What do you think?
Rate this book
A Southern Thing #4
Billy
Book 4 of A Southern Thing Series Billy Miller never thought he’d be someone’s hero. Jack had saved him when he was seven, and Dianne had encouraged him to always be true to himself. But when Billy meets Sawyer Fredericks, the game changes. Simple is no longer simple, and one plus one doesn’t equal two. Sawyer has spent the last few years working hard to get ahead, and now it seems like his life is on track. Then Billy walks in and Sawyer realizes that plans sometimes change. The chemistry is good, and the emotions out of this world, but more than just Jack and Andrew are working to keep them apart. Once it seem like they have it all together, fate comes in to take everything away. Surviving takes more than just hanging tough, for Billy, it’s a life altering decision. Don't miss out, read all four book in the series. Book 1 Pray The Gay Away Book 2 Sending Jack Off To Jesus Book 3 My Big Fat Southern Gay Wedding Book 4 Billy
333 pages, ebook
First published November 26, 2014
27 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Sara York
153 books566 followersSara York, the author of Colorado Wild, twists words together to create worlds where characters make good and bad decisions that don't always work out so well. Romance and books have been a part of Sara York's life since learning to read. Sara York is a trans-male author writing gay romance. Coming out is the best decision Sara York has made. Live your life out loud. Sara York encourages you to be yourself.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 17, 2022
There were a whole host of reasons why Billy didn't work for me. Billy's character was a bit of a disappointment, and didn't turn out to be what I'd imagined him to be in the earlier novels. There was too much physical romance (especially compared to Jack and Andrews' love story), and I just wasn't rooting for the couple.
And while I usually adore Sean Crisden's voice, I didn't think he was the right choice for the audio version of this story.
a complementary copy of the audio version of Billy was provided for the purpose of my honest review
And while I usually adore Sean Crisden's voice, I didn't think he was the right choice for the audio version of this story.
a complementary copy of the audio version of Billy was provided for the purpose of my honest review
March 3, 2015
This was my first book I read from this author and I have to say I enjoyed it. I think reading the first books in the series is advisable but not compulsory.
Now before I begin my review I have to be honest and say I did indeed judged this book by it's cover and I was NOT expecting the story I got.
I have been reading my fair share of M/M romances but Billy was a breath of fresh air, yes it did took me a bit to get used to not having two very typical gay men in the story, Billy is very young, very naive and very different, he knows what he wants and he goes for it, but in order for him to be able to live a life where he is not criticised he moves with his brother in NY. He had plans to just concentrate on finishing his studies and get a job, but never in all his plans was meeting Sawyer. From that point Billy embarks in a path of self discovery and confidence, Sawyer couldn't be more different to Billy, he is loud and strong and very confident, but he is instantly attracted and he seems to accept everything about Billy, however, Sawyer is leading a dangerous and secret double life, one he wasn't expecting Billy to discover, what happens next is totally unexpected and its a big turning point in the story. I loved the suspense that this brought to the plot and the interactions were very well delivered between all the characters.
My only observation is that the last part felt a bit rushed, I was enjoying the twists and turns but some seemed to be resolved very fast and then we moved forward at a very fast pace.
Regardless Billy is a very decent read, is certainly well written and has an original story line with loveable characters.
4 Surprisingly good Stars~ ISALOVESBOOKS
December 21, 2014
“By your own soul, learn to live. And if men thwart you, take no heed. If men hate you, have no care. Sing your song, dream your dream. Hope your hope and pray your prayer.” — Parkenham Beatty
All Billy Miller wants to do was to be himself, but he knows from a young age that other people won't like it if he wears dresses and pretty barrettes in his hair. Fortunately, his mother understands and tries to protect him from harm; but even she can't ensure that other hateful, ignorant people won't take their hate out on her son. Billy has finally finished high school and is off to the big city to attend college. He will be out of the South, but wonders just how different it will be in New York.
Billy’s brother Jack and his husband Andrew welcome Billy with open arms. For the first time, Billy is able to experience two men who show true affection to each other. Billy has always known he was different; he likes to play baseball as well as dress in women's clothes, but doesn't want to be a woman. He also favors men, but has never had a chance to express his desire for male companionship. Billy is not interested in flings though; he has no desire to experiment. He's hoping that when he finds someone, they will treat him with respect and care like Jack and Andrew do. He's hoping that college will be different enough for him to experiment a bit; that, possibly, few will care if he wears pink pants and high heels; but before he does, Billy understands that it's more important to be safe. When he meets Sawyer Fredericks on campus, Billy realizes he needs to be cautious, but there's something about Sawyer he just can't resist. Billy feels as if he's known Sawyer forever and trusts him almost immediately. They begin an affair, even though it's against Sawyer's best judgment, because he knows he shouldn't be dragging Billy into his life at such an unstable time in his life. Things escalate between Sawyer and Billy very quickly. Billy keeps it a secret from his brother and husband which is a big mistake and makes matters even worse when the truth is discovered.
Sawyer is a complex person. He's not looking for a relationship when he meets Billy, but is like a moth drawn to a flame when he's near him. He knows it's awful timing, but even so, can't seem to stay away. Sawyer starts trying to juggle his work and time with Billy, doing neither well. He hates deceiving Billy about what he does, but it's imperative that no one knows, especially Billy who will surely misunderstand. When the worst case scenario happens and Billy sees Sawyer somewhere he shouldn't be, it almost breaks his heart. That's when Billy's brother finds out and threatens Sawyer about what will happen if he hurts Billy. Sawyer knows that he has to tell Billy the truth or lose him forever, so he explains as much as he can and swears Billy to silence. With not being able to tell anyone, Billy has to endure Jack and Andrew’s distain for Sawyer. When the need for deception has passed, Sawyer explains the situation to Jack and Andrew and to say they are relieved is an understatement. Years later, disaster strikes and ends Sawyer's career; but all is not lost. Fate has intervened and put him and Billy on another path which, on the surface seems unlikely, but in fact, is the best thing that could happen for them.
This is a powerful conclusion to an emotionally charged, but immeasurably needed series. Sara has shown us the good, bad, and ugly sides of being gay in the South; yet she's also found ways to turn all the negativity around and provide a happy ending for her men, which will give hope and encouragement to other gay men out there having similar issues. Sara also reminds us of the importance of being yourself if you ever expect to reach happiness. Fans of the series will love this story about Billy, who is undoubtedly one of the favorite characters in it. To those new to the series, it's possible to read this book alone, but without knowing the background information, the book's impact will be seriously diminished. Thank you so much, Sara, for the tears, angst, smiles, and happy endings.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
All Billy Miller wants to do was to be himself, but he knows from a young age that other people won't like it if he wears dresses and pretty barrettes in his hair. Fortunately, his mother understands and tries to protect him from harm; but even she can't ensure that other hateful, ignorant people won't take their hate out on her son. Billy has finally finished high school and is off to the big city to attend college. He will be out of the South, but wonders just how different it will be in New York.
Billy’s brother Jack and his husband Andrew welcome Billy with open arms. For the first time, Billy is able to experience two men who show true affection to each other. Billy has always known he was different; he likes to play baseball as well as dress in women's clothes, but doesn't want to be a woman. He also favors men, but has never had a chance to express his desire for male companionship. Billy is not interested in flings though; he has no desire to experiment. He's hoping that when he finds someone, they will treat him with respect and care like Jack and Andrew do. He's hoping that college will be different enough for him to experiment a bit; that, possibly, few will care if he wears pink pants and high heels; but before he does, Billy understands that it's more important to be safe. When he meets Sawyer Fredericks on campus, Billy realizes he needs to be cautious, but there's something about Sawyer he just can't resist. Billy feels as if he's known Sawyer forever and trusts him almost immediately. They begin an affair, even though it's against Sawyer's best judgment, because he knows he shouldn't be dragging Billy into his life at such an unstable time in his life. Things escalate between Sawyer and Billy very quickly. Billy keeps it a secret from his brother and husband which is a big mistake and makes matters even worse when the truth is discovered.
Sawyer is a complex person. He's not looking for a relationship when he meets Billy, but is like a moth drawn to a flame when he's near him. He knows it's awful timing, but even so, can't seem to stay away. Sawyer starts trying to juggle his work and time with Billy, doing neither well. He hates deceiving Billy about what he does, but it's imperative that no one knows, especially Billy who will surely misunderstand. When the worst case scenario happens and Billy sees Sawyer somewhere he shouldn't be, it almost breaks his heart. That's when Billy's brother finds out and threatens Sawyer about what will happen if he hurts Billy. Sawyer knows that he has to tell Billy the truth or lose him forever, so he explains as much as he can and swears Billy to silence. With not being able to tell anyone, Billy has to endure Jack and Andrew’s distain for Sawyer. When the need for deception has passed, Sawyer explains the situation to Jack and Andrew and to say they are relieved is an understatement. Years later, disaster strikes and ends Sawyer's career; but all is not lost. Fate has intervened and put him and Billy on another path which, on the surface seems unlikely, but in fact, is the best thing that could happen for them.
This is a powerful conclusion to an emotionally charged, but immeasurably needed series. Sara has shown us the good, bad, and ugly sides of being gay in the South; yet she's also found ways to turn all the negativity around and provide a happy ending for her men, which will give hope and encouragement to other gay men out there having similar issues. Sara also reminds us of the importance of being yourself if you ever expect to reach happiness. Fans of the series will love this story about Billy, who is undoubtedly one of the favorite characters in it. To those new to the series, it's possible to read this book alone, but without knowing the background information, the book's impact will be seriously diminished. Thank you so much, Sara, for the tears, angst, smiles, and happy endings.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 3, 2018
This is my favorite of the series. Mainly because I just love Billy.
This Book can be considered a Standalone. You wont be completely lost if you skip the first 3 books in the series, since this is technically following a new couple.. But you will be missing a lot of the backstory, so I still recommend reading and/or listening to the first 3 books as well.
We got to see Billy grow up from a small boy to a teen in the first Three books of this series.
This book starts off with Billy at around age 19 and entering college, moving from the South, to New York to live with his older brother Jack and his husband Andrew. Billy is an amazingly unique boy who loves dresses and makeup and just wants to be loved for being himself, pretty dresses and all. At the start of school Billy meets a boy named Sawyer. Sawyer is a (undercover) police officer working his way through school so he can join the FBI. They have a pretty insta/first-love relationship, And Sawyer is perfectly ok with Billy wearing whatever he feels comfortable in. After a few years together there is some drama which causes some major strain on their relationship, but after being together, and in love for so long, they are both willing to work hard at their relationship and do what's needed to make it all work out in the end. This book is a great finale to this series and I am sad to see the ending after such an emotional, heart wrenching, and sometimes fun filled, journey through this family's life.
Audio - I was also a little sad that the narrator was changed from Jason Frazier (who did great narrating the first three) to Sean Crisden for this book. But I do think Sean did a good job getting into both Billy and Sawyers Characters, making sure that we still got the sweetness of Billy and the correct Tones/Emotions for Sawyer in this story, and I really enjoyed the narration for this one.
This Book can be considered a Standalone. You wont be completely lost if you skip the first 3 books in the series, since this is technically following a new couple.. But you will be missing a lot of the backstory, so I still recommend reading and/or listening to the first 3 books as well.
We got to see Billy grow up from a small boy to a teen in the first Three books of this series.
This book starts off with Billy at around age 19 and entering college, moving from the South, to New York to live with his older brother Jack and his husband Andrew. Billy is an amazingly unique boy who loves dresses and makeup and just wants to be loved for being himself, pretty dresses and all. At the start of school Billy meets a boy named Sawyer. Sawyer is a (undercover) police officer working his way through school so he can join the FBI. They have a pretty insta/first-love relationship, And Sawyer is perfectly ok with Billy wearing whatever he feels comfortable in. After a few years together there is some drama which causes some major strain on their relationship, but after being together, and in love for so long, they are both willing to work hard at their relationship and do what's needed to make it all work out in the end. This book is a great finale to this series and I am sad to see the ending after such an emotional, heart wrenching, and sometimes fun filled, journey through this family's life.
Audio - I was also a little sad that the narrator was changed from Jason Frazier (who did great narrating the first three) to Sean Crisden for this book. But I do think Sean did a good job getting into both Billy and Sawyers Characters, making sure that we still got the sweetness of Billy and the correct Tones/Emotions for Sawyer in this story, and I really enjoyed the narration for this one.
September 30, 2018
A moving conclusion to this wonderful series. At times this was hard to read. Not coming from this place I can’t believe how cruel we can be to each other. This series shows there can be hope and freedom to be who you are.
January 2, 2016
I'm a HUGE fan of Sean Crisden, but I didn't care for his narration here. I can't quite put my finger on why, I only know that while I usually love and enjoy his narration I didn't this time.
Sometimes a story resonates with you and sometimes it doesn't. This is one of those times where the story just didn't work for me. If you're interested in why, please read on.
I felt like this was two different stories packed into one book and I felt like this is a mostly "then suddenly" book.
For example: the first 75% of the story takes place over a matter of weeks, then suddenly within a matter of paragraphs it's two years later, and then suddenly again it's two years after that.
I've been a fan of Billy since the first A Southern Thing story, and after all he's been through, and after all his brother Jack has been through for him, I didn't buy Billy moving to New York, meeting and falling in love with some guy in days, and then literally throwing Jack and Andrew over for this near-stranger. After all Jack has done for Billy, I did not believe Billy would have treated Jack the way he does. And, I'll admit, I was disappointed in his behavior.
There is also a mountain of miscommunication that happens time and time again in this which drove me nuts.
"Disappointed" I think is the best way I can describe how I feel about this story. I was disappointed in Billy, his choices, Sawyer, his behavior, and, most of all, the ending.
Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
December 5, 2014
What a beautiful trip
This series has been a very strong driving force for me, I will be lost without Jack, Andrew, Billy and Sawyer.
I was actually a little depressed for the first few nights after completing book three, seriously moping around when I discovered Billy got his own book, Hurray, I read this one in 3 nights after work; I will dearly miss the gang but its my hope Sara will someday revisit our old friends. Thank you Sara!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This series has been a very strong driving force for me, I will be lost without Jack, Andrew, Billy and Sawyer.
I was actually a little depressed for the first few nights after completing book three, seriously moping around when I discovered Billy got his own book, Hurray, I read this one in 3 nights after work; I will dearly miss the gang but its my hope Sara will someday revisit our old friends. Thank you Sara!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 8, 2015
I LOVED the first three books in this series, but just felt like there was way too much going on in this one. The story was developed too fast, and it seemed to me that too many extra things were added that were unnecessary overall. I won't include any spoilers, but I personally think this would have been better off as two separate stories.
December 2, 2014
Even though the Southern thing series is about Jack and Andrew, Jack's little brother Billy became an important character. It was great to read about what his future held. There was some highs and lows, but it was an excellent addition to this series.
March 9, 2015
Wow! Wow! Wow! I absolutely loved Billy…Both the book and character. This is book four in the Southern Thing Series but it does stand alone perfectly. However, it does give us a bit more of Jack and Andrew so you may want to read the first three first. Still there is enough backstory and it’s written well enough and far enough into the future that it is not necessary.
I knew I would love Billy since I did fall in love with the little boy in the first books. The adult Billy was just as adorable and fun as the 6-year-old boy, but better since here we had a very sexy young man. The story picks up with Billy moving to New York to go live with his brother Jack and his husband Andrew. Jack working at a college as coach he was able to get a discount for Billy and they also got him connections to get into a theater group as long as he kept up his grades. This worked for Billy with his love of acting and he wanted to be a costume designer. He meets Sawyer and his life changes even more. He also finds out he has to learn to trust and make some harsh decisions.
I loved this story. There are a few lessons on this book about family, trust, not judging people by what you see, faith and how life can change. I think this is a heart-warming story (and series) every parent of gay teens especially ones that like to wear makeup and dresses and feminine colors should read and let their children read. (Though be warned there is a lot of hot sex in the book)
I will say I had one very slight issue. After a little over halfway the story began skipping time by leaps and bounds. It would slow back to present for a bit then skip quite a bit. Now having said that, I can see where it was probably necessary though I wouldn’t have minded a longer book with this filled in. It did not hinder my enjoyment of the story. There was something going on with Jack and Andrew I can’t say without spoiling that once it happened that also got sort of brushed aside.
If you like sweet stories of first love, insta-lust or insta-love, guys that like to wear girly stuff, costume designers, drag queens, FBI agents and some very hot but sensual man-sex this is a must read.
written for MMgoodbookreviews.com
I knew I would love Billy since I did fall in love with the little boy in the first books. The adult Billy was just as adorable and fun as the 6-year-old boy, but better since here we had a very sexy young man. The story picks up with Billy moving to New York to go live with his brother Jack and his husband Andrew. Jack working at a college as coach he was able to get a discount for Billy and they also got him connections to get into a theater group as long as he kept up his grades. This worked for Billy with his love of acting and he wanted to be a costume designer. He meets Sawyer and his life changes even more. He also finds out he has to learn to trust and make some harsh decisions.
I loved this story. There are a few lessons on this book about family, trust, not judging people by what you see, faith and how life can change. I think this is a heart-warming story (and series) every parent of gay teens especially ones that like to wear makeup and dresses and feminine colors should read and let their children read. (Though be warned there is a lot of hot sex in the book)
I will say I had one very slight issue. After a little over halfway the story began skipping time by leaps and bounds. It would slow back to present for a bit then skip quite a bit. Now having said that, I can see where it was probably necessary though I wouldn’t have minded a longer book with this filled in. It did not hinder my enjoyment of the story. There was something going on with Jack and Andrew I can’t say without spoiling that once it happened that also got sort of brushed aside.
If you like sweet stories of first love, insta-lust or insta-love, guys that like to wear girly stuff, costume designers, drag queens, FBI agents and some very hot but sensual man-sex this is a must read.
written for MMgoodbookreviews.com
July 21, 2016
I will be honest... Sara York's writing style is not my favorite, but I always seem to love her stories! Also... I began this book... read a few chapters and set it aside thinking Whoa... this is not going to work for me... So, I jumped over and read another book and then came back to Billy. I loved Billy as a child as we saw him in the first 3 books. I wanted to take him shopping and buy him pretty dresses and barrettes. I wanted to take my knee and ram it as far up his dad's groin as I could ram it and most of all I wanted take Billy, Jack, and Andrew home with me and give them the life they deserved. But, now to book 4... I wasn't happy where I thought the author was taking Sawyer's character and I almost put the book away again... but, it was late and I couldn't sleep (ended staying up till almost 7 o'clock this morning to finish this book) so I decided to grab the bull by the horns and finish the book so that I could mark this series finished! WOW... was I pleasantly surprised by what was revealed to me... what I had hoped would be the case... what made reading this story worthwhile!
Yes, there were a few things that I wasn't particularly happy with in the story... but they were few and far between and didn't distract me from where the story was taking me. I really would have liked to have seen more "barrettes" in this book for Billy... but overall I was pleased by the twists and turns that the story took. I did feel that the rough spots that Billy and Sawyer went through were a bit rushed and could have used a bit more detail... but that may have just been my brain wanted to know the why, when and where of how these things came about!
Either way... in the end, Billy found the "one" that knew he was "pretty"... told him he was "pretty" and accepted him for the wonderful, kindhearted beautiful man that he is... what more can we ask for in life than to be unconditionally accepted by the one person in our life that means the most to us?
Yes, there were a few things that I wasn't particularly happy with in the story... but they were few and far between and didn't distract me from where the story was taking me. I really would have liked to have seen more "barrettes" in this book for Billy... but overall I was pleased by the twists and turns that the story took. I did feel that the rough spots that Billy and Sawyer went through were a bit rushed and could have used a bit more detail... but that may have just been my brain wanted to know the why, when and where of how these things came about!
Either way... in the end, Billy found the "one" that knew he was "pretty"... told him he was "pretty" and accepted him for the wonderful, kindhearted beautiful man that he is... what more can we ask for in life than to be unconditionally accepted by the one person in our life that means the most to us?
January 11, 2015
I'm glad Billy got his own book and we get to see what became of him. It was also really good to touch base with Andrew and Jack as they are what started this series. I fell in love with Billy when i first met him in Pray the Gay Away as I'm sure most if not all the readers did and to watch him grow from a confused 7year old into the amazing and finally confident man he turned out to be was just heart warming and yes i found myself grinning like an idiot but a very happy idiot at that.
To add to this story and in fact the series itself which was a roller coaster emotionally, was the authors notes at the end of Billy, truly inspirational and yes i do hope that teens regardless of their sexual orientation read this series.
love, love, love your work Sara.
To add to this story and in fact the series itself which was a roller coaster emotionally, was the authors notes at the end of Billy, truly inspirational and yes i do hope that teens regardless of their sexual orientation read this series.
love, love, love your work Sara.
December 17, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
This is book 4 in the ‘A Southern Thing’ Series. Although you get to catch up with Jack and Andrew this story concentrates on Jack’s youngest brother Billy who most of us came to love in the first 3 books. Billy was a beautiful little boy who just wanted to be himself and have his father tell him he was pretty but instead he grew up with hate and prejudice and kept a part of himself hidden.
Billy is now 18 and ready to spread his wings. He is the last of the children to leave home and is finally getting away from the constricting Southern State he grew up in and heading for New York to stay with Jack and Andrew whilst attending college. He has high hopes that people will accept him for who he is but finds he is more nervous than ever when his new life starts. His makeup box stays closed and his dresses are hung firmly in the back of his wardrobe as his confidence dips with fear of how people will react.
Billy is keen to experience everything and looks at Jack and Andrew in wonder when they kiss and hold hands. Billy has never even had a kiss before and longs to find someone to love who will love all the things that make him who he is. He is certainly not used to being anywhere near an openly gay couple. When he looks into the eyes of Sawyer Fredericks on his first day at college he is mesmerised but far too scared to even say hello.
Sawyer and Billy are in the same History class and hit it off from the start. Billy is extremely naive for an 18 year old and trips over his words and his feet when he has to try and talk to the handsome man in front of him. They quickly fall into the habit of having lunch together after class and over the next few weeks they become friends, although Billy is desperate for more, he wants to experience his first kiss with Sawyer and he wants it now.
Sawyer has a whole bag of secrets and although they are not necessarily bad they put a strain on their relationship and cause anger with Jack and Andrew. This is easily rectified for everyone once the truth is known and leaves Billy and Sawyer free to move on with the support of Billy’s family.
The story jumps forward a bit to where Sawyer has achieved his dream but sadly it is not everything he thought it would be. With their relationship in rocky territory they seem to have lost sight of what is truly important and it takes a tragedy to open their eyes.
Billy’s story almost turns full circle as he heads back South but he is certainly not the boy from a few years ago who moved to New York to start a new phase of his life. We have watched this boy from a young age when some days his very existence depended on him keeping parts of himself hidden. He was saved by his mother and the love and protection of his older brother and he finally got his dream of finding someone to love him and accept all parts of him.
Merged review:
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
This is book 4 in the ‘A Southern Thing’ Series. Although you get to catch up with Jack and Andrew this story concentrates on Jack’s youngest brother Billy who most of us came to love in the first 3 books. Billy was a beautiful little boy who just wanted to be himself and have his father tell him he was pretty but instead he grew up with hate and prejudice and kept a part of himself hidden.
Billy is now 18 and ready to spread his wings. He is the last of the children to leave home and is finally getting away from the constricting Southern State he grew up in and heading for New York to stay with Jack and Andrew whilst attending college. He has high hopes that people will accept him for who he is but finds he is more nervous than ever when his new life starts. His makeup box stays closed and his dresses are hung firmly in the back of his wardrobe as his confidence dips with fear of how people will react.
Billy is keen to experience everything and looks at Jack and Andrew in wonder when they kiss and hold hands. Billy has never even had a kiss before and longs to find someone to love who will love all the things that make him who he is. He is certainly not used to being anywhere near an openly gay couple. When he looks into the eyes of Sawyer Fredericks on his first day at college he is mesmerised but far too scared to even say hello.
Sawyer and Billy are in the same History class and hit it off from the start. Billy is extremely naive for an 18 year old and trips over his words and his feet when he has to try and talk to the handsome man in front of him. They quickly fall into the habit of having lunch together after class and over the next few weeks they become friends, although Billy is desperate for more, he wants to experience his first kiss with Sawyer and he wants it now.
Sawyer has a whole bag of secrets and although they are not necessarily bad they put a strain on their relationship and cause anger with Jack and Andrew. This is easily rectified for everyone once the truth is known and leaves Billy and Sawyer free to move on with the support of Billy’s family.
The story jumps forward a bit to where Sawyer has achieved his dream but sadly it is not everything he thought it would be. With their relationship in rocky territory they seem to have lost sight of what is truly important and it takes a tragedy to open their eyes.
Billy’s story almost turns full circle as he heads back South but he is certainly not the boy from a few years ago who moved to New York to start a new phase of his life. We have watched this boy from a young age when some days his very existence depended on him keeping parts of himself hidden. He was saved by his mother and the love and protection of his older brother and he finally got his dream of finding someone to love him and accept all parts of him.
This is book 4 in the ‘A Southern Thing’ Series. Although you get to catch up with Jack and Andrew this story concentrates on Jack’s youngest brother Billy who most of us came to love in the first 3 books. Billy was a beautiful little boy who just wanted to be himself and have his father tell him he was pretty but instead he grew up with hate and prejudice and kept a part of himself hidden.
Billy is now 18 and ready to spread his wings. He is the last of the children to leave home and is finally getting away from the constricting Southern State he grew up in and heading for New York to stay with Jack and Andrew whilst attending college. He has high hopes that people will accept him for who he is but finds he is more nervous than ever when his new life starts. His makeup box stays closed and his dresses are hung firmly in the back of his wardrobe as his confidence dips with fear of how people will react.
Billy is keen to experience everything and looks at Jack and Andrew in wonder when they kiss and hold hands. Billy has never even had a kiss before and longs to find someone to love who will love all the things that make him who he is. He is certainly not used to being anywhere near an openly gay couple. When he looks into the eyes of Sawyer Fredericks on his first day at college he is mesmerised but far too scared to even say hello.
Sawyer and Billy are in the same History class and hit it off from the start. Billy is extremely naive for an 18 year old and trips over his words and his feet when he has to try and talk to the handsome man in front of him. They quickly fall into the habit of having lunch together after class and over the next few weeks they become friends, although Billy is desperate for more, he wants to experience his first kiss with Sawyer and he wants it now.
Sawyer has a whole bag of secrets and although they are not necessarily bad they put a strain on their relationship and cause anger with Jack and Andrew. This is easily rectified for everyone once the truth is known and leaves Billy and Sawyer free to move on with the support of Billy’s family.
The story jumps forward a bit to where Sawyer has achieved his dream but sadly it is not everything he thought it would be. With their relationship in rocky territory they seem to have lost sight of what is truly important and it takes a tragedy to open their eyes.
Billy’s story almost turns full circle as he heads back South but he is certainly not the boy from a few years ago who moved to New York to start a new phase of his life. We have watched this boy from a young age when some days his very existence depended on him keeping parts of himself hidden. He was saved by his mother and the love and protection of his older brother and he finally got his dream of finding someone to love him and accept all parts of him.
Merged review:
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
This is book 4 in the ‘A Southern Thing’ Series. Although you get to catch up with Jack and Andrew this story concentrates on Jack’s youngest brother Billy who most of us came to love in the first 3 books. Billy was a beautiful little boy who just wanted to be himself and have his father tell him he was pretty but instead he grew up with hate and prejudice and kept a part of himself hidden.
Billy is now 18 and ready to spread his wings. He is the last of the children to leave home and is finally getting away from the constricting Southern State he grew up in and heading for New York to stay with Jack and Andrew whilst attending college. He has high hopes that people will accept him for who he is but finds he is more nervous than ever when his new life starts. His makeup box stays closed and his dresses are hung firmly in the back of his wardrobe as his confidence dips with fear of how people will react.
Billy is keen to experience everything and looks at Jack and Andrew in wonder when they kiss and hold hands. Billy has never even had a kiss before and longs to find someone to love who will love all the things that make him who he is. He is certainly not used to being anywhere near an openly gay couple. When he looks into the eyes of Sawyer Fredericks on his first day at college he is mesmerised but far too scared to even say hello.
Sawyer and Billy are in the same History class and hit it off from the start. Billy is extremely naive for an 18 year old and trips over his words and his feet when he has to try and talk to the handsome man in front of him. They quickly fall into the habit of having lunch together after class and over the next few weeks they become friends, although Billy is desperate for more, he wants to experience his first kiss with Sawyer and he wants it now.
Sawyer has a whole bag of secrets and although they are not necessarily bad they put a strain on their relationship and cause anger with Jack and Andrew. This is easily rectified for everyone once the truth is known and leaves Billy and Sawyer free to move on with the support of Billy’s family.
The story jumps forward a bit to where Sawyer has achieved his dream but sadly it is not everything he thought it would be. With their relationship in rocky territory they seem to have lost sight of what is truly important and it takes a tragedy to open their eyes.
Billy’s story almost turns full circle as he heads back South but he is certainly not the boy from a few years ago who moved to New York to start a new phase of his life. We have watched this boy from a young age when some days his very existence depended on him keeping parts of himself hidden. He was saved by his mother and the love and protection of his older brother and he finally got his dream of finding someone to love him and accept all parts of him.
September 25, 2020
Absolutely adored Billy!
He stole my heart as a 7-year-old kid “just wanting to be pretty” in the first book, and now that he’s grown into a man, he’s such a beautiful soul.
His desire to wear pretty things is still there, along with a newfound restraint for fear of rejection or worst.
I loved his story with Sawyer, which is told over the span of several years, and not free of pain.
This series is surely one that will stay close to my heart for a very long time!
He stole my heart as a 7-year-old kid “just wanting to be pretty” in the first book, and now that he’s grown into a man, he’s such a beautiful soul.
His desire to wear pretty things is still there, along with a newfound restraint for fear of rejection or worst.
I loved his story with Sawyer, which is told over the span of several years, and not free of pain.
This series is surely one that will stay close to my heart for a very long time!
September 21, 2022
No White Suit
The cover picture is a little misleading. There is never a mention of Billy wearing a white suit. OK, that sounds petty. This is a nice, feel good story. A work of fiction. Too bad it doesn’t reflect real, actual life. For a lot of folks, the story doesn’t end on an achingly chipper note like this one does. But it’s nice to read and dream.
The cover picture is a little misleading. There is never a mention of Billy wearing a white suit. OK, that sounds petty. This is a nice, feel good story. A work of fiction. Too bad it doesn’t reflect real, actual life. For a lot of folks, the story doesn’t end on an achingly chipper note like this one does. But it’s nice to read and dream.
March 13, 2022
A moving conclusion to this wonderful series. At times this was hard to read. Not coming from this place I can’t believe how cruel we can be to each other. This series shows there can be hope and freedom to be who you are.
June 25, 2018
4.25 Stars
April 5, 2024
Audiobook. 3.5⭐️ I need to read the first few stories.
July 25, 2015
Billy Miller made it through high school pretending to be someone he’s not. Fear kept Billy in the closet, so to speak, but now he’s moving to New York to live with his brother and brother in law and start college. If he can be himself anywhere, it’s New York, right? Excited and anxious to start the next phase of his life, Billy embraces college, his acting class, and being able to wear mascara and lip gloss in public without being beaten to a bloody pulp.
Sawyer Fredericks didn’t intend to get involved with anyone. His life is complicated. He has secrets and can’t afford to drag someone into the chaos when he can’t even tell them the truth. But Billy catches his eye the very first day and soon friendly smiles, conversations during classes and quiet lunches on campus turn into something more. Sawyer knows he shouldn’t pursue a relationship, but he’s enamored with Billy’s vibrancy from the start. When Billy learns Sawyers secret, will he turn away? Or embrace the man he’s falling hard for.
I was sitting in for York’s reading at GRL 2015 when she got up on stage and started talking about what she was going to read, that the character was never supposed to have a story, but he was persistent. I immediately knew she was talking about Billy and I literally squealed. I think people were starring. But seriously, who didn’t fall in love with this character in the first book in this series when he said, “I don’t think God made me right.”? And then everything that Jack endured to protect Billy’s innocence? He’s always been my favorite character in this series and I’m so happy York decided to write his story, and Crisden agreed to give him a voice.
There are a lot of highs and lows in this story, definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat. As Billy starts to slowly reveal more and more of his true nature, he worries how he will be perceived not only by Sawyer, but by his peers as well. But Billy is one tough cookie and he proves that more than once. Andrew and Jack are having issues of their own as well. Not only are they looking into adopting, but they aren’t exactly pleased with Billy’s choice in boyfriends. Billy realizes the gravity of what Jack did all those years ago to protect him, and that Jack is still just trying to protect him, but above all he wants his brother’s trust.
I knew going into this it wasn’t going to be all sunshine and roses. That wouldn’t ring true in relation to the series or the characters. Billy has to do a lot of growing up and continue to conquer fears and hurdle obstacles to find his happy ever after. And then, right when he and Sawyer think they’ve gotten everything they want. Well, it’s not quite that easy. Relationships are hard work. As hard as you think they are, you wind up wishing they were that easy. Billy and Sawyer continually grow as the story progresses, as do Jack and Andrew.
Sean Crisden took over to narrate Billy’s story, and while I questioned that decision at first, I have to say now I think it was brilliant. While Billy is an important part of the world York created four books ago, he is his own person and deserves his own voice separate from everyone else. That is exactly what Crisden did. The thing I love most about Crisden’s narration skills is how he can put so much emotion into his words. The conversations that Billy and Sawyer have as their relationship is slowly progressing could have been lost on me, or glossed over in print, but to have Crisden giving each character such precise tones, inflections and nuances really brought them to life for me.
Dramatic, emotional, passionate, fun… these are just a few words that describe this story. If you’ve been a fan of the series from the start, you know it’s not going to be an easy road for Billy. But the writing just grabs you and you become invested in the characters and will weather any storm with them while you wait to see where they will land when the dust settles. Obviously I recommend this book, this series. And while you could walk into Billy’s life without having travelled through Jack and Andrew’s stories, you will miss a lot of the back story, so I suggest started at the beginning if you haven’t.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Sawyer Fredericks didn’t intend to get involved with anyone. His life is complicated. He has secrets and can’t afford to drag someone into the chaos when he can’t even tell them the truth. But Billy catches his eye the very first day and soon friendly smiles, conversations during classes and quiet lunches on campus turn into something more. Sawyer knows he shouldn’t pursue a relationship, but he’s enamored with Billy’s vibrancy from the start. When Billy learns Sawyers secret, will he turn away? Or embrace the man he’s falling hard for.
I was sitting in for York’s reading at GRL 2015 when she got up on stage and started talking about what she was going to read, that the character was never supposed to have a story, but he was persistent. I immediately knew she was talking about Billy and I literally squealed. I think people were starring. But seriously, who didn’t fall in love with this character in the first book in this series when he said, “I don’t think God made me right.”? And then everything that Jack endured to protect Billy’s innocence? He’s always been my favorite character in this series and I’m so happy York decided to write his story, and Crisden agreed to give him a voice.
There are a lot of highs and lows in this story, definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat. As Billy starts to slowly reveal more and more of his true nature, he worries how he will be perceived not only by Sawyer, but by his peers as well. But Billy is one tough cookie and he proves that more than once. Andrew and Jack are having issues of their own as well. Not only are they looking into adopting, but they aren’t exactly pleased with Billy’s choice in boyfriends. Billy realizes the gravity of what Jack did all those years ago to protect him, and that Jack is still just trying to protect him, but above all he wants his brother’s trust.
I knew going into this it wasn’t going to be all sunshine and roses. That wouldn’t ring true in relation to the series or the characters. Billy has to do a lot of growing up and continue to conquer fears and hurdle obstacles to find his happy ever after. And then, right when he and Sawyer think they’ve gotten everything they want. Well, it’s not quite that easy. Relationships are hard work. As hard as you think they are, you wind up wishing they were that easy. Billy and Sawyer continually grow as the story progresses, as do Jack and Andrew.
Sean Crisden took over to narrate Billy’s story, and while I questioned that decision at first, I have to say now I think it was brilliant. While Billy is an important part of the world York created four books ago, he is his own person and deserves his own voice separate from everyone else. That is exactly what Crisden did. The thing I love most about Crisden’s narration skills is how he can put so much emotion into his words. The conversations that Billy and Sawyer have as their relationship is slowly progressing could have been lost on me, or glossed over in print, but to have Crisden giving each character such precise tones, inflections and nuances really brought them to life for me.
Dramatic, emotional, passionate, fun… these are just a few words that describe this story. If you’ve been a fan of the series from the start, you know it’s not going to be an easy road for Billy. But the writing just grabs you and you become invested in the characters and will weather any storm with them while you wait to see where they will land when the dust settles. Obviously I recommend this book, this series. And while you could walk into Billy’s life without having travelled through Jack and Andrew’s stories, you will miss a lot of the back story, so I suggest started at the beginning if you haven’t.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
November 29, 2014
Oh dear.
That is what went through my mind, repeatedly, as I worked (yes worked) my way through to the end of this book.
Billy is a young gay man. This is conveyed to the reader through his love of pink, his penchant for dresses and soft fabrics, his love of the theatre, and his complete emasculation as a male. He is not, however, as Ms. York points out, desiring to change gender because, and I quote, "He liked having a cock."
Okay, then. Good to know, but I'm not at all sure where the author is coming from with Billy as a character. He's a cliché. A stereotype of all things gay, which I have had to battle my way through all my life. (The fact he plays baseball does not make him less ridiculous)
The actual plot line started off being good, though - Billy moving to NY and discovering himself, finding a boyfriend, but it wasn't, alas, to last.
The dialogue was difficult to read, because everyone was so properly and formally spoken all the time. They 'sounded' stilted, which was a crying shame. A few contractions of words could have easily sorted this out. I am yet to hear anyone speak as Sara York writes them. A few "haven't" instead of "have not". "I'm", instead of "I am"; "don't" instead of "do not"...it was all very much proper 'Queen's English' throughout the book.
Although, actually, I live in England, and I think the queen might speak less formally than these people.
The story plodded along quite happily, though. I wasn't (was not) disliking it until about 70% in, when, suddenly, with a maximum word-count looming on the horizon, the tale switched from what was happening, to what had happened, then back to what was happening. A HUGE chunk of the story was skimmed over in retrospect, and this threw me for a loop, confused me and ultimately robbed me of following the story with anything approaching coherency. It also threw the timeline of the preceding books in the Southern Thing series into disarray. I threw my hands up in the air, shook my head, and took a deep breath, determined to plough on through to the end. By this point, I was invested and I had to see where the book was going, if anywhere.
One moment, Billy is eighteen, the next he's...30? I'm not sure what happened, but there was a garbled account of a recap to let me know he'd grown older and settled down. Jack's adopted kids were older, Andrew was older, the FBI had happened...all told in a few pages, with no detail and no soul to draw me in. 'Action' nearly happened (insert conflict and angst here) but fell short dramatically. If only Billy never wore a dress...
In all, it was a cliché wrapped up in a stereotype and was a huge let-down for me. Maybe this author writes for a different audience, but as a young(ish - I'm 26) gay man, I found this book seriously bad. A shame, really.
That is what went through my mind, repeatedly, as I worked (yes worked) my way through to the end of this book.
Billy is a young gay man. This is conveyed to the reader through his love of pink, his penchant for dresses and soft fabrics, his love of the theatre, and his complete emasculation as a male. He is not, however, as Ms. York points out, desiring to change gender because, and I quote, "He liked having a cock."
Okay, then. Good to know, but I'm not at all sure where the author is coming from with Billy as a character. He's a cliché. A stereotype of all things gay, which I have had to battle my way through all my life. (The fact he plays baseball does not make him less ridiculous)
The actual plot line started off being good, though - Billy moving to NY and discovering himself, finding a boyfriend, but it wasn't, alas, to last.
The dialogue was difficult to read, because everyone was so properly and formally spoken all the time. They 'sounded' stilted, which was a crying shame. A few contractions of words could have easily sorted this out. I am yet to hear anyone speak as Sara York writes them. A few "haven't" instead of "have not". "I'm", instead of "I am"; "don't" instead of "do not"...it was all very much proper 'Queen's English' throughout the book.
Although, actually, I live in England, and I think the queen might speak less formally than these people.
The story plodded along quite happily, though. I wasn't (was not) disliking it until about 70% in, when, suddenly, with a maximum word-count looming on the horizon, the tale switched from what was happening, to what had happened, then back to what was happening. A HUGE chunk of the story was skimmed over in retrospect, and this threw me for a loop, confused me and ultimately robbed me of following the story with anything approaching coherency. It also threw the timeline of the preceding books in the Southern Thing series into disarray. I threw my hands up in the air, shook my head, and took a deep breath, determined to plough on through to the end. By this point, I was invested and I had to see where the book was going, if anywhere.
One moment, Billy is eighteen, the next he's...30? I'm not sure what happened, but there was a garbled account of a recap to let me know he'd grown older and settled down. Jack's adopted kids were older, Andrew was older, the FBI had happened...all told in a few pages, with no detail and no soul to draw me in. 'Action' nearly happened (insert conflict and angst here) but fell short dramatically. If only Billy never wore a dress...
In all, it was a cliché wrapped up in a stereotype and was a huge let-down for me. Maybe this author writes for a different audience, but as a young(ish - I'm 26) gay man, I found this book seriously bad. A shame, really.
April 11, 2016
Title: Billy
Author: Sara York
Publisher: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
ISBN: B00Q7TUDTG
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
A Southern Thing 4
Billy Miller never thought he’d be someone’s hero. Jack had saved him when he was seven, and Dianne had encouraged him to always be true to himself. But when Billy meets Sawyer Fredericks, the game changes. Simple is no longer simple, and one plus one doesn’t equal two.
Sawyer has spent the last few years working hard to get ahead, and now it seems like his life is on track. Then Billy walks in and Sawyer realizes that plans sometimes change. The chemistry is good, and the emotions out of this world, but more than just Jack and Andrew are working to keep them apart.
Once it seem like they have it all together, fate comes in to take everything away. Surviving takes more than just hanging tough, for Billy, it’s a life altering decision.
Summary:
I remember Billy as a precocious, adorable young child. Rainbows, unicorns and shiny sparkles come to mind when describing Billy's character. After all the difficulties of an abusive father to living in a town where he would never be accepted, Billy's brother Jack and his mother stood by him giving the love and support he needed as he grew up. Leaving home is never easy, but Billy hoped that New York would be the beginning of great things. It helped that he was living with Jack and his husband Andrew. Meeting Sawyer at school was a revelation to Billy, but life is never easy and you have to fight for what you want. There is more to Sawyer than anyone ever expected and Billy has to learn that looks can be deceiving. In the story the reader experiences the gamut of emotions as the characters come to life as their lives unfold. Many people deal with intolerance and hatred over different issues, but in the end they either rise above it or let it effect them. This story allows the reader to understand that they alone have the key to their destiny and anything is possible if they can believe in themselves!
Author: Sara York
Publisher: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
ISBN: B00Q7TUDTG
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
A Southern Thing 4
Billy Miller never thought he’d be someone’s hero. Jack had saved him when he was seven, and Dianne had encouraged him to always be true to himself. But when Billy meets Sawyer Fredericks, the game changes. Simple is no longer simple, and one plus one doesn’t equal two.
Sawyer has spent the last few years working hard to get ahead, and now it seems like his life is on track. Then Billy walks in and Sawyer realizes that plans sometimes change. The chemistry is good, and the emotions out of this world, but more than just Jack and Andrew are working to keep them apart.
Once it seem like they have it all together, fate comes in to take everything away. Surviving takes more than just hanging tough, for Billy, it’s a life altering decision.
Summary:
I remember Billy as a precocious, adorable young child. Rainbows, unicorns and shiny sparkles come to mind when describing Billy's character. After all the difficulties of an abusive father to living in a town where he would never be accepted, Billy's brother Jack and his mother stood by him giving the love and support he needed as he grew up. Leaving home is never easy, but Billy hoped that New York would be the beginning of great things. It helped that he was living with Jack and his husband Andrew. Meeting Sawyer at school was a revelation to Billy, but life is never easy and you have to fight for what you want. There is more to Sawyer than anyone ever expected and Billy has to learn that looks can be deceiving. In the story the reader experiences the gamut of emotions as the characters come to life as their lives unfold. Many people deal with intolerance and hatred over different issues, but in the end they either rise above it or let it effect them. This story allows the reader to understand that they alone have the key to their destiny and anything is possible if they can believe in themselves!
December 7, 2014
I made a big error when I started this book...I discovered that I really needed to read the first book...no...wait...make that the first three books in the series, before tackling Billy. In reality...it was MY bad. I somehow spazzed on the part about the book being book four of the Southern Thing series. Fast forward...I finished book one only to discover the story did not end...a cliffhanger and that I needed to buy 2 more books before I could read Billy. Not that I was really put-out, as I did really like the all of the characters.
Now, on to Billy. We treated to small wonderful glimpses of this boy over the years as he grew-up in books one through three. I really did love his story the best out of this 4 book series. Billy stayed true to himself from childhood to adult, with only a couple small detours along the road. He learned when to hide the soft & conform to social norms and when to let it shine. What I really didn't care for was the big jumps in time during the last half of the book. The first 3 books in the series seem to crawl at a snail's pace...while Billy appeared to use to time travel to take us through the book. Blink and boom...you skipped ahead anywhere from 6 months to even a year or two in time.
Now, on to Billy. We treated to small wonderful glimpses of this boy over the years as he grew-up in books one through three. I really did love his story the best out of this 4 book series. Billy stayed true to himself from childhood to adult, with only a couple small detours along the road. He learned when to hide the soft & conform to social norms and when to let it shine. What I really didn't care for was the big jumps in time during the last half of the book. The first 3 books in the series seem to crawl at a snail's pace...while Billy appeared to use to time travel to take us through the book. Blink and boom...you skipped ahead anywhere from 6 months to even a year or two in time.
April 11, 2019
This was book four out of series and although it has the whole cast in it, the story focuses on the main character's younger brother. That is why this book has a different feel to it. There is still the emotional ups and downs but less of the through the wringer feel that the other three books produced in me. This book is sweeter and Billy is definitely a different character than either Jack or Andrew.
I am surprised at Jack in this book. I get that he wants to protect his brother, he always has, being a surrogate father. However I would of thought that his own experiences would have taught him a gentler way, and to ask questions etc. I am glad that he realises this before pushing Billy away as they really are close.
Once again the main pairing of the book have to face homophobia although from an entirely different source. Institutionalised prejudice is hard to conquer especially those that have power and guns. I am sad that it had such devastating impact on them but glad to know that there is a future for these characters.
I am surprised at Jack in this book. I get that he wants to protect his brother, he always has, being a surrogate father. However I would of thought that his own experiences would have taught him a gentler way, and to ask questions etc. I am glad that he realises this before pushing Billy away as they really are close.
Once again the main pairing of the book have to face homophobia although from an entirely different source. Institutionalised prejudice is hard to conquer especially those that have power and guns. I am sad that it had such devastating impact on them but glad to know that there is a future for these characters.
March 8, 2015
All I can say is WTF? I am a fan of the Southern Thing series and have read all three books before this one. Andrew and Jack are one of my favorite couples; and it was great catching up with them in this book. I was really looking forward to this book. It started out so good and I had already mentally given it 4 stars. I couldn't give 5 stars b/c the dialogue continues to be just a little too stilted and not realistic, IMHO. But then about he 80% mark Dr. Who must have turned up b/c there were some massive time jumps that left me confused. Then it turned into a hot mess with some conflict that left someone dead b/c Billy wears dresses! Huh?! No joke. At that point, I found it really hard to finish, but finish I did. I wish the book had ended before the aftermath of the HEA, I would have enjoyed it more.
August 11, 2015
I liked this one until Chapter 23. One paragraph Sawyer is loving having a warm body in his bed and falling asleep to the sound of Billy breathing the night Billy first moved in with him. Then next paragraph BAM - the storey jumps to Jack and Andrew adopting two boys who took up much of Billiy's free time. Wait what? It is all of a sudden a bunch of short blips about the how Sawyer went to school, worked les, they never let the frustrating times let them down, now Sawyer only has three semesters and three summer sessions left of school. All within a paragraph or two. I get wanted to move the storey to the second part - them out of school. Sawyer in the FBI but maybe start a new chapter with three years later....the transitions were poor through out the rest of the book. The storey was interests however just seemed a bit rushed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2016
I was so looking forward to reading Billy's story but I was really disappointed with this book. The story didn't read smoothly at all and was really clunky particularly when it went into fast forward at the 75% point and started jumping years ahead each page.
Billy's wish to wear dresses as part of expressing himself was also shown including wearing a kilt and performing drag. A kilt is not a dress and performing under another name on stage is not necessarily the same as wearing clothing that expresses who you are day to day.
I wish Billy's clothing choices had just been part of who he was and not the reason bad things kept happening. It was an instalove story though so I suppose that was included to keep the tension as the Sawyer & Billy declared eternal love pretty much before their first date.
Billy's wish to wear dresses as part of expressing himself was also shown including wearing a kilt and performing drag. A kilt is not a dress and performing under another name on stage is not necessarily the same as wearing clothing that expresses who you are day to day.
I wish Billy's clothing choices had just been part of who he was and not the reason bad things kept happening. It was an instalove story though so I suppose that was included to keep the tension as the Sawyer & Billy declared eternal love pretty much before their first date.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2014
November 29th to November 30, 2014
UPLIFTING AND BEAUTIFUL
This was the uplifting and beautiful love story of Billy and Sawyer. In this wonderfully written story about two very strong and independent men we get to see how life made them struggle but love made them strong. I thought this was a terrific story about a young couple that carried through their lives together, that brought us to a bright conclusion. I loved that the story brought back Jack and Andrew so that there was a follow up to their story. I loved everything about this book. It was beautifully written and sent us a message of love and hope. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!! I would give it 10 STARS if I could!!
UPLIFTING AND BEAUTIFUL
This was the uplifting and beautiful love story of Billy and Sawyer. In this wonderfully written story about two very strong and independent men we get to see how life made them struggle but love made them strong. I thought this was a terrific story about a young couple that carried through their lives together, that brought us to a bright conclusion. I loved that the story brought back Jack and Andrew so that there was a follow up to their story. I loved everything about this book. It was beautifully written and sent us a message of love and hope. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!! I would give it 10 STARS if I could!!
December 8, 2015
I'll Be Yours Forever
Billy accepts he's different than other boys and then other men. He learns to stand up for himself, and love, even when it is Jack he has to explain his behavior to.
Corruption and illegal activities in law enforcement agencies are brought to our attention as does professional acceptance in 'the south' of Billy.
With recent changes through the Supreme Court, maybe there will be fewer conflicts in the future.
One can only continue to educate if we want everyone to be loved for who they are.
A satisfying ending to 'The Southern Thing' series!
Billy accepts he's different than other boys and then other men. He learns to stand up for himself, and love, even when it is Jack he has to explain his behavior to.
Corruption and illegal activities in law enforcement agencies are brought to our attention as does professional acceptance in 'the south' of Billy.
With recent changes through the Supreme Court, maybe there will be fewer conflicts in the future.
One can only continue to educate if we want everyone to be loved for who they are.
A satisfying ending to 'The Southern Thing' series!
April 27, 2016
I really liked the first three books in this series about Jack and Andrew, so I was excited to read about Billy, the endearing little boy who liked to wear dresses and pretty things. And while I enjoyed the story, I didn't love it. The beginning felt fake and I didn't really warm up to Sawyer. The story lacked something to give it that wow factor. And I felt like a lot of Billy and Sawyer's relationship was centered around sex.
April 3, 2015
I was hesitant to read this book at first because it wasn't focused on Andrew and Jack like the first three books were. But once I made the decision and started reading I was so glad I did. It made my heart happy to catch up with Andrew and Jack 10 years later and getting to know Billy as a man and not the cute 7 year old from the first three books was very enjoyable. Hands down my favorite book in the series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews