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Obsession
Temptation
Life couldn’t get any more complicated for Rick. He's going through adolescence and coming to terms with his sexuality, which he hides from his parents.
Meet Mr Devereaux, Rick's PE and French teacher who Rick can't stop thinking about. To complicate matters even more, Mr Devereaux is married to the principal of the same school.
As Rick comes to terms with being a young homosexual man, he fantasises about what it would be like to be with an older man. After sneaking into his teacher's office and almost getting caught out, Rick realises that his fantasies and urges are beginning to take over his life.
One night, at dinner, Rick's father comes home and reveals some news that sends shockwaves through Rick. His father has just received a promotion at work and has been offered to relocate to London, England for one year, with all expenses paid.
Moving to London would mean that Rick would be away from his friends and Mr Devereaux and ultimately, he tries to convince his father to allow him to stay in Australia and live with relatives while he and his mother move to London. His father refuses, leaving Rick no choice but to pack up his life and go with them.
When they arrive in London things are far from easy for Rick. After finally settling into a new English school, Rick makes some new friends including Nate, who is openly gay.
Together Nate and his friends convince Rick to go to a local bar. There he meets Jared, the owner of the bar, who is drop dead gorgeous, gay and he happens to be an older man.
Rick starts spending a lot of time at the bar on weekends with his new friends, and soon, sparks fly between Jared and Rick.
With Mr Devereaux on the other side of the world, Rick has finally found another older man who happens to be gay, but is he the older man that he wants?
Rick's temporary life in London is cut short when he suddenly becomes seriously ill and must return to Australia to make a full recovery before he can return back to school. However, it takes Rick longer than anticipated to recover from his illness and unfortunately, having missed out on too much school, he must repeat the school year when he fully recovers, making him the oldest student in his class.
Will Rick finally have a chance with Mr Devereaux?
Temptation is the second book in The Obsession Series, and a prequel to Obsession.
Meet Mr Devereaux, Rick's PE and French teacher who Rick can't stop thinking about. To complicate matters even more, Mr Devereaux is married to the principal of the same school.
As Rick comes to terms with being a young homosexual man, he fantasises about what it would be like to be with an older man. After sneaking into his teacher's office and almost getting caught out, Rick realises that his fantasies and urges are beginning to take over his life.
One night, at dinner, Rick's father comes home and reveals some news that sends shockwaves through Rick. His father has just received a promotion at work and has been offered to relocate to London, England for one year, with all expenses paid.
Moving to London would mean that Rick would be away from his friends and Mr Devereaux and ultimately, he tries to convince his father to allow him to stay in Australia and live with relatives while he and his mother move to London. His father refuses, leaving Rick no choice but to pack up his life and go with them.
When they arrive in London things are far from easy for Rick. After finally settling into a new English school, Rick makes some new friends including Nate, who is openly gay.
Together Nate and his friends convince Rick to go to a local bar. There he meets Jared, the owner of the bar, who is drop dead gorgeous, gay and he happens to be an older man.
Rick starts spending a lot of time at the bar on weekends with his new friends, and soon, sparks fly between Jared and Rick.
With Mr Devereaux on the other side of the world, Rick has finally found another older man who happens to be gay, but is he the older man that he wants?
Rick's temporary life in London is cut short when he suddenly becomes seriously ill and must return to Australia to make a full recovery before he can return back to school. However, it takes Rick longer than anticipated to recover from his illness and unfortunately, having missed out on too much school, he must repeat the school year when he fully recovers, making him the oldest student in his class.
Will Rick finally have a chance with Mr Devereaux?
Temptation is the second book in The Obsession Series, and a prequel to Obsession.
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First published September 1, 2014
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October 19, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. I give it 5 stars!!!
Temptation is a prequel to Steve Genis' book Obsession. I had the pleasure of reading Obsession prior to reading Temptation. I fell in love with the characters, especially Rick, and my love for him only grew after reading Temptation.
Temptation takes place about two years prior to Obsession. He and his family are moved from Australia to London for one year due to his father's job. Rick has to deal with leaving everything behind in Australia, including his friends and most importantly the man he loves, his PE/French teacher Mr. Devereaux.
Rick did not think he would be able to think about another man except Mr. Devereaux, since he has literally consumed his every thought for as long as he could remember. When he arrives in London, he makes great friends and in the process finds himself attracted to more than one man. He his stunned at how he is feeling, as he thought he wouldn't be able look at another man sexually, let alone develop feelings for them other than Mr. Devereaux. Rick is so conflicted on whether or not he should act on the different temptations surrounding him.
Throughout this book, Rick struggles with the emotions he is feeling.
Steve Genis surprised me in this book in the best possible way. There was an amazing contrast between the character Rick is in this book and in Obsession. Rick displayed some insecurities I did not see in the other book. I always thought that Rick was so poised for a man so young and that did not change in this book, even though he was two years younger here. However, his indecisiveness was a surprise. When I first met Rick in Obsession, he was absolute in his conviction about his love for Mr. Devereaux and he never faltered when people would say it was just a school boy crush. He knew his own mind and was sure it was so much more. And this is where Steve did an excellent job...the contradictions in Rick's character were so well written. It was so clear to me the direction Steve wanted to take in Rick's character and his journey to self discovery. Temptation was so well written from beginning to end. I was unable to put the book down, and have not been so consumed with a book that I was not able to put it down in quite some time.
Thank you Steve for introducing me to Rick and allowing me to be a passenger in Rick's journey. I can't wait to see where it takes him next.
Temptation is a prequel to Steve Genis' book Obsession. I had the pleasure of reading Obsession prior to reading Temptation. I fell in love with the characters, especially Rick, and my love for him only grew after reading Temptation.
Temptation takes place about two years prior to Obsession. He and his family are moved from Australia to London for one year due to his father's job. Rick has to deal with leaving everything behind in Australia, including his friends and most importantly the man he loves, his PE/French teacher Mr. Devereaux.
Rick did not think he would be able to think about another man except Mr. Devereaux, since he has literally consumed his every thought for as long as he could remember. When he arrives in London, he makes great friends and in the process finds himself attracted to more than one man. He his stunned at how he is feeling, as he thought he wouldn't be able look at another man sexually, let alone develop feelings for them other than Mr. Devereaux. Rick is so conflicted on whether or not he should act on the different temptations surrounding him.
Throughout this book, Rick struggles with the emotions he is feeling.
Steve Genis surprised me in this book in the best possible way. There was an amazing contrast between the character Rick is in this book and in Obsession. Rick displayed some insecurities I did not see in the other book. I always thought that Rick was so poised for a man so young and that did not change in this book, even though he was two years younger here. However, his indecisiveness was a surprise. When I first met Rick in Obsession, he was absolute in his conviction about his love for Mr. Devereaux and he never faltered when people would say it was just a school boy crush. He knew his own mind and was sure it was so much more. And this is where Steve did an excellent job...the contradictions in Rick's character were so well written. It was so clear to me the direction Steve wanted to take in Rick's character and his journey to self discovery. Temptation was so well written from beginning to end. I was unable to put the book down, and have not been so consumed with a book that I was not able to put it down in quite some time.
Thank you Steve for introducing me to Rick and allowing me to be a passenger in Rick's journey. I can't wait to see where it takes him next.
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November 15, 2014Just so you know, I don’t write a review for every book I read. I write reviews for books that speak to me, with characters that I can invest in and stories that make me want more. Temptation did all of those things, and then some. Through phenomenal writing, the characters were very authentic to me, like they could be anyone I would have known growing up. The story itself is like an evolution—not your cliché’ “coming of age” story, though. The main character, Rick, knows exactly who he is…even at a young age…the story is deeper than that. It’s about how he chooses (or doesn’t choose) to share that with everyone close to him and how he is finally able to put aside fantasy for reality…at least for a little while. Steve Genis tells a brilliant story of love, lust and enduring friendships and I’m so grateful this is the series prequel and I get to experience the rest of the story over the course of two more books.
October 16, 2014
After reading Obsession, I was really looking forward to the second book, Temptation and where Ricks journey begins. And I am pleased to say, I wasn't disappointed.
Rick is basically uprooted and moved to England due to his father's job and a new school awaits him. He is introduced to a number of friends who show him around this new and vibrant city. Along the way he meets Jared who also featured in Obsession. They become intimate and Jared shows Rick passion that ignites sexual desires.
However, Rick also has strong feels for a school friend and becomes confused about who he should and shouldn't be with.
Will Rick stay with the hot, older and more experienced Jared or will he be Tempted to taste a younger, sweeter model??
You will have to read to find out...
October 16, 2014
Temptation is the beginning of Rick Santini's story. He moves with his parents to London, England and while there comes to terms with being gay. He enters into a couple relationships but struggles with his feelings towards Jared and Nate. He becomes ill and has to return to Melbourne where he is to repeat grade 10. His feelings towards Mr. Devereaux are stronger than ever and his Obsession is now starting.
I enjoyed this story. The character Rick is a little piece of all of us trying to find love. Scared, insecure, tempted, obsessed, excited, loved.
I enjoyed this story. The character Rick is a little piece of all of us trying to find love. Scared, insecure, tempted, obsessed, excited, loved.
October 22, 2014
I fell absolutely head over heels for this book. The writing is so good and spoke to me so eloquently that it felt as if i were living this book through Rick. All of his feelings and emotions were palpable. Imagine being an 18 year old and not only trying to come to terms with your sexuality while at the same time obsessing over the man who has stolen your heart. Rick’s life is hidden from everyone- his parents, his classmates, friends and especially his teacher, Mr. Devereaux who consumes his every thought. I can’t imagine being Rick and living in constant fear of someone finding out your hidden secrets. When Rick’s father is temporarily transferred to England, Rick realizes he must put his feelings for his teacher aside and begin to live his life. One night at a bar, Rick meets the older and deliciously sexy Jared, who in turn rocks Rick’s world. This pair have a dynamic chemistry. Their relationship is sexy, funny, sweet and dramatic. Despite everything, Mr. Devereaux always remains in the back of Rick’s mind. Rick is conflicted about his new feelings for Jared and his feelings for his teacher. When a sudden illness forces Rick to leave England, everything in his life, once again, turns topsy turvy.
This book was smart, emotional and addictive. Temptation totally surprised me in the best possible way. I loved living vicariously through Rick as he struggles with growing up and trying to find himself. This journey will make you laugh and cry. After all, who doesn’t remember the awkwardness and passion of your first true love. Kudos to the author for creating a character that you will fall in love. For creating a character that remains true to his convictions even as everything around him changes and life is flying by at a hundred miles an hour. I adored this read and highly recommend it. I can’t wait to read more from this extremely talented author.
5 out of 5 stars.
This book was smart, emotional and addictive. Temptation totally surprised me in the best possible way. I loved living vicariously through Rick as he struggles with growing up and trying to find himself. This journey will make you laugh and cry. After all, who doesn’t remember the awkwardness and passion of your first true love. Kudos to the author for creating a character that you will fall in love. For creating a character that remains true to his convictions even as everything around him changes and life is flying by at a hundred miles an hour. I adored this read and highly recommend it. I can’t wait to read more from this extremely talented author.
5 out of 5 stars.
October 26, 2014
Original Blog Post:Blog Tour, eARC Review, Excerpt: Temptation (Obsession Prequel) by Steve Genis Blog Tour
In this book, Rick is experiencing his confusion as he crushes on Mr Devereaux and he is hesitant of his feelings, he is unsure of himself, and basically he is a very young, immature, man. His crushing on an older man at a very young age sets the course of his future relationships.
In London, after being uprooted by his father because of a promotion, Rick immediately narrows his field of vision on someone older, Hugh, who just happens to be his father's chauffeur. Then Rick gains friends in his new school and one young friend, Nate, should have been the answer to society's expectation of what a young Rick should have as a potential boyfriend. Again, Rick just does not feel it for he is drawn to older men.
One night at a bar, he meets Jared and this is where the real complications that extent to the first book really begins. His relationship with this older man was a temptation he could not turn away from and Jared falls hard and eventually could not see past a future without Rick. As their story progresses, I cannot but help remember how it all eventually went down with Jared.
For those who have not read Obsession, I could say reading Temptation plots the course of that first story. As I read that before this one, I could say that what happens here just reaffirmed my suspicions.
This whole series is heartbreaking but this is a read that one cannot afford to never read. It is real, it is raw, it is scary. Read back to back and in any order, this is a story that sticks and makes us think and feel.
In this book, Rick is experiencing his confusion as he crushes on Mr Devereaux and he is hesitant of his feelings, he is unsure of himself, and basically he is a very young, immature, man. His crushing on an older man at a very young age sets the course of his future relationships.
In London, after being uprooted by his father because of a promotion, Rick immediately narrows his field of vision on someone older, Hugh, who just happens to be his father's chauffeur. Then Rick gains friends in his new school and one young friend, Nate, should have been the answer to society's expectation of what a young Rick should have as a potential boyfriend. Again, Rick just does not feel it for he is drawn to older men.
One night at a bar, he meets Jared and this is where the real complications that extent to the first book really begins. His relationship with this older man was a temptation he could not turn away from and Jared falls hard and eventually could not see past a future without Rick. As their story progresses, I cannot but help remember how it all eventually went down with Jared.
For those who have not read Obsession, I could say reading Temptation plots the course of that first story. As I read that before this one, I could say that what happens here just reaffirmed my suspicions.
This whole series is heartbreaking but this is a read that one cannot afford to never read. It is real, it is raw, it is scary. Read back to back and in any order, this is a story that sticks and makes us think and feel.
January 26, 2015
2.5 Stars
Surprisingly, I actually liked this book better than book 1, but admit I'm still not a fan of Rick. I still found him to be extremely selfish and thinking only of himself. And worse, in Obsession, there is no mention of Nate and I thought he played a big role in Rick's life. We met Jared, but not Nate...not even in a fond if in a bittersweet way. I still don't understand the Jared and Rick thing. Jared is older and should be smarter, but he falls for an underage teen? Something that could get him locked up? And what is with serving them alcohol? The man was just begging for trouble. I could actually get on board with the drinking, but Rick's total lack of disregard for everyone's but his own feelings was a bit much. He couldn't decide who he wanted a relationship with and jumped into bed with both, after claiming to love someone else entirely. And he actually acts like a real dick to them both, and yet they took it. Unbelievable. So yeah, definitely not a fan of Rick.
I did like Joel and Nate. Nate made some mistakes, but overall, he was actually a much nicer person than Rick. Joel was an all-around good guy, and someone Rick could use in his life. Perhaps if Rick would have just hung out with those closer to his age, he may have been able to redeem himself.
Surprisingly, I actually liked this book better than book 1, but admit I'm still not a fan of Rick. I still found him to be extremely selfish and thinking only of himself. And worse, in Obsession, there is no mention of Nate and I thought he played a big role in Rick's life. We met Jared, but not Nate...not even in a fond if in a bittersweet way. I still don't understand the Jared and Rick thing. Jared is older and should be smarter, but he falls for an underage teen? Something that could get him locked up? And what is with serving them alcohol? The man was just begging for trouble. I could actually get on board with the drinking, but Rick's total lack of disregard for everyone's but his own feelings was a bit much. He couldn't decide who he wanted a relationship with and jumped into bed with both, after claiming to love someone else entirely. And he actually acts like a real dick to them both, and yet they took it. Unbelievable. So yeah, definitely not a fan of Rick.
I did like Joel and Nate. Nate made some mistakes, but overall, he was actually a much nicer person than Rick. Joel was an all-around good guy, and someone Rick could use in his life. Perhaps if Rick would have just hung out with those closer to his age, he may have been able to redeem himself.
October 28, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Rick is in high school and his father has just dropped the bomb that they're moving from Australia to London for at year. He is struggling with the attraction he has for his teacher and how he is going to be away from him for a year. He is convinced he is in love with his teacher. His move to London takes a lot of different twists and turns that he never expected.
This book does an excellent job of highlighting the feelings a person attracted to the same gender would have to deal with, especially when the people he interacts with are open and have "come out" to their own families. His angst did frustrate me at times, especially when he would do something and then after the fact have a rapid change of heart. But it does an amazing job of setting up the time line and back story for Obsession.
A late comer to this series I read it in its recommended order and I must insist if your starting or with this series that you also read it in that order so that you can gain the full experience from start to finish:
- Temptation
- Obsession
- Resignation
Rick is in high school and his father has just dropped the bomb that they're moving from Australia to London for at year. He is struggling with the attraction he has for his teacher and how he is going to be away from him for a year. He is convinced he is in love with his teacher. His move to London takes a lot of different twists and turns that he never expected.
This book does an excellent job of highlighting the feelings a person attracted to the same gender would have to deal with, especially when the people he interacts with are open and have "come out" to their own families. His angst did frustrate me at times, especially when he would do something and then after the fact have a rapid change of heart. But it does an amazing job of setting up the time line and back story for Obsession.
A late comer to this series I read it in its recommended order and I must insist if your starting or with this series that you also read it in that order so that you can gain the full experience from start to finish:
- Temptation
- Obsession
- Resignation
October 16, 2014
I was hooked from the minute I started reading. Being able to take the journey with Rick throughout the story was memorizing to me. Seeing him struggle within himself in the beginning of the book and finally start to open himself up to the possibility of love and happiness towards the end only dragged me further into his life and his story and through all his ups and downs seeing him finally start to accept who he was and what he finally wanted only to have an something happen that once again threw his life up in the air only makes me want to continue my journey with him and see where he ends up in life and with who.
October 16, 2014
3 1/2 Stars (but'll round up to 4*)
This is the 1st book I have read by Steve Genis, I enjoyed the book and the idea of the story, so why 3 1/2 stars. Well, it was hard for me to get into at first, it dragged a little and was a little choppy but the more I read the more I got into it. It was a little more stakerish then I like and a couple times I just found it a little creepy. But overall i enjoyed the story...Will I be reading Obsession now...sure will. Is this a book I would recommend to a friend? Yes it is :)
This is the 1st book I have read by Steve Genis, I enjoyed the book and the idea of the story, so why 3 1/2 stars. Well, it was hard for me to get into at first, it dragged a little and was a little choppy but the more I read the more I got into it. It was a little more stakerish then I like and a couple times I just found it a little creepy. But overall i enjoyed the story...Will I be reading Obsession now...sure will. Is this a book I would recommend to a friend? Yes it is :)
October 16, 2014
I got to experience this book as an ARC. It follows the story of a young gay teenager, rick finding himself while dealing with the struggles of coming out, being homosexual and harboring a crush on his PE teacher. While I had never read a m/m erotic book, this is a great one to start with. It slowly introduces the idea of m/m, without throwing it all at you at once. It is a very easy read and you quickly become emotionally attached to the characters. I cannot wait to continue with this series, very well written & intriguing storyline!
October 16, 2014
Temptation by Steve Genis was a very interesting look into the life of a young man coming into his sexuality. Starting with a crush, the book takes you on a sweet jouney of Rick; a young man learning about himself and relationships and how he deals with them. This was a great opener for Obsession; which this is the prequel to and I now have a new author to watch for. The story flowed evenly and other than the hot mattress action on Rick's part I couldn't find a complaint. Great job Mr. Genis!!!!
October 17, 2014
Over all 5 stars. The book is well written and explains a lot of things from the first book. Your emotions are all over the place. I laughed, cried, and was just ticked off in parts of the book. I love his writing style. It is the story of young love or at least lust, and is written to get you involved with the story and remember a time when you were going through such things. I love Steve's imagination and can not wait to see what else he comes out with.
October 30, 2014
Actual 4.5 Rating......Original Blog Post: http://gaymediareviews.weebly.com/blo...
Rick is coming to terms with his sexuality and life couldn't get more confusing. Mr. Devereaux is Rick's teacher in high school and he can't stop thinking of his older teacher and to make things more complicated his teacher is married to the schools principal. Rick is dealing with coming to terms with his sexuality and he wants desperately to be with an older man. Now Rick's life is going to send him into a tale spin as his father tells him that he received a job promotion and moving the family to London for one year. Rick tries to convince his father to let him stay behind with relatives in Australia while the family gets settled in London, but it's a no go so Rick has to move to London. So now he is dealing with the emotions of learning to be a gay teenager, leave his friends and his crush, Mr. Devereaux behind.
Now in London Rick sets his sights on Hugh, his fathers driver. I loved Nate his new high school friend and he would make an amazing boyfriend for Rick but he is only attracted to older men. Rick meets the older and sexy Jared at a bar and he could not avoid the temptation of being with this man and Jared falls equally hard for Rick. Things start to settle down for Rick as he is enjoying his new life in London and Jared. When a sudden illness forces Rick to leave England is when his life gets turned upside down again. Will he survive the illness, will he start things up with Mr. Devereaux? What will happen to Nate and Jared?
I enjoyed the writing of this author and how he makes you feel about life. I absolutely love the gay coming of age stories with characters growing with the self discovery of who they are and how to accept their sexuality and what it all means. It was so much fun reading about what most gay teenagers have to deal with in growing up and how quite different it than straight teenagers. This author developed the characters and story so brilliantly. I recommend this coming of age story...Temptation by Steve Genis to anyone who loves reading about love, acceptance, hot gay sex, drama and beautifully written characters!
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Paul at Gay Media Reviews
Rick is coming to terms with his sexuality and life couldn't get more confusing. Mr. Devereaux is Rick's teacher in high school and he can't stop thinking of his older teacher and to make things more complicated his teacher is married to the schools principal. Rick is dealing with coming to terms with his sexuality and he wants desperately to be with an older man. Now Rick's life is going to send him into a tale spin as his father tells him that he received a job promotion and moving the family to London for one year. Rick tries to convince his father to let him stay behind with relatives in Australia while the family gets settled in London, but it's a no go so Rick has to move to London. So now he is dealing with the emotions of learning to be a gay teenager, leave his friends and his crush, Mr. Devereaux behind.
Now in London Rick sets his sights on Hugh, his fathers driver. I loved Nate his new high school friend and he would make an amazing boyfriend for Rick but he is only attracted to older men. Rick meets the older and sexy Jared at a bar and he could not avoid the temptation of being with this man and Jared falls equally hard for Rick. Things start to settle down for Rick as he is enjoying his new life in London and Jared. When a sudden illness forces Rick to leave England is when his life gets turned upside down again. Will he survive the illness, will he start things up with Mr. Devereaux? What will happen to Nate and Jared?
I enjoyed the writing of this author and how he makes you feel about life. I absolutely love the gay coming of age stories with characters growing with the self discovery of who they are and how to accept their sexuality and what it all means. It was so much fun reading about what most gay teenagers have to deal with in growing up and how quite different it than straight teenagers. This author developed the characters and story so brilliantly. I recommend this coming of age story...Temptation by Steve Genis to anyone who loves reading about love, acceptance, hot gay sex, drama and beautifully written characters!
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Paul at Gay Media Reviews
November 30, 2015
4.5 stars
Rick is a teen who finds himself insanely attracted to his P.E Teacher, Mr Devereaux who also happens to be married to his school's principal. Every single thought he has is about him no matter where he is, so when he finds out that he won't be seeing him for a full year due to having to relocate to England for a year for his dad's job, to say he is mortified is an understatement.
When he gets to England he quickly makes friends with Joel, who introduces him to his friends, they all bond but a couple of them, are gay like Rick. Firstly there's Nate who is the same age as Rick. Rick doesn't like him the same way as Nate likes Rick which causes a few problems between the 2 of them especially when Nate finds out about Jared, the owner of the bar they go to. Another major problem for Rick not being able to commit to either Nate or Jared is his infatuation with his teacher back home. Will he ever go back home ?? And if he does will he ever get to have his way with the super sexy teacher ??
Right, now, i've got to admit i'm not a huge fan of Rick at the minute and this is mainly due to the way he treats Nate and Jared. Yes i know he's hormonal teenager who, when the opportunity presents for him to get laid he has to go for it. But i felt so sorry for them both. They fell head over heels for him and he basically used them. But then, when he ends up back home he starts to feel guilty for this. He made me so frustrated !!! I wanted to get in the book and slap him and say "Look have fun while you can !" Yes i felt bad for him for being uprooted from his home to a foreign country but GAH !!! His on/off feelings for Nate really maddened me and made me want to jump in and hug Nate.
This is why it's only 4.5 rating but overall i really did enjoy it and look forward to seeing if my opinion of Rick will alter !
Rick is a teen who finds himself insanely attracted to his P.E Teacher, Mr Devereaux who also happens to be married to his school's principal. Every single thought he has is about him no matter where he is, so when he finds out that he won't be seeing him for a full year due to having to relocate to England for a year for his dad's job, to say he is mortified is an understatement.
When he gets to England he quickly makes friends with Joel, who introduces him to his friends, they all bond but a couple of them, are gay like Rick. Firstly there's Nate who is the same age as Rick. Rick doesn't like him the same way as Nate likes Rick which causes a few problems between the 2 of them especially when Nate finds out about Jared, the owner of the bar they go to. Another major problem for Rick not being able to commit to either Nate or Jared is his infatuation with his teacher back home. Will he ever go back home ?? And if he does will he ever get to have his way with the super sexy teacher ??
Right, now, i've got to admit i'm not a huge fan of Rick at the minute and this is mainly due to the way he treats Nate and Jared. Yes i know he's hormonal teenager who, when the opportunity presents for him to get laid he has to go for it. But i felt so sorry for them both. They fell head over heels for him and he basically used them. But then, when he ends up back home he starts to feel guilty for this. He made me so frustrated !!! I wanted to get in the book and slap him and say "Look have fun while you can !" Yes i felt bad for him for being uprooted from his home to a foreign country but GAH !!! His on/off feelings for Nate really maddened me and made me want to jump in and hug Nate.
This is why it's only 4.5 rating but overall i really did enjoy it and look forward to seeing if my opinion of Rick will alter !
May 13, 2015
***REVIEWED FOR SARAH & KIRSTY'S BOOK REVIEWS***
This was a great prequel to Obsession. I enjoyed getting to know Rick a bit more and finding out his background with Jared. I found Rick a bit annoying in the way he behaved with Nate and Jared. I almost felt he was stringing them both along at some points but as I kept reading I understood why he was so conflicted with his feelings. I really liked Jared in this book – I never thought I would write that! He did seem to genuinely care for Rick despite being a tad eager at some points, especially with the way he declared his love for Rick so quickly. I liked Nate up until he got ill. The way he acted and didn’t mention his illness put me off him a bit. I disliked Ricks Dad. He was very pushy with Rick and sometimes he seemed almost cold towards him in the way he showed hardly any emotion. I absolutely adored his Mum though! She is what I imagine most mums are like. She was incredibly warm and loving towards Rick, I found myself smiling whenever she was in the paragraph. The sex scenes were once again very erotic and sensual; a lot of research must have gone into getting them as perfect as this. For an author who lives in Australia, Steve did a fantastic job of describing Notting Hill. I knew instantly which areas he was talking about. I loved that to Rick, everything was so new. From getting on a double decker bus to seeing snow, they are all pretty normal for me so it was nice to view it from someone else’s perspective. I loved the ending and I think it sets up Obsession perfectly if someone chose to read this first. This is a fantastic read and I can’t wait to see what happens next. 5 stars
This was a great prequel to Obsession. I enjoyed getting to know Rick a bit more and finding out his background with Jared. I found Rick a bit annoying in the way he behaved with Nate and Jared. I almost felt he was stringing them both along at some points but as I kept reading I understood why he was so conflicted with his feelings. I really liked Jared in this book – I never thought I would write that! He did seem to genuinely care for Rick despite being a tad eager at some points, especially with the way he declared his love for Rick so quickly. I liked Nate up until he got ill. The way he acted and didn’t mention his illness put me off him a bit. I disliked Ricks Dad. He was very pushy with Rick and sometimes he seemed almost cold towards him in the way he showed hardly any emotion. I absolutely adored his Mum though! She is what I imagine most mums are like. She was incredibly warm and loving towards Rick, I found myself smiling whenever she was in the paragraph. The sex scenes were once again very erotic and sensual; a lot of research must have gone into getting them as perfect as this. For an author who lives in Australia, Steve did a fantastic job of describing Notting Hill. I knew instantly which areas he was talking about. I loved that to Rick, everything was so new. From getting on a double decker bus to seeing snow, they are all pretty normal for me so it was nice to view it from someone else’s perspective. I loved the ending and I think it sets up Obsession perfectly if someone chose to read this first. This is a fantastic read and I can’t wait to see what happens next. 5 stars
May 8, 2015
First love and how it can open your eyes......brilliant.
Rick Santini is a young man with a high school crush on his teacher. So what, you say!!!! His crush, is his male teacher Jacques Devereaux.
Rick is tentatively discovering his homosexuality. A secret that he keeps hidden from everybody, even his best friend Eve.
His world is turned upside down when his father makes an announcement that they are moving - to the other side of the world. Rick faces the prospect of leaving behind his one true love - his teacher.
Steve Genus needs to be congratulated for writing such a beautiful book. Tackling the subject of homosexuality through the feelings of such a young person.
Rick makes new friends whilst away - some turn into lovers.
At times I found Rick to be quite selfish in his attitudes towards Jared and Nate - but then I realised that it is all a part of growing up.
Steve has looked at Rock's relationships through open eyes. He has carefully related how both parties are feeling at all times!!! Even though Steve has Rick saying he doesn't love his sexual partners - there is a great deal of emotion involved.
Congrats Steve Genus on writing such a wonderful story.
Definitely giving it 5*****
Rick Santini is a young man with a high school crush on his teacher. So what, you say!!!! His crush, is his male teacher Jacques Devereaux.
Rick is tentatively discovering his homosexuality. A secret that he keeps hidden from everybody, even his best friend Eve.
His world is turned upside down when his father makes an announcement that they are moving - to the other side of the world. Rick faces the prospect of leaving behind his one true love - his teacher.
Steve Genus needs to be congratulated for writing such a beautiful book. Tackling the subject of homosexuality through the feelings of such a young person.
Rick makes new friends whilst away - some turn into lovers.
At times I found Rick to be quite selfish in his attitudes towards Jared and Nate - but then I realised that it is all a part of growing up.
Steve has looked at Rock's relationships through open eyes. He has carefully related how both parties are feeling at all times!!! Even though Steve has Rick saying he doesn't love his sexual partners - there is a great deal of emotion involved.
Congrats Steve Genus on writing such a wonderful story.
Definitely giving it 5*****
October 16, 2014
So I'll start by saying, I was looking forward to this book having already read Obsession- liking the thought of being able to delve deeper into the twisted world that is Rick. Unfortunately, for me, it didn't work.
In book 1 I was able to accept Ricks ways and behaviour, finding him endearing even- he was behaving that way because he was in love with his true love. In temptation however, I found Ricks behaviour to be nothing more than selfish and slutty. His lack of commitment, jumping between sexual partners, knowing that those men felt significantly more for him, made me actually dislike him.
With regard to Jared I didn't understand his reaction to Rick. His declaration of love just didn't make sense to me - He's considerably older than Rick but became desperately in love with a teenager after a few brief conversations?
I really liked Joel and Nate. The author showed a softer side with both of these characters. I was really rooting for Nate and Rick to work, as Nate did bring out a better/nicer side of Rick towards the end.
As I said at the beginning, this book wasn't for me, however I would recommend the series for people who like dark/intense reads.
In book 1 I was able to accept Ricks ways and behaviour, finding him endearing even- he was behaving that way because he was in love with his true love. In temptation however, I found Ricks behaviour to be nothing more than selfish and slutty. His lack of commitment, jumping between sexual partners, knowing that those men felt significantly more for him, made me actually dislike him.
With regard to Jared I didn't understand his reaction to Rick. His declaration of love just didn't make sense to me - He's considerably older than Rick but became desperately in love with a teenager after a few brief conversations?
I really liked Joel and Nate. The author showed a softer side with both of these characters. I was really rooting for Nate and Rick to work, as Nate did bring out a better/nicer side of Rick towards the end.
As I said at the beginning, this book wasn't for me, however I would recommend the series for people who like dark/intense reads.
November 2, 2014
I just recently found about Steve and reading this book blew me away. Steve sure knows how to make you feel the characters and their emotions, you can feel their pain & tears just reading this book. This is the story of a schoolboy Rick who faces a time of upheaval when is father gets a job in London, so the whole family have to move to London and Rick is not happy about having to leave his all his friends to go to London but he has no choice. This is his story of his time in London and the time of his sexual awakening and some of the friends he makes during his time in London, Jared, Nate & Joel. I definitely recommend this book by Steve as it is well written & once you start its very hard to put this book down and have the kleenex handy.
November 3, 2014
Steve manages to keep me sitting down and reading his work in one sitting. After reading obsession I could not wait to get my hands on to temptation. I absolutely love how Steve takes us back to Rick in London so we can learn about the relationship with Rick and Jared. Just like in book one you will need tissues. This is a tear jerker... Steve writes a fantastic plot line that keeps you wanting more. Steve Genis is by far one of my favorite authors.
Can't wait to read more from you Steve
Can't wait to read more from you Steve
November 5, 2014
Rick’s life is turned upside down when his family relocates to London for a year. Rick meets some new people and learns more about his sexuality as he tries to discover his true feelings. Emotional and gripping read. It is truly a journey in the mind of a closeted gay young man learning about what he truly wants. Excellent read…
October 23, 2014
This is book two in this series.
It's the story of Rick coming to terms with him being gay. I thought the author did a great job of portraying the characters as real. This has a really interesting storyline that I enjoyed. I loved how the author wrote this in a way that you can't help but love and care for Rick.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
It's the story of Rick coming to terms with him being gay. I thought the author did a great job of portraying the characters as real. This has a really interesting storyline that I enjoyed. I loved how the author wrote this in a way that you can't help but love and care for Rick.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
January 3, 2015
very interesting insight on what happened to Rick in London. Nate was a great character glad he Rick had that relationship prior to his teacher. he seemed to grow up a lot in this book to the next and learned a lot.
March 8, 2016
Temptation
I'm so interested to see how Rick deals with his friends from London and Australia. This book was super as Rick discovers his sexuality. I can't wait to see how the series unfolds.
I'm so interested to see how Rick deals with his friends from London and Australia. This book was super as Rick discovers his sexuality. I can't wait to see how the series unfolds.
January 12, 2016
A good story. I liked it. The characters, and the setting in the story.
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