back together.
Jacob Wright has adapted. In fact, Jake would probably say he loves his life—living in a beautiful home on a secluded beach on the Northern California coast. It wasn’t the life he’d planned. But accidents happen. And an accident was what stole his livelihood and limited his mobility six years ago. He’s happy now, if not still living carefully, avoiding things that used to make him happier.
When Rye shows up on Jake’s beach, lost, fearful, and on the verge of death, Jake has to become a caretaker for a man who can’t seem to speak, and Rye has to put his trust in a stranger to survive. An unexpected and tenuous friendship grows, forming a deep bond full of possibilities that neither of them had imagined.
But even as they start to recognize what’s in their hearts, the past seems intent on reminding them both how truly broken they are . . .
Pieces of Home is a slow burn, hurt/comfort MM romance that focuses on the growth of a deep friendship and how two broken men find each other, help each other, and heal each other. It’s a story of strangers to friends to lovers, featuring a small town setting, forced proximity, PTSD/cPTSD trauma and healing, demi rep, and a hard-fought happily-ever-after.
Content kidnapping (of a minor); verbal and physical abuse (off page but referenced), including that of a minor; cPTSD; PTSD; trauma-induced selective mutism; trauma-induced dissociative amnesia; life-threatening injury (off page but referenced) resulting in chronic pain (shown on page); death of a side character (off page); death of a parent (in the past, referenced); references to drinking and smoking. See inside preview for additional content warnings.
546 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2025
211 people are currently reading
1302 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
April 7, 2025
…
Wow
…
Pooh. Exhausting. Incredibly beautiful.
Long.
Very long.
But I think every single word was necessary. Not one felt dispensable.
I don't think my words can do this book justice. It's one of those books that digs itself in so deeply that you don't forget it for weeks, months, maybe years. I feel like I've spent the last few days with Jake and Rye so much that I know them inside out and I want to cuddle them all the time.
But very delicately, of course. You shouldn't squeeze them too hard.
Jake wasn’t broken. Rye had never thought Jake was broken. He just . . . endured. Sometimes in a little pain. Sometimes in a lot of pain. If only Rye could think of himself in the same way, maybe . . . maybe he could heal. Someday.
“Maybe . . . I’m not broken,” he said. “Maybe I just need help . . . turning on the light sometimes.” 🥺💚🥺💚🥺
I think I would like to leave it at that. I've highlighted a ton of text and used up countless tissues, but I honestly don't have the words.
I am very happy to have read this book, even though the pain was so incredibly overwhelming. The love in this book, the tenderness is so very perfect, it simply cannot be described.
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
Please read the author's content warnings, and also important, one main character is on the asexual spectrum, while the other is unable to have penetrative sex due to years of abuse. Still, there is intimacy in this story, but it's kind of just a bonus at the end and not the main focus here at all.
Wow
…
Pooh. Exhausting. Incredibly beautiful.
Long.
Very long.
But I think every single word was necessary. Not one felt dispensable.
I don't think my words can do this book justice. It's one of those books that digs itself in so deeply that you don't forget it for weeks, months, maybe years. I feel like I've spent the last few days with Jake and Rye so much that I know them inside out and I want to cuddle them all the time.
But very delicately, of course. You shouldn't squeeze them too hard.
Jake wasn’t broken. Rye had never thought Jake was broken. He just . . . endured. Sometimes in a little pain. Sometimes in a lot of pain. If only Rye could think of himself in the same way, maybe . . . maybe he could heal. Someday.
“Maybe . . . I’m not broken,” he said. “Maybe I just need help . . . turning on the light sometimes.” 🥺💚🥺💚🥺
I think I would like to leave it at that. I've highlighted a ton of text and used up countless tissues, but I honestly don't have the words.
I am very happy to have read this book, even though the pain was so incredibly overwhelming. The love in this book, the tenderness is so very perfect, it simply cannot be described.
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
Please read the author's content warnings, and also important, one main character is on the asexual spectrum, while the other is unable to have penetrative sex due to years of abuse. Still, there is intimacy in this story, but it's kind of just a bonus at the end and not the main focus here at all.
March 8, 2025
ARC Review | 4.5⭐
Release: 28/3/2025 | MCs: Rye & Jake
Precious. Perfect. Solid. Warm. Whole. Loved. Safe. Home.
Tropes
🌊Strangers-Friends-Lovers💔Trauma/Abuse🌊Disability✨Demi/Ace Rep✨ Incredible Side Characters🌊 Walks on the Beach✨🐢🐦⬛ 📚 Origami, turtles, birds and books.
I may need a minute—or a year—to recover. What I do know is that this book touched me deeply. These 700 pages made me cry countless times and left me wanting to wrap Rye and Jake in the warmest, safest blanket, shielding them from all the pain they’ve endured. Their journey is delicate, tentative—nothing is rushed, and that feels right. Recovery from this level of trauma and horror isn’t linear. It’s full of missteps, silence, pain, and voices that refuse to fade. But in the end, every smile, every touch, every hard-won step forward is beautiful. Precious. That’s the word—precious.
This is a story of a friendship that grows from unimaginable pain. Rye was kidnapped at eight and spent fifteen years in captivity, leaving him traumatized and selectively mute. When he finally escapes, he’s found—freezing and barely conscious—by Jake, who has retreated into a quiet life after an accident that left him with severe pain and a leg disability. As they navigate their own wounds, their friendship deepens into something neither expected, something that offers love and the promise of safety. They move carefully—light touches, forehead kisses, whispered reassurances. Again—Precious.
While we need to protect Rye, I have to say—Jake was out of this world. He’s the ultimate caretaker—patient, delicate, and utterly dedicated. Despite his own physical and psychological pain, Rye and his needs always come first. Always asking, always protecting, always keeping the light on—literally—for Rye. He’s a unicorn of a man. They fit together so perfectly that my heart was constantly on the verge of bursting.
The intimacy in this book… I’ve never read anything like it. The way they communicate, the constant checking in, the consent—it’s overwhelming in the best way. The level of tenderness gave me goosebumps. Every moment between them felt earned, perfect for them.
That said, the book felt longer than necessary. While it captured their struggles well, the pacing was slow and, at times, uneventful. The story also held back, painful events were filtered through hindsight, making it harder to feel the fear and devastation. Even Rye’s past remained vague—we know it was horrific, but we don’t live his terror or get to hate his abuser fully. Because I don’t even know who the bastard is. No details, no face, nothing to direct that anger toward, which left me detached in a way I didn’t want to be.We only get a name and the ultimate closure.
Don’t get me wrong—I loved this story, and their HEA was incredibly beautiful. But I wanted more depth, more emotional weight. I wanted to feel their journey, not just be told about it. With more insight into Rye’s past, Jake’s healing, and their milestones shown rather than summarized, this could have been even more powerful.
But even with these flaws, this book was a deeply moving experience. Rye and Jake’s journey is one I’ll hold close to my heart. It was, above all else, precious.
Rye tilted his head back, and Jake shifted to look down at him. He blinked and nodded, hoping the gesture communicated what he needed it to. And he moved his hand to Jake’s chest, setting it right in the middle so he could feel Jake’s heartbeat.
You can kiss me again. Just a little kiss. I want that.
Jake didn’t move, which wasn’t surprising, since he certainly couldn’t read Rye’s mind, even if it seemed sometimes like he could. So Rye lifted his hand up and touched Jake’s cheek and then stretched up just enough to brush his lips—very lightly—against Jake’s. Lightly and briefly. A sweet, soft, tender kiss that didn’t push for more this time.
And it was perfect exactly like that, because it felt just as he expected it to. It felt like a promise.
God, how far Rye had come . . .
The room grew silent, and he felt Rye’s hand on his back.
“What’s wrong?”(...)
Jake’s heart filled with an aching awe, and he shook his head again.
“Nothing’s wrong. Everything’s . . . finally right,” he said, and he watched as Rye’s expression softened.(...)
“I never thought I’d have this. I didn’t know . . . how much I needed it,” Jake admitted quietly. “I’m so, so grateful you’re here. I love you.”
Rye’s arms had looped around his waist, and Jake felt him squeeze a little. Then he turned his head and kissed Jake’s cheek. “I love you too,” Rye whispered.
Sweet, beautiful words from a sweet, beautiful man. His sweet, beautiful man.
You’re sure? And you want to stay here? Live here? With me?”
Rye tilted his head back and nodded, then stretched up again to kiss Jake’s lips. (...). And he whispered, “I’m sure. I want to be here, wherever you are. That’s . . . that’s my home. Here with you.”
There was a quiet moment where Rye just watched Jake blink several times, and then Jake nodded once and lowered his forehead to touch Rye’s. “I love you,” Jake murmured. “I love this. I—”
“I love us,” Rye finished for him.
And Jake laughed lightly. Then his hand came up to cup Rye’s cheek, and love and hope and joy filled Rye’s chest. It was bright and warm. And safe. And strong.
Rye tilted his head back in invitation, and Jake closed the distance between them again.
This spot.
Right here, in Jake’s arms.
This was his home.
⚠️ Trigger Warnings
-Kidnapping (of a minor)
-Verbal, physical, and sexual abuse (off page but referenced), including that of a minor
-cPTSD and PTSD
-Trauma-induced selective mutism/dissociative amnesia
-Life-threatening injury (off page but referenced) resulting in chronic pain (on page)
-Death of a side character (off page)/ Death of a parent (in the past, referenced)
❣️ Book Safety & Content
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Third-Act Breakup: No
Role Dynamics: non penetrative sex
POV: 3rd person (dual)
Format: Standalone
Spice Level: low
Angst Level: High
Audio Available: No (at the moment of the review)
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Release: 28/3/2025 | MCs: Rye & Jake
Precious. Perfect. Solid. Warm. Whole. Loved. Safe. Home.
Tropes
🌊Strangers-Friends-Lovers💔Trauma/Abuse🌊Disability✨Demi/Ace Rep✨ Incredible Side Characters🌊 Walks on the Beach✨🐢🐦⬛ 📚 Origami, turtles, birds and books.
I may need a minute—or a year—to recover. What I do know is that this book touched me deeply. These 700 pages made me cry countless times and left me wanting to wrap Rye and Jake in the warmest, safest blanket, shielding them from all the pain they’ve endured. Their journey is delicate, tentative—nothing is rushed, and that feels right. Recovery from this level of trauma and horror isn’t linear. It’s full of missteps, silence, pain, and voices that refuse to fade. But in the end, every smile, every touch, every hard-won step forward is beautiful. Precious. That’s the word—precious.
This is a story of a friendship that grows from unimaginable pain. Rye was kidnapped at eight and spent fifteen years in captivity, leaving him traumatized and selectively mute. When he finally escapes, he’s found—freezing and barely conscious—by Jake, who has retreated into a quiet life after an accident that left him with severe pain and a leg disability. As they navigate their own wounds, their friendship deepens into something neither expected, something that offers love and the promise of safety. They move carefully—light touches, forehead kisses, whispered reassurances. Again—Precious.
While we need to protect Rye, I have to say—Jake was out of this world. He’s the ultimate caretaker—patient, delicate, and utterly dedicated. Despite his own physical and psychological pain, Rye and his needs always come first. Always asking, always protecting, always keeping the light on—literally—for Rye. He’s a unicorn of a man. They fit together so perfectly that my heart was constantly on the verge of bursting.
The intimacy in this book… I’ve never read anything like it. The way they communicate, the constant checking in, the consent—it’s overwhelming in the best way. The level of tenderness gave me goosebumps. Every moment between them felt earned, perfect for them.
That said, the book felt longer than necessary. While it captured their struggles well, the pacing was slow and, at times, uneventful. The story also held back, painful events were filtered through hindsight, making it harder to feel the fear and devastation. Even Rye’s past remained vague—we know it was horrific, but we don’t live his terror or get to hate his abuser fully. Because I don’t even know who the bastard is. No details, no face, nothing to direct that anger toward, which left me detached in a way I didn’t want to be.We only get a name and the ultimate closure.
Don’t get me wrong—I loved this story, and their HEA was incredibly beautiful. But I wanted more depth, more emotional weight. I wanted to feel their journey, not just be told about it. With more insight into Rye’s past, Jake’s healing, and their milestones shown rather than summarized, this could have been even more powerful.
But even with these flaws, this book was a deeply moving experience. Rye and Jake’s journey is one I’ll hold close to my heart. It was, above all else, precious.
Rye tilted his head back, and Jake shifted to look down at him. He blinked and nodded, hoping the gesture communicated what he needed it to. And he moved his hand to Jake’s chest, setting it right in the middle so he could feel Jake’s heartbeat.
You can kiss me again. Just a little kiss. I want that.
Jake didn’t move, which wasn’t surprising, since he certainly couldn’t read Rye’s mind, even if it seemed sometimes like he could. So Rye lifted his hand up and touched Jake’s cheek and then stretched up just enough to brush his lips—very lightly—against Jake’s. Lightly and briefly. A sweet, soft, tender kiss that didn’t push for more this time.
And it was perfect exactly like that, because it felt just as he expected it to. It felt like a promise.
God, how far Rye had come . . .
The room grew silent, and he felt Rye’s hand on his back.
“What’s wrong?”(...)
Jake’s heart filled with an aching awe, and he shook his head again.
“Nothing’s wrong. Everything’s . . . finally right,” he said, and he watched as Rye’s expression softened.(...)
“I never thought I’d have this. I didn’t know . . . how much I needed it,” Jake admitted quietly. “I’m so, so grateful you’re here. I love you.”
Rye’s arms had looped around his waist, and Jake felt him squeeze a little. Then he turned his head and kissed Jake’s cheek. “I love you too,” Rye whispered.
Sweet, beautiful words from a sweet, beautiful man. His sweet, beautiful man.
You’re sure? And you want to stay here? Live here? With me?”
Rye tilted his head back and nodded, then stretched up again to kiss Jake’s lips. (...). And he whispered, “I’m sure. I want to be here, wherever you are. That’s . . . that’s my home. Here with you.”
There was a quiet moment where Rye just watched Jake blink several times, and then Jake nodded once and lowered his forehead to touch Rye’s. “I love you,” Jake murmured. “I love this. I—”
“I love us,” Rye finished for him.
And Jake laughed lightly. Then his hand came up to cup Rye’s cheek, and love and hope and joy filled Rye’s chest. It was bright and warm. And safe. And strong.
Rye tilted his head back in invitation, and Jake closed the distance between them again.
This spot.
Right here, in Jake’s arms.
This was his home.
⚠️ Trigger Warnings
-Kidnapping (of a minor)
-Verbal, physical, and sexual abuse (off page but referenced), including that of a minor
-cPTSD and PTSD
-Trauma-induced selective mutism/dissociative amnesia
-Life-threatening injury (off page but referenced) resulting in chronic pain (on page)
-Death of a side character (off page)/ Death of a parent (in the past, referenced)
❣️ Book Safety & Content
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Third-Act Breakup: No
Role Dynamics: non penetrative sex
POV: 3rd person (dual)
Format: Standalone
Spice Level: low
Angst Level: High
Audio Available: No (at the moment of the review)
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion.
September 19, 2025
I don't know where to begin because I feel super conflicted about this book😔. But I guess I should start by clarifying that I didn't exactly hate the book, even if my review may sound super critical. I do recognize the author's intention in writing a story of finding love after trauma, so light spoilers ahead I guess, because I don't know how else to write this.
There were so many things that bothered me, like, first of all, did the book need to be 546 pages long? No, it definitely didn't; it just went on and on for pages on end about the same thing. Jake’s endless conversations with his sister are an example of this. Seriously, he calls her like 3 separate times to have the same talk regarding what to do about Rye, and the sister always said the same: to be patient. These calls lasted for pages and brought nothing to the story. Also, was Rye's horrible past not enough that Jake also needed to have a trauma of his own to overcome? There were moments when it just felt like too much.
As for the story, it is super sad. It starts with Rye being kidnapped when he is 8 years old, and then 15 years later, he has escaped and ends up meeting Jake, who sort of rescues him. Already in chapter two, some plot points make no sense, like Jake lives 15 minutes from town and there is massive rain, so the highway is flooded and he cannot drive through, he finds a guy who clearly looks like he has gone through something horrible and is basically suffering hypothermia, and yet there are no emergency services at their disposal? I think it would have make more sense if he had lived in a cabin in the mountains and it was the middle of a blizzard, instead of a coastal town during Autumn in California.
Rye is one of the saddest characters ever. He has missed so much from life. He endured 15 years of the worst kind of abuse and torture, so of course, he has a lot of trauma to overcome, and yet once he meets with the FBI, he ends up being treated without sensitivity, like for real?
Rye and Jake end up developing a deep friendship that helps Rye communicate with people, as he has selective mutism because of all the trauma. Their friendship was nice, and seeing Rye trying to learn how to adapt to the world was sweet and heartbreaking. However, what made me the most uncomfortable was that Rye was kidnapped when he was 8, and after that, he spent 15 years in a basement in the dark without any access to learning materials, TV, movies, magazines, nothing; just suffering, so wouldn't his mind still be that of a child? How would he have matured emotionally enough to be capable of having a relationship with someone, and especially another man? I know that it's 2 years after he escaped that they "get together," but still. Was he even attracted to men? He never seemed to explore or feel any attraction to anyone until it was pointed out to him that Jake maybe had feelings for him. Or did he just imprint/transfer his feelings to Jake because he was the first nice person he met in 15 years and was his only friend and 1 out of 2 people he spoke with?
Jake is also this amazing, perfect guy; he literally makes no mistakes at all during the book, he has the chillest job ever because the guy works maybe like 3 times in an almost 600-page book, and even his sexuality is perfect for Rye, he just reads like the most ideal guy ever and pretty much unreal.
I am not saying that I don't think Rye could have developed a relationship with Jake, but the way the story is told doesn't make much sense; it just happens. Also, there are some very weird time jumps when they, for example, decide to "be boyfriends" and then it's 5 months later, like what happened in those 5 months? Nobody knows 🤷🏻♀️ this happens like 4 times in the book without explanation or further development to the time skipped.
There were so many things that bothered me, like, first of all, did the book need to be 546 pages long? No, it definitely didn't; it just went on and on for pages on end about the same thing. Jake’s endless conversations with his sister are an example of this. Seriously, he calls her like 3 separate times to have the same talk regarding what to do about Rye, and the sister always said the same: to be patient. These calls lasted for pages and brought nothing to the story. Also, was Rye's horrible past not enough that Jake also needed to have a trauma of his own to overcome? There were moments when it just felt like too much.
As for the story, it is super sad. It starts with Rye being kidnapped when he is 8 years old, and then 15 years later, he has escaped and ends up meeting Jake, who sort of rescues him. Already in chapter two, some plot points make no sense, like Jake lives 15 minutes from town and there is massive rain, so the highway is flooded and he cannot drive through, he finds a guy who clearly looks like he has gone through something horrible and is basically suffering hypothermia, and yet there are no emergency services at their disposal? I think it would have make more sense if he had lived in a cabin in the mountains and it was the middle of a blizzard, instead of a coastal town during Autumn in California.
Rye is one of the saddest characters ever. He has missed so much from life. He endured 15 years of the worst kind of abuse and torture, so of course, he has a lot of trauma to overcome, and yet once he meets with the FBI, he ends up being treated without sensitivity, like for real?
Rye and Jake end up developing a deep friendship that helps Rye communicate with people, as he has selective mutism because of all the trauma. Their friendship was nice, and seeing Rye trying to learn how to adapt to the world was sweet and heartbreaking. However, what made me the most uncomfortable was that Rye was kidnapped when he was 8, and after that, he spent 15 years in a basement in the dark without any access to learning materials, TV, movies, magazines, nothing; just suffering, so wouldn't his mind still be that of a child? How would he have matured emotionally enough to be capable of having a relationship with someone, and especially another man? I know that it's 2 years after he escaped that they "get together," but still. Was he even attracted to men? He never seemed to explore or feel any attraction to anyone until it was pointed out to him that Jake maybe had feelings for him. Or did he just imprint/transfer his feelings to Jake because he was the first nice person he met in 15 years and was his only friend and 1 out of 2 people he spoke with?
Jake is also this amazing, perfect guy; he literally makes no mistakes at all during the book, he has the chillest job ever because the guy works maybe like 3 times in an almost 600-page book, and even his sexuality is perfect for Rye, he just reads like the most ideal guy ever and pretty much unreal.
I am not saying that I don't think Rye could have developed a relationship with Jake, but the way the story is told doesn't make much sense; it just happens. Also, there are some very weird time jumps when they, for example, decide to "be boyfriends" and then it's 5 months later, like what happened in those 5 months? Nobody knows 🤷🏻♀️ this happens like 4 times in the book without explanation or further development to the time skipped.
July 7, 2025
♾️/5
If you're in the mood for a hard-won HEA, this book is everything you are looking for.
I honestly don’t even know where to start. I felt this one in my chest the entire time. I savored every single page because the story and these characters meant so much to me. Over the days I read it, they were always on my mind. I kept wondering how they would navigate their challenges if love were to win. And my god, did it win.
More than a romance, this felt like a story about healing. The way the author wrote Jake and Rye’s journey felt so honest and grounded. Nothing about it was easy or overly neat, it showed how messy and slow healing can be, and how connection can still grow through all of that.
The beginning took me a minute to get into. The pace is slow and the progress they make is so small. It's filled with small gestures, Jake's soft voice, with tea and cookies. At first I wasn’t sure where it was heading, but now I wouldn’t change a single thing. That quiet buildup made everything feel so earned.
I know I’m going to carry Jake and Rye with me for a long time. This story hit deep.
tropes:
hurt x comfort
caretaking
mmc with chronic pain
mmc with selective mutism
size difference
age gap (5 years)
mental health rep (cPTSD)
Demi rep
spice: 0.5
If you're in the mood for a hard-won HEA, this book is everything you are looking for.
I honestly don’t even know where to start. I felt this one in my chest the entire time. I savored every single page because the story and these characters meant so much to me. Over the days I read it, they were always on my mind. I kept wondering how they would navigate their challenges if love were to win. And my god, did it win.
More than a romance, this felt like a story about healing. The way the author wrote Jake and Rye’s journey felt so honest and grounded. Nothing about it was easy or overly neat, it showed how messy and slow healing can be, and how connection can still grow through all of that.
The beginning took me a minute to get into. The pace is slow and the progress they make is so small. It's filled with small gestures, Jake's soft voice, with tea and cookies. At first I wasn’t sure where it was heading, but now I wouldn’t change a single thing. That quiet buildup made everything feel so earned.
I know I’m going to carry Jake and Rye with me for a long time. This story hit deep.
tropes:
hurt x comfort
caretaking
mmc with chronic pain
mmc with selective mutism
size difference
age gap (5 years)
mental health rep (cPTSD)
Demi rep
spice: 0.5
July 28, 2025
15 hours and 538 pages later, I have emerged from this absolute CHONKER of a book.
There are so many unnecessary details. We don’t need to know that our MC Jake’s sister’s son’s gymnastics coach is a hardass. That’s at least four degrees of separation from relevance. We also don’t need a play-by-play of every breath, hand twitch, hair toss, and toe wiggle.
And we definitely don't need two full pages detailing how our MC's mom pulls butter out of the fridge, scoops it out, places it in the pan, then adds potatoes.
Another example:
("With a grimace, his hand went back into his pocket and grasped his phone. He limped over to the table, set the backpack down, and then pulled out his phone and scrolled through his text messages with Krista until he found the message she'd sent him on Christmas morning-the message with her therapist's phone number. He stared at it for a few seconds, and then, with a sigh, he clicked on the number and lifted the phone to his ear.")
Translation: He reluctantly dialed his sister’s therapist.😑
I started skimming around the halfway mark and—surprise!—missed absolutely nothing. If you cut out the unnecessary scenes, this book would be a tight 300 pages.
Minor spoilers ahead:
Rye was kept in a basement ten minutes from his house. For 15 YEARS. And the FBI couldn’t find him. I’m sorry, what? Did they try...looking?
Unrealistic (lack of) medical and psychological services provided. Why didn't Rye go to the hospital? Why didn't they do a rape kit? He sees a therapist a few times and then stops because it's overwhelming. It's supposed to be overwhelming. That doesn't mean you should stop.😬
Also: at the beginning, Rye is seriously injured and emergency services can’t reach Jake’s house for several days because the roads are flooded. No medevac, no helicopters, no alternate routes, no contingency plans. Just... vibes and waiting.
This isn’t some remote mountain cabin with zero infrastructure. It’s a coastal area ten minutes from town. Are we supposed to believe that in all that time, no one could coordinate a rescue? No local responders, no National Guard, no neighbors with a canoe?
That’s a lawsuit waiting to happen, and it completely undermines the stakes. If you’re going to lean into trauma and survival, the logistics need to hold up under scrutiny.
Still, Jake and Rye’s relationship was respectful. They communicated well. They openly talked about sex and intimacy. The slow burn worked well.
That said, Jake occasionally felt too perfect. No one is that patient, that understanding, and that emotionally available all the time. I wanted a little more grit, a little less perfection.
Bonus star for the author’s donation to RAINN, which was a lovely touch.
There are so many unnecessary details. We don’t need to know that our MC Jake’s sister’s son’s gymnastics coach is a hardass. That’s at least four degrees of separation from relevance. We also don’t need a play-by-play of every breath, hand twitch, hair toss, and toe wiggle.
And we definitely don't need two full pages detailing how our MC's mom pulls butter out of the fridge, scoops it out, places it in the pan, then adds potatoes.
Another example:
("With a grimace, his hand went back into his pocket and grasped his phone. He limped over to the table, set the backpack down, and then pulled out his phone and scrolled through his text messages with Krista until he found the message she'd sent him on Christmas morning-the message with her therapist's phone number. He stared at it for a few seconds, and then, with a sigh, he clicked on the number and lifted the phone to his ear.")
Translation: He reluctantly dialed his sister’s therapist.😑
I started skimming around the halfway mark and—surprise!—missed absolutely nothing. If you cut out the unnecessary scenes, this book would be a tight 300 pages.
Minor spoilers ahead:
Rye was kept in a basement ten minutes from his house. For 15 YEARS. And the FBI couldn’t find him. I’m sorry, what? Did they try...looking?
Unrealistic (lack of) medical and psychological services provided. Why didn't Rye go to the hospital? Why didn't they do a rape kit? He sees a therapist a few times and then stops because it's overwhelming. It's supposed to be overwhelming. That doesn't mean you should stop.😬
Also: at the beginning, Rye is seriously injured and emergency services can’t reach Jake’s house for several days because the roads are flooded. No medevac, no helicopters, no alternate routes, no contingency plans. Just... vibes and waiting.
This isn’t some remote mountain cabin with zero infrastructure. It’s a coastal area ten minutes from town. Are we supposed to believe that in all that time, no one could coordinate a rescue? No local responders, no National Guard, no neighbors with a canoe?
That’s a lawsuit waiting to happen, and it completely undermines the stakes. If you’re going to lean into trauma and survival, the logistics need to hold up under scrutiny.
Still, Jake and Rye’s relationship was respectful. They communicated well. They openly talked about sex and intimacy. The slow burn worked well.
That said, Jake occasionally felt too perfect. No one is that patient, that understanding, and that emotionally available all the time. I wanted a little more grit, a little less perfection.
Bonus star for the author’s donation to RAINN, which was a lovely touch.
June 20, 2025
I really wanted to love this book. I went in with high hopes but it just didn’t work for me. While I’m all for long books (keep me in a GOOD book as long as possible please!), I also need them to stay interesting and believable, and unfortunately, this one missed the mark.
One thing that seriously pulled me out of the story was how unrealistic some parts were. For example, Rye had been missing and abused for 15 years, yet when he finally makes it to the police station, there’s no mention of a proper hospital visit? Just a quick checkup from a clinic nurse or doctor (can’t even remember which)? That felt so off to me especially since the book kept stressing how malnourished he was & umm are we not worried about STDs?. I just couldn’t buy that he’d be allowed to go home without any real medical attention.
And then there’s Jake. I wanted to love him, I really did but he was too perfect. Always saying the right thing, always knowing what Rye needed. It started feeling less like a character and more like a fantasy version of what someone wishes a person would be like in that situation.
Jake’s sister… where do I start? At first, her dynamic with Jake seemed sweet, but the constant focus on her wore me out. She popped up a lot, and after a while, it just felt like overkill.
Overall, my biggest issue was how repetitive everything felt conversations, inner thoughts, descriptions. It got to the point where I was like, “Okay, I’ve heard this 10 times already, I get it!” It really dragged down the story for me.
I think if the pacing had been tighter and the characters more grounded in reality, I might’ve felt differently. But as it stands, this one just wasn’t for me.
One thing that seriously pulled me out of the story was how unrealistic some parts were. For example, Rye had been missing and abused for 15 years, yet when he finally makes it to the police station, there’s no mention of a proper hospital visit? Just a quick checkup from a clinic nurse or doctor (can’t even remember which)? That felt so off to me especially since the book kept stressing how malnourished he was & umm are we not worried about STDs?. I just couldn’t buy that he’d be allowed to go home without any real medical attention.
And then there’s Jake. I wanted to love him, I really did but he was too perfect. Always saying the right thing, always knowing what Rye needed. It started feeling less like a character and more like a fantasy version of what someone wishes a person would be like in that situation.
Jake’s sister… where do I start? At first, her dynamic with Jake seemed sweet, but the constant focus on her wore me out. She popped up a lot, and after a while, it just felt like overkill.
Overall, my biggest issue was how repetitive everything felt conversations, inner thoughts, descriptions. It got to the point where I was like, “Okay, I’ve heard this 10 times already, I get it!” It really dragged down the story for me.
I think if the pacing had been tighter and the characters more grounded in reality, I might’ve felt differently. But as it stands, this one just wasn’t for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2025
DNF 52%
I can’t say the book is bad. It isn’t. But I feel like it’s way too long. And I’m just bored. I believe it’s maybe me and not the book. But rn I don’t want to read through hundreds and hundreds of pages of a bit flavourless recounting of healing after an AWFUL trauma.
And also. Idk. It’s 2024 but the only mental health support he gets after all that is a social worker who visits once? And like. If he has lived the way he has from the age he has. Is he truly capable of maturing just from support by loved ones and reading books?
Yes, his progress is slow, yes he’s suffering (which is totally justified). But does he really mature so much in however many months without SERIOUS therapy?
Idk. Doesn’t seem believable.
Anyway. The main reason I stopped reading was boredom. The writing is decent, but not captivating.
I can’t say the book is bad. It isn’t. But I feel like it’s way too long. And I’m just bored. I believe it’s maybe me and not the book. But rn I don’t want to read through hundreds and hundreds of pages of a bit flavourless recounting of healing after an AWFUL trauma.
And also. Idk. It’s 2024 but the only mental health support he gets after all that is a social worker who visits once? And like. If he has lived the way he has from the age he has. Is he truly capable of maturing just from support by loved ones and reading books?
Yes, his progress is slow, yes he’s suffering (which is totally justified). But does he really mature so much in however many months without SERIOUS therapy?
Idk. Doesn’t seem believable.
Anyway. The main reason I stopped reading was boredom. The writing is decent, but not captivating.
April 5, 2025
5+ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow! This was... incredible.
I had been waiting for this to be released and am so glad I jumped on it right away.
So beautiful, heartbreaking, soul healing, and emotionally charged.
I fell in love with Rye and Jake. Their story absolutely consumed me.
While the main story focuses heavily on Rye's return from 15 years of captivity by his kidnapper, both of the MCs suffer from trauma, with the Hurt/Comfort, going both ways in thier friendship/relationship. Their love is absolutely awe inspiring.
All of the progress that is made is hard fought for and slow, with the setbacks and back slides that show that healing is not linear.
With one MC suffering from sexual trauma, and the other identifying as "somewhere on the spectrum of asexuality" (while it's never outright said, I believe he is demisexual.), If you're looking for hot and heavy sex, this is NOT the book for you. What you can expect is very slow progress, tender touches, kisses, gentle strokes of hands, consent checks, and LOVE.
I would love for them to eventually make an audiobook of this. Definitely one I will be reading.
Wow! This was... incredible.
I had been waiting for this to be released and am so glad I jumped on it right away.
So beautiful, heartbreaking, soul healing, and emotionally charged.
I fell in love with Rye and Jake. Their story absolutely consumed me.
While the main story focuses heavily on Rye's return from 15 years of captivity by his kidnapper, both of the MCs suffer from trauma, with the Hurt/Comfort, going both ways in thier friendship/relationship. Their love is absolutely awe inspiring.
All of the progress that is made is hard fought for and slow, with the setbacks and back slides that show that healing is not linear.
With one MC suffering from sexual trauma, and the other identifying as "somewhere on the spectrum of asexuality" (while it's never outright said, I believe he is demisexual.), If you're looking for hot and heavy sex, this is NOT the book for you. What you can expect is very slow progress, tender touches, kisses, gentle strokes of hands, consent checks, and LOVE.
I would love for them to eventually make an audiobook of this. Definitely one I will be reading.
September 24, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
This was really good -- for a while. Both main characters were amazing and fantastic as both friends and a couple. I fully believed in their romance and HEA, but from a reader point of view it was very drawn out and quickly lost all tension. I do believe the ultra slow burn and long-spanning plot was the right choice for the story and characters, but it did not make for an enjoyable read - at least for the final half of the book. It was a shame because I so badly wanted to keep loving it, but eventually things started to annoy me.
Biggest annoyance of all was using the most annoying plot device known to man (minor spoiler alert): The doorbell cockblock. After hundreds of pages and months of slow burn, the characters are finally about to kiss, and someone rings the doorbell. I was so close to yeeting my kindle into the ocean. That kinda silly thing did not make sense for the characters and there was no reason for it to happen.
This book should have been perfect for me, and it was for a bit, but ultimately I was just glad to finish it. Not sure if I recommend it or not.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Hurt/comfort
Recovering from trauma
Past trauma
Size difference
Slow burn
Strangers to friends to lovers
Mental illness rep
Disability rep
Chronic pain
Forced proximity
Pining
Asexual rep
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
PTSD and cPTSD symptoms
Chronic pain
MC injured off page
Details of MC being held captive from childhood to adulthood
Vomiting
Some details of long-term physical and mental abuse of MC (from childhood to adulthood)
Brief mention of MC being abandoned by parent (past)
On-page anxiety attacks
Details of past verbal abuse by captor
Mentions of past physical abuse by captor
Vague references to past sexual abuse by captor
Themes of child abuse
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: N/A (sides)
Main characters’ age: 23 and 28
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 546 (feels like more)
Happy ending: Yes
This was all he’d ever wanted. For fifteen years, it was all he’d ever wanted. His mom. His mom to come and take him home. His mom to hug him, to tell him she loved him and she missed him.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
This was really good -- for a while. Both main characters were amazing and fantastic as both friends and a couple. I fully believed in their romance and HEA, but from a reader point of view it was very drawn out and quickly lost all tension. I do believe the ultra slow burn and long-spanning plot was the right choice for the story and characters, but it did not make for an enjoyable read - at least for the final half of the book. It was a shame because I so badly wanted to keep loving it, but eventually things started to annoy me.
Biggest annoyance of all was using the most annoying plot device known to man (minor spoiler alert): The doorbell cockblock. After hundreds of pages and months of slow burn, the characters are finally about to kiss, and someone rings the doorbell. I was so close to yeeting my kindle into the ocean. That kinda silly thing did not make sense for the characters and there was no reason for it to happen.
This book should have been perfect for me, and it was for a bit, but ultimately I was just glad to finish it. Not sure if I recommend it or not.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Hurt/comfort
Recovering from trauma
Past trauma
Size difference
Slow burn
Strangers to friends to lovers
Mental illness rep
Disability rep
Chronic pain
Forced proximity
Pining
Asexual rep
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
PTSD and cPTSD symptoms
Chronic pain
MC injured off page
Details of MC being held captive from childhood to adulthood
Vomiting
Some details of long-term physical and mental abuse of MC (from childhood to adulthood)
Brief mention of MC being abandoned by parent (past)
On-page anxiety attacks
Details of past verbal abuse by captor
Mentions of past physical abuse by captor
Vague references to past sexual abuse by captor
Themes of child abuse
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: N/A (sides)
Main characters’ age: 23 and 28
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 546 (feels like more)
Happy ending: Yes
This was all he’d ever wanted. For fifteen years, it was all he’d ever wanted. His mom. His mom to come and take him home. His mom to hug him, to tell him she loved him and she missed him.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
March 19, 2025
I truly had to sit on my thoughts for a few days before writing this review.
This was an emotionally HEAVY read. I won’t go into specifics as this is a book you should go into as blind as possible.
There is a lot of trauma and trauma healing. Becca Neil showcased perfectly how healing from trauma is different from everyone. It’s not some straight road that everyone takes. Healing has curves, loops, harsh angles, deep dips, and soaring rises. It sometimes goes off course before finding its way again. It’s hard and heavy, exhausting and rewarding. We see that in both Jake and Rye, who have each been through their own traumatic ordeals.
These two were beyond beautiful together. Their relationship was so incredibly hard fought, and no one deserved a happy ending as much as they did. Jake’s patience for Rye, and Rye’s focus and Jake and his needs just warmed my soul.
A lot of the characters in this story are so warm, supportive, and full of love. I feel just as hard for the side characters as I did Jake and Rye, and I truly think they helped make this story so impactful and great. Phil is particular was such a highlight for me. Adored him to absolute pieces.
This is not an easy story to read, but it’s such a necessary one. Seeing that happiness and light are possible after so much pain and darkness gives a person hope. And I felt so hopeful by the time I finished reading. Despite its length, at no point did I feel that there was too much. If anything, I wanted it to go on longer. A beautiful story, with beautiful characters that will still with me.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
This was an emotionally HEAVY read. I won’t go into specifics as this is a book you should go into as blind as possible.
There is a lot of trauma and trauma healing. Becca Neil showcased perfectly how healing from trauma is different from everyone. It’s not some straight road that everyone takes. Healing has curves, loops, harsh angles, deep dips, and soaring rises. It sometimes goes off course before finding its way again. It’s hard and heavy, exhausting and rewarding. We see that in both Jake and Rye, who have each been through their own traumatic ordeals.
These two were beyond beautiful together. Their relationship was so incredibly hard fought, and no one deserved a happy ending as much as they did. Jake’s patience for Rye, and Rye’s focus and Jake and his needs just warmed my soul.
A lot of the characters in this story are so warm, supportive, and full of love. I feel just as hard for the side characters as I did Jake and Rye, and I truly think they helped make this story so impactful and great. Phil is particular was such a highlight for me. Adored him to absolute pieces.
This is not an easy story to read, but it’s such a necessary one. Seeing that happiness and light are possible after so much pain and darkness gives a person hope. And I felt so hopeful by the time I finished reading. Despite its length, at no point did I feel that there was too much. If anything, I wanted it to go on longer. A beautiful story, with beautiful characters that will still with me.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
June 18, 2025
Overall book rating: 3.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
This one is really difficult for me to rate.
There are lots of things I liked about it, but unfortunately also things that didn’t work for me.
I did enjoy the story, and very very long does not bother me if it’s merited. But I feel some of the very very long could have been spent in giving a little more of a realistic side to the story.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
This one is really difficult for me to rate.
There are lots of things I liked about it, but unfortunately also things that didn’t work for me.
I did enjoy the story, and very very long does not bother me if it’s merited. But I feel some of the very very long could have been spent in giving a little more of a realistic side to the story.
March 20, 2025
It's taken me over a week to even begin thinking about writing a review, and I'm not sure I'm going to be able to put into words just how incredible Rye and Jake's story is.
I'll try to keep it spoiler free, as it's one of those books where it pays to go in as blind as possible. Having said that, this book tackles some incredibly heavy topics, so if you need to, please do check the CWs.
Fifteen years after being kidnapped, Rye escapes his captor and turns up on the beach outside Jake's house in the middle of a storm. With the storm cutting all routes to and from Jake's house, he does his best to take care of injured, terrified, and mute Rye until he can get into town and get him proper help, all while dealing with his own severe chronic pain.
Jake is the first person in fifteen years to show Rye any kindness, and over time they build a solid foundation of trust and friendship. They help each other face and heal their own trauma, and although it's not an easy road for either of them, the support they get from the other through their friendship is truly beautiful.
This is not an easy read, it broke my heart and soul before putting it back together with the hope, resilience, and platonic and (waaay down the road) romantic love, these two show throughout their journey.
This book is so special, Becca really does write the most stunning stories that will stay with you forever.
I'll try to keep it spoiler free, as it's one of those books where it pays to go in as blind as possible. Having said that, this book tackles some incredibly heavy topics, so if you need to, please do check the CWs.
Fifteen years after being kidnapped, Rye escapes his captor and turns up on the beach outside Jake's house in the middle of a storm. With the storm cutting all routes to and from Jake's house, he does his best to take care of injured, terrified, and mute Rye until he can get into town and get him proper help, all while dealing with his own severe chronic pain.
Jake is the first person in fifteen years to show Rye any kindness, and over time they build a solid foundation of trust and friendship. They help each other face and heal their own trauma, and although it's not an easy road for either of them, the support they get from the other through their friendship is truly beautiful.
This is not an easy read, it broke my heart and soul before putting it back together with the hope, resilience, and platonic and (waaay down the road) romantic love, these two show throughout their journey.
This book is so special, Becca really does write the most stunning stories that will stay with you forever.
March 13, 2025
Pieces of home is one of those books that you can't stop turning pages and keep reading because it is a wonderful story. It was very short despite being 700 pages long.
It is not only the romance, which is slow burn, very slow because the story of the characters demands it, but because it is a story of healing and of trusting others and oneself again, as well as feeling safe.
The two main characters have both suffered particularly traumatic experiences and that has had a massive impact on their lives. They are at different points in the healing process, but you see the traumatic impact of those events on their lives.
Rye was kidnapped as a young child at the hands of a despicable being. He spends years suffering and finally manages to escape. But, only his body has escaped, because the trauma is still there, in his mind.
Jake has also suffered a traumatic experience, but has been able to continue with his life, but not in a full way. He lives in semi-seclusion, taking solitary walks on the beach when he meets Rye. This man is the example of the perfect man, patient, caretaker, kind...
The story is precious.
It is not only the romance, which is slow burn, very slow because the story of the characters demands it, but because it is a story of healing and of trusting others and oneself again, as well as feeling safe.
The two main characters have both suffered particularly traumatic experiences and that has had a massive impact on their lives. They are at different points in the healing process, but you see the traumatic impact of those events on their lives.
Rye was kidnapped as a young child at the hands of a despicable being. He spends years suffering and finally manages to escape. But, only his body has escaped, because the trauma is still there, in his mind.
Jake has also suffered a traumatic experience, but has been able to continue with his life, but not in a full way. He lives in semi-seclusion, taking solitary walks on the beach when he meets Rye. This man is the example of the perfect man, patient, caretaker, kind...
The story is precious.
March 11, 2025
Huge thank you to the author for an ARC! 🫶
This is only my second book of Becca Neil but her writing is already a favorite of mine, and "Pieces of Home" is so very special and unique. It follows Rye, who was kidnapped when he was eight years old and held captive for fifteen years, his recovery from cPTSD and his way back to life, and Jake, who finds Rye after a lucky escape and offers him shelter and friendship, and his own recovery from PTSD from an accident that left him with chronic pain.
Both Jake and Rye are the kindest, purest and most gentle people. The way they help each other heal is so beautiful, and seeing their relationship grow from friends to lovers is even more beautiful. You just can't help but be in awe of the way they interact with each other; I don't even know how to describe it but it's so special.
This book is a lot. It's warm tea and soft hugs, home-cooked meals and gentle hand holding, tiny birds and the ocean. And oh, the slowest slow burn. It couldn't have been more perfect. Every small step was felt like a milestone and it was like, oh my god, their hands touched!! And don't even get me started on their first kiss.
And while this book felt like a warm hug like 50% of the time, it's not a light-hearted book by any means. Shit gets really heavy. The book doesn't deal with on-page descriptions of the abuse that happened to Rye, but rather the aftermath being the complex PTSD Rye suffers from. The triggers and panic attacks and flashbacks are painfully real. I really appreciate the way Becca handled the mental health rep, I think it's done very realistically with Rye's recovery not being linear and the bumps in the road. And through it all, Jake's always there, and oh my god, the love they feel for each other is just incredible!!
This is only my second book of Becca Neil but her writing is already a favorite of mine, and "Pieces of Home" is so very special and unique. It follows Rye, who was kidnapped when he was eight years old and held captive for fifteen years, his recovery from cPTSD and his way back to life, and Jake, who finds Rye after a lucky escape and offers him shelter and friendship, and his own recovery from PTSD from an accident that left him with chronic pain.
Both Jake and Rye are the kindest, purest and most gentle people. The way they help each other heal is so beautiful, and seeing their relationship grow from friends to lovers is even more beautiful. You just can't help but be in awe of the way they interact with each other; I don't even know how to describe it but it's so special.
This book is a lot. It's warm tea and soft hugs, home-cooked meals and gentle hand holding, tiny birds and the ocean. And oh, the slowest slow burn. It couldn't have been more perfect. Every small step was felt like a milestone and it was like, oh my god, their hands touched!! And don't even get me started on their first kiss.
And while this book felt like a warm hug like 50% of the time, it's not a light-hearted book by any means. Shit gets really heavy. The book doesn't deal with on-page descriptions of the abuse that happened to Rye, but rather the aftermath being the complex PTSD Rye suffers from. The triggers and panic attacks and flashbacks are painfully real. I really appreciate the way Becca handled the mental health rep, I think it's done very realistically with Rye's recovery not being linear and the bumps in the road. And through it all, Jake's always there, and oh my god, the love they feel for each other is just incredible!!
March 9, 2025
Thank you Becca Neil for this ARC, this review in entirely my own.
This book is a heart warming, gut wrenching and heart healing story. This book brings us Jake and Rye. Rye was kidnapped and held in captivity for years. One moment allows his to escape and is find by Jake.
Jake is living with an injury that almost took his ability to walk. His normal morning is thrown off balance when he finds Rye, near death.
Their story will reach in and rip your heart and soul to shreds. We watch as Rye tries to heal from what he endured. We watch Jake as he fights against the fear that is strangling him. We watch this two amazing characters find pieces that they through were lost to them and pieces they never knew they needed.
This is a story of healing, hope and finding light even when it is the darkest. Reading these two find their way to each and watching as they fight for themselves and each other is why this author is the master at story telling, the master at telling the stories that hurt and heal. This story was an amazing story of strength, resilience and how time can heal. How love comes when you least expect it.
This book is a heart warming, gut wrenching and heart healing story. This book brings us Jake and Rye. Rye was kidnapped and held in captivity for years. One moment allows his to escape and is find by Jake.
Jake is living with an injury that almost took his ability to walk. His normal morning is thrown off balance when he finds Rye, near death.
Their story will reach in and rip your heart and soul to shreds. We watch as Rye tries to heal from what he endured. We watch Jake as he fights against the fear that is strangling him. We watch this two amazing characters find pieces that they through were lost to them and pieces they never knew they needed.
This is a story of healing, hope and finding light even when it is the darkest. Reading these two find their way to each and watching as they fight for themselves and each other is why this author is the master at story telling, the master at telling the stories that hurt and heal. This story was an amazing story of strength, resilience and how time can heal. How love comes when you least expect it.
November 9, 2025
No puedo describir en esa reseña de lo mucho que ame este libro es el hurt /Confort más bonito que he leído Me gusto como la autora retrato el TEPT de Rye y Jack y lo bonito que sentí cuando los dos se superaron a sí mismos y encontraron el amor y la paz.
la autora realmente le puso mucho empeño en hacer el libro lo más realista posible y con el mayor respeto que pudo es simplemente bellísimo.
Top lectura del año sin duda.
la autora realmente le puso mucho empeño en hacer el libro lo más realista posible y con el mayor respeto que pudo es simplemente bellísimo.
Top lectura del año sin duda.
August 20, 2025
1.5 stars - rounded down.
Firstly, I liked the idea. The idea for this book, it's characters and it's themes was great.
It is a character driven story very much about healing.
I liked the darkness of what happened to Rye. I liked how he was affected, his selective muteness, his panic attacks, his frights and fears. His hesitations, triggers and self-doubt.
I liked Jake's supportness, his kindness, temper and care.
BUT
The execution fell flat.
The book never peaked. At all.
This book was not simply slow - I dare say it was boring.
There was never a risk, never any resistance met, and the two main characters were always thinking the exact same thing - causing a lack of deeper conversation and failing to deliver a view on the true difficulty to be standing on the two different sides of a traumatic happening, though working together.
I undertand that it is a story of healing and is very character driven, but nothing honestly happens.
The narrative was unsatisfying and honestly felt a bit amateurish (I am sorry to say) - especially doing the intimate moments.
While also TELLING the reader what to think and feel instead of CONVEYING it through emotions, senses and mood.
And it did not need to be this long.
All in all I am not saying that I hated it, but it was VERY underwhelming and did not use its potential. And I am so sad for that - because it could have been brilliant.
The lack of pulse or happening throughout made it all feel a bit unnecessary and unsatisfying, and it was my stubbornness and hope for something that kept me going and seeing the story through, though (despite the dark struggles and panic, as well as some cuteness) in vain.
Firstly, I liked the idea. The idea for this book, it's characters and it's themes was great.
It is a character driven story very much about healing.
I liked the darkness of what happened to Rye. I liked how he was affected, his selective muteness, his panic attacks, his frights and fears. His hesitations, triggers and self-doubt.
I liked Jake's supportness, his kindness, temper and care.
BUT
The execution fell flat.
The book never peaked. At all.
This book was not simply slow - I dare say it was boring.
There was never a risk, never any resistance met, and the two main characters were always thinking the exact same thing - causing a lack of deeper conversation and failing to deliver a view on the true difficulty to be standing on the two different sides of a traumatic happening, though working together.
I undertand that it is a story of healing and is very character driven, but nothing honestly happens.
The narrative was unsatisfying and honestly felt a bit amateurish (I am sorry to say) - especially doing the intimate moments.
While also TELLING the reader what to think and feel instead of CONVEYING it through emotions, senses and mood.
And it did not need to be this long.
All in all I am not saying that I hated it, but it was VERY underwhelming and did not use its potential. And I am so sad for that - because it could have been brilliant.
The lack of pulse or happening throughout made it all feel a bit unnecessary and unsatisfying, and it was my stubbornness and hope for something that kept me going and seeing the story through, though (despite the dark struggles and panic, as well as some cuteness) in vain.
March 30, 2025
What a beautiful story! These two men find each other when they most need someone to love and care for them, just proving that everything happens for a reason and we are always in the right place and the right time. So glad Jake found Rye, they were so meant to be together.
March 25, 2025
Beautiful story!
Amazing writing, emotional, creative and inspiring.
I really liked both Jake and rye, they matched with perfectly.
Very much reccomend this book!
Amazing writing, emotional, creative and inspiring.
I really liked both Jake and rye, they matched with perfectly.
Very much reccomend this book!
July 24, 2025
5⭐️
Jake & Rye 💙
Wow, heartbreaking, beautiful story.
Jake & Rye 💙
Wow, heartbreaking, beautiful story.
June 4, 2025
This book was very slow going and also very long. I enjoyed some parts of it but in the end it did not feel like a romance. Instead it felt like the only focus was on Rye's journey of recovery from the trauma and abuse he suffered for so long.
Some parts also felt a bit unreal, like Rye not being properly medically examined after they went to the police. Additionally, I think that the media would have latched themselves to Rye's return more than what we were told.
And this is probably a me issue, but the bit I had more difficulty with was the fact that I could not see past Rye still being a child emotionally. So falling for the one man in his life that was nice and respected his wishes in a long time, was not that credible.
Also, it felt too coincidental that Jake's sexuality would fit Rye's so well. Yes, all of it is possible but I just could not really buy it myself.
Overall, I just felt that I did not need to see so much of Rye breaking down and his everyday struggles. It felt like I was intruding and was mostly uncomfortable. Perhaps if a few more years had passed before Rye got involved romantically with someone it would have worked better for me? I'm not sure. All I know it that something felt off.
But saying all this, the writing was really good and my heart felt for what Rye went through. It was heartbreaking reading this book and knowing that so many children go through it on a daily basis.
Jake had his issues as well with his leg, which again feels very coincidental that they both had trauma so handily had each other to help get through it. And I also felt like Jake was too nice all the time. I guess we needed a bit of balance, so that not all was bad and Jake was wholesome but it did not feel very believable.
I think I would have preferred them to remains friends and that they both found their romantic relationships somewhere else, but again that's probably just me.
Some parts also felt a bit unreal, like Rye not being properly medically examined after they went to the police. Additionally, I think that the media would have latched themselves to Rye's return more than what we were told.
And this is probably a me issue, but the bit I had more difficulty with was the fact that I could not see past Rye still being a child emotionally. So falling for the one man in his life that was nice and respected his wishes in a long time, was not that credible.
Also, it felt too coincidental that Jake's sexuality would fit Rye's so well. Yes, all of it is possible but I just could not really buy it myself.
Overall, I just felt that I did not need to see so much of Rye breaking down and his everyday struggles. It felt like I was intruding and was mostly uncomfortable. Perhaps if a few more years had passed before Rye got involved romantically with someone it would have worked better for me? I'm not sure. All I know it that something felt off.
But saying all this, the writing was really good and my heart felt for what Rye went through. It was heartbreaking reading this book and knowing that so many children go through it on a daily basis.
Jake had his issues as well with his leg, which again feels very coincidental that they both had trauma so handily had each other to help get through it. And I also felt like Jake was too nice all the time. I guess we needed a bit of balance, so that not all was bad and Jake was wholesome but it did not feel very believable.
I think I would have preferred them to remains friends and that they both found their romantic relationships somewhere else, but again that's probably just me.
April 15, 2025
I’ve never struggled to get through a book like this and I can hardly even explain why.
The story premise was compelling and heartbreaking. I WANTED to love it. The slowwww story pacing made sense to me — the trauma in this book is severe. The writing was good too. I could picture and feel a lot of what happened.
But I felt like every chapter was barely an inch of healing won (which is likely realistic, but not what I look for in fiction).
The pace was so gradual that it started to feel repetitive. Really repetitive. Even if Rye healed a little with each chapter, after 500 pages and multiple timeline jumps of multiple months each, I was ready for a significant change — it never came.
Again, this is likely realistic. But I don’t read fiction for how well it sticks to reality, so this just wasn’t for me.
I do think it’s probably for a lot of people, so I’m not not recommending it. But I struggled to get through it (again, plot issues for me, not writing. The author told this story beautifully).
I just lost interest in the story around page 450-500.
The story premise was compelling and heartbreaking. I WANTED to love it. The slowwww story pacing made sense to me — the trauma in this book is severe. The writing was good too. I could picture and feel a lot of what happened.
But I felt like every chapter was barely an inch of healing won (which is likely realistic, but not what I look for in fiction).
The pace was so gradual that it started to feel repetitive. Really repetitive. Even if Rye healed a little with each chapter, after 500 pages and multiple timeline jumps of multiple months each, I was ready for a significant change — it never came.
Again, this is likely realistic. But I don’t read fiction for how well it sticks to reality, so this just wasn’t for me.
I do think it’s probably for a lot of people, so I’m not not recommending it. But I struggled to get through it (again, plot issues for me, not writing. The author told this story beautifully).
I just lost interest in the story around page 450-500.
March 27, 2025
Wow.... Just... Wow. Jake and Rye (Ryan's) story is heartbreakingly beautiful.
Ryan was taken as a child and was held and abused for years. He didn't know how long he had been gone for, he didn't know why no one had saved him, all he knew was pain and the face of the despicable Man who did it all to him. When he sees his opportunity to escape he takes it and that day changes his life. He ends up on a beach that belongs to a kindhearted man who not only saves his life, but who also becomes his best friend and one of his biggest supporters.
After a horrific boating incident left Jake's leg messed up,he moved into his beach side house and has lived there on his own for the past few years. His thrives in the tranquility of his home, of watching the ocean and seeing the various animals making appearances. When he finds an unconscious man on his beach during a storm, despite the pain in his leg he pushes through it to save the young man.... And that's where the story of Jake and Rye begins.
I want to preface this by saying make sure you read the trigger warnings before starting this. There are very heavy topics that are talked about and discussed throughout the entirety of this book, and while those matter are handled delicately and realistically, they are also very prominent to the story itself. So please read with caution if those topics matters bother you or are triggering.
"""Maybe he’d found enough pieces of home, enough of what used to be, and maybe . . . maybe the rest of his broken self could be “fixed” with moments just like this."""
While this is a very heavy and emotional story, it's also very, very, beautiful. My heart broke into a million little pieces reading about all of what Rye went through at the hands of The Man who took him, and who took so much from him. Reading about how scared he was and is, how certain things are more triggering than others, how he'll be having a good day but then a bad memory surfaces and he'll have a setback, all of those things were just so sad, but also so realistic. The topic matter in general is sad, but I got attached to Rye's character and that made me more sad for him on his behalf. Especially when the chapters were in Jake's POV.
Becca Neil is a new-to-me author and this book is such a fantastic display of their talent when it comes to writing. These characters have so much personality, so much depth and backstory, so many emotions and dimensions. I loved witnessing the interactions between Jake and Rye. Even when they first met each other their interactions were always so pure and full of support and that continued and evolved the longer they knew each other. Jake's consideration and thoughtfulness when it comes to Rye is heartwarming and very endearing, he listens and watches Rye and pays attention to what Rye says even when he can't verbalize what he wants or needs.
Being able to see Rye grow throughout the course of this story was absolutely beautiful! When he was able to see his mom I almost cried with him, and when he slowly started talking more I cheered him on. As he began growing more comfortable with himself and his surroundings and finding more things that bring him joy, I just became so happy for him. He went through something awful but he found his own way to take his life back and make it his own with the help of his family and with Jake.
As far as the romance aspect of this goes it's a very good slow burn, if it wasn't a slow burn it wouldn't have felt right or have worked as successfully as it did with it being written the way it was. If you don't like slow burns stories this might not be your cup of tea, and this book doesn't have a lot of space either. That's not the focus of this story, which I personally love. That being said there are some spicy scenes that are handled so carefully and were so beautiful to read about.
( “You make me feel whole in a way I haven’t in years. Like I’m who I’m supposed to be when I’m with you.")
I love and appreciate how spice didn't dictate their relationship, they kept showing each other how much they loved one another in different ways without spice being involved. Yes, they eventually did have some spicy moments together, but honestly those moments were sweet and pure and just added another layer of trust and depth to the relationship that they cultivated. I really enjoyed reading this story, from start to finish I was completely captivated by these two men and I never wanted to stop reading. And the epilogues were absolutely fantastic! My favorite part of the epilogue was when they took a road trip to visit a Coral Reef in Florida. That scene was monumental in so many ways and was just a joy to read.
(“You just need help turning on the light sometimes")
Overall a very fantastic and fabulously beautiful book!
Ryan was taken as a child and was held and abused for years. He didn't know how long he had been gone for, he didn't know why no one had saved him, all he knew was pain and the face of the despicable Man who did it all to him. When he sees his opportunity to escape he takes it and that day changes his life. He ends up on a beach that belongs to a kindhearted man who not only saves his life, but who also becomes his best friend and one of his biggest supporters.
After a horrific boating incident left Jake's leg messed up,he moved into his beach side house and has lived there on his own for the past few years. His thrives in the tranquility of his home, of watching the ocean and seeing the various animals making appearances. When he finds an unconscious man on his beach during a storm, despite the pain in his leg he pushes through it to save the young man.... And that's where the story of Jake and Rye begins.
I want to preface this by saying make sure you read the trigger warnings before starting this. There are very heavy topics that are talked about and discussed throughout the entirety of this book, and while those matter are handled delicately and realistically, they are also very prominent to the story itself. So please read with caution if those topics matters bother you or are triggering.
"""Maybe he’d found enough pieces of home, enough of what used to be, and maybe . . . maybe the rest of his broken self could be “fixed” with moments just like this."""
While this is a very heavy and emotional story, it's also very, very, beautiful. My heart broke into a million little pieces reading about all of what Rye went through at the hands of The Man who took him, and who took so much from him. Reading about how scared he was and is, how certain things are more triggering than others, how he'll be having a good day but then a bad memory surfaces and he'll have a setback, all of those things were just so sad, but also so realistic. The topic matter in general is sad, but I got attached to Rye's character and that made me more sad for him on his behalf. Especially when the chapters were in Jake's POV.
Becca Neil is a new-to-me author and this book is such a fantastic display of their talent when it comes to writing. These characters have so much personality, so much depth and backstory, so many emotions and dimensions. I loved witnessing the interactions between Jake and Rye. Even when they first met each other their interactions were always so pure and full of support and that continued and evolved the longer they knew each other. Jake's consideration and thoughtfulness when it comes to Rye is heartwarming and very endearing, he listens and watches Rye and pays attention to what Rye says even when he can't verbalize what he wants or needs.
Being able to see Rye grow throughout the course of this story was absolutely beautiful! When he was able to see his mom I almost cried with him, and when he slowly started talking more I cheered him on. As he began growing more comfortable with himself and his surroundings and finding more things that bring him joy, I just became so happy for him. He went through something awful but he found his own way to take his life back and make it his own with the help of his family and with Jake.
As far as the romance aspect of this goes it's a very good slow burn, if it wasn't a slow burn it wouldn't have felt right or have worked as successfully as it did with it being written the way it was. If you don't like slow burns stories this might not be your cup of tea, and this book doesn't have a lot of space either. That's not the focus of this story, which I personally love. That being said there are some spicy scenes that are handled so carefully and were so beautiful to read about.
( “You make me feel whole in a way I haven’t in years. Like I’m who I’m supposed to be when I’m with you.")
I love and appreciate how spice didn't dictate their relationship, they kept showing each other how much they loved one another in different ways without spice being involved. Yes, they eventually did have some spicy moments together, but honestly those moments were sweet and pure and just added another layer of trust and depth to the relationship that they cultivated. I really enjoyed reading this story, from start to finish I was completely captivated by these two men and I never wanted to stop reading. And the epilogues were absolutely fantastic! My favorite part of the epilogue was when they took a road trip to visit a Coral Reef in Florida. That scene was monumental in so many ways and was just a joy to read.
(“You just need help turning on the light sometimes")
Overall a very fantastic and fabulously beautiful book!
March 29, 2025
Sweet, sweet, perfection.
Pieces of home is the 780ish page love story of Jake and Ryan aka 'Rye'. Heartbreaking at first, the story slowly changes over the course of the months/years that their journey is told over to one of hope and healing.
Rye was just a little boy (8) when he puts his trust in the wrong person. For fifteen awful years he is subjected to the whims and cruelty of that person until a single phone call changes everything. He sees an opportunity and takes it, earning himself freedom for the first time in 15 years. As fate would have it, he ends up, exhausted and in desperate need of help, on Jakes stretch of beach.
Jake is the survivor of a bad boating accident which left him with PTSD and ongoing pain and mobility challenges. He has a strict physical therapy routine to help maintain his mobility which includes a walk along the beach every morning. That is where he finds an unconscious man in a bad way whom he immediately brings up to his house to help.
This book is very much a marathon, not a sprint. It takes place over the course of a year or so, starting off in a dark, dark place and slowly getting lighter as the story flows.
Jake is just the sweetest, most patient man to ever exist. He gives Rye exactly what he needs, when he needed it the most, allowing him to heal and grow into the person he wanted to be. Rye needs a friend? Jake will be his best friend. Rye needs space? Jake will give him all of the space. Rye wants to try something new? Jake will be there to support him through it.
Rye, ugh, poor, sweet Rye. His journey is the harder of the two to read. He has the furthest distance to go. But you can quickly tell that he is a fighter and finding Jake, someone who will be in his corner 100%, was exactly what he needed to help him fight his way out of the darkness.
Their communication in this book is top notch, even when words failed them. Their friendship was so genuine, sweet and built on such a strong foundation of trust, kindness and patience.
When things do start to finally evolve it's just beautiful and perfect and everything that I was waiting for.
If you've got the time, if you love slow burns, if you like stories that focus heavily on the characters and their connection, then this is the story for you.
** FYI ** -
There are A LOT of triggers in this book. Before deciding if this is right for you I highly recommend checking those triggers because this will be a tough book for some people to read and impossible for others, so proceed with caution.
Pieces of home is the 780ish page love story of Jake and Ryan aka 'Rye'. Heartbreaking at first, the story slowly changes over the course of the months/years that their journey is told over to one of hope and healing.
Rye was just a little boy (8) when he puts his trust in the wrong person. For fifteen awful years he is subjected to the whims and cruelty of that person until a single phone call changes everything. He sees an opportunity and takes it, earning himself freedom for the first time in 15 years. As fate would have it, he ends up, exhausted and in desperate need of help, on Jakes stretch of beach.
Jake is the survivor of a bad boating accident which left him with PTSD and ongoing pain and mobility challenges. He has a strict physical therapy routine to help maintain his mobility which includes a walk along the beach every morning. That is where he finds an unconscious man in a bad way whom he immediately brings up to his house to help.
This book is very much a marathon, not a sprint. It takes place over the course of a year or so, starting off in a dark, dark place and slowly getting lighter as the story flows.
Jake is just the sweetest, most patient man to ever exist. He gives Rye exactly what he needs, when he needed it the most, allowing him to heal and grow into the person he wanted to be. Rye needs a friend? Jake will be his best friend. Rye needs space? Jake will give him all of the space. Rye wants to try something new? Jake will be there to support him through it.
Rye, ugh, poor, sweet Rye. His journey is the harder of the two to read. He has the furthest distance to go. But you can quickly tell that he is a fighter and finding Jake, someone who will be in his corner 100%, was exactly what he needed to help him fight his way out of the darkness.
Their communication in this book is top notch, even when words failed them. Their friendship was so genuine, sweet and built on such a strong foundation of trust, kindness and patience.
When things do start to finally evolve it's just beautiful and perfect and everything that I was waiting for.
If you've got the time, if you love slow burns, if you like stories that focus heavily on the characters and their connection, then this is the story for you.
** FYI ** -
There are A LOT of triggers in this book. Before deciding if this is right for you I highly recommend checking those triggers because this will be a tough book for some people to read and impossible for others, so proceed with caution.
March 28, 2025
This was a smash for me, my gosh. I have not missed a book by Becca yet, and before I even knew the premise of 'Pieces of Home,' I knew I would be sat and waiting to read her newest story. This time, I was not prepared for how much I would FEEL while reading Jake and Rye's story. It was so beautiful!
I think this is probably the longest book I have read in a while, but it really never felt like it. Every page, every word felt like I was reading out of a journal of Rye and Jake's thoughts, and it truly felt immersive in their lives and interactions over the beautiful coastal California locale. I cannot state enough how much I loved this book and how much it expanded the idea of love in practice to me.
This was not a typical romance for me, no; this was a story of love. Through all the pain and growth and trust and understanding that brewed across every page, I was hooked. I cried, I laughed, and I felt so much throughout this story, and I am still just so glad I got to experience it.
I love Rye and Jake so so much, and I am just so glad they found each other. Nothing can begin to compare to the journey the two of them took to get to where they are by the end of the book, and that is okay, because their story is so unique and touching and profound.
Rye and Jake's story is full of hard-fought days and overcoming past traumas and realizing you're not alone, and that is what set it apart. I adored the connection between the gentle giant of a man that is Jake and the precious seedling that is Rye throughout, and I just know they are happy and home with one another in the end.
Jake's aura of warmth and protection towards Rye is something that I found myself attached to throughout this book. I love nothing more than a calming protector, and Jake was that and more for Rye. But even those who protect need their own comforting sometimes, and it was beautiful seeing Rye grow to be that for Jake himself. I love them!
I want to give a big thanks to Becca for providing me an eARC of 'Pieces of Home,' and I really hope everyone decides to take the time to share in Jake and Rye's journey of healing, love, and finding home again like I did. <3
I think this is probably the longest book I have read in a while, but it really never felt like it. Every page, every word felt like I was reading out of a journal of Rye and Jake's thoughts, and it truly felt immersive in their lives and interactions over the beautiful coastal California locale. I cannot state enough how much I loved this book and how much it expanded the idea of love in practice to me.
This was not a typical romance for me, no; this was a story of love. Through all the pain and growth and trust and understanding that brewed across every page, I was hooked. I cried, I laughed, and I felt so much throughout this story, and I am still just so glad I got to experience it.
I love Rye and Jake so so much, and I am just so glad they found each other. Nothing can begin to compare to the journey the two of them took to get to where they are by the end of the book, and that is okay, because their story is so unique and touching and profound.
Rye and Jake's story is full of hard-fought days and overcoming past traumas and realizing you're not alone, and that is what set it apart. I adored the connection between the gentle giant of a man that is Jake and the precious seedling that is Rye throughout, and I just know they are happy and home with one another in the end.
Jake's aura of warmth and protection towards Rye is something that I found myself attached to throughout this book. I love nothing more than a calming protector, and Jake was that and more for Rye. But even those who protect need their own comforting sometimes, and it was beautiful seeing Rye grow to be that for Jake himself. I love them!
I want to give a big thanks to Becca for providing me an eARC of 'Pieces of Home,' and I really hope everyone decides to take the time to share in Jake and Rye's journey of healing, love, and finding home again like I did. <3
March 4, 2025
This was the first book I’ve read by this author and now I’m going to have to skedaddle back and read her entire backlist 🫠
I’m not usually one for very long books but this story 100% required it and I was never bored. I could have read about Rye and Jake forever 😭
The time and sensitivity given to Rye’s healing was stunning and so heartwarming by the end of the book you feel like you’ve just gone on this massive journey with him and I was so proud 🥲
I also loved the way that because of Jake’s injury and some of his own hang ups, it brought balance to their relationship and stopped it feeling like he was a ‘saviour’ figure. Because they both have each other so much.
I’m not a crier but if you can read this entire book and not cry then hats off because my heart could not.
Beautifully written, the type of story that stays with you forever. I can already feel the book hangover from this one.
I’m not usually one for very long books but this story 100% required it and I was never bored. I could have read about Rye and Jake forever 😭
The time and sensitivity given to Rye’s healing was stunning and so heartwarming by the end of the book you feel like you’ve just gone on this massive journey with him and I was so proud 🥲
I also loved the way that because of Jake’s injury and some of his own hang ups, it brought balance to their relationship and stopped it feeling like he was a ‘saviour’ figure. Because they both have each other so much.
I’m not a crier but if you can read this entire book and not cry then hats off because my heart could not.
Beautifully written, the type of story that stays with you forever. I can already feel the book hangover from this one.
March 24, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
I never thought I’d make it through this book it was heavy, it was raw, and it broke me in ways I didn’t expect. But, my God, was it beautiful. Calling it beautiful feels like an understatement because this story didn’t just make me cry, it wrecked me.
Jake and Rye own my heart completely. This isn’t just a love story; it’s a journey of survival, healing, and the kind of love that sees you through even the darkest moments. It’s my first time reading about two boys so shattered by PTSD and CPTSD, and I cannot fathom the pain Rye endured. His trauma, his resilience, it left me breathless.
If you follow me, you know I have a soft spot for broken boys, but this? This was on a whole other level. The way Becca Neil captured their pain, their slow healing, the raw, unfiltered emotions, it felt so real, almost too real. I don’t even know how to write this review without spilling everything, but just know this story is worth every tear, every aching moment.
Also, Jake is a walking green flag. He’s my man. I cannot fathom the patience, the understanding, the unwavering love he has for Rye. Omg, he’s the wall, the steady, unshakable force that holds everything together. I love him so much for that.
Becca Neil, you’ve earned a permanent spot as one of my favorite authors. I read every single page, all 700+ of them, including the author’s note, and I was sobbing by the end. Jake and Rye’s love isn’t just beautiful, it’s devastatingly, heartbreakingly, breathtakingly beautiful.
And the tears I shed? So, so worth it.
I never thought I’d make it through this book it was heavy, it was raw, and it broke me in ways I didn’t expect. But, my God, was it beautiful. Calling it beautiful feels like an understatement because this story didn’t just make me cry, it wrecked me.
Jake and Rye own my heart completely. This isn’t just a love story; it’s a journey of survival, healing, and the kind of love that sees you through even the darkest moments. It’s my first time reading about two boys so shattered by PTSD and CPTSD, and I cannot fathom the pain Rye endured. His trauma, his resilience, it left me breathless.
If you follow me, you know I have a soft spot for broken boys, but this? This was on a whole other level. The way Becca Neil captured their pain, their slow healing, the raw, unfiltered emotions, it felt so real, almost too real. I don’t even know how to write this review without spilling everything, but just know this story is worth every tear, every aching moment.
Also, Jake is a walking green flag. He’s my man. I cannot fathom the patience, the understanding, the unwavering love he has for Rye. Omg, he’s the wall, the steady, unshakable force that holds everything together. I love him so much for that.
Becca Neil, you’ve earned a permanent spot as one of my favorite authors. I read every single page, all 700+ of them, including the author’s note, and I was sobbing by the end. Jake and Rye’s love isn’t just beautiful, it’s devastatingly, heartbreakingly, breathtakingly beautiful.
And the tears I shed? So, so worth it.
March 30, 2025
3rd person POV. Slow burn. Read the trigger warnings!!!
Normally I don’t love 3rd person POV unless it is done right, which very few people can do, Becca is one of the ones that CAN do it correctly!! You could feel every emotion these characters went through, it was written so well you almost forget you were reading it in 3rd person. This is probably one of the slowest burns I have ever read and there isn’t a whole lot of spice, but if either one of those aspects were changed I don’t think this story would have been as absolutely breath taking as it was. And as for the trigger warnings, I don’t want to give too much of the story line away but know it is emotionally heavy with lots of talk to trauma and panic attacks on page, so please be prepared.
Jake was the sweetest, kindest, most patient man there is and his love for Rye knows no bounds. Rye goes through it, the things he has to survive and live with on a daily basis is absolutely heart breaking, but he does IT and comes out thriving in the other side, with Jake’s help of course.
Honestly this book broke my heart and built it back up. It was absolutely breath taking beautiful, especially once you got past all the sad. I felt every emotion while reading it. This is a big book (over 700 pages) but I could not put it down, it absolutely pulled me in from the very beginning.
Normally I don’t love 3rd person POV unless it is done right, which very few people can do, Becca is one of the ones that CAN do it correctly!! You could feel every emotion these characters went through, it was written so well you almost forget you were reading it in 3rd person. This is probably one of the slowest burns I have ever read and there isn’t a whole lot of spice, but if either one of those aspects were changed I don’t think this story would have been as absolutely breath taking as it was. And as for the trigger warnings, I don’t want to give too much of the story line away but know it is emotionally heavy with lots of talk to trauma and panic attacks on page, so please be prepared.
Jake was the sweetest, kindest, most patient man there is and his love for Rye knows no bounds. Rye goes through it, the things he has to survive and live with on a daily basis is absolutely heart breaking, but he does IT and comes out thriving in the other side, with Jake’s help of course.
Honestly this book broke my heart and built it back up. It was absolutely breath taking beautiful, especially once you got past all the sad. I felt every emotion while reading it. This is a big book (over 700 pages) but I could not put it down, it absolutely pulled me in from the very beginning.
March 31, 2025
Ryan Davis escapes a fifteen-year nightmare of abduction and abuse, but freedom brings its own challenges as he struggles to rebuild his life. He crosses paths with Jacob Wright, a man whose life was altered by an accident that took his mobility and former joy. When Ryan, scared and near death, appears on Jacob's secluded beach, Jacob becomes his caregiver, and a fragile trust forms between them. As they navigate their pain and forge an unexpected bond, they begin to uncover new possibilities for healing and connection—despite the shadows of their haunting pasts.
I loved this story of the two damaged men who were able to function in life with each others help first as friends which changed over time to something more. There were a lot of deep feelings and emotions which were perfectly told by the author. This book will make you smile and cry (sometimes at the same time). This was an MM story with mature content.
*** Please read the trigger warnings and be kind to yourself.
I loved this story of the two damaged men who were able to function in life with each others help first as friends which changed over time to something more. There were a lot of deep feelings and emotions which were perfectly told by the author. This book will make you smile and cry (sometimes at the same time). This was an MM story with mature content.
*** Please read the trigger warnings and be kind to yourself.
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