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Diary of a Teenage Taxidermist
--- Too cool for school. ---
Ethan is a levelheaded, some might say ‘antisocial’, young artist-entrepreneur with a love for quirky taxidermy. He is close to graduating high school and at a crossroads. All he wants is to develop his business further, yet all his parents want is for him to go to law school. That is more than enough problems for Ethan, so any kind of love life is off his agenda. That is until Robert Hunter, the quarterback of the football team, comes crashing into him. Literally.
Robert drifts along in high school. He has good grades, he’s getting ready for med school, he’s even leaving potentially problematic dating until college. He’s gay, not ashamed of it, but he doesn’t want to stir up any trouble. His carefully laid plans might just go completely off the rails though, when he drinks too much at a party and causes irreversible damage to Ethan, the school’s weirdo.
Robert has to face the fact that maybe he isn’t the good guy he always considered himself to be. And maybe he doesn’t want to go to med school. And maybe, just maybe, he doesn’t actually want to wait with dating until college.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: First love, virginity, bullying, fitting in, entrepreneurship, disability, high school, jock/goth, taxidermy, artist
Erotic content: explicit sex scenes, dub-con
Genre: New Adult homoerotic romance
Length: ~ 90,000 words (Standalone novel, no cliffhanger.)
Ethan is a levelheaded, some might say ‘antisocial’, young artist-entrepreneur with a love for quirky taxidermy. He is close to graduating high school and at a crossroads. All he wants is to develop his business further, yet all his parents want is for him to go to law school. That is more than enough problems for Ethan, so any kind of love life is off his agenda. That is until Robert Hunter, the quarterback of the football team, comes crashing into him. Literally.
Robert drifts along in high school. He has good grades, he’s getting ready for med school, he’s even leaving potentially problematic dating until college. He’s gay, not ashamed of it, but he doesn’t want to stir up any trouble. His carefully laid plans might just go completely off the rails though, when he drinks too much at a party and causes irreversible damage to Ethan, the school’s weirdo.
Robert has to face the fact that maybe he isn’t the good guy he always considered himself to be. And maybe he doesn’t want to go to med school. And maybe, just maybe, he doesn’t actually want to wait with dating until college.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: First love, virginity, bullying, fitting in, entrepreneurship, disability, high school, jock/goth, taxidermy, artist
Erotic content: explicit sex scenes, dub-con
Genre: New Adult homoerotic romance
Length: ~ 90,000 words (Standalone novel, no cliffhanger.)
234 pages, ebook
First published October 31, 2014
192 people are currently reading
1269 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Merikan
130 books3,021 followers(Goodreads profile run by Kat)
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
February 11, 2024
When your future boyfriend ends up being the popular quarterback who pushed you so hard to the point where you spun in the air on the way to the ground that before you could push your arms forward, your eye landed on a branch that took your eye out.
“Just knowing you’re there is so important to me, honey. You can’t even know how much. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
Robert slowly scooted down, gripping the windowsill hard. That declaration forced all the air out of his lungs. “That’s not true. You’re ill because of me,” he uttered, closing his eyes as a wave of guilt washed over him like a furious storm.
“I would have never found you if it wasn’t for that.” Ethan’s voice was shaky and became more quiet. “You’re worth losing an eye for.”
Terrible way to start this review, but it really formed the relationship.
This was my second K.A. Merikan read and made up for my terrible introduction to their works. I was worried because of the supposed bully trope, which is not my jam at all, mostly because there is never enough redemption. However, I would hardly classify this as a bully to lovers romance, or even enemies to lovers.
In my opinion, Rob and Ethan simply started off on bad terms; Ethan being a gay loner who wears morbid jewelry and Rob being the closeted popular football quarterback popular with all the girls make for a common torment cycle. Yet, Rob never really torments and bothers Ethan on a daily level just because he wants to. The first chapter that leads to his regretful mistake was the only scene where Rob acts like an asshole. One drunken mistake led to their lives becoming intertwined, which is no excuse, but Rob never excuses his behavior and instead acknowledges it, trying his best to make up for it and help Ethan. What starts off as a so-called arrangement that Rob agrees to for the sake of Ethan staying silent about what happened becomes an unexpected friendship that develops into more.
Perhaps that is why this worked so well for me. Ethan and Rob have a shaky start but is made up through the time they share together. We see them go through a whole timeline of “I didn’t know you as well as I do now,” which is super common in high school as a whole, even if books make them a little more dramatic. Still, for me, there were many moments between the two that show their growing and lingering feelings. There are the usual teenage mishaps, but there’s still a lot to adore about these two. I loved seeing their attraction be built from lust to confusion to attraction to complete adoration, to the point where they became the “It-couple” at their school. The authors don’t shy away from details in their relationship, which makes the high school experience more believable. Adding on to that, we see their friendship be formed first before anything.
One other winning factor for this is how this is probably one of the most realistic high school romances I’ve read thus far, even if it classifies as NA more than solid YA. The authors take into account the different emotions and feelings high schoolers feel and express—hormones, awkwardness, bullying, popular teenagers, mishaps, judgement, uncertainty, school shenanigans. If there’s one common theme I’ve noticed in other MM romances, it’s that authors don’t always get into specific details of the preparation, especially when it comes to virgins. K.A. Merikan not only write about how the characters are feeling, like any type of discomfort or how they need to wait, but we also see how unsure Ethan and Rob are, even if they have an idea. They talk about improving, which I think is very fair, since, you know, they hadn’t done this before so how are they gonna be magically experts?? It’s a double virgin story, and as the reader, we see their confidence grow as they engage more. Not only is it an exploration story, but there is communication through the whole thing. It isn’t something where Rob and Ethan do without talking about everything else—types of condoms and lube, who tops and who bottoms, positions, and the general preparation.
All the moments between Ethan are Rob were adorable. They become some sort of life line for each other, its sweet. Rob becomes Ethan’s #1 supportive boyfriend on his projects and love for taxidermy, going from weirded out to completely fascinated. Ethan also holds out a lot of hope for Rob and his interest in creating food content, encouraging him to continue. Not only that, but they seem to have much better communication skills than adults. There wasn’t unnecessary miscommunication, but there were misunderstandings that are understandable for two teenage boys learning to adult while finding their way to continue being together. But you know what happens after? They apologize. They own up to their mistakes. They learn from it. There’s also a bit of jealousy before they become an official couple, providing more tension. I also loved how the authors don’t make Rob the typical closeted type that uses his childhood or closeted case to excuse his behavior. He acknowledges what happened with Ethan and regrets it. Plus, his sexuality is only hidden not because he’s afraid but because he doesn’t want it to be such a big deal. There were no excuses for how he acted and instead a believable form of redemption. We see the two open up to each other more and more as they hang out. Ethan becomes more comfortable with who he is, and Rob starts letting go of what he has been hiding. Their situations never felt over the top.
All in all, I loved this. Ethan’s parents were one of the only obstacles of enjoyment here, but it wasn’t anything new, per se. There were also times when I got frustrated with the switch up between using Robert’s name and his nickname, Rob. Besides that, I understand this isn’t these authors usual writing style, as their works are more gritty and dark. Regardless, I want to become somewhat familiarized before I dive into their stronger stuff.
“I want everything from you,”[…] “And I’ll give you anything.”
“Just knowing you’re there is so important to me, honey. You can’t even know how much. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
Robert slowly scooted down, gripping the windowsill hard. That declaration forced all the air out of his lungs. “That’s not true. You’re ill because of me,” he uttered, closing his eyes as a wave of guilt washed over him like a furious storm.
“I would have never found you if it wasn’t for that.” Ethan’s voice was shaky and became more quiet. “You’re worth losing an eye for.”
Terrible way to start this review, but it really formed the relationship.
This was my second K.A. Merikan read and made up for my terrible introduction to their works. I was worried because of the supposed bully trope, which is not my jam at all, mostly because there is never enough redemption. However, I would hardly classify this as a bully to lovers romance, or even enemies to lovers.
In my opinion, Rob and Ethan simply started off on bad terms; Ethan being a gay loner who wears morbid jewelry and Rob being the closeted popular football quarterback popular with all the girls make for a common torment cycle. Yet, Rob never really torments and bothers Ethan on a daily level just because he wants to. The first chapter that leads to his regretful mistake was the only scene where Rob acts like an asshole. One drunken mistake led to their lives becoming intertwined, which is no excuse, but Rob never excuses his behavior and instead acknowledges it, trying his best to make up for it and help Ethan. What starts off as a so-called arrangement that Rob agrees to for the sake of Ethan staying silent about what happened becomes an unexpected friendship that develops into more.
Perhaps that is why this worked so well for me. Ethan and Rob have a shaky start but is made up through the time they share together. We see them go through a whole timeline of “I didn’t know you as well as I do now,” which is super common in high school as a whole, even if books make them a little more dramatic. Still, for me, there were many moments between the two that show their growing and lingering feelings. There are the usual teenage mishaps, but there’s still a lot to adore about these two. I loved seeing their attraction be built from lust to confusion to attraction to complete adoration, to the point where they became the “It-couple” at their school. The authors don’t shy away from details in their relationship, which makes the high school experience more believable. Adding on to that, we see their friendship be formed first before anything.
One other winning factor for this is how this is probably one of the most realistic high school romances I’ve read thus far, even if it classifies as NA more than solid YA. The authors take into account the different emotions and feelings high schoolers feel and express—hormones, awkwardness, bullying, popular teenagers, mishaps, judgement, uncertainty, school shenanigans. If there’s one common theme I’ve noticed in other MM romances, it’s that authors don’t always get into specific details of the preparation, especially when it comes to virgins. K.A. Merikan not only write about how the characters are feeling, like any type of discomfort or how they need to wait, but we also see how unsure Ethan and Rob are, even if they have an idea. They talk about improving, which I think is very fair, since, you know, they hadn’t done this before so how are they gonna be magically experts?? It’s a double virgin story, and as the reader, we see their confidence grow as they engage more. Not only is it an exploration story, but there is communication through the whole thing. It isn’t something where Rob and Ethan do without talking about everything else—types of condoms and lube, who tops and who bottoms, positions, and the general preparation.
All the moments between Ethan are Rob were adorable. They become some sort of life line for each other, its sweet. Rob becomes Ethan’s #1 supportive boyfriend on his projects and love for taxidermy, going from weirded out to completely fascinated. Ethan also holds out a lot of hope for Rob and his interest in creating food content, encouraging him to continue. Not only that, but they seem to have much better communication skills than adults. There wasn’t unnecessary miscommunication, but there were misunderstandings that are understandable for two teenage boys learning to adult while finding their way to continue being together. But you know what happens after? They apologize. They own up to their mistakes. They learn from it. There’s also a bit of jealousy before they become an official couple, providing more tension. I also loved how the authors don’t make Rob the typical closeted type that uses his childhood or closeted case to excuse his behavior. He acknowledges what happened with Ethan and regrets it. Plus, his sexuality is only hidden not because he’s afraid but because he doesn’t want it to be such a big deal. There were no excuses for how he acted and instead a believable form of redemption. We see the two open up to each other more and more as they hang out. Ethan becomes more comfortable with who he is, and Rob starts letting go of what he has been hiding. Their situations never felt over the top.
All in all, I loved this. Ethan’s parents were one of the only obstacles of enjoyment here, but it wasn’t anything new, per se. There were also times when I got frustrated with the switch up between using Robert’s name and his nickname, Rob. Besides that, I understand this isn’t these authors usual writing style, as their works are more gritty and dark. Regardless, I want to become somewhat familiarized before I dive into their stronger stuff.
“I want everything from you,”[…] “And I’ll give you anything.”
January 30, 2015
~4.25~
I almost DNF this book. Because.
Ethan is into taxidermy, and I kept wondering if the animals were killed or just found dead? It was sort of disturbing, but his art sounded cool. So I was totes conflicted.
Also.
Loss of an eye, memory lapses, and headaches: These are not minor problems.
Maybe if Robert hadn't been directly responsible for Ethan's "accident"? While I like the idea of a non-perfect MC, I thought Ethan's disability became almost a non-issue, and yet it was. A. Big. Fucking. Deal.
So that was weird.
BUT. Despite myself, I got pulled into this quirky story. And I kind of loved it.
This is all about the first-time love, total and complete devotion and adoration, and the HOTTEST, double-virgin sex. These boys are 18! Don't I feel like a pervert? Yeah, kind of. *shrugs*
But I appreciated their independence, their faith in each other, their enthusiasm for the future.
I wasn't sure who loved whom more. Ethan was completely in sparkly love with Rob, but Rob ADORED Ethan. I loved how Rob protected Ethan and how Rob's friends came round. And I loved Rob's mom; Ethan's parents...not so much, but they got it together, too.
And, hell, while I'm all for college education, Ethan and Rob had so much talent...and not all talent is cultivated in a lecture hall. #ohtobe18again
So in the end, this one worked for me. There was serious angst at the beginning, but it melted into hawtness and trust and the sweetest kind of forever love.
I went googly-eyed for these boys and for the care and tenderness they showed each other. The way Ethan LOOKED at Rob. The way Rob COOKED for Ethan. Gah!
I was DONE FOR, I tell you.
Forget the rats; embrace the weasels!
I almost DNF this book. Because.
Ethan is into taxidermy, and I kept wondering if the animals were killed or just found dead? It was sort of disturbing, but his art sounded cool. So I was totes conflicted.
Also.
Loss of an eye, memory lapses, and headaches: These are not minor problems.
Maybe if Robert hadn't been directly responsible for Ethan's "accident"? While I like the idea of a non-perfect MC, I thought Ethan's disability became almost a non-issue, and yet it was. A. Big. Fucking. Deal.
So that was weird.
BUT. Despite myself, I got pulled into this quirky story. And I kind of loved it.
This is all about the first-time love, total and complete devotion and adoration, and the HOTTEST, double-virgin sex. These boys are 18! Don't I feel like a pervert? Yeah, kind of. *shrugs*
But I appreciated their independence, their faith in each other, their enthusiasm for the future.
I wasn't sure who loved whom more. Ethan was completely in sparkly love with Rob, but Rob ADORED Ethan. I loved how Rob protected Ethan and how Rob's friends came round. And I loved Rob's mom; Ethan's parents...not so much, but they got it together, too.
And, hell, while I'm all for college education, Ethan and Rob had so much talent...and not all talent is cultivated in a lecture hall. #ohtobe18again
So in the end, this one worked for me. There was serious angst at the beginning, but it melted into hawtness and trust and the sweetest kind of forever love.
I went googly-eyed for these boys and for the care and tenderness they showed each other. The way Ethan LOOKED at Rob. The way Rob COOKED for Ethan. Gah!
I was DONE FOR, I tell you.
Forget the rats; embrace the weasels!
April 25, 2015
~
Okay, I'll confess. I would have *never* read this book without first receiving recommendations from a few friends. Why?
1.) Sorry, but taxidermy is NOT SEXY. It's slicing the skin off of a dead animal, (mostly rats in this book, so even more ick factor) then sewing that skin onto a plastic form. Weird and creepy as crap, if you ask me.
2.) Other reviews told me that a main plot line of the book is that MC#1, Ethan, falls face-first on a big, sharp, pointy stick, which goes straight through his eyeball, causing him to lose the eye entirely. Ewww, right??? Again with the "NOT SEXY" bits.
(Yeah, I'll pass on posting a pic of *that*, 'cause that shit's insanely gross.)
But I still decided to (squeamishly) proceed and I'm pretty glad that I did.
What I really liked about this story was the level of devotion that Rob showed toward Ethan. Rob was a bit of a gang mentality jock as the story began, but knowing and getting to care for Ethan gave him courage to go all superhero and stand up for both his beloved Ethan and for who he really was, but had been hiding from everyone else.
My feelings for Ethan tended to run hot and cold, as he'd be mature and focused one moment, with a love for Rob that bordered on hero worship, then a moment later, Ethan would act like a petulant boy-child, which got a bit frustrating.
(Imagine an eye patch, but this boy's pic was too cute to pass on and I'm complete shite with Photoshop.) *wink*
But my love for Rob kept pulling me back into the story over and over again, so the book kept me both interested and entertained.
This wasn't a perfect read for me, especially once the sex graduated to full on penetration, when some of the "erotic talk", using the term very loosely, that popped out of these boys' mouths really made me want a good, stiff drink. (Pun only partially intended.)
The sexy talk wasn't the dreaded purple prose, but there was definitely an extremely thick vein of ooey, gooey Velveeta running through their words.
But that was only a minor distraction, accompanied by frequent eye rolls, so I got back to my Rob-lovin' without much delay and continued on to more enjoyable chapters.
Plus, they were all flip-floppy in bed, which is all kinds of crazy hot FTW.
This oddly-entertaining read ended fairly abruptly, with as much of an HEA as you can get from two enamored 18 year old boys, so I would have preferred a nice epilogue tacked onto the end, but I had fun with the book, so I'd still recommend it.
3.75 *dual-virgin-weasel-deflowering* stars for this twisted little tale.
Okay, I'll confess. I would have *never* read this book without first receiving recommendations from a few friends. Why?
1.) Sorry, but taxidermy is NOT SEXY. It's slicing the skin off of a dead animal, (mostly rats in this book, so even more ick factor) then sewing that skin onto a plastic form. Weird and creepy as crap, if you ask me.
2.) Other reviews told me that a main plot line of the book is that MC#1, Ethan, falls face-first on a big, sharp, pointy stick, which goes straight through his eyeball, causing him to lose the eye entirely. Ewww, right??? Again with the "NOT SEXY" bits.
(Yeah, I'll pass on posting a pic of *that*, 'cause that shit's insanely gross.)
But I still decided to (squeamishly) proceed and I'm pretty glad that I did.
What I really liked about this story was the level of devotion that Rob showed toward Ethan. Rob was a bit of a gang mentality jock as the story began, but knowing and getting to care for Ethan gave him courage to go all superhero and stand up for both his beloved Ethan and for who he really was, but had been hiding from everyone else.
My feelings for Ethan tended to run hot and cold, as he'd be mature and focused one moment, with a love for Rob that bordered on hero worship, then a moment later, Ethan would act like a petulant boy-child, which got a bit frustrating.
(Imagine an eye patch, but this boy's pic was too cute to pass on and I'm complete shite with Photoshop.) *wink*
But my love for Rob kept pulling me back into the story over and over again, so the book kept me both interested and entertained.
This wasn't a perfect read for me, especially once the sex graduated to full on penetration, when some of the "erotic talk", using the term very loosely, that popped out of these boys' mouths really made me want a good, stiff drink. (Pun only partially intended.)
The sexy talk wasn't the dreaded purple prose, but there was definitely an extremely thick vein of ooey, gooey Velveeta running through their words.
But that was only a minor distraction, accompanied by frequent eye rolls, so I got back to my Rob-lovin' without much delay and continued on to more enjoyable chapters.
Plus, they were all flip-floppy in bed, which is all kinds of crazy hot FTW.
This oddly-entertaining read ended fairly abruptly, with as much of an HEA as you can get from two enamored 18 year old boys, so I would have preferred a nice epilogue tacked onto the end, but I had fun with the book, so I'd still recommend it.
3.75 *dual-virgin-weasel-deflowering* stars for this twisted little tale.
May 8, 2023
Not like other books. I don't quite know what to make of this one. It is extraordinary with a rather strange setting. But it was not for me. Somehow the book left a bad taste, but I can't say what specifically bothered me. 🥴🤷🏼♀️
![Profile Image for Imme [trying to crawl out of hiatus] van Gorp.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1700013408i%2F101358081._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 8, 2025
|| 4.5 stars ||
This book was almost exactly what I hoped it would be.
It had an interesting premise and luckily decided to really stick with it.
It didn't feel rushed, and everything was pretty well developed.
I loved the dynamic of the school freak and the popular quarterback finding out that they have a lot in common, and therefore slowly but surely fall for each other.
But as much as I love that dynamic, it can maybe be a bit boring sometimes, and therefore I was excited that this book had a bit of a twist to it:
Namely, the book begins with the quarterback accidentally hurting the freak, resulting in him losing an eye and even almost dying. Pretty heavy stuff. So, what happens next? The freak blackmails the quarterback into giving him a blowjob so he will keep the secret of who caused the accident. The quarterback agrees, and here begins their reluctant romance....
Maybe this all sounds a bit weird. I totally get that. But trust me: it somehow works.
Ethan is the school freak: he dresses in all black, wears animal bones as jewellery, and his passion and hobby is creating art with taxidermy. Unsurprisingly, he has zero friends.
Ethan has always had a crush on the super-hot quarterback, but when he actually gets to know him better, he learns that he also loves him as a person. He becomes pretty much obsessed, which I adored.
Robert is the most popular guy in school: a quarterback, hot as hell, kind, talented, smart. He pretty much has it all. Unsurprisingly, he is loved by everyone.
Robert never really paid much attention to Ethan, barely recognizing his existence, but when he is forced to spend time with him, he realizes he actually really likes him, and thinks he is pretty damn special. He creates a certain fondness for him that I found very cute.
Robert and Ethan have a sweet relationship: they truly care about each other and support each other's passions. They are really well-suited, and love spending time with one another. They were honest with each other and always took care of the other. It all actually seemed like true love to me.
The only times I didn't really love their relationship was when Ethan was being super dense or entitled (which happened quite a bit), but Robert usually responded pretty well to it, as he mostly told Ethan off when he did that.
I did think the book started to drag a little bit near the end; for a big part because there was a lot of smut at that point, whereas there hadn't been before.
Although, speaking of smut: I just want to say that the first time these two had penetrative sex; holy hell. That was written so well. They were both virgins, and it was so tender and soft, but also passionate. It was so good. I don't usually feel the emotions during sex scenes, but here I did.
Anyway, long story short, the chemistry here was pretty damn good, I loved Robert so much, the tropes were my favourites, and I really enjoyed reading this. It was cute and made me swoon.
K.A. Merikan books:
‘Sex & Mayhem’ series - var. ratings
Mr. Jaguar - 3.0 stars
Not Like Other Boys - 4.5 stars
‘Guns n’ Boys’ series - var. ratings
The Cattery - 3.5 stars
Break My Shell - 3.5 stars
The Black Sheep and The Rotten Apple - 3.5 stars
‘Kings of Hell MC’ series - var. ratings
Wrong Way Home - 4.0 star
‘Wrong Side of the Tracks’ series - var. ratings
This book was almost exactly what I hoped it would be.
It had an interesting premise and luckily decided to really stick with it.
It didn't feel rushed, and everything was pretty well developed.
I loved the dynamic of the school freak and the popular quarterback finding out that they have a lot in common, and therefore slowly but surely fall for each other.
But as much as I love that dynamic, it can maybe be a bit boring sometimes, and therefore I was excited that this book had a bit of a twist to it:
Namely, the book begins with the quarterback accidentally hurting the freak, resulting in him losing an eye and even almost dying. Pretty heavy stuff. So, what happens next? The freak blackmails the quarterback into giving him a blowjob so he will keep the secret of who caused the accident. The quarterback agrees, and here begins their reluctant romance....
Maybe this all sounds a bit weird. I totally get that. But trust me: it somehow works.
"Just knowing you're there is so important to me, honey. You can't even know how much. You're the best thing that's ever happened to me."
That declaration forced all the air out of his lungs. "That's not true. You're ill because of me," he uttered, closing his eyes as a wave of guilt washed over him like a furious storm.
"I would have never found you if it wasn't for that." Ethan's voice was shaky and became more quiet. "You're worth losing an eye for."
Ethan is the school freak: he dresses in all black, wears animal bones as jewellery, and his passion and hobby is creating art with taxidermy. Unsurprisingly, he has zero friends.
Ethan has always had a crush on the super-hot quarterback, but when he actually gets to know him better, he learns that he also loves him as a person. He becomes pretty much obsessed, which I adored.
Robert is the most popular guy in school: a quarterback, hot as hell, kind, talented, smart. He pretty much has it all. Unsurprisingly, he is loved by everyone.
Robert never really paid much attention to Ethan, barely recognizing his existence, but when he is forced to spend time with him, he realizes he actually really likes him, and thinks he is pretty damn special. He creates a certain fondness for him that I found very cute.
Robert and Ethan have a sweet relationship: they truly care about each other and support each other's passions. They are really well-suited, and love spending time with one another. They were honest with each other and always took care of the other. It all actually seemed like true love to me.
The only times I didn't really love their relationship was when Ethan was being super dense or entitled (which happened quite a bit), but Robert usually responded pretty well to it, as he mostly told Ethan off when he did that.
I did think the book started to drag a little bit near the end; for a big part because there was a lot of smut at that point, whereas there hadn't been before.
Although, speaking of smut: I just want to say that the first time these two had penetrative sex; holy hell. That was written so well. They were both virgins, and it was so tender and soft, but also passionate. It was so good. I don't usually feel the emotions during sex scenes, but here I did.
Anyway, long story short, the chemistry here was pretty damn good, I loved Robert so much, the tropes were my favourites, and I really enjoyed reading this. It was cute and made me swoon.
K.A. Merikan books:
‘Sex & Mayhem’ series - var. ratings
Mr. Jaguar - 3.0 stars
Not Like Other Boys - 4.5 stars
‘Guns n’ Boys’ series - var. ratings
The Cattery - 3.5 stars
Break My Shell - 3.5 stars
The Black Sheep and The Rotten Apple - 3.5 stars
‘Kings of Hell MC’ series - var. ratings
Wrong Way Home - 4.0 star
‘Wrong Side of the Tracks’ series - var. ratings
August 16, 2015
You know how I always say you should never judge an MM book by it's cover? Well this one is pretty gorgeous, but you certainly shouldn't judge it by the book description.
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There is nothing about taxidermy that doesn't eek me out and I was weary to give this one a go but I'm so happy I did! This is one quirky read and I was really in the mood for something weird and wonderful.
I'll start with the taxidermy issue- because it's presented as a form of art I really didn't mind it, actually I ended up enjoying the descriptions of Ethan's pieces. You will actually think stuffed animals Ethan-style are pretty cute. There aren't really any disgusting descriptions of the process,so if you're sensitive to animal issues this shouldn't be too bad.
As for the MC's and the plot, this book is adorable, strange, quirky but at the heart of it, a very touching story of first love.
Ethan is a socially awkward High School student who's been teased and bullied for being different. Matters aren't helped that one of his tormentors is the sexy jock he has a huge crush on. My jaw dropped when I read how these two ended up together, but No Spoilers! Seriously, my jaw just dropped!
Anyway, if you've ever considered this book but was not sure if it wasn't too morbid or grim, give it a try- it may surprise you!
There is nothing about taxidermy that doesn't eek me out and I was weary to give this one a go but I'm so happy I did! This is one quirky read and I was really in the mood for something weird and wonderful.
I'll start with the taxidermy issue- because it's presented as a form of art I really didn't mind it, actually I ended up enjoying the descriptions of Ethan's pieces. You will actually think stuffed animals Ethan-style are pretty cute. There aren't really any disgusting descriptions of the process,so if you're sensitive to animal issues this shouldn't be too bad.
As for the MC's and the plot, this book is adorable, strange, quirky but at the heart of it, a very touching story of first love.
Ethan is a socially awkward High School student who's been teased and bullied for being different. Matters aren't helped that one of his tormentors is the sexy jock he has a huge crush on. My jaw dropped when I read how these two ended up together, but No Spoilers! Seriously, my jaw just dropped!
Anyway, if you've ever considered this book but was not sure if it wasn't too morbid or grim, give it a try- it may surprise you!
January 12, 2023
So ... 🤔 ... 4 stars for the story (excellent recovery from a gawdawful, ridiculous set-up) and 2 stars (at best!) for the gawdawful writing. Seriously, a 9th grade English teacher would wear out a red pen! 😖 I'm still struggling to accept the fact that professional editing disappeared with Blockbuster Video and CDs. 😒 Bad writing can destroy a story. I may or may not read another by this author ... only if the blurb really grabs me by the 🍒 ... but at least I'll know to expect the bad writing next time.
The sound of sizzling was like cool yoghurt on his nerves.
The herby scent of his body was like sitting by the oven while baking a cake.
Robert would feel the warm smell of his body ...
(How the heck do you feel a smell? 🙄 How the heck can a smell be warm? 🤦♂️)
The sound of sizzling was like cool yoghurt on his nerves.
The herby scent of his body was like sitting by the oven while baking a cake.
Robert would feel the warm smell of his body ...
(How the heck do you feel a smell? 🙄 How the heck can a smell be warm? 🤦♂️)
dnf
November 25, 2020Audio 2.5 Stars
Story dnf @20%
Story dnf @20%
December 13, 2021
DNF @ 20%
Nope.
One MCs basically blinds the other.
There are weird rapey dynamics.
It’s all glossed over.
Oh and changing from someone’s full name to their nickname from one sentence to another is just annoying.
Nope.
One MCs basically blinds the other.
There are weird rapey dynamics.
It’s all glossed over.
Oh and changing from someone’s full name to their nickname from one sentence to another is just annoying.
November 27, 2015
*Updated for Gay Book Reviews. *
*4.5 stars*
This is a Young Adult story, Merikan style. Naturally, there is eye loss, dead rats and blackmailing.
Ethan is the school's goth weirdo. He is an introvert, gets bullied pretty often but most times he doesn't let it get to him. He's also a taxidermist. Despite his parents' insistence that he becomes a lawyer, Ethan dreams of starting his own business.
Rob is the school's jock. He's gay and has empraced his sexuality, but waits until high school is over before coming out. That is the plan anyway. Also, he's an amazing cook.
I'll be honest. The premise of this book creeped me the hell out. Because...TAXIDERMY. Yes, skinning dead animals and all. BUT, the way it was described in the book, changed my whole point of view. Ethan was an artist. He brought the dead animals back to life and created unique displays. Like this :
Not something I want to have in my living room, but still all kinds of awsome.
Rob and Ethan's story starts with a BANG. Literally.
But what starts off as a quirky, odd story, with MCs on their worst behavior , somewhere along the way, became a very sweet and sexy love story.
“I promise that even if I forget stuff, I’ll never forget how much I love you.”
This might be tagged as Young Adult, but it's mostly read as New Adult. I loved seeing these boys taking their first steps towards their future; they are ambitious, incredibly talented and fierce despite their insecurities. And totally devoted to each other.
And plenty of sexy times you all!
What I would have liked to see is an epilogue; like what Rob and Ethan are like down the road.
That being said, the ending is a sparkling HEA. And despite the young teenage love, I totally believed that Ethan and Rob were meant to be with each other.
“I love you so much, Robert. We’re gonna have the coolest home ever, and”— he lowered his voice to a whisper—“ we’re gonna fuck like monkeys every day.” [...]
.........................................................................
“We’re gonna be the best ferret daddies.”
Got to love Ethan.
P.S And I really can't shake the feeling that Rob is a young Seth Villani♥♥♥
Read
June 20, 2020
WOOO! New cover <3
June 29, 2019
I adored this !!! What a unique storyline but of course I expect something a little the left of mainstream from these girls. This was sweet and quite heartwarming. Great characters, interesting twist and a fab ending,.... although I would have loved a 5 years later epilogue !
June 3, 2017
4.5 Stars
For those who might balk at the title, don't. This was quite the gem in not only being a very touching love story but also a very hot one at that.
There's a horrible tragedy that happens in the first chapter of the book that pretty much shocked me into a bout of extreme anxiety. I typically try to avoid that type of angst and was not expecting it.
However it is that very tragedy that brings Ethan and Robert together, because otherwise they never would have interacted beyond the superficial. What proceeds from there was the kind of angst I do like and this had it in bucketfuls. Want, need, jealousy, insecurity - all wrapped up in some scorching scenes that again, you would not expect from a book that is seemingly YA. Believe me. It isn't.
So what starts off as a tentative arrangement between Ethan and Robert, begins on shaky ground, morphs into lust and experimentation, and then evolves towards friendship, and of course ultimately love. And what an exploration of that first time in all things - realistic, tender, intense, and hot. I loved how these two cared so much for the other and despite their young ages, they really worked hard at their relationship.
Apparently I have an affinity for this trope in which every similar book I read I liken it to Superhero. I just can't help it because if you liked that book, then you'll like this one as well. This was another tale at having the courage to own up to your actions, to forge ahead against adversity and to go after the things you want despite the fear and doubts.
I was anxious. I was turned on. I was touched. Again, this was just lovely on all fronts.
For those who might balk at the title, don't. This was quite the gem in not only being a very touching love story but also a very hot one at that.
There's a horrible tragedy that happens in the first chapter of the book that pretty much shocked me into a bout of extreme anxiety. I typically try to avoid that type of angst and was not expecting it.
However it is that very tragedy that brings Ethan and Robert together, because otherwise they never would have interacted beyond the superficial. What proceeds from there was the kind of angst I do like and this had it in bucketfuls. Want, need, jealousy, insecurity - all wrapped up in some scorching scenes that again, you would not expect from a book that is seemingly YA. Believe me. It isn't.
So what starts off as a tentative arrangement between Ethan and Robert, begins on shaky ground, morphs into lust and experimentation, and then evolves towards friendship, and of course ultimately love. And what an exploration of that first time in all things - realistic, tender, intense, and hot. I loved how these two cared so much for the other and despite their young ages, they really worked hard at their relationship.
Apparently I have an affinity for this trope in which every similar book I read I liken it to Superhero. I just can't help it because if you liked that book, then you'll like this one as well. This was another tale at having the courage to own up to your actions, to forge ahead against adversity and to go after the things you want despite the fear and doubts.
I was anxious. I was turned on. I was touched. Again, this was just lovely on all fronts.
December 8, 2020
I don't usually worry about spoilers when I write a review, but saying anything about K.A. Merikan's Not Like Other Boys without giving too much away is near impossible!
You're going to have to trust me on this one, it's fantastic.
There's some angst, of course, it is a Merikan, but the humor throughout is simply amazing. The situations Ethan and Rob get into are wonderfully creative, and the authors' originality blows my mind. Absolutely 100% enjoyable.
The audio is performed by Tyler Kent, who does a wonderful job with these characters. Mr. Kent is a new narrator for me, and I'm impressed with his ability to read the story. There's quite a bit of narration and he uses distinct voices for each character. Furthermore, each voice really fits each of these guys. Emotional and funny, Not Like Other Boys makes one fantastic audiobook.
an audiobook copy of Not Like Other Boys was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
You're going to have to trust me on this one, it's fantastic.
There's some angst, of course, it is a Merikan, but the humor throughout is simply amazing. The situations Ethan and Rob get into are wonderfully creative, and the authors' originality blows my mind. Absolutely 100% enjoyable.
The audio is performed by Tyler Kent, who does a wonderful job with these characters. Mr. Kent is a new narrator for me, and I'm impressed with his ability to read the story. There's quite a bit of narration and he uses distinct voices for each character. Furthermore, each voice really fits each of these guys. Emotional and funny, Not Like Other Boys makes one fantastic audiobook.
an audiobook copy of Not Like Other Boys was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
September 1, 2019
4 quirky stars
Firstly, I've purposely (I hope) changed my review to be on the green cartoony cover edition because unlike the majority I like it and actually think it suits the book way more with the offbeat kooky vibe.
Secondly, there's the obvious WTF moments in the story but remember - TEENAGE BOYS. Many of us are probably female reading this and while adversely affected by teen hormones, having witnessed my male dominated family go through puberty. . . . well, WTFery is fairly standard with males.
(My brother, now married and aged 29, recently horrified my mother (and his wife) with revelations regarding the true occurrences of a school football trip to Amsterdam when he was fifteen. And my gay cousin has always been entirely too forthcoming despite my pointing out that reading about fictional mens sex lives is different to my hearing explicitly about his sex life).
So for the WTF moments - OK, the slightly blase acceptance of permanent blindness was perhaps a little too understated and calm, but the blackmail actually struck me as quite a realistic response. Robert accepting the blackmail offer likewise. In fact all round the WTF actions struck me as youthful stupidity and thus completely in keeping with school boys. I found Ethan and Robert very believable teenagers - there were times I disliked them both and other times I wanted to give them a comforting arm round the shoulders or a little smack upside the head (I'm very nurturing). They read exactly as they should - eighteen year old young men getting ready to leave school, uncertain, a bit insecure, a bit scared yet a bit cocky and a lot sexually frustrated (though happily for us and them not for long!). The coming out was. . . easy I guess. No angst. I hope it's getting to be that anticlimactic now for at least some GLBT teenagers.
I just really enjoyed this - it doesn't take itself too seriously, it has some damn hot (guilty-nearly-jailbait-does-this-make-me-a-cougar?) sex scenes, actual honest teenage emotions (I swear I'm gonna die if he smiles at me!) bubbling passionately over the pages and a HEA. (I'm going to come out and admit, they're so realistically youthfully written that I have concerns about their HEA, but only because I'm a cynical old cow and they are the most genuinely teenaged seeming characters).
This reminded me in a very happy way (because I loved them for the crazy soap opera-ness) of Surviving Elite High Surviving Elite High 1. I think if you enjoyed John H. Ames high school drama you'll probably like this too.
Firstly, I've purposely (I hope) changed my review to be on the green cartoony cover edition because unlike the majority I like it and actually think it suits the book way more with the offbeat kooky vibe.
Secondly, there's the obvious WTF moments in the story but remember - TEENAGE BOYS. Many of us are probably female reading this and while adversely affected by teen hormones, having witnessed my male dominated family go through puberty. . . . well, WTFery is fairly standard with males.
(My brother, now married and aged 29, recently horrified my mother (and his wife) with revelations regarding the true occurrences of a school football trip to Amsterdam when he was fifteen. And my gay cousin has always been entirely too forthcoming despite my pointing out that reading about fictional mens sex lives is different to my hearing explicitly about his sex life).
So for the WTF moments - OK, the slightly blase acceptance of permanent blindness was perhaps a little too understated and calm, but the blackmail actually struck me as quite a realistic response. Robert accepting the blackmail offer likewise. In fact all round the WTF actions struck me as youthful stupidity and thus completely in keeping with school boys. I found Ethan and Robert very believable teenagers - there were times I disliked them both and other times I wanted to give them a comforting arm round the shoulders or a little smack upside the head (I'm very nurturing). They read exactly as they should - eighteen year old young men getting ready to leave school, uncertain, a bit insecure, a bit scared yet a bit cocky and a lot sexually frustrated (though happily for us and them not for long!). The coming out was. . . easy I guess. No angst. I hope it's getting to be that anticlimactic now for at least some GLBT teenagers.
I just really enjoyed this - it doesn't take itself too seriously, it has some damn hot (guilty-nearly-jailbait-does-this-make-me-a-cougar?) sex scenes, actual honest teenage emotions (I swear I'm gonna die if he smiles at me!) bubbling passionately over the pages and a HEA. (I'm going to come out and admit, they're so realistically youthfully written that I have concerns about their HEA, but only because I'm a cynical old cow and they are the most genuinely teenaged seeming characters).
This reminded me in a very happy way (because I loved them for the crazy soap opera-ness) of Surviving Elite High Surviving Elite High 1. I think if you enjoyed John H. Ames high school drama you'll probably like this too.
Want to read
August 17, 2015Want to read because - DUH . . .
April 21, 2023
Bully-Lovers YA & Explicit-ish
Quirky book with feels.
Neurodivergent MC.
Bullying leads to major trauma.
Trauma leads to non-con situation.
Non-con situation reveals secrets.
Lovers.
Art.
HEA.
Quirky book with feels.
Neurodivergent MC.
Bullying leads to major trauma.
Trauma leads to non-con situation.
Non-con situation reveals secrets.
Lovers.
Art.
HEA.
December 25, 2015
BR with my lady Elsbeth
This was absolutely not what I expected.
I was expecting a high school romance with some twists and turns. Because the main issue is not addressed in the blurb at all. I was so surprised after reading the first chapter! And here I thought I would find the whole taxidermy thing weird, but that was actually pretty cool, didn’t feel weird at all. Or perhaps that was because I was expecting it.
---Spoilers ahead---
What I did not expect was for this book to start with Robert and Ethan at a party, where Robert and his jock friends are chasing Ethan through the woods. Ethan, who has always stood out, because he is just different from anyone else. Pair his awkward social skills with his love for taxidermy and you have one unpopular guy.
After Robert catches Ethan, Robert is under the impression they are just kidding around. He did not expect it when he gives Ethan a push that a branch pierces his entire skull, right through his eye! I was so shocked.
Robert does not leave Ethan’s side in the hospital while Ethan is unconscious for the next two weeks. But when he does come to, he is not too happy to see Robert. And because Ethan had a crush on Robert for a long time, he knows just how Robert can repay Ethan. He wants Robert to give him a weekly blowjob. Yes, that’s right. Nothing like a few blowjobs to get over the whole I lost an eye thing.
What Ethan doesn’t know is that Robert is gay too and that he actually likes Ethan.
After the first horrible blow job which leaves both of them emotionally raw, things do seem to work out.
I had to say, after the rocky start, I really enjoyed it! What Robert did to Ethan was bad, even though it was an accident. What Ethan did was worse in my eyes, but I must admit, they both redeemed themselves.
And the weird arrangement between them did not last too long. Just when I couldn’t take it anymore, Robert came clean and all was lovey dovey between them after that. I liked it that this was around halfway through the story. The rest concentrates on several outside forces that make it difficult for them to fully be happy. But they were happy with each other. And the sex was pretty hot!
I did think that Ethan got over the losing an eye part rather quickly. It wasn’t really a problem in the story. He went to school after the accident like nothing happened. It was a bit strange.
Still, a very enjoyable read.
This was absolutely not what I expected.
I was expecting a high school romance with some twists and turns. Because the main issue is not addressed in the blurb at all. I was so surprised after reading the first chapter! And here I thought I would find the whole taxidermy thing weird, but that was actually pretty cool, didn’t feel weird at all. Or perhaps that was because I was expecting it.
---Spoilers ahead---
What I did not expect was for this book to start with Robert and Ethan at a party, where Robert and his jock friends are chasing Ethan through the woods. Ethan, who has always stood out, because he is just different from anyone else. Pair his awkward social skills with his love for taxidermy and you have one unpopular guy.
After Robert catches Ethan, Robert is under the impression they are just kidding around. He did not expect it when he gives Ethan a push that a branch pierces his entire skull, right through his eye! I was so shocked.
Robert does not leave Ethan’s side in the hospital while Ethan is unconscious for the next two weeks. But when he does come to, he is not too happy to see Robert. And because Ethan had a crush on Robert for a long time, he knows just how Robert can repay Ethan. He wants Robert to give him a weekly blowjob. Yes, that’s right. Nothing like a few blowjobs to get over the whole I lost an eye thing.
What Ethan doesn’t know is that Robert is gay too and that he actually likes Ethan.
After the first horrible blow job which leaves both of them emotionally raw, things do seem to work out.
I had to say, after the rocky start, I really enjoyed it! What Robert did to Ethan was bad, even though it was an accident. What Ethan did was worse in my eyes, but I must admit, they both redeemed themselves.
And the weird arrangement between them did not last too long. Just when I couldn’t take it anymore, Robert came clean and all was lovey dovey between them after that. I liked it that this was around halfway through the story. The rest concentrates on several outside forces that make it difficult for them to fully be happy. But they were happy with each other. And the sex was pretty hot!
I did think that Ethan got over the losing an eye part rather quickly. It wasn’t really a problem in the story. He went to school after the accident like nothing happened. It was a bit strange.
Still, a very enjoyable read.
November 25, 2014
Loved this Book!!!
Wow, I picked this book up not expecting much and man was I surprised. This is a great book! This is a New Adult (NOT a Young Adult) erotic, coming of age story of Robert and Ethan. A high school quarterback that falls for the geeky goth.
I love the jock/geek coming of age stories. There are a lot of them out there. But this is the first new adult coming of age I've read and LOVED it!
What brought these two guys together was questionable, but what keeps them together is a genuine love for one another.
I really liked Robert in this book. Usually the geek is the one the reader relates to and cheers for, but in this book the quarterback stole my heart.
Definitely 5 stars from me on this book!
Wow, I picked this book up not expecting much and man was I surprised. This is a great book! This is a New Adult (NOT a Young Adult) erotic, coming of age story of Robert and Ethan. A high school quarterback that falls for the geeky goth.
I love the jock/geek coming of age stories. There are a lot of them out there. But this is the first new adult coming of age I've read and LOVED it!
What brought these two guys together was questionable, but what keeps them together is a genuine love for one another.
I really liked Robert in this book. Usually the geek is the one the reader relates to and cheers for, but in this book the quarterback stole my heart.
Definitely 5 stars from me on this book!
November 13, 2014
I'm starting with my complaints, but it is only a matter of small niggles. Bear with me, I'll get to the good stuff soon enough!
[edit: the book now has a beautiful new cover so my complaint doesn't stand anymore]
Don't let the generic cover fool you, this story is a special one. I loved the quirky bits of it so hard I feel the cover should have been something more unique than two boys, or actually one boy and a naked torso of a hunk. For me the best part of the cover was the bottom part with the kissing animal skulls. I'd have been happy with just them and a tittle compared to the rest of the cover. Shame, especially since this story offered so many artistic visuals that I was practically drooling. Just my opinnion about it, others might like it or even love it.
Also, I worry about the tittle. "Diary of a Teenage Taxidermist" was really not a diary by any means. It did make a lovely and catching tittle, but as a warning I will say there was nothing diary-like in the way Ethan and Rob's story was told. It was told from both of their perspective and I felt that was perfect. This way we could see how both boys could hurt each other and act both lovingly and horribly and we get to see both their confusion of how to deal with the odd situations they have created to one another. The dub-con aspect was a surprise, but it so did serve a purpose for the story.
No character was decidedly good or bad and some shone brighter than others. That is excactly what I want from the books I read. Not even Pat the rat was dealt with heavy negativity and at times I felt like Ethan acted like a surly ass too. Robert, the popular footballer was maybe a closest thing that there was to a completely good-natured character, but he too had his faults. I just wanted to shake him before the end.
Ethan wasn't a simple goth, his layers had layers. His passion for taxidermy was fascinating. I had never thought about the art of it but now I'm obsssing over the visuals and the morbidity of it too. I feared what I was getting into as a lover of animals, but it was really a fear of unknown. Personally I'm a fan of macabre art and I use dead animals as my subjects all the time. This story just hit the right spots for me! I should add that no animal was hurt during the book and the way the "stuffed" animals were treated was with love and care and purpose, just like I feel when I draw.
This issue with taxidermy might be a bit too much for some readers, for me it is what made this story; it rose from a great new adult story to a bright gem. I'll be googling stuff to feed my curiosity about taxidermy, I already did some since we do not ge too mch details about the actual work. The way how taxidermy made Ethan even more social outcast, a freak even, aside from being a gay goth made my heart bleed.
Aside from that, this story of Ethan and Rob was full of missunderstandings and frustrations, hurt and comfort. The usual matters of growing into adulthood. Their start wasn't the best possible one as Ethan lost his eye due some unfortunate matters that made Rob feel guilty. As the blurb revealed, Ethan also suffered braindamage. I was expecting much worse condition than it actually was, even some mental defects. But that was not the case and this story is surprisingly sweet and kinkfree coming from K.A. Merikan the master kinkster (Hello, Copper Horse, XXX'd and others). That is not to say this story didn't have an edge as it most certainly did.
I higly recommend this to anyone who loves a coming of age story, hurt/comfort reads, HEA, 2 gay virgins (!!!), glittery popular culture references, artistic visuals, beauty of the macabre... The list goes on and on. There were fun moments, there were quite a lot of sexual moments (first times for so many things) and there were moments of doubt and loss (but not too heavy on the angst). Yet I felt Ethan, who lost the most adabted into his new situation like a phoenix.
Thank you for the wonderful read! 4,75 stars rounded up.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
[edit: the book now has a beautiful new cover so my complaint doesn't stand anymore]
Don't let the generic cover fool you, this story is a special one. I loved the quirky bits of it so hard I feel the cover should have been something more unique than two boys, or actually one boy and a naked torso of a hunk. For me the best part of the cover was the bottom part with the kissing animal skulls. I'd have been happy with just them and a tittle compared to the rest of the cover. Shame, especially since this story offered so many artistic visuals that I was practically drooling. Just my opinnion about it, others might like it or even love it.
Also, I worry about the tittle. "Diary of a Teenage Taxidermist" was really not a diary by any means. It did make a lovely and catching tittle, but as a warning I will say there was nothing diary-like in the way Ethan and Rob's story was told. It was told from both of their perspective and I felt that was perfect. This way we could see how both boys could hurt each other and act both lovingly and horribly and we get to see both their confusion of how to deal with the odd situations they have created to one another. The dub-con aspect was a surprise, but it so did serve a purpose for the story.
No character was decidedly good or bad and some shone brighter than others. That is excactly what I want from the books I read. Not even Pat the rat was dealt with heavy negativity and at times I felt like Ethan acted like a surly ass too. Robert, the popular footballer was maybe a closest thing that there was to a completely good-natured character, but he too had his faults. I just wanted to shake him before the end.
Ethan wasn't a simple goth, his layers had layers. His passion for taxidermy was fascinating. I had never thought about the art of it but now I'm obsssing over the visuals and the morbidity of it too. I feared what I was getting into as a lover of animals, but it was really a fear of unknown. Personally I'm a fan of macabre art and I use dead animals as my subjects all the time. This story just hit the right spots for me! I should add that no animal was hurt during the book and the way the "stuffed" animals were treated was with love and care and purpose, just like I feel when I draw.
This issue with taxidermy might be a bit too much for some readers, for me it is what made this story; it rose from a great new adult story to a bright gem. I'll be googling stuff to feed my curiosity about taxidermy, I already did some since we do not ge too mch details about the actual work. The way how taxidermy made Ethan even more social outcast, a freak even, aside from being a gay goth made my heart bleed.
Aside from that, this story of Ethan and Rob was full of missunderstandings and frustrations, hurt and comfort. The usual matters of growing into adulthood. Their start wasn't the best possible one as Ethan lost his eye due some unfortunate matters that made Rob feel guilty. As the blurb revealed, Ethan also suffered braindamage. I was expecting much worse condition than it actually was, even some mental defects. But that was not the case and this story is surprisingly sweet and kinkfree coming from K.A. Merikan the master kinkster (Hello, Copper Horse, XXX'd and others). That is not to say this story didn't have an edge as it most certainly did.
I higly recommend this to anyone who loves a coming of age story, hurt/comfort reads, HEA, 2 gay virgins (!!!), glittery popular culture references, artistic visuals, beauty of the macabre... The list goes on and on. There were fun moments, there were quite a lot of sexual moments (first times for so many things) and there were moments of doubt and loss (but not too heavy on the angst). Yet I felt Ethan, who lost the most adabted into his new situation like a phoenix.
Thank you for the wonderful read! 4,75 stars rounded up.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
April 24, 2015
Nope, nope, nope. This one just totally did not work for me. I was mostly disturbed the entire time I was reading and no, not because of the dead animals.
July 21, 2020
4.5 Stars
My preconceptions of this book were way off, and I mean that in the best possible way. The (original) title initially led my mind astray, and the idea of taxidermy in general— which I found uber-creepy before reading this book and now find kind of fascinating—made me assume this story was going to be darker in tone than it was. These darker misconceptions are probably due to the fact that my only prior exposure to the world of taxidermy is through what I’d seen creepy Norman Bates do with it on Bates Motel, where he didn’t paint the hobby in a particularly sane light. So, yeah, I had misconceptions galore going into this one, but I’m happy to say they were all abated accordingly.
Although generally much lighter in tone than other dark and twisty Merikan stories I’ve read, this one still had an intense start for the two MCs, Ethan and Robert, that served to catapult the story and their relationship forward. But beyond those first few chapters of anxiety (mine) the story became a much sweeter, enjoyable read.
I’d like to point out, even though this story is essentially about two teenage boys exploring their way through their first relationship, it didn’t quite feel like your average YA story. This isn’t to say that Ethan and Robert don’t act their age at times, because they most certainly do; they both expressed a level of naivety throughout the story, predominantly in the second half, that left me sceptical of how easy they seemed to assume it would all be—and by “all” I’m referring to their relationship, their career prospects, their futures, their happiness, everything. Ethan, in particular, seemed to express this idealistic outlook on their lives, regardless of the countless obstacles in their way, both individually and as a couple. My cynical self could have easily found this all too fanciful, but on a whole I really appreciated their hopeful attitudes, irrespective of how unrealistic they may have seemed at times.
When all was said and done, I absolutely adored this story and recommend it to all lovers of M/M romance, particularly those with a penchant for YA and NA stories.
My preconceptions of this book were way off, and I mean that in the best possible way. The (original) title initially led my mind astray, and the idea of taxidermy in general— which I found uber-creepy before reading this book and now find kind of fascinating—made me assume this story was going to be darker in tone than it was. These darker misconceptions are probably due to the fact that my only prior exposure to the world of taxidermy is through what I’d seen creepy Norman Bates do with it on Bates Motel, where he didn’t paint the hobby in a particularly sane light. So, yeah, I had misconceptions galore going into this one, but I’m happy to say they were all abated accordingly.
Although generally much lighter in tone than other dark and twisty Merikan stories I’ve read, this one still had an intense start for the two MCs, Ethan and Robert, that served to catapult the story and their relationship forward. But beyond those first few chapters of anxiety (mine) the story became a much sweeter, enjoyable read.
I’d like to point out, even though this story is essentially about two teenage boys exploring their way through their first relationship, it didn’t quite feel like your average YA story. This isn’t to say that Ethan and Robert don’t act their age at times, because they most certainly do; they both expressed a level of naivety throughout the story, predominantly in the second half, that left me sceptical of how easy they seemed to assume it would all be—and by “all” I’m referring to their relationship, their career prospects, their futures, their happiness, everything. Ethan, in particular, seemed to express this idealistic outlook on their lives, regardless of the countless obstacles in their way, both individually and as a couple. My cynical self could have easily found this all too fanciful, but on a whole I really appreciated their hopeful attitudes, irrespective of how unrealistic they may have seemed at times.
When all was said and done, I absolutely adored this story and recommend it to all lovers of M/M romance, particularly those with a penchant for YA and NA stories.
November 9, 2022
Meh
I was surprised to find out this book wasn’t 500 pages, only 235. I was so bored 😅. It wasn’t any one thing that made it boring, the writing was pretty good, the characters hobbies/passions were different, and yet there was nothing shocking or interesting. I had to fight to keep myself from skimming the last 60%.
The awkwardness of high schoolers was done really well lmao, bc damn was it awkward to read, but hey, that’s realistic. I never met an 18 year old who made these profound and philosophical confessions like in some books I’ve read. So I do appreciate that.
Lots of homophobia and slurs as well as bullying so please be careful before reading.
I was surprised to find out this book wasn’t 500 pages, only 235. I was so bored 😅. It wasn’t any one thing that made it boring, the writing was pretty good, the characters hobbies/passions were different, and yet there was nothing shocking or interesting. I had to fight to keep myself from skimming the last 60%.
The awkwardness of high schoolers was done really well lmao, bc damn was it awkward to read, but hey, that’s realistic. I never met an 18 year old who made these profound and philosophical confessions like in some books I’ve read. So I do appreciate that.
Lots of homophobia and slurs as well as bullying so please be careful before reading.
May 2, 2016
This was a bit of a shocker for me. I was having a horrible time finding anything to read yesterday. I must have gone thru seven books before i found one that didn't make me want to chuck the book at the wall (which would be bad since they were all on my kindle). There is no way this should have worked with me. Dead animals skeeve me out. Teenagers piss me off. Bullying makes me want to lock humanity up in a padded room till it learns to grow the fuck up. And yet, at the end? I really liked this.
The taxidermy, while still grossing me out, made for a new and interesting topic to read about. And while I would never even think about doing it in real life, I really enjoyed reading Ethan's love for it. And once I got over being pissed off at them for fucking up their lives so much in the beginning (and giving it a real go of fucking it up again in the end), Ethan and Robert are actually quite good together. And there was not a whole lot of the coming out drama that sometimes happens in YA, which i was relieved by.
I still wish that Robert had been a little more proactive in stopping the bullying, though. Stuff like this pisses me off so much. Even if you are not actively making someone's life hell, you should not just stand beside and basically condone it. Just because they did not wish Ethan physical harm doesn't make what they did any better.
Also (and this just may be personal experience clouding my view) 18 is way too young to be thinking about getting married. My parents got married at that age, and while I am thrilled my sisters, brother, and I exist...yeah, that was a fucking disaster from beginning to end. You are still changing so much at that age that I have a hard time believing that what you have at 18 has a good chance of being what you have at 25 or even into your thirties or later.
But still, it was good, if unconventional, story and I have to say I recommend you pick it up.
4.25 stars
The taxidermy, while still grossing me out, made for a new and interesting topic to read about. And while I would never even think about doing it in real life, I really enjoyed reading Ethan's love for it. And once I got over being pissed off at them for fucking up their lives so much in the beginning (and giving it a real go of fucking it up again in the end), Ethan and Robert are actually quite good together. And there was not a whole lot of the coming out drama that sometimes happens in YA, which i was relieved by.
I still wish that Robert had been a little more proactive in stopping the bullying, though. Stuff like this pisses me off so much. Even if you are not actively making someone's life hell, you should not just stand beside and basically condone it. Just because they did not wish Ethan physical harm doesn't make what they did any better.
Also (and this just may be personal experience clouding my view) 18 is way too young to be thinking about getting married. My parents got married at that age, and while I am thrilled my sisters, brother, and I exist...yeah, that was a fucking disaster from beginning to end. You are still changing so much at that age that I have a hard time believing that what you have at 18 has a good chance of being what you have at 25 or even into your thirties or later.
But still, it was good, if unconventional, story and I have to say I recommend you pick it up.
4.25 stars
October 13, 2025
✰ 3 stars ✰
The authors' brand definitely falls under that lose an eye, get a boyfriend. Sounds morbid and graphic, I know! And not one that would ever be forgivable in real life, when a bullying "prank" goes sour to the point of losing an eye!!! 🙅🏻♀️❎ Like no, to the heck no, just stay away from me! But, in the spirit of the authors' brand which from what I've gathered from their shelves (this is my first and possibly last time with them) - falls under the cute but creepy, but sexy, and doomed love is overrated I figure this is possibly one of the tamer sides to their stories. 🥴
And it's not that I had a really bad time with Ethan and Robert! 🙂 After Ethan's horrible, misguided way to get the guy I wanted with a total secret, no strings attached, all and any bi-curious needs satisfied that quickly turns mutual as Robert slowly comes to accept his own gay feelings for this strange but hot. Like a male, grown-up version of Wednesday Addams goth taxidermist he'd inadvertently become a part, their relationship delves into that of a slightly dramatic, but cutesy one. 🖤
“I would have never found you if it wasn’t for that.” Ethan’s voice was shaky and became more quiet. “You’re worth losing an eye for.”
The taxidermy aspect definitely would make some squeamish; even cuddling with a weasel is hair-raising questionable, but different doesn't mean bad that he's Not Like Other Boys Yes, this is the other name under which the book was released. And the Diary of a Teenage Taxidermist does offer some interesting insight of a creative direction he most certainly was passionate about. ☠️ And when it was threatened, it somehow even threatened his relationship with Robert, albeit resolved rather quickly.
I liked that Robert and Ethan didn't ever quite forget the extreme circumstances in which their love story began. 🥺 Aside from Ethan's tactic of enacting his revenge on Robert, I appreciated how the author reminded us of the pains and the pangs and the changes to Ethan's life once he did lose his eye. It was drastic and upsetting, and Robert's guilt over his part in it felt real, amidst a not so real premise. And when they fought over it, the forgiveness that followed felt natural. ❤️🩹
Their first kiss was e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g. I was swooning under the streetlight with them... my heart was doing the doki doki because it was perfect. 💓🥹💓🫠
“With Ethan, it was something they shared, both each other’s first, both equally hungry for touch.”
And as inexperienced as they were in the romance department, they were very willing and interested partners, compatible with their fierce desire to make the most of their pleasure. ❤️🔥😆 For their sexual endeavors tested their prowess to no end! I'm not sure how much of it fell under erotica, since they were eighteen, but their explorations of intimacy were heightened by horny they were!!! It did feel a bit technical at times, with how precise their intent was, but even their hesitation of these firsts they were experiencing together was masked by their own eagerness to make it as steamy-licious as possible for each other. 🥰
The latter half lost its stem once they were publicly together with their family and friends. Ethan's parents' melodramatic reaction, Robert's mom's slightly awkweird temperament, their whole future planning complete with Ethan's slightly hysterical meltdown and Robert's less than stellar antics as a boyfriend. The baby and honey endearments came too quickly to feel real and fitting to their personalities, too. 🤷🏻♀️
The writing also started to feel rushed and it became a bit too cheesily convenient and comical with how perfectly in tune the direction of their lives was taking, with Ethan fully committed to kicking college's butt so that he could pursue his dream and have his boyfriend and then some, by his side. But, considering what they've gone through, I'm glad they were able to walk away with their arms full and hearts overwhelmed for each other. 🫶🏻
“I want everything from you. And I’ll give you anything.”
The authors' brand definitely falls under that lose an eye, get a boyfriend. Sounds morbid and graphic, I know! And not one that would ever be forgivable in real life, when a bullying "prank" goes sour to the point of losing an eye!!! 🙅🏻♀️❎ Like no, to the heck no, just stay away from me! But, in the spirit of the authors' brand which from what I've gathered from their shelves (this is my first and possibly last time with them) - falls under the cute but creepy, but sexy, and doomed love is overrated I figure this is possibly one of the tamer sides to their stories. 🥴
And it's not that I had a really bad time with Ethan and Robert! 🙂 After Ethan's horrible, misguided way to get the guy I wanted with a total secret, no strings attached, all and any bi-curious needs satisfied that quickly turns mutual as Robert slowly comes to accept his own gay feelings for this strange but hot. Like a male, grown-up version of Wednesday Addams goth taxidermist he'd inadvertently become a part, their relationship delves into that of a slightly dramatic, but cutesy one. 🖤
“I would have never found you if it wasn’t for that.” Ethan’s voice was shaky and became more quiet. “You’re worth losing an eye for.”
The taxidermy aspect definitely would make some squeamish; even cuddling with a weasel is hair-raising questionable, but different doesn't mean bad that he's Not Like Other Boys Yes, this is the other name under which the book was released. And the Diary of a Teenage Taxidermist does offer some interesting insight of a creative direction he most certainly was passionate about. ☠️ And when it was threatened, it somehow even threatened his relationship with Robert, albeit resolved rather quickly.
I liked that Robert and Ethan didn't ever quite forget the extreme circumstances in which their love story began. 🥺 Aside from Ethan's tactic of enacting his revenge on Robert, I appreciated how the author reminded us of the pains and the pangs and the changes to Ethan's life once he did lose his eye. It was drastic and upsetting, and Robert's guilt over his part in it felt real, amidst a not so real premise. And when they fought over it, the forgiveness that followed felt natural. ❤️🩹
Their first kiss was e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g. I was swooning under the streetlight with them... my heart was doing the doki doki because it was perfect. 💓🥹💓🫠
“With Ethan, it was something they shared, both each other’s first, both equally hungry for touch.”
And as inexperienced as they were in the romance department, they were very willing and interested partners, compatible with their fierce desire to make the most of their pleasure. ❤️🔥😆 For their sexual endeavors tested their prowess to no end! I'm not sure how much of it fell under erotica, since they were eighteen, but their explorations of intimacy were heightened by horny they were!!! It did feel a bit technical at times, with how precise their intent was, but even their hesitation of these firsts they were experiencing together was masked by their own eagerness to make it as steamy-licious as possible for each other. 🥰
The latter half lost its stem once they were publicly together with their family and friends. Ethan's parents' melodramatic reaction, Robert's mom's slightly awkweird temperament, their whole future planning complete with Ethan's slightly hysterical meltdown and Robert's less than stellar antics as a boyfriend. The baby and honey endearments came too quickly to feel real and fitting to their personalities, too. 🤷🏻♀️
The writing also started to feel rushed and it became a bit too cheesily convenient and comical with how perfectly in tune the direction of their lives was taking, with Ethan fully committed to kicking college's butt so that he could pursue his dream and have his boyfriend and then some, by his side. But, considering what they've gone through, I'm glad they were able to walk away with their arms full and hearts overwhelmed for each other. 🫶🏻
November 23, 2014
Muy entretenida, dulce, madura y bien resuelta historia sobre el encuentro entre dos jóvenes y cómo ese momento, en particular durante esa etapa de la vida, afecta las decisiones que tienen que tomar de cara a la adultez. En resumen: no se trata de una simple historia "YA" armada con los ingredientes harto usados en mucha de la literatura actual, sino que combina con mucha habilidad y naturalidad variados elementos: el paso a la madurez, el asumir la identidad sexual, el formar parte de un colectivo, el poder afianzarse y fortalecerse con las características particulares, y sobre todo el poder jugarse por lo que se desea y anhela.
Los personajes tiene matices; no hay "completamente malos" y "absolutamente buenos", sino personas batallando con lo que les pasa con ellos y con los demás. Hay también varias referencias culturales y artísticas muy interesantes, siendo la taxidermia nuestra pequeña estrella. La temática no resulta morbosa, al menos para mí, pero quizás sí sea un poco chocante para algún vegetariano o protector radical de las especies (no es que Ethan vaya matando alces y conejitos por ahí).
La obra transita diferentes estadios emocionales sin irse a ningún extremo ni exagerando los momentos de angustia y alegría, aún teniendo en cuenta la forma en la que Ethan y Rob se encuentran (lo que forma parte del resumen, así que no estoy spoileando nada). Sí resulta quizás menos verosímil que, teniendo en cuenta la responsabilidad de Rob en el accidente de Ethan, hayan podido encontrarse y hasta enamorarse, olvidando el suceso como si fuera una simple anécdota. También tuve algunas dudas con la tapa y el título, que no terminan de reflejar fehacientemente el contenido de la historia.
En conclusión, "Diary of a teenage taxidermist" tiene momentos divertidos, varias "primeras veces", algunos momentos de decisiones y angustias, y un final feliz, al menos "por ahora". Queda claro que nada es muy definitivo a los 18 años.
ARC enviado generosamente por sus autoras
Los personajes tiene matices; no hay "completamente malos" y "absolutamente buenos", sino personas batallando con lo que les pasa con ellos y con los demás. Hay también varias referencias culturales y artísticas muy interesantes, siendo la taxidermia nuestra pequeña estrella. La temática no resulta morbosa, al menos para mí, pero quizás sí sea un poco chocante para algún vegetariano o protector radical de las especies (no es que Ethan vaya matando alces y conejitos por ahí).
La obra transita diferentes estadios emocionales sin irse a ningún extremo ni exagerando los momentos de angustia y alegría, aún teniendo en cuenta la forma en la que Ethan y Rob se encuentran (lo que forma parte del resumen, así que no estoy spoileando nada). Sí resulta quizás menos verosímil que, teniendo en cuenta la responsabilidad de Rob en el accidente de Ethan, hayan podido encontrarse y hasta enamorarse, olvidando el suceso como si fuera una simple anécdota. También tuve algunas dudas con la tapa y el título, que no terminan de reflejar fehacientemente el contenido de la historia.
En conclusión, "Diary of a teenage taxidermist" tiene momentos divertidos, varias "primeras veces", algunos momentos de decisiones y angustias, y un final feliz, al menos "por ahora". Queda claro que nada es muy definitivo a los 18 años.
ARC enviado generosamente por sus autoras
October 29, 2014
I feel like this author keeps gettin better and better. From the dark and taboo shit to this young, coming out and new love. I normally don't read YA stuff cause it ends up annoying me with the PG shit, when in reality, it's the farthest thing from the truth with youth today.
This story was really sweet and I LOVED it. A LOT! What made it even all the more special to me was that I could relate to it without the disability aspect to it. I left my house to live with someone when I was 15 not 18 like the guys here.
Ethan and Rob are meant for each other even if they don't realize it at first. The dubious consent in the beginning I loved and could have done with more of that but Rob was just not that type of man you do that too. All he needed was some coaxing and Ethan had him all to himself. And Rob enjoyed every moment of that time. Even if it took him a bit to get over being forced Into the situation initially.
Ethan. He was my favorite. His parents, I don't even know what to say about them. That was xactly how I felt when I was in the situation he was, and I can see why he did what he did. It took alot of growin up for Ethan and Rob to move forward and settle how they did.they're together moments were just special and hot. It really held significance for them.
I was worried at first that Rob wouldn't be able to commit fully but he proved me wrong and was such a better man for Ethan. He knew just how to take care of him after causing Ethan's tragic accident in the beginning. He took full responsibility. His mom was the best, helpin him and offering advise when necessary. I loved how in the end Rob saw that Ethan wasn't totally dependent on him and he was so scared of losin Ethan and his attention and all that good stuff.
All in all a great fckin read. A re-read and Recommended.
***ARC courtesy of K.A. Merikan in exchange for an honest review***
This story was really sweet and I LOVED it. A LOT! What made it even all the more special to me was that I could relate to it without the disability aspect to it. I left my house to live with someone when I was 15 not 18 like the guys here.
Ethan and Rob are meant for each other even if they don't realize it at first. The dubious consent in the beginning I loved and could have done with more of that but Rob was just not that type of man you do that too. All he needed was some coaxing and Ethan had him all to himself. And Rob enjoyed every moment of that time. Even if it took him a bit to get over being forced Into the situation initially.
Ethan. He was my favorite. His parents, I don't even know what to say about them. That was xactly how I felt when I was in the situation he was, and I can see why he did what he did. It took alot of growin up for Ethan and Rob to move forward and settle how they did.they're together moments were just special and hot. It really held significance for them.
I was worried at first that Rob wouldn't be able to commit fully but he proved me wrong and was such a better man for Ethan. He knew just how to take care of him after causing Ethan's tragic accident in the beginning. He took full responsibility. His mom was the best, helpin him and offering advise when necessary. I loved how in the end Rob saw that Ethan wasn't totally dependent on him and he was so scared of losin Ethan and his attention and all that good stuff.
All in all a great fckin read. A re-read and Recommended.
***ARC courtesy of K.A. Merikan in exchange for an honest review***
dnf
April 4, 2016Unfortunate cover.
Unfortunate title.
The whole taxidermy thing was unfortunate, to be honest. I couldn't get past it.
Also, the entire tit-for-tat arrangement of the MCs was just wrong.
Unfortunate title.
The whole taxidermy thing was unfortunate, to be honest. I couldn't get past it.
Also, the entire tit-for-tat arrangement of the MCs was just wrong.
November 24, 2014
4.5 stars
Another offering from the wonderfully quirky duo that is KA Merikan.
I know I bang on and on about great characters when I review books, but great characters are the beginning of any great book to me, I can forgive a lot if I fall for the characters - and KA Merikan have the knack of great characters.
I love how they are just that bit different, that bit quirky....it holds my interest and makes me want to read more. Now, guess what folks - I didn't read the blurb. If someone says to me, "Lorraine, you'll like this," I usually believe them and dive right in. I still haven't read the blurb, so I don't know if it would have forewarned me, but in the first chapter boy did I get a shock. A huge one. Whoa...did not expect that!
And that's when the great characters come to the fore. Ethan. wow, Ethan. Can I tell you a secret - I liked him, then didn't and then he absolutely grew on me. I didn't like how he treated Rob for a start. Yeah, yeah - he maybe did have a reason...but Rob's actions were misguided and unintentional and Ethan's were purposely just wrong. I'm glad he realised and the issue was resolved quickly, because it made me feel, rightly, uncomfortable. After that though, this story just got better and better and Ethan and Rob became more amazing and I yearned and longed for the romance and then....swoooooon....
Oh yes. A wonderful YA/NA story (it has it's sexy times!) about the difficulties of not fitting in and pretending to be what you're not. I adored Ethan by the end of the book and Rob stole my heart along the way too. Well worth a read in my opinion!
Another offering from the wonderfully quirky duo that is KA Merikan.
I know I bang on and on about great characters when I review books, but great characters are the beginning of any great book to me, I can forgive a lot if I fall for the characters - and KA Merikan have the knack of great characters.
I love how they are just that bit different, that bit quirky....it holds my interest and makes me want to read more. Now, guess what folks - I didn't read the blurb. If someone says to me, "Lorraine, you'll like this," I usually believe them and dive right in. I still haven't read the blurb, so I don't know if it would have forewarned me, but in the first chapter boy did I get a shock. A huge one. Whoa...did not expect that!
And that's when the great characters come to the fore. Ethan. wow, Ethan. Can I tell you a secret - I liked him, then didn't and then he absolutely grew on me. I didn't like how he treated Rob for a start. Yeah, yeah - he maybe did have a reason...but Rob's actions were misguided and unintentional and Ethan's were purposely just wrong. I'm glad he realised and the issue was resolved quickly, because it made me feel, rightly, uncomfortable. After that though, this story just got better and better and Ethan and Rob became more amazing and I yearned and longed for the romance and then....swoooooon....
Oh yes. A wonderful YA/NA story (it has it's sexy times!) about the difficulties of not fitting in and pretending to be what you're not. I adored Ethan by the end of the book and Rob stole my heart along the way too. Well worth a read in my opinion!
Want to read
November 22, 2014FREE at ARe right now 11/22/14
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