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Elpída #2
Thárros
Book Two
High school senior Michael Sattler leads a charmed life. Almost. He has great friends, parents who love him just the way he is, and he was a champion hurdler until someone took out his knee when they kidnapped his boyfriend. Yet, Michael is determined to make the USATF tryouts in spite of his injuries.
Christy Castle is Michael’s entire world. Healing from years of abuse, his abduction by a predator has left him hiding a new secret as he tries to start his life again. Together, Michael and Christy work to recover from their wounds in time to make prom and graduate high school. To complicate matters, Christy is astonished to learn a fellow victim from his native Greece has survived. Christy will stop at nothing to bring him to the US to keep him safe.
But the prosecution of Christy’s kidnapper looms large in their futures and the struggle to return to normal only worsens. Christy's past continues to haunt them and, when the prosecution turns ugly and Christy’s new life is torn apart, only their unrelenting courage and determination can save them from the nightmare that threatens to destroy their future together.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2016
5 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
About the author
C. Kennedy
25 books238 followersRaised on the mean streets and back lots of Hollywood by a Yoda-look-alike grandfather, award-winning author, Cody Kennedy, doesn’t conform, doesn’t fit in, is epic awkward, and lives to perfect a deep-seated oppositional defiance disorder. In a constant state of fascination with the trivial, Cody contemplates such weighty questions as: If time and space are curved, then where do all the straight people come from? When not writing, Cody can be found taming waves on western shores, pondering the nutritional value of sunsets, appreciating the much maligned dandelion, unhooking guide ropes from stanchions, and marveling at all things ordinary. Visit my blog with comments, questions, or simply share what’s on your mind.
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October 21, 2014Need.
This.
In.
My.
Life.
Like.
NOW!!! ...
This.
In.
My.
Life.
Like.
NOW!!! ...
Want to read
July 25, 2014Waiting for this book to be published might literally kill me. Literally.
July 6, 2016
Actual rating is 0.02 stars. #YupTHATlow
Book 2 in the series.
Picked this one for a reading challenge and ended up hate-reading it by the 20% mark.
Although I appreciate the care that the author took in writing about the v. real and heart-breaking topic of sexual abuse and trafficking of minors, this book was beyond terrible. (Right now, I can't even muster enough interest in writing my reasons why I gave this book such a low rating. Perhaps one day in the v. far future I'll have enough distance from the overall DNW of it to pen a better review than this).
*wipes forehead with relief after deleting book from tablet*
Book 2 in the series.
Picked this one for a reading challenge and ended up hate-reading it by the 20% mark.
Although I appreciate the care that the author took in writing about the v. real and heart-breaking topic of sexual abuse and trafficking of minors, this book was beyond terrible. (Right now, I can't even muster enough interest in writing my reasons why I gave this book such a low rating. Perhaps one day in the v. far future I'll have enough distance from the overall DNW of it to pen a better review than this).
*wipes forehead with relief after deleting book from tablet*
Want to read
September 8, 2014
Another book for Christy and Michael!!
*Doing a happy dance*
Woo-hoo! Can't wait!! ♥
May 31, 2017
I knew going in this book was gonna pack a punch and I thought I was prepared, but boy was I wrong. Mr Kennedy again not only gave me another action packed climax he ripped my heart into shreds.
Beginning from where the first book left off we rejoin Michael and Christy as they start to cope with the trauma they both endured. Life is very much up in the air for Michael as he waits to see if his knee will heal completely. But despite his own worries Michael is always there for Christy. Never once does he fail him, no matter what he might think personally.
Jake is again the staunchest of best friends, a real brother in arms. Coping with his own demons he never the less remains Michaels rock.
Watching them work their way through the last days of school, and then seeing them get ready for prom were some of the sweetest moments. I would so of loved to be a part of this group in school.
But this book wasn't just about recovery, there is also the trial of Yosef to deal with, and this is were I go on a rant.
This story has kept my feelings in a constant state of upheaval. Mostly my heart breaks for Christy and all that he suffers, but then there are the times I get mad. Sophia really disappointed me at one point, so much so that if I were there I would of given her a very large piece of my mind. Her reactions to Christys friend were horrible and I hope we get to see her admit she was wrong.
The beginning of this book also left me with a deep seated need to know more of the children that were found on board the boat, not to mention I'm all ready to accept Thimi into my heart. But again I guess I have to wait for the final book sigh.
If I had any niggles it would be the lack of Darien and Kevin. Those two boys stole my heart in book one and I was really hoping we were going to see just a little ore of them, but I guess with everything else going on there just wasn't time.
Like book one this book will stay in my heart for a very long time, but I'm ready now to read the final instalment please Mr Kennedy.
ETA Not much more I can add, still need plenty of tissues and despite knowing the outcome I still found myself tensing up. These stories are so much more than just good books.
Beginning from where the first book left off we rejoin Michael and Christy as they start to cope with the trauma they both endured. Life is very much up in the air for Michael as he waits to see if his knee will heal completely. But despite his own worries Michael is always there for Christy. Never once does he fail him, no matter what he might think personally.
Jake is again the staunchest of best friends, a real brother in arms. Coping with his own demons he never the less remains Michaels rock.
Watching them work their way through the last days of school, and then seeing them get ready for prom were some of the sweetest moments. I would so of loved to be a part of this group in school.
But this book wasn't just about recovery, there is also the trial of Yosef to deal with, and this is were I go on a rant.
This story has kept my feelings in a constant state of upheaval. Mostly my heart breaks for Christy and all that he suffers, but then there are the times I get mad. Sophia really disappointed me at one point, so much so that if I were there I would of given her a very large piece of my mind. Her reactions to Christys friend were horrible and I hope we get to see her admit she was wrong.
The beginning of this book also left me with a deep seated need to know more of the children that were found on board the boat, not to mention I'm all ready to accept Thimi into my heart. But again I guess I have to wait for the final book sigh.
If I had any niggles it would be the lack of Darien and Kevin. Those two boys stole my heart in book one and I was really hoping we were going to see just a little ore of them, but I guess with everything else going on there just wasn't time.
Like book one this book will stay in my heart for a very long time, but I'm ready now to read the final instalment please Mr Kennedy.
ETA Not much more I can add, still need plenty of tissues and despite knowing the outcome I still found myself tensing up. These stories are so much more than just good books.
May 17, 2016
I finished reading Tharros today… on the treadmill in my garage. Yes, Tharros was my “treadmill read” and as such, it was my motivation to exercise—I only allowed myself to read Cody Kennedy’s masterpiece when actually walking on the treadmill.
What I’d like to focus on in this (5 star—of course!) review is what kept me walking on the treadmill today for nearly TWO HOURS—Tharros’ amazing conclusion. Normally I walk for thirty minutes, but there was NO WAY IN HELL I was going to stop walking (and reading) until I found out what happened to Christy and Michael. Now, please understand, the entire book provides compelling, thought-provoking reading, but the ending is… well, it’s phenomenal. Tharros’ final scenes are packed with extreme action, intense emotion, and gut-wrenching dialogue. I admit it freely—by the end of the book, I was sweating as if I’d run a marathon, and I honestly don’t know how much was a result of walking and how much was a result of Tharros’ suspenseful conclusion.
So many images… incredible images that will live in my mind for a very long time… and Cody Kennedy is the literary artist who created the compelling situations that allowed me to form these vivid pictures. As I read, I was no longer in my garage, but I was right there with Christy and Michael on the…. well, you’re going to have to read Tharros to find out where we were, but it was awesome!!
Highly recommended, but you’ll need a fan to keep you cool as you read the ending.
What I’d like to focus on in this (5 star—of course!) review is what kept me walking on the treadmill today for nearly TWO HOURS—Tharros’ amazing conclusion. Normally I walk for thirty minutes, but there was NO WAY IN HELL I was going to stop walking (and reading) until I found out what happened to Christy and Michael. Now, please understand, the entire book provides compelling, thought-provoking reading, but the ending is… well, it’s phenomenal. Tharros’ final scenes are packed with extreme action, intense emotion, and gut-wrenching dialogue. I admit it freely—by the end of the book, I was sweating as if I’d run a marathon, and I honestly don’t know how much was a result of walking and how much was a result of Tharros’ suspenseful conclusion.
So many images… incredible images that will live in my mind for a very long time… and Cody Kennedy is the literary artist who created the compelling situations that allowed me to form these vivid pictures. As I read, I was no longer in my garage, but I was right there with Christy and Michael on the…. well, you’re going to have to read Tharros to find out where we were, but it was awesome!!
Highly recommended, but you’ll need a fan to keep you cool as you read the ending.
July 31, 2016
Omorphi and Tharros...
I wish to write a review from a very different point of view.
I want to thank Cody for giving me, Christy and people like him and me a VOICE. Like Christy I am abused an tortured. My voice has literally and figuratively been taken away. My mouth has been glued shut for years now. For so long there has always the judgement of the outside world, telling us everything is our own fault, because we are gay. But: we did NOT ask to be abducted, we did NOT ask to be abused, we did NOT ask to be assaulted.
I am fighting to get my life back, with help, with therapy, with the aid sometimes of a mental hospital. I am still not able to read Omorphi and Tharros in one go, because it triggers me insanely. But I will read them one day. And I want to thank Cody, immensely, for caring.
I wish to write a review from a very different point of view.
I want to thank Cody for giving me, Christy and people like him and me a VOICE. Like Christy I am abused an tortured. My voice has literally and figuratively been taken away. My mouth has been glued shut for years now. For so long there has always the judgement of the outside world, telling us everything is our own fault, because we are gay. But: we did NOT ask to be abducted, we did NOT ask to be abused, we did NOT ask to be assaulted.
I am fighting to get my life back, with help, with therapy, with the aid sometimes of a mental hospital. I am still not able to read Omorphi and Tharros in one go, because it triggers me insanely. But I will read them one day. And I want to thank Cody, immensely, for caring.
March 26, 2017
Omorphi is a tough act to follow, but Cody Kennedy delivers with Tharros. A well-written, well-crafted story that delves deeper into darker territory and explores the long-term effects the physical, psychological, and sexual abuse has on Christy; so it is naturally a darker story and often leaves the reader with a sense of helplessness and hopelessness for Christy’s recovery and future. The kidnapping and subsequent torture has reversed much of Christy’s progress, reinforcing in him the feeling that the world will never be safe for him and the ever-present sense that he has somehow brought on everything that has happened to him. The kidnapping also brings with it a dark secret that Christy carries with a sense of dread as he knows it will be revealed with the impending trial of Yosef. The secret hangs as a pall over the story, an impending shoe ready to drop and bring Christy’s fragile world tumbling down around him. Also more of Christy’s past experience is brought to light with the introduction of Thimi, a young boy from Greece who suffered at the same hands as Christy.
Tharros takes up in the aftermath and recovery from Yosef’s horrendous attack on Michael, Jake, and Sophia and the subsequent kidnapping and torture of Christy. The four struggle to cope with Christy’s demons and recover from their injuries as they prepare for prom and graduation and are faced with the frightening challenge of Yosef’s trial and all the revelations it brings.
For those who may have thought Michael too perfect in Omorphi, you get to see a darker side of him in Tharros: the barely controlled rage at what Christy has had to endure, the murderous fury he feels for Yosef and the suffering he has caused, and the crippling self-doubt that threatens as Michael grapples with his perceived failures to protect Christy and his struggle to recover from his injuries to compete in the USATF trials.
For those who fell in love with Jacob in Omorphi, Jake is back as the steady and constant presence in Michael’s life, just as steadfast in his support and in his devotion to “keeping it real” for Michael. He serves as a touchstone for Michael when Michael seems to lose his way, often bringing Michael back from the brink with a much-needed reality check. Everyone should have a best friend like Jake.
Also back are the varied and richly developed cast of secondary characters that really brings this story to life and infuses it with what this book is all about… Hope. As much as the author takes us to the depths of despair, he never leaves us there, always bringing us back to a place of hope and we are left with a deep and abiding admiration for Christy's perseverance and determination to not only survive, but thrive.
Tharros takes up in the aftermath and recovery from Yosef’s horrendous attack on Michael, Jake, and Sophia and the subsequent kidnapping and torture of Christy. The four struggle to cope with Christy’s demons and recover from their injuries as they prepare for prom and graduation and are faced with the frightening challenge of Yosef’s trial and all the revelations it brings.
For those who may have thought Michael too perfect in Omorphi, you get to see a darker side of him in Tharros: the barely controlled rage at what Christy has had to endure, the murderous fury he feels for Yosef and the suffering he has caused, and the crippling self-doubt that threatens as Michael grapples with his perceived failures to protect Christy and his struggle to recover from his injuries to compete in the USATF trials.
For those who fell in love with Jacob in Omorphi, Jake is back as the steady and constant presence in Michael’s life, just as steadfast in his support and in his devotion to “keeping it real” for Michael. He serves as a touchstone for Michael when Michael seems to lose his way, often bringing Michael back from the brink with a much-needed reality check. Everyone should have a best friend like Jake.
Also back are the varied and richly developed cast of secondary characters that really brings this story to life and infuses it with what this book is all about… Hope. As much as the author takes us to the depths of despair, he never leaves us there, always bringing us back to a place of hope and we are left with a deep and abiding admiration for Christy's perseverance and determination to not only survive, but thrive.
May 5, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Readers of Omorphi by Cody Kennedy will remember the fragile yet determined Christy and his devoted boyfriend, Michael. They will remember how Christy has steadily grown in strength and courage over the past year he has been at Wellington, where he meets with Rob, his therapist, and paints out his painful memories of abuse and torture one canvas at a time. Picking up where Omorphi leaves off, this latest novel, Tharros, finds Michael, Christy, Jake, and Sophia all recovering in the hospital after rescuing Christy from Josef—the evil bastard who held Christy for so many years while he abused him beyond comprehension. But Josef has been captured and the Greek authorities have also been busy—both countries are set to try the man for his crimes against not only Christy, but so many other boys as well.
The story takes us through the final weeks before prom and graduation. Much is at stake for all of our heroes as they face both the impending trial and various high school milestones—including the all important USATF tryouts that will determine if Michael can keep his scholarship to attend Oxford in the fall with Christy. Surely such commonplace activities such as prom and graduation should be rather standard as they go on every year in many a high school in every state in the nation and yet…there is nothing mundane about this novel. Every page is richly detailed with all the thoughts and emotions that Michael experiences while with Christy.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Readers of Omorphi by Cody Kennedy will remember the fragile yet determined Christy and his devoted boyfriend, Michael. They will remember how Christy has steadily grown in strength and courage over the past year he has been at Wellington, where he meets with Rob, his therapist, and paints out his painful memories of abuse and torture one canvas at a time. Picking up where Omorphi leaves off, this latest novel, Tharros, finds Michael, Christy, Jake, and Sophia all recovering in the hospital after rescuing Christy from Josef—the evil bastard who held Christy for so many years while he abused him beyond comprehension. But Josef has been captured and the Greek authorities have also been busy—both countries are set to try the man for his crimes against not only Christy, but so many other boys as well.
The story takes us through the final weeks before prom and graduation. Much is at stake for all of our heroes as they face both the impending trial and various high school milestones—including the all important USATF tryouts that will determine if Michael can keep his scholarship to attend Oxford in the fall with Christy. Surely such commonplace activities such as prom and graduation should be rather standard as they go on every year in many a high school in every state in the nation and yet…there is nothing mundane about this novel. Every page is richly detailed with all the thoughts and emotions that Michael experiences while with Christy.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
April 20, 2016
With this second book in the trilogy, C. Kennedy delivers yet again a stunning YA novel of loss and pain, of perseverance and overcoming obstacles, and of love, so much love.
Tharros means Courage. And it will take all the courage Christy and Michael have to move forward.
We meet Christy and Michael again as they are recuperating in the hospital after Christy was kidnapped by the evil Yosef Sanna to be used again as his personal sex slave, but rescued by Michael who suffered injuries of his own during the daring attempt to save his boyfriend from the clutches of evil.
It's not an easy book to read. The author presents an unflinching look at the abuse Christy suffered for many years, abuse that haunts him, stifles him, and makes him fearful of the world around him.
But Christy is also strong and learning to speak for himself, to speak his mind. There's often a bit of wonder in Christy, at Michael mostly, that he is so steadfastly by Christy side, even he pushes, sometimes a bit too hard, not only himself but those around him to provide the best way he can for the boy he loves.
Michael's best friend is also in the hospital after receiving a bat to the head at the hands of Yosef, still in love with Sophia who is initially thought to be Christy's cousin, but the truth about her parentage comes out in this book.
There are ups and downs, days Christy is feeling better and looking forward to prom, his concern being whether he'll be allowed to wear a gown, and there are days when he feels as if he has to retreat back into himself, cowered by the far reaches of the evil people who hurt him, by the memories of the terrors he endured. And there are moments when Christy's reactions surprised me, especially when he finds out that a young boy named Thimi, only 12 or so, has possibly survived the yacht of terror and has been found hiding in a large house in Greece that used to belong to Christy's father. Christy's determination to bring Thimi to the US to give him the care he surely needs, his rallying to the cause, his sheer force of will all were a sight to behold.
Christy also learns to deal with anger, something he's finally expressing, even if the object of his anger isn't always the right one. The fact that feels he can express anger though is a huge step for him, something I cheered for.
But years of abuse have taken a definite toll, and there are moments when Christy retreats back into his mind, running away from grief, and fear, and pain.
And Michael, steadfast, loving Michael, who most days is merely skating by, is there to bring him back, slowly, carefully, lovingly, rescuing Christy time and again from the depth of his own mind.
While this is a work of fiction, and while I cannot fathom that something so evil as depicted in this book is truly possible, I have to concede that there are things beyond my ken, beyond what I imagine feasible, and that the torture, abuse, and child slavery described within is perhaps happening somewhere in this world as I read this book, as you read this review. People who perpetrate this evil are soulless monsters, sociopaths and narcissists who care for nothing but themselves, nightmarish creatures that don't give a hoot about the young men and women they hurt, burn, disfigure, for their own cruel pleasure.
And just as the readers feels the bile rising in his or her throat at the horrific nature of the abuse Christy suffered, the author gently calms the waters with positive images, with gentle touches, with childlike wonder, with family, and with love.
So much love.
At the end of Tharros, much like the author did at the end of Omorphi, there is a list of organizations with websites and phone numbers to contact if you suspect anyone being held against their will, sexually or in other ways abused. And if you're a victim of such abuse, there are organizations available to help you too. Above all, if you have been a victim, remember that nothing that happened to you was your fault. It is the fault of the evil people who perpetrated the abuse, who did things to you against your will.
I've seen Christy grow from the years of abuse, and while his path wasn't easy, and while there were many obstacles in his way, he persevered. He kept moving forward.
I pray you keep moving in that direction too.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Tharros means Courage. And it will take all the courage Christy and Michael have to move forward.
We meet Christy and Michael again as they are recuperating in the hospital after Christy was kidnapped by the evil Yosef Sanna to be used again as his personal sex slave, but rescued by Michael who suffered injuries of his own during the daring attempt to save his boyfriend from the clutches of evil.
It's not an easy book to read. The author presents an unflinching look at the abuse Christy suffered for many years, abuse that haunts him, stifles him, and makes him fearful of the world around him.
But Christy is also strong and learning to speak for himself, to speak his mind. There's often a bit of wonder in Christy, at Michael mostly, that he is so steadfastly by Christy side, even he pushes, sometimes a bit too hard, not only himself but those around him to provide the best way he can for the boy he loves.
Michael's best friend is also in the hospital after receiving a bat to the head at the hands of Yosef, still in love with Sophia who is initially thought to be Christy's cousin, but the truth about her parentage comes out in this book.
There are ups and downs, days Christy is feeling better and looking forward to prom, his concern being whether he'll be allowed to wear a gown, and there are days when he feels as if he has to retreat back into himself, cowered by the far reaches of the evil people who hurt him, by the memories of the terrors he endured. And there are moments when Christy's reactions surprised me, especially when he finds out that a young boy named Thimi, only 12 or so, has possibly survived the yacht of terror and has been found hiding in a large house in Greece that used to belong to Christy's father. Christy's determination to bring Thimi to the US to give him the care he surely needs, his rallying to the cause, his sheer force of will all were a sight to behold.
Christy also learns to deal with anger, something he's finally expressing, even if the object of his anger isn't always the right one. The fact that feels he can express anger though is a huge step for him, something I cheered for.
But years of abuse have taken a definite toll, and there are moments when Christy retreats back into his mind, running away from grief, and fear, and pain.
And Michael, steadfast, loving Michael, who most days is merely skating by, is there to bring him back, slowly, carefully, lovingly, rescuing Christy time and again from the depth of his own mind.
While this is a work of fiction, and while I cannot fathom that something so evil as depicted in this book is truly possible, I have to concede that there are things beyond my ken, beyond what I imagine feasible, and that the torture, abuse, and child slavery described within is perhaps happening somewhere in this world as I read this book, as you read this review. People who perpetrate this evil are soulless monsters, sociopaths and narcissists who care for nothing but themselves, nightmarish creatures that don't give a hoot about the young men and women they hurt, burn, disfigure, for their own cruel pleasure.
And just as the readers feels the bile rising in his or her throat at the horrific nature of the abuse Christy suffered, the author gently calms the waters with positive images, with gentle touches, with childlike wonder, with family, and with love.
So much love.
At the end of Tharros, much like the author did at the end of Omorphi, there is a list of organizations with websites and phone numbers to contact if you suspect anyone being held against their will, sexually or in other ways abused. And if you're a victim of such abuse, there are organizations available to help you too. Above all, if you have been a victim, remember that nothing that happened to you was your fault. It is the fault of the evil people who perpetrated the abuse, who did things to you against your will.
I've seen Christy grow from the years of abuse, and while his path wasn't easy, and while there were many obstacles in his way, he persevered. He kept moving forward.
I pray you keep moving in that direction too.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
April 23, 2016
“Courage is not the absence of fear, it's to feel the fear and face it anyway.” ― Jeanette Coron
Tharros, by Cody Kennedy, starts where the first book in the series left off. Michael, Christy, his sister, and boyfriend are all in the hospital recovering from the vicious attacks by Yosef Sanna. It's a miracle any of them survived, but they are certainly not left unscathed. Christy's ordeal was the worst of all. Horribly abused by his kidnapper, Christy was once again thrust into the role of victim by a man who was determined to undermine Christy's progress during the past year and take him back to Greece as his sex slave. As determined as Sanna was to do so, Michael, Christy's lover, was even more determined that he was not. Against all odds, Michael rescues Christy from his evil clutches, but the ordeal is not over. Yosef still has to be prosecuted.
Although they are all anxious to do so, getting back to their normal lives is more difficult than they anticipated and Michael, particularly, is expecting way too much of himself. He loves Christy so much and wants to protect him, but he has to remember to balance that desire with the fact that Christy needs to learn how to think and act for himself, a fact that Christy frequently reminds him of. A new addition to their lives is a private security company that follows them everywhere they go. They are still under threat from Yosef Sanna's family and don't want to take any chances. Christy's cousin is even more concerned than Christy about retaliation. When Christy learns that Thimi, a close friend of Christy, has survived his abuse as well, all he can think of is bringing Thimi from Greece to be with him. This presents a huge rift between Christy and his cousin, but Christy is determined to have Thimi with him, regardless. Christy wants to protect him at all costs. The biggest catch to this idea is that Thimi is Yosef Sanna's son, creating seemingly impossible legal and moral obstacles, but in the end, actually helps them.
Christy's bravery during the trial astounds everyone as he relives all of the past torture and humiliation he endured. No matter what the lawyer throws at him, he tries his best to remain calm, at least on the outside, far exceeding everyone's expectations. The trial will entail reliving all of the past torture and indignity Christy endured. This alone is enough to destroy Christy, but, as awful as it will be to testify, what motivates him is the idea of Yosef put in jail for good, he will never be able to hurt anyone else ever again. Christy's courage drives Yosef crazy. Christy is holding up so far, but how much can Christy withstand without disintegrating?
There's much more happening behind the scenes than I can touch on in this review, but I've tried to cover enough to entice. Although tied together well, there are two stories. One takes place in the US and involves the present and future and is focused on love and healing. The other is set in Greece, encompassing events in the past and present, displaying the story's dark and intriguing plot. Yet even in Greece, there is a glimmer of hope for a better future. This is not a stand-alone book. Since events are so intrinsically intertwined, the series must be read in order; but if you appreciate a story with a dark, sometimes disconcerting theme, as well as one of courage and love, then this may be a book for you. Thanks, Cody, for continuing to enlighten me even though the subject of abuse is painful to face.
NOTE: This book was provided by Harmony Ink Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Tharros, by Cody Kennedy, starts where the first book in the series left off. Michael, Christy, his sister, and boyfriend are all in the hospital recovering from the vicious attacks by Yosef Sanna. It's a miracle any of them survived, but they are certainly not left unscathed. Christy's ordeal was the worst of all. Horribly abused by his kidnapper, Christy was once again thrust into the role of victim by a man who was determined to undermine Christy's progress during the past year and take him back to Greece as his sex slave. As determined as Sanna was to do so, Michael, Christy's lover, was even more determined that he was not. Against all odds, Michael rescues Christy from his evil clutches, but the ordeal is not over. Yosef still has to be prosecuted.
Although they are all anxious to do so, getting back to their normal lives is more difficult than they anticipated and Michael, particularly, is expecting way too much of himself. He loves Christy so much and wants to protect him, but he has to remember to balance that desire with the fact that Christy needs to learn how to think and act for himself, a fact that Christy frequently reminds him of. A new addition to their lives is a private security company that follows them everywhere they go. They are still under threat from Yosef Sanna's family and don't want to take any chances. Christy's cousin is even more concerned than Christy about retaliation. When Christy learns that Thimi, a close friend of Christy, has survived his abuse as well, all he can think of is bringing Thimi from Greece to be with him. This presents a huge rift between Christy and his cousin, but Christy is determined to have Thimi with him, regardless. Christy wants to protect him at all costs. The biggest catch to this idea is that Thimi is Yosef Sanna's son, creating seemingly impossible legal and moral obstacles, but in the end, actually helps them.
Christy's bravery during the trial astounds everyone as he relives all of the past torture and humiliation he endured. No matter what the lawyer throws at him, he tries his best to remain calm, at least on the outside, far exceeding everyone's expectations. The trial will entail reliving all of the past torture and indignity Christy endured. This alone is enough to destroy Christy, but, as awful as it will be to testify, what motivates him is the idea of Yosef put in jail for good, he will never be able to hurt anyone else ever again. Christy's courage drives Yosef crazy. Christy is holding up so far, but how much can Christy withstand without disintegrating?
There's much more happening behind the scenes than I can touch on in this review, but I've tried to cover enough to entice. Although tied together well, there are two stories. One takes place in the US and involves the present and future and is focused on love and healing. The other is set in Greece, encompassing events in the past and present, displaying the story's dark and intriguing plot. Yet even in Greece, there is a glimmer of hope for a better future. This is not a stand-alone book. Since events are so intrinsically intertwined, the series must be read in order; but if you appreciate a story with a dark, sometimes disconcerting theme, as well as one of courage and love, then this may be a book for you. Thanks, Cody, for continuing to enlighten me even though the subject of abuse is painful to face.
NOTE: This book was provided by Harmony Ink Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
April 16, 2016
5 tryferós stars
FULL: This is my mind right now, full, packed with thoughts about this book. C. Kennedy certainly knows how to pull out every emotion you may ever possibly feel, sadness, anger, disgust, happiness, surprise and love. I have taken quite a dramatic journey while reading this story. The one thing that stands out above all the rest is courage.
I had to read, no not had, I needed to read this book after reading book one, Omorphi. It's the kind of story that warms your heart but at the same time it feels like it's being ripped out. Book one is not left on any sort of cliffhanger but you will want to read more. I just finished this story last night and I am already eagerly awaiting book three.
Christy is a young man who has suffered greatly, I mean he has literally been tortured, both sexually and physically for many years. After reading so many of the extremely horrifying acts of abuse that Christy had endured is just..... well it is hard to grasp how he still functions everyday. I could see the struggles he was trying to overcome, each scene playing over in my mind while reading. I realise this is no easy feat but the talent of this writer is phenomenal.
Fear is Christy's biggest nightmare. He wants to feel safe, to no that he will never have to feel such pain again. It is heart breaking to hear such things but boy is he brave. Tharros in Greek means courage, strength. Christy has great courage, many times he may not think so but for what he has been through and now trying to achieve is just remarkable.
If you have read book one you will know that, Michael is a beautiful young man inside and out. He has a heart the size of the ocean, understanding beyond his years, the patience of a saint. He is unequivocally the most extraordinary young man I have ever come across. His life was all mapped out, finish senior year, get through the USATF tryouts, go to Oxford and although this is still the plan, it's becoming much harder to achieve. Michael's life has become dangerous, he is faced with danger at every turn. He will protect Christy with his life, he could never just stand by and watch. People say sometimes love can make us do stupid things, well I tend to agree but if it wasn't for Michael's love for Christy, I also believe there would no longer be a story because Christy would be no more.
Just when you think life is going to be okay for these young men and their friends, there is another shock or surprise in store. Sometimes I found myself holding my breath and thinking OMG!! how much more can these boys go through. You know what got them this far besides great courage? Friendship and love. The friendships that have been formed since the start of book one is amazing. A group like no other, looking out for each other, helping when they can but must of all the support.
Although there can be great sadness at times while reading, the laugh out loud moments I have had was just what I needed. Christy is becoming very humorous. Sometimes he has that cheeky smile where he knows he is being funny, other times when others are cracking up with laughter around him, I think he is unaware that what he said was actually hilarious. The interview scene took me over the edge, I could not breathe for laughing. Honestly you must read this book. If I was talking to Christy right now his response would be 'I will do this'.
If I had to sum up this whole story into one word it would be magnificent. I highly recommend reading the Elpida series. Starting with book one Omorphi.
FULL: This is my mind right now, full, packed with thoughts about this book. C. Kennedy certainly knows how to pull out every emotion you may ever possibly feel, sadness, anger, disgust, happiness, surprise and love. I have taken quite a dramatic journey while reading this story. The one thing that stands out above all the rest is courage.
I had to read, no not had, I needed to read this book after reading book one, Omorphi. It's the kind of story that warms your heart but at the same time it feels like it's being ripped out. Book one is not left on any sort of cliffhanger but you will want to read more. I just finished this story last night and I am already eagerly awaiting book three.
Christy is a young man who has suffered greatly, I mean he has literally been tortured, both sexually and physically for many years. After reading so many of the extremely horrifying acts of abuse that Christy had endured is just..... well it is hard to grasp how he still functions everyday. I could see the struggles he was trying to overcome, each scene playing over in my mind while reading. I realise this is no easy feat but the talent of this writer is phenomenal.
Fear is Christy's biggest nightmare. He wants to feel safe, to no that he will never have to feel such pain again. It is heart breaking to hear such things but boy is he brave. Tharros in Greek means courage, strength. Christy has great courage, many times he may not think so but for what he has been through and now trying to achieve is just remarkable.
If you have read book one you will know that, Michael is a beautiful young man inside and out. He has a heart the size of the ocean, understanding beyond his years, the patience of a saint. He is unequivocally the most extraordinary young man I have ever come across. His life was all mapped out, finish senior year, get through the USATF tryouts, go to Oxford and although this is still the plan, it's becoming much harder to achieve. Michael's life has become dangerous, he is faced with danger at every turn. He will protect Christy with his life, he could never just stand by and watch. People say sometimes love can make us do stupid things, well I tend to agree but if it wasn't for Michael's love for Christy, I also believe there would no longer be a story because Christy would be no more.
Just when you think life is going to be okay for these young men and their friends, there is another shock or surprise in store. Sometimes I found myself holding my breath and thinking OMG!! how much more can these boys go through. You know what got them this far besides great courage? Friendship and love. The friendships that have been formed since the start of book one is amazing. A group like no other, looking out for each other, helping when they can but must of all the support.
Although there can be great sadness at times while reading, the laugh out loud moments I have had was just what I needed. Christy is becoming very humorous. Sometimes he has that cheeky smile where he knows he is being funny, other times when others are cracking up with laughter around him, I think he is unaware that what he said was actually hilarious. The interview scene took me over the edge, I could not breathe for laughing. Honestly you must read this book. If I was talking to Christy right now his response would be 'I will do this'.
If I had to sum up this whole story into one word it would be magnificent. I highly recommend reading the Elpida series. Starting with book one Omorphi.
April 29, 2016
Reviewed by Caer Jones for QUEERcentric Books
4.5 stars
We catch up with Omorphi’s Christy and Michael in the second of C. Kennedy’s Elpida series, Tharros.
Tharros means “courage” in Greek, and that is very much the theme of the book. It opens directly after the events in Omorphi but before the epilogue.
Overall Tharros is less externally dramatic than Omorphi – not as much derring-do or ducking explosions – but the internal drama is high and focuses on character growth.
My only real complaint about the last book was that Michael seemed too perfect and idealized, right? Well that was fixed! Christy’s kidnapping – and, I think, the loss of innocence Michael vicariously experiences while learning about Christy’s abuse – comes to a head here. Michael is traumatized too, and it starts showing up in his interactions with the world.
HIS RAGE … HUMANIZES HIM
Michael’s trauma manifests differently than Christy’s, though. Christy spaces out, freezes, or goes catatonic. Michael gets angry. His rage against Yosef in particular humanizes him in a way I didn’t expect but more than understood.
Christy, though? What Yosef did to him at the end of Omorphi was old hat. Broken bones? Humiliation? He’d survived all of it before and lived to tell the tale. The only new element for him was getting rescued. While Michael copes with new trauma, I think we see in Tharros that Christy reaches a new level of recovery from old trauma. He has hope now, where he didn’t before, and that makes loads of difference for him.
A STANDING OVATION FOR SHEER AWESOMENESS
Even at the very end, when my heart absolutely shattered for Christy, he still won. He wouldn’t have been able to do that before, and I wanted to simultaneously cuddle him and give him a standing ovation for sheer awesomeness.
The thing I most disliked about this book was that it feels unfinished. Omorphi ended beautifully. I didn’t know there would be a sequel to it when I read it, and I was relatively ok with that. I could leave Christy and Michael on their Ferris wheel content in the knowledge that those crazy kids would make it.
While I wouldn’t necessarily call Tharros a cliff-hanger there are lots of loose threads at the end. Knowing that Tharros and the next book, Elpida, were written together but separated for length completely explains the somewhat precipitous ending, but it was still jarring.
ANOTHER INSTALLMENT OF BEAUTY AND STRENGTH, LOVE AND DEVOTION
As expected I adored everything about Christy, but this time I got to appreciate Michael too, in a way I didn’t before. This is yet another installment of beauty and strength, love and devotion, and now we’re adding hope and loyalty to the mix too. I’m giving this book 4.5 stars, with the understanding that this rating assumes all loose ends will be wrapped up in the sequel.
4.5 stars
We catch up with Omorphi’s Christy and Michael in the second of C. Kennedy’s Elpida series, Tharros.
Tharros means “courage” in Greek, and that is very much the theme of the book. It opens directly after the events in Omorphi but before the epilogue.
Overall Tharros is less externally dramatic than Omorphi – not as much derring-do or ducking explosions – but the internal drama is high and focuses on character growth.
My only real complaint about the last book was that Michael seemed too perfect and idealized, right? Well that was fixed! Christy’s kidnapping – and, I think, the loss of innocence Michael vicariously experiences while learning about Christy’s abuse – comes to a head here. Michael is traumatized too, and it starts showing up in his interactions with the world.
HIS RAGE … HUMANIZES HIM
Michael’s trauma manifests differently than Christy’s, though. Christy spaces out, freezes, or goes catatonic. Michael gets angry. His rage against Yosef in particular humanizes him in a way I didn’t expect but more than understood.
Christy, though? What Yosef did to him at the end of Omorphi was old hat. Broken bones? Humiliation? He’d survived all of it before and lived to tell the tale. The only new element for him was getting rescued. While Michael copes with new trauma, I think we see in Tharros that Christy reaches a new level of recovery from old trauma. He has hope now, where he didn’t before, and that makes loads of difference for him.
A STANDING OVATION FOR SHEER AWESOMENESS
Even at the very end, when my heart absolutely shattered for Christy, he still won. He wouldn’t have been able to do that before, and I wanted to simultaneously cuddle him and give him a standing ovation for sheer awesomeness.
The thing I most disliked about this book was that it feels unfinished. Omorphi ended beautifully. I didn’t know there would be a sequel to it when I read it, and I was relatively ok with that. I could leave Christy and Michael on their Ferris wheel content in the knowledge that those crazy kids would make it.
While I wouldn’t necessarily call Tharros a cliff-hanger there are lots of loose threads at the end. Knowing that Tharros and the next book, Elpida, were written together but separated for length completely explains the somewhat precipitous ending, but it was still jarring.
ANOTHER INSTALLMENT OF BEAUTY AND STRENGTH, LOVE AND DEVOTION
As expected I adored everything about Christy, but this time I got to appreciate Michael too, in a way I didn’t before. This is yet another installment of beauty and strength, love and devotion, and now we’re adding hope and loyalty to the mix too. I’m giving this book 4.5 stars, with the understanding that this rating assumes all loose ends will be wrapped up in the sequel.
April 14, 2016
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes.
This book was absolutely heartbreaking. The story begins when Michael and Christy are recovering from their ordeal of Christy’s attempted kidnapping. Michael has to work hard to repair his injured knee which could possibly cost him his scholarship if he isn’t able to heal enough to compete in the tryouts. As for Christy, his abduction has led to new injuries, both physical and psychological, but he’s doing his best to move forward. Though Christy is in a wheelchair and has trouble staying awake for long, he goes back to school and attends physical therapy while they prepare for a trial against his kidnapper and abuser. Christy has to complete his paintings for the trial, but they still find time for fun activities. As they prepare for graduation and prom, tensions rise concerning their safety and the trial.
This book didn’t have half the danger and action as there was in the first book, but I loved it all the same. The first book was a bit emotionally taxing with all the attacks they endure, so it was definitely a relief to see the boys have a chance to live their lives together and begin to heal. Though there was growing tension throughout the book with respect to a gang of motorcycle riders who appeared to be harassing them, I was happy with how things turned out. They faced the biggest danger which was the trial. I loved being back in Michael and Christy’s world, and I loved seeing how Christy and Michael step up to face Christy’s abuser. Most of the book was sweet and moving, but the ending just about broke my heart. This book was just beautiful all around, and I recommend it to anyone who loves hurt/comfort themes, YA, and abuse survival themes.
September 21, 2016
This is the second installment by C. Kennedy that delivers an amazing book about the strength of love and perseverance. About hope and how those small steps forward take amazing courage and belief in ones self.
The meaning of Tharros means Courage; and in this story Christy and Michael will need it to keep moving forward.
The story picks up right at the end of the previous book with Christy and Michael recuperating in the hospital after Christy was kidnapped and Michael saving him from the monster Yosef Sanna.
This is not an easy book to read, and there might be a lot of triggers for those that have suffered abuse, so be aware of this before reading this book. Because the author presents an unflinching look at the abuse Christy suffered for many years, abuse that haunts him, stifles him, and makes him fearful of the world around him.
I love how the author shows the growth in Christy, how he is learning to use his voice. Learning it's okay to be mad and angry and expressing it, not always in a health way but learning he has untapped strength to draw from. Michael is still strong and steadfast in his belief and love in Christy. But I love how the author shows his mistakes, and his stumbling along the way to understanding what it truly takes to help and love Christy.
The supportive characters in this book are just amazing as always. Their steady love and support and complete loyalty to both Michael and Christy are wonderful to read about.
I highly recommend this series to one and all. Though it's hard to read about the abuse suffered I think it's a wonderful story about love, perseverance, and finding that internal strength in oneself to keep moving forward one small step at a time.
The meaning of Tharros means Courage; and in this story Christy and Michael will need it to keep moving forward.
The story picks up right at the end of the previous book with Christy and Michael recuperating in the hospital after Christy was kidnapped and Michael saving him from the monster Yosef Sanna.
This is not an easy book to read, and there might be a lot of triggers for those that have suffered abuse, so be aware of this before reading this book. Because the author presents an unflinching look at the abuse Christy suffered for many years, abuse that haunts him, stifles him, and makes him fearful of the world around him.
I love how the author shows the growth in Christy, how he is learning to use his voice. Learning it's okay to be mad and angry and expressing it, not always in a health way but learning he has untapped strength to draw from. Michael is still strong and steadfast in his belief and love in Christy. But I love how the author shows his mistakes, and his stumbling along the way to understanding what it truly takes to help and love Christy.
The supportive characters in this book are just amazing as always. Their steady love and support and complete loyalty to both Michael and Christy are wonderful to read about.
I highly recommend this series to one and all. Though it's hard to read about the abuse suffered I think it's a wonderful story about love, perseverance, and finding that internal strength in oneself to keep moving forward one small step at a time.
April 21, 2016
WOW!! This is an amazing conclusion of a great series. Brilliantly written that holds the insight of a severely abused young boy that struggles with both his past and present and the outside forces that are at work to destroy him still and the life he has worked so hard to put back together.. The elements of hope, courage, and love run through the characters that are so well developed. The story line is intense as it continues from the first book, Omorphi. Christy is a young man that was severely abused mentally and physically for 13 years. Once he was rescued from his plight he meets Michael which is a high school senior and the two fall in love. The two seem to compliment each other in every way. After Christy is kidnapped a second time by Yosef, his father's partner, Michael, Jake, and Sophia are able to rescue him from this traumatic event. All have survived, bonding together, helping not only Christy, but the others as well. Michael is amazing giving Christy what he needs, love, support, hope, and the courage to move on. But the past and the present keeps haunting Christy with the trial that is needed to send Yosef to prison. Yosef continues to try to destroy Christy with his words and the past even in the courtroom. Christy breaks down and runs... This is a wonderful story for all to read that will give much needed insight to those who are abused and to those who are there to listen and help. There are a lot of Christy's out in the world and those who love them. This is a must read. It will break your heart, but it will also fill you with love as these two boys struggle with the unthinkable and yet come out the other end. Loved it.
February 12, 2017
After reading and re-reading Omorphi, I was so excited to finally read Tharros. :D
I knew from the first one that Tharros would consume my thoughts and my free hours until the VERY LAST PAGE. So, before starting, I buckled the mental seat belt, took a deep breath and prepared myself for the journey.
Tharros = Courage.
The fast paced action of Omorphi was not as prevalent here, Tharros focuses more on Christy and Michael's developing relationship. Beautiful Christy gets to shine as he discovers more of himself and Michael's great heart is tested by those who would do them harm. Christy's past comes back to darken his new life but that doesn't stop him from rescuing another fellow victim. Courage is the theme throughout this story and I admire their perseverance.
Once again Cody Kennedy's words, every one of them, are perfectly chosen to immerse us into the lives of Christy and Michael. I say take a deep breath because you will be drawn into this one and you might not stop until the VERY LAST PAGE! Cody has a masterful way of taking you along with Christy and Michael as a witness to their trials and their triumphs. They represent hope, teach courage and share how love can change us all. I loved this story because it is a wonderful odyssey of the heart <3
Looking forward to the next book - Elpida! :D
I knew from the first one that Tharros would consume my thoughts and my free hours until the VERY LAST PAGE. So, before starting, I buckled the mental seat belt, took a deep breath and prepared myself for the journey.
Tharros = Courage.
The fast paced action of Omorphi was not as prevalent here, Tharros focuses more on Christy and Michael's developing relationship. Beautiful Christy gets to shine as he discovers more of himself and Michael's great heart is tested by those who would do them harm. Christy's past comes back to darken his new life but that doesn't stop him from rescuing another fellow victim. Courage is the theme throughout this story and I admire their perseverance.
Once again Cody Kennedy's words, every one of them, are perfectly chosen to immerse us into the lives of Christy and Michael. I say take a deep breath because you will be drawn into this one and you might not stop until the VERY LAST PAGE! Cody has a masterful way of taking you along with Christy and Michael as a witness to their trials and their triumphs. They represent hope, teach courage and share how love can change us all. I loved this story because it is a wonderful odyssey of the heart <3
Looking forward to the next book - Elpida! :D
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2016
Just finished Tharros moments ago and my head is swirling and my heart is full. I loved it even more than its predecessor (Omorphi). Michael was stalwart, loyal and oh so brave, but also had to deal with his strong rage (understandably so) at Christy's abusers. Christy both warmed and broke my heart at the same time - had me in tears near the end. And, all the supporting characters were wonderful and rounded out the story.
There were many happy events and even some laugh-out-loud moments (especially Christy during Michael's news interview). Then, bam, the trial hit and it was rough, although I am guessing accurately so.
As a side bit of fun, watch for the names of minor characters - I bet you will recognize many of them.
I am looking forward to book three. I hope we get to know Thimi better.
There were many happy events and even some laugh-out-loud moments (especially Christy during Michael's news interview). Then, bam, the trial hit and it was rough, although I am guessing accurately so.
As a side bit of fun, watch for the names of minor characters - I bet you will recognize many of them.
I am looking forward to book three. I hope we get to know Thimi better.
April 25, 2016
I love this series and can't wait to read the third installment of the series. Mr. Kennedy really puts a lot of work into the character of Christy and using the character to give a little insight to what an abused person goes through. Christy has to be constantly reinforced and reminded that he's not worthless. Another thing I like is that Christy is by all counts described as very beautiful ( this is never contradicted by any character), which adds to the character as he's so "damaged" but looks like he doesn't have a single problem. Abuse doesn't have a "look" and unless people speak up we'll never know someone is being abused by the way they look. Omorphi (Elpida Book 1) pulls you in, even when you find yourself cringing at the evil Christy has seen and come to accept as normal in his head. If you enjoy reading books that deal with hard and difficult subjects this is a well written series.
April 19, 2016
For me to read this book I have to suspend disbelief. I look at it as a book about how a boy (Christy) survived unimaginable abuse. It's a story of hope, love and friendship. I know alot of written is pure fiction which is why I can handle Michael doing these "superman" stunts. I like this story bc at its base is a story of courage. Yeah I don't for a second believe that an eighteen year old has that much power with the parents doing his bidding but I can overlook it to take in the story as it is meant to be...IMHO. A boy who loves another more than himself and the fire to fight for him. Also the strength to overcome.
April 11, 2016
For my honest and true view of this book, please read …MORE
Goodreads TOS-compliant review (I think, let me know when they tell us what the rules are):
"The book I just read is about two (or three) lovely people, written in beautiful language, by a very good and prolific author. I liked it very, very much.
It is for sale on Amazon.”
DISCLAIMER: My reviews now all have this pretty face, so that all and everyone on Goodreads can stay happy and beatific. I’ll let you know if I change my mind. See the real review above for my thoughts on this book.
Goodreads TOS-compliant review (I think, let me know when they tell us what the rules are):
"The book I just read is about two (or three) lovely people, written in beautiful language, by a very good and prolific author. I liked it very, very much.
It is for sale on Amazon.”
DISCLAIMER: My reviews now all have this pretty face, so that all and everyone on Goodreads can stay happy and beatific. I’ll let you know if I change my mind. See the real review above for my thoughts on this book.
December 26, 2016
Michael and Christy's story continues right where it left off and it's as good and as emotional as Ómorphi. I love these characters, all the secondary characters, and how they form such a tight-knit group of misfits. The prom brought tears to my eyes and I would love to see this series as a movie or two!
April 15, 2016
Omg!!!!
I am so enamoured of this series! It is heart breaking what poor Christy is going theough! It's amazing to see this transition and metamorphosis of Christy! I love how Michael is with him and how Chreiaty has made friends of some different but love able people. I can't wait for the next installment!
I am so enamoured of this series! It is heart breaking what poor Christy is going theough! It's amazing to see this transition and metamorphosis of Christy! I love how Michael is with him and how Chreiaty has made friends of some different but love able people. I can't wait for the next installment!
June 12, 2016
Somehow, I just didn't like this book as much as the 1st one in this series. I don't remember Christy's speech/English being so broken, but his "accent" came across harder in this book for me. IDK.
April 19, 2016
Oh, my sweet, brave Christy. And Michael. And...more later.
Can't wait for the finale.
Can't wait for the finale.
May 21, 2017
The beautiful thing about this book is that Christy and Michael have grown so much since the first book. There is less about getting to know one another but supporting each other no matter what. It's time for prom, it's time for Michael's final run, and it's time for Yosef's trial. Everyone is back in this installment and the stakes are so much higher with the trial pending.
It is beautiful, heartbreaking, hopeful, and loving. It teaches you to love to your fullest and never give up.
It is beautiful, heartbreaking, hopeful, and loving. It teaches you to love to your fullest and never give up.
December 26, 2016
The title is very apt, courage is what this book entails, but more so healing. This is physically as well as mentally from all the atrocities of abuse from book 1. Not just focused with Christy, but Michael as well. Excellent book about surviving abuse, with the key of hope for ones future, to beat and overcome the past.
January 12, 2017
Title: Tharros
Author: C. Kennedy
Publisher: Harmony Ink Press
ISBN: 978-1-63476-896-2
Buy Link: https://www.harmonyinkpress.com/books...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Elpida 2
High school senior Michael Sattler leads a charmed life. Almost. He has great friends, parents who love him just the way he is, and he was a champion hurdler until someone took out his knee when they kidnapped his boyfriend. Yet, Michael is determined to make the USATF tryouts in spite of his injuries.
Christy Castle is Michael’s entire world. Healing from years of abuse, his abduction by a predator has left him hiding a new secret as he tries to start his life again. Together, Michael and Christy work to recover from their wounds in time to make prom and graduate high school. To complicate matters, Christy is astonished to learn a fellow victim from his native Greece has survived. Christy will stop at nothing to bring him to the US to keep him safe.
But the prosecution of Christy’s kidnapper looms large in their futures and the struggle to return to normal only worsens. Christy's past continues to haunt them and, when the prosecution turns ugly and Christy’s new life is torn apart, only their unrelenting courage and determination can save them from the nightmare that threatens to destroy their future together.
Tharros
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
I fell in love with all the characters in the first book Omorphi, but Therros took Christy, Michael and all of their friends stories to another level of suspense and emotional drama. Christy lived through so much physical, sexual, and emotional abuse that is was a wonder he could even function, but in spite of that with Michael's love he thrived. Christy's strength of will and determination to overcome his past was inspirational. Michael's determination to protect, support, and love Christy gave him the freedom to become the wonderful individual he could be. After all of their struggles, Christy's past returned to haunt them when they were forced to relive his kidnapping when they had to testify in trial. Facing Yosef, Christy's abuser, was the most horrifying and courageous thing I have ever experienced. The strength of will to stand up to him after years of abuse would take more guts than most people would have, but Christy it was the only way to protect others and get his life back. I couldn't put this book down until the very end and I for one can't wait until Elpida, the next book, is released. This series will remain as one of my most read and favorite series.
Author: C. Kennedy
Publisher: Harmony Ink Press
ISBN: 978-1-63476-896-2
Buy Link: https://www.harmonyinkpress.com/books...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Elpida 2
High school senior Michael Sattler leads a charmed life. Almost. He has great friends, parents who love him just the way he is, and he was a champion hurdler until someone took out his knee when they kidnapped his boyfriend. Yet, Michael is determined to make the USATF tryouts in spite of his injuries.
Christy Castle is Michael’s entire world. Healing from years of abuse, his abduction by a predator has left him hiding a new secret as he tries to start his life again. Together, Michael and Christy work to recover from their wounds in time to make prom and graduate high school. To complicate matters, Christy is astonished to learn a fellow victim from his native Greece has survived. Christy will stop at nothing to bring him to the US to keep him safe.
But the prosecution of Christy’s kidnapper looms large in their futures and the struggle to return to normal only worsens. Christy's past continues to haunt them and, when the prosecution turns ugly and Christy’s new life is torn apart, only their unrelenting courage and determination can save them from the nightmare that threatens to destroy their future together.
Tharros
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
I fell in love with all the characters in the first book Omorphi, but Therros took Christy, Michael and all of their friends stories to another level of suspense and emotional drama. Christy lived through so much physical, sexual, and emotional abuse that is was a wonder he could even function, but in spite of that with Michael's love he thrived. Christy's strength of will and determination to overcome his past was inspirational. Michael's determination to protect, support, and love Christy gave him the freedom to become the wonderful individual he could be. After all of their struggles, Christy's past returned to haunt them when they were forced to relive his kidnapping when they had to testify in trial. Facing Yosef, Christy's abuser, was the most horrifying and courageous thing I have ever experienced. The strength of will to stand up to him after years of abuse would take more guts than most people would have, but Christy it was the only way to protect others and get his life back. I couldn't put this book down until the very end and I for one can't wait until Elpida, the next book, is released. This series will remain as one of my most read and favorite series.
December 16, 2016
So a young adult book, not my thing at all and this was a book that I would not have picked at all except for the cover and trying to meet a demand of a challenge. I am really happy though that I read this. The subject matter on so many levels is something that I never ever want to read but this was an absolutely touching story. This was a book to me like the Cara Dee series and the Violence Begets. Which once again I read for the pushing boundaries challenge and they did push me. I did not read the first book in this series, I read the second book first. I will go back and read it and will continue on with the series so that I have the conclusion but boy o boy is this series heart wrenching. Is this a feel good book that I would go back to and read regularly, nope but it definitely is one that puts things in perspective. This was just wow. I do love all of the secondary characters and the strength in these characters is just wow.
October 12, 2016
Thárros (Elpida Book 2) further embodies the importance and power of unconditional love, courage, compassion, understanding and above all hope. Sometimes I fought back tears, sometimes I laughed, all while continuing to love or at least appreciate each character for what they bring to the story and the messages they convey. I can't wait for Elpida #3!
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