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Lost Boys Academy #1
Orientation
College life was supposed to be full of adventure, fun, and new experiences. However, the young men attending the Lost Boys Academy will have to forget everything they know when they are forced to rehabilitate their homosexuality.
Devilishly handsome troublemaker Jake Parker is never one to turn down a bet, but the stakes are high when he is challenged to seduce the one person that can get him kicked out of the academy.
The inseparable Kyle and Alex have been dating since sophomore year, but will their relationship be able to survive throughout the constant temptation of living in a dorm filled with other 'rehabilitating' guys their age?
Mason the wallflower - devout Catholic, never one to stir up the pot. But his religion comes into question numerously as he is surrounded by varying degrees of sin.
James, usually seen as the voice of reason, has a few demons of his own to conquer...
Devilishly handsome troublemaker Jake Parker is never one to turn down a bet, but the stakes are high when he is challenged to seduce the one person that can get him kicked out of the academy.
The inseparable Kyle and Alex have been dating since sophomore year, but will their relationship be able to survive throughout the constant temptation of living in a dorm filled with other 'rehabilitating' guys their age?
Mason the wallflower - devout Catholic, never one to stir up the pot. But his religion comes into question numerously as he is surrounded by varying degrees of sin.
James, usually seen as the voice of reason, has a few demons of his own to conquer...
62 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2015
About the author
Aaron Ferrara
17 books166 followersAuthor of webcomic series HUSBAND & HUSBAND, graphic novel series MY REAPER BOYFRIEND and FAIRY BOY.
AMAZON: https://www.Amazon.com/author/aaronfe...
AMAZON: https://www.Amazon.com/author/aaronfe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 15, 2015
3.5 stars rounded up to 4, just to encourage the author rather than make a statement about how good/bad/indifferent the story is. I felt that the story was lacking something indefinable cos even though some of the boys background was gone into, the fact that it's a serialisation means that there's never enough time to flesh the characters out properly unfortunately. This was a typical self-pubbed effort with a few silly errors that a switched-on editor should have spotted.
The actual premise of the story was quite good...a school for those naughty gay boys to train them to be good heterosexual citizens, and eradicate those wickedly sexy thoughts that all gay guys have. They go through a sort of alcoholics anonymous type programme, with badges awarded for steps completed (snort), but for one boy in particular, the extremely naughty and shameless Jake Parker, seducing the 'teacher' in charge Mr Pierce seems to be his goal, everything else pales into insignificance. When Mr Pierce suggests that someone who has earned the badge of Acceptance (accepting that they are different cos they're gay) tells their story of why they're at the Lost Boys Academy, Jake retorts that 'we're like the fucking boy scouts of America, only gayer.'
There is a boy there with a mission, Jimmy, whose father has no problem whatsoever with him being gay...but methinks Jimmy's dad is going to write either an expose or a story about what goes on at the Academy.
There is also an established couple amongst the boys, Kyle and Alex, but all they seem to do is argue and bitch at each other. Not sure if I'll carry on with this one.
The actual premise of the story was quite good...a school for those naughty gay boys to train them to be good heterosexual citizens, and eradicate those wickedly sexy thoughts that all gay guys have. They go through a sort of alcoholics anonymous type programme, with badges awarded for steps completed (snort), but for one boy in particular, the extremely naughty and shameless Jake Parker, seducing the 'teacher' in charge Mr Pierce seems to be his goal, everything else pales into insignificance. When Mr Pierce suggests that someone who has earned the badge of Acceptance (accepting that they are different cos they're gay) tells their story of why they're at the Lost Boys Academy, Jake retorts that 'we're like the fucking boy scouts of America, only gayer.'
There is a boy there with a mission, Jimmy, whose father has no problem whatsoever with him being gay...but methinks Jimmy's dad is going to write either an expose or a story about what goes on at the Academy.
There is also an established couple amongst the boys, Kyle and Alex, but all they seem to do is argue and bitch at each other. Not sure if I'll carry on with this one.
March 5, 2015
Good so far, glad I dont have to wait for the next one.
March 3, 2015
Intriguing. I'm anxious to see what Jimmy and his father have planned.
I love the line “We’re like the fucking boy scouts of America, only gayer.” . True that. Some of my best memories are of my Scouting days.
And Jakes, “Thou shalt not do thy neighbor up the butt.” had me chuckling.
Bring on the next one Aaron!
I love the line “We’re like the fucking boy scouts of America, only gayer.” . True that. Some of my best memories are of my Scouting days.
And Jakes, “Thou shalt not do thy neighbor up the butt.” had me chuckling.
Bring on the next one Aaron!
April 12, 2021
It was um...short?
March 5, 2015
“Bet I could fuck Mr. Pierce by the end of the semester.”
Color me intrigued. I raised myself further up the bed, got comfortable, and two hours later I was more than interested.
That first line could have gone anywhere. I mean, I had already created the storyline for the novella, and the book slapped me in the face for it. Sorry. Really, I should stop doing that. It isn’t my story to tell, and sometimes instead of trying to decode everything I should just relax and enjoy the ride. Honestly, I don’t want to give anything away, it’s relatively short, and it’s part of a series, which I’m excited about.
The first part gives you an introduction to the Lost Boys and how they came to be at the Academy. I love that this series touched on this, because it still believed that being gay can be cured. And putting them in an academy is like putting a troubled teenager in an all girl/boy school, where in most cases they do worse things there.
Already I can’t wait to see what they’ll learn in their stay, will they learn, and will they buy into the Academy?
The Lost Boy Academy introduces us to a cast of characters that are all there for different reasons. We even have a couple! Seriously, I’m in love with each character.
My favorite characters thus far are Jimmy, and I can’t wait to see how his story turns out (exclamation point), Mason, and the couple, Kyle and Alex.
I’m just going to put it out there, though, Jimmy is going to be all like at the end:
For now, I recommend giving this novella a chance, and seeing where it takes us!
*ARC provided by the author*
June 28, 2015
*** Note: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest and impartial review ***
First off I'd like to state that the problems here may be more in the eye of the beholder than in the material. Others seemed to like this a whole lot more than I did.
My main problem was figuring out what hat to wear when reading this. I generally expect a certain level of polish when reading a classic, a bit less when reading popular fiction, even less when reading M/M fiction and pretty much anything goes when reading stroke fiction. This tale was not sexy enough for me to wear my friction fiction hat, but not really interesting enough to wear my normal m/m novel reading hat, either.
In addition credibility issues bothered me throughout. I didn't buy into a school that was this underpopulated by teachers, Especially a religious school attempting to reform gay students.
Why would established students be in class with orientation students?
Two students are an established couple, one rich and white, the other poor and Hispanic. This kind of school doesn't seem like it would cater to both.
The school is described as being in an old hotel, yet the new wing is a dormitory? Seems like the last thing they'd need is more bedrooms. And why two students to a room? This sounds like the kind of place that would have singles.
Monroe Michigan seemed an odd choice as the old home for the new student. I'm a Michigander born and bred... the bike in the snow scene felt weird and the town didn't feel at all realistic. Course one of the few facts that I know about Monroe is that it's the world headquarters of Lazy-Boy. I couldn't help the mental aside that perhaps the author had been too much of a lazy-boy in his setting choice.
Also, there were awkward word choices. At one point a character is said to "veer further across his desk" Not sure anyone "veers" in a desk...
Other odd word choices:
"Hint of youth and casualty" - I think he meant casualness.
"His own heart so rapidly that it felt as if it were in his throat." - I'm guessing that the writer missed a beat.
At one point there's mention of the "Dingy string of the garage door"? The character's outside opening it. huh? Never heard of a garage door with a string handle outside.
None of these are fatal flaws but they do serve to "pull the reader out" of that state of willing suspension of disbelief that's so critical to truly enjoying a story.
At 62 pages one doesn't expect much and its certainly NOT the worst thing I've ever read, but if I'd paid 2.99 for this I'd have felt cheated. When I volunteered to read and review this I kinda expected trashy and torrid. What I got wasn't really either.
First off I'd like to state that the problems here may be more in the eye of the beholder than in the material. Others seemed to like this a whole lot more than I did.
My main problem was figuring out what hat to wear when reading this. I generally expect a certain level of polish when reading a classic, a bit less when reading popular fiction, even less when reading M/M fiction and pretty much anything goes when reading stroke fiction. This tale was not sexy enough for me to wear my friction fiction hat, but not really interesting enough to wear my normal m/m novel reading hat, either.
In addition credibility issues bothered me throughout. I didn't buy into a school that was this underpopulated by teachers, Especially a religious school attempting to reform gay students.
Why would established students be in class with orientation students?
Two students are an established couple, one rich and white, the other poor and Hispanic. This kind of school doesn't seem like it would cater to both.
The school is described as being in an old hotel, yet the new wing is a dormitory? Seems like the last thing they'd need is more bedrooms. And why two students to a room? This sounds like the kind of place that would have singles.
Monroe Michigan seemed an odd choice as the old home for the new student. I'm a Michigander born and bred... the bike in the snow scene felt weird and the town didn't feel at all realistic. Course one of the few facts that I know about Monroe is that it's the world headquarters of Lazy-Boy. I couldn't help the mental aside that perhaps the author had been too much of a lazy-boy in his setting choice.
Also, there were awkward word choices. At one point a character is said to "veer further across his desk" Not sure anyone "veers" in a desk...
Other odd word choices:
"Hint of youth and casualty" - I think he meant casualness.
"His own heart so rapidly that it felt as if it were in his throat." - I'm guessing that the writer missed a beat.
At one point there's mention of the "Dingy string of the garage door"? The character's outside opening it. huh? Never heard of a garage door with a string handle outside.
None of these are fatal flaws but they do serve to "pull the reader out" of that state of willing suspension of disbelief that's so critical to truly enjoying a story.
At 62 pages one doesn't expect much and its certainly NOT the worst thing I've ever read, but if I'd paid 2.99 for this I'd have felt cheated. When I volunteered to read and review this I kinda expected trashy and torrid. What I got wasn't really either.
March 1, 2015
Blog Post: http://gaymediareviews.weebly.com/blo...
Lost Boys Academy 1-Orientations (Lost Boys Academy #1) by Aaron Ferrara!!!
College life was all about having some great experiences but that's so not the case for The Lost Boys Academy. Hot and troubled Jake never turns down a challenge but this one where he has to seduce the one person that could get him removed from the academy. The beautiful and in love couple, Kyle and Alex have been together for awhile but will their love for each other survive the teachings of rehabilitation from their sexual orientation? James has to work on confronting his demons! Mason the devout catholic starts to question his religion as he is surrounded by such beautiful and hot temptations at the Lost Boys Academy!!!
This is the first novella in the series and I can tell its going to be an amazing series so expect more reviews from me in this series. I was really looking forward to reading this novella as its quite different from the usual MM books as this deals with rehabilitating male gay students from their sexuality. This first installment is an introduction to the wildly interesting characters and their back-story and why they are at the academy.
I liked how the author brought these characters to life and how he took us deep into their stories and the way that they connect with each other and such diverse guys they are. Its so interesting how the school affects each character so differently. Will the academy succeed in turning these boys straight or will they fight to remain exactly who they were born to be no matter of the consequences?
I give this author, Aaron Ferrara so much credit for coming up with this very hot topic of sexual conversion and creating such a unique and wildly fascinating novella and series. I highly recommend this novel so much as it will make you think while giving you a brilliant and beautifully written story.....Lost Boys Academy!!!
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Paul at Gay Media Reviews
Lost Boys Academy 1-Orientations (Lost Boys Academy #1) by Aaron Ferrara!!!
College life was all about having some great experiences but that's so not the case for The Lost Boys Academy. Hot and troubled Jake never turns down a challenge but this one where he has to seduce the one person that could get him removed from the academy. The beautiful and in love couple, Kyle and Alex have been together for awhile but will their love for each other survive the teachings of rehabilitation from their sexual orientation? James has to work on confronting his demons! Mason the devout catholic starts to question his religion as he is surrounded by such beautiful and hot temptations at the Lost Boys Academy!!!
This is the first novella in the series and I can tell its going to be an amazing series so expect more reviews from me in this series. I was really looking forward to reading this novella as its quite different from the usual MM books as this deals with rehabilitating male gay students from their sexuality. This first installment is an introduction to the wildly interesting characters and their back-story and why they are at the academy.
I liked how the author brought these characters to life and how he took us deep into their stories and the way that they connect with each other and such diverse guys they are. Its so interesting how the school affects each character so differently. Will the academy succeed in turning these boys straight or will they fight to remain exactly who they were born to be no matter of the consequences?
I give this author, Aaron Ferrara so much credit for coming up with this very hot topic of sexual conversion and creating such a unique and wildly fascinating novella and series. I highly recommend this novel so much as it will make you think while giving you a brilliant and beautifully written story.....Lost Boys Academy!!!
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Paul at Gay Media Reviews
March 8, 2015
Title: Orientation
Author: Aaron Ferrara
Publisher: Aaron Ferrara
ISBN: B00TV16STG
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Boys-Acade...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Lost Boys Academy 1
Follow the stories of the gay young men who are spending their summer at the controversial Lost Boys Academy - a school that teaches them that gay is not the way.
Devilishly handsome troublemaker Jake Parker is never one to turn down a bet, but the stakes are high when he is challenged to seduce the one person that can get him kicked out of the academy.
The inseparable Kyle and Alex have been dating since sophomore year, but will their relationship be able to survive throughout the constant temptation of living in a dorm filled with other 'rehabilitating' guys their age?
Mason the wallflower - devout Catholic, never one to stir up the pot. But his religion comes into question numerously as he is surrounded by varying degrees of sin.
James, usually seen as the voice of reason, has a few demons of his own to conquer...
Summary:
As the story began, the lives of the students unfolded allowing the reader to understand what had brought them to the Academy. From, Jake the spoiled, outrageous actor who was determined to get whatever he wanted to the Mason the newest arrival who was utterly confused and overwhelmed by the many sexually charged conversation between the students. The frank interactions and provocative comments made it obvious that few of the students were interested in changing their orientation in spite of being at the academy, but time will tell. The emotional connection between Kyle and Alex, two of the students, became apparent when their past was revealed. The different characters with their unique perspective of the world kept the reader waiting to see what outrageous thing they would get into next. This was a wonderful opening book to what looks to be a fascinating series.
Author: Aaron Ferrara
Publisher: Aaron Ferrara
ISBN: B00TV16STG
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Boys-Acade...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Lost Boys Academy 1
Follow the stories of the gay young men who are spending their summer at the controversial Lost Boys Academy - a school that teaches them that gay is not the way.
Devilishly handsome troublemaker Jake Parker is never one to turn down a bet, but the stakes are high when he is challenged to seduce the one person that can get him kicked out of the academy.
The inseparable Kyle and Alex have been dating since sophomore year, but will their relationship be able to survive throughout the constant temptation of living in a dorm filled with other 'rehabilitating' guys their age?
Mason the wallflower - devout Catholic, never one to stir up the pot. But his religion comes into question numerously as he is surrounded by varying degrees of sin.
James, usually seen as the voice of reason, has a few demons of his own to conquer...
Summary:
As the story began, the lives of the students unfolded allowing the reader to understand what had brought them to the Academy. From, Jake the spoiled, outrageous actor who was determined to get whatever he wanted to the Mason the newest arrival who was utterly confused and overwhelmed by the many sexually charged conversation between the students. The frank interactions and provocative comments made it obvious that few of the students were interested in changing their orientation in spite of being at the academy, but time will tell. The emotional connection between Kyle and Alex, two of the students, became apparent when their past was revealed. The different characters with their unique perspective of the world kept the reader waiting to see what outrageous thing they would get into next. This was a wonderful opening book to what looks to be a fascinating series.
June 13, 2015
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
This book talks about a guy called Jimmy going to the Lost Boys Academy, a place where families send their gays sons or grandsons to help them to see the light. In there, we have the chance to meet other characters like Jake, Mason, Kyle, Alex and their teacher/guide Mr. Pierce. There are flashbacks about their life before they got sent there and it’s about an exact period of time in the past: four months earlier.
Apart from Jimmy, Jake is a very present character since the beginning. He’s a very horny and famous actor that got caught with another actor called Cameron, and he got sent there. He’s Jimmy’s roommate and he wants to have a piece of Mr. Pierce. He doesn’t want to change and I liked his attitude. He’s a young and sexy man that wants to have fun and lots of sex. But in the Lost Boys Academy, it’s not a good thing. Reading a bit about the others characters was really good and my heart broke for them. When I got to the part where we found out about Jimmy’s secret, I was really shocked, and I loved it.
This was a really good reading and it made me want to read book 2 soon.
5 to 5 stars
This book talks about a guy called Jimmy going to the Lost Boys Academy, a place where families send their gays sons or grandsons to help them to see the light. In there, we have the chance to meet other characters like Jake, Mason, Kyle, Alex and their teacher/guide Mr. Pierce. There are flashbacks about their life before they got sent there and it’s about an exact period of time in the past: four months earlier.
Apart from Jimmy, Jake is a very present character since the beginning. He’s a very horny and famous actor that got caught with another actor called Cameron, and he got sent there. He’s Jimmy’s roommate and he wants to have a piece of Mr. Pierce. He doesn’t want to change and I liked his attitude. He’s a young and sexy man that wants to have fun and lots of sex. But in the Lost Boys Academy, it’s not a good thing. Reading a bit about the others characters was really good and my heart broke for them. When I got to the part where we found out about Jimmy’s secret, I was really shocked, and I loved it.
This was a really good reading and it made me want to read book 2 soon.
5 to 5 stars
July 12, 2015
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Lost Boys Academy is a conversion school. We are first introduced to it when Jimmy’s dad drops him off. We soon learn about some of the other boys at the school from their point of view. While learning about each of them, we learn their backstory and how they came to be at Lost Boys Academy. The other boys are: Alex, Alex’s boyfriend Kyle, Mason, and Jake.
I enjoyed this book. It was interesting to see how each boy ended up at the conversion school. There isn’t a whole lot that goes on with this book other than to set up the story. We do find out that Jimmy is there due to ulterior motives, which adds a bit of a twist, or excitement to the story. It’s pretty short you can read it in one sitting. I’m definitely interested in reading the next book in the series to find out what happens next.
Lost Boys Academy is a conversion school. We are first introduced to it when Jimmy’s dad drops him off. We soon learn about some of the other boys at the school from their point of view. While learning about each of them, we learn their backstory and how they came to be at Lost Boys Academy. The other boys are: Alex, Alex’s boyfriend Kyle, Mason, and Jake.
I enjoyed this book. It was interesting to see how each boy ended up at the conversion school. There isn’t a whole lot that goes on with this book other than to set up the story. We do find out that Jimmy is there due to ulterior motives, which adds a bit of a twist, or excitement to the story. It’s pretty short you can read it in one sitting. I’m definitely interested in reading the next book in the series to find out what happens next.
March 25, 2015
I was provided a free copy from librarything.
I really love the concept of this serial novel and loved this first part for what it is. The setting of a conversion camp is so interesting and provides so many different ways to explore the characters in depth and put a spin on the traditional boarding school stories that are so frequent. This first part of the small series focuses on providing background for each of the characters and I can say that I genuinely care about them all as characters and want to hear the rest of their stories, something that is not easily said about a lot of books I read let alone something this short. I'm really impressed by and drawn into this story. I can't wait for the next one and I already wish there were going to be more than three.
I really love the concept of this serial novel and loved this first part for what it is. The setting of a conversion camp is so interesting and provides so many different ways to explore the characters in depth and put a spin on the traditional boarding school stories that are so frequent. This first part of the small series focuses on providing background for each of the characters and I can say that I genuinely care about them all as characters and want to hear the rest of their stories, something that is not easily said about a lot of books I read let alone something this short. I'm really impressed by and drawn into this story. I can't wait for the next one and I already wish there were going to be more than three.
March 9, 2015
I've received this book for free in an exchange for an honest review.
This is an introduction into a series about a group of boys attending an conversion school. There is at least one chapters focus on the point of view of each boys and what lead them to the school. The story flow but I also can't say much more because not a lot happened. Each boys is distinctive and not easily confused for other. I will be continuing with this series because I felt there was something there and I want to know more. I need to know where this author is going with this series. Now I'm off to search for book 2.
This is an introduction into a series about a group of boys attending an conversion school. There is at least one chapters focus on the point of view of each boys and what lead them to the school. The story flow but I also can't say much more because not a lot happened. Each boys is distinctive and not easily confused for other. I will be continuing with this series because I felt there was something there and I want to know more. I need to know where this author is going with this series. Now I'm off to search for book 2.
June 9, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through the GR Don't Buy Me Love program.
This was an excellent start to a new series. The entire premise is intriguing. You have a group of boys who have all been sent to The Lost Boys Academy, which is essentially a conversion camp. This installment was basically a who's who, our Orientation. We got the general back stories of the 5 boys who are enrolled in the Academy and a little interaction between them and the man who runs the school, Mr Pierce. I look forward to reading more and seeing what happens to the Lost Boys!
This was an excellent start to a new series. The entire premise is intriguing. You have a group of boys who have all been sent to The Lost Boys Academy, which is essentially a conversion camp. This installment was basically a who's who, our Orientation. We got the general back stories of the 5 boys who are enrolled in the Academy and a little interaction between them and the man who runs the school, Mr Pierce. I look forward to reading more and seeing what happens to the Lost Boys!
February 25, 2015
This book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I loved the characters and each one of
their backstories, It's really interesting to see where each of the guys come from. Anyway, this book has just the right amount of sexy scenes and a great plot line, I can't wait for the next books to come out! Definitely recommend!
I loved the characters and each one of
their backstories, It's really interesting to see where each of the guys come from. Anyway, this book has just the right amount of sexy scenes and a great plot line, I can't wait for the next books to come out! Definitely recommend!
April 20, 2015
Okay. I am liking this so far but..... I need more to keep me interested. I need it to be longer if I am paying 2.99 for it. I work hard for my money I want it to be worthy!
Waiting until May for part 2. I will forget about it by then.
I don't feel that I really got to know the characters enough to keep me hooked. I will probably keep reading the series since it is a new to me author and I like to give everyone a fair shot.
Waiting until May for part 2. I will forget about it by then.
I don't feel that I really got to know the characters enough to keep me hooked. I will probably keep reading the series since it is a new to me author and I like to give everyone a fair shot.
February 24, 2016
Didn't hate it. Being a novella, I didn't expect a dramatic plot with extensive characterization, but I would have preferred more dedication to a single sub-plot or character to make the completion feel more satisfying. That being said, I feel compelled to read to sequel to better understand some of the characters' motivations.
January 9, 2021
It was definitely worth it.
This is the story of some young boys who were forced to attend to Lost Boys Academy: a place to change gay people. Because being gay means living in a wrong, unacceptable way.
I know this is one of the first novels of the author and, despide of the simplicity and some errors (punctuation), I think he did a very good job.
It was a pleasant reading as well as relatable since it portrays the reality that sometimes gay people have to face.
This is the story of some young boys who were forced to attend to Lost Boys Academy: a place to change gay people. Because being gay means living in a wrong, unacceptable way.
I know this is one of the first novels of the author and, despide of the simplicity and some errors (punctuation), I think he did a very good job.
It was a pleasant reading as well as relatable since it portrays the reality that sometimes gay people have to face.
November 23, 2016
This was a fun start to a series. It delves into the serious subject of gay conversion therapy. I enjoyed this a lot and look forward to reading the next instalment. I also love the cartoon series that follows this storyline.
September 16, 2018
Good stody
It's a good story, but to consider in an entire book, not a lot happens in it. But short too so I guess all three books could have been one. Interesting concept though. I love that.
It's a good story, but to consider in an entire book, not a lot happens in it. But short too so I guess all three books could have been one. Interesting concept though. I love that.
March 13, 2015
2.5 stars.
There is potential here, but it's unrealized.
The copyediting needs work. Random punctuation errors, bad punctuating around dialogue, oodles of commas with cumulative adjectives, past tense in internal thoughts, POV shenanigans, inconsistent use of italics, awkward wording, "slammed on his breaks"--all things that a solid copyediting would clean right up. Maybe the following books will be in better shape.
As for the story itself--this book was largely focused on giving us the characters' backstories (via little flashback-type sections). I agree that the information we got about the various characters is helpful (well, I guess it is), but it made for very choppy reading. And I'm not sure I buy into this conversion camp, because we honestly didn't see much of it. How are they converting the kids? What are they doing? It's not enough to say "the kids are at a conversion camp" and then conduct the story without giving us details--you have to show us what that means. I want to see the converting, the practices, learn what the school is about. Part of the thrill of reading a story about something controversial like this is getting to "experience" the other side of things--hearing the sermonizing, seeing behind the curtain. And maybe there's more of that in book 2, but a few kids in a classroom with a teacher who's obviously not fully on board with the program doesn't paint a very convincing picture of this school/camp.
This book is really like the introduction to the story--setting up the characters and plot with no real beginning, middle, and end. It wouldn't be a horrible idea to wait to read this when book 2 has come out so there's a bit more to sink your teeth into--if you're already feeling inclined to wait a bit.
I'll see what reviews are like for the second one before I continue with the series. And I'll cross my fingers that the author decides to release an .epub version somewhere, too. When I saw this was only available for Kindle, I almost skipped it right there. epubs <3
There is potential here, but it's unrealized.
The copyediting needs work. Random punctuation errors, bad punctuating around dialogue, oodles of commas with cumulative adjectives, past tense in internal thoughts, POV shenanigans, inconsistent use of italics, awkward wording, "slammed on his breaks"--all things that a solid copyediting would clean right up. Maybe the following books will be in better shape.
As for the story itself--this book was largely focused on giving us the characters' backstories (via little flashback-type sections). I agree that the information we got about the various characters is helpful (well, I guess it is), but it made for very choppy reading. And I'm not sure I buy into this conversion camp, because we honestly didn't see much of it. How are they converting the kids? What are they doing? It's not enough to say "the kids are at a conversion camp" and then conduct the story without giving us details--you have to show us what that means. I want to see the converting, the practices, learn what the school is about. Part of the thrill of reading a story about something controversial like this is getting to "experience" the other side of things--hearing the sermonizing, seeing behind the curtain. And maybe there's more of that in book 2, but a few kids in a classroom with a teacher who's obviously not fully on board with the program doesn't paint a very convincing picture of this school/camp.
This book is really like the introduction to the story--setting up the characters and plot with no real beginning, middle, and end. It wouldn't be a horrible idea to wait to read this when book 2 has come out so there's a bit more to sink your teeth into--if you're already feeling inclined to wait a bit.
I'll see what reviews are like for the second one before I continue with the series. And I'll cross my fingers that the author decides to release an .epub version somewhere, too. When I saw this was only available for Kindle, I almost skipped it right there. epubs <3
July 4, 2015
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars with a half star more for potential
My first thought on finishing the book was- “That was the most abrupt ending ever. Wow!”
This book is the story of five characters but I think we can safely assume that Jimmy is the protagonist of this story.
While this book sets an ambitious premise I really don’t think it lived up to the expectations. I mean here are five gay guys living in an academy whose whole purpose is to make sure that by the time they leave, these guys should identify themselves as heterosexual. In this respect besides Mason everyone’s motivation is very unclear.
Another thing I didn’t like is the fact that this book only follows the characters in the present, none of the characters are fleshed out well. In fact I hope that the successive books in the series will contain revelations about the characters, with their backgrounds and motivations at its center and how these affect what occurs in the academy.
Mason is a really innocent kid living with his grandmother. I suppose that means his parents are dead but again this is not explicitly stated. We meet Mason for a really short time but I believe he is the only one who wants to turn his back firmly on his sexuality in order to appease his sense of religion and his grandmother.
Jake is an actor who gets out-ted by circumstance but seems the least bothered by his situation as he gets ever more reckless.
Kyle and Alex have been together for three years. While I could still understand Alex, Kyle has all these walls around him that we never get to see through. But I think there relationship is salvageable if the flashback holds any weight but Kyle’s anger seems to be getting the best of him.
While Jimmy, is the one with the secret.
This book has a lot of potential and can redeem it's self in the books to come but as a standalone this book ends too abruptly and offers only a glimpse into the lives of its characters but is unable to make us understand them.
2.5 stars with a half star more for potential
My first thought on finishing the book was- “That was the most abrupt ending ever. Wow!”
This book is the story of five characters but I think we can safely assume that Jimmy is the protagonist of this story.
While this book sets an ambitious premise I really don’t think it lived up to the expectations. I mean here are five gay guys living in an academy whose whole purpose is to make sure that by the time they leave, these guys should identify themselves as heterosexual. In this respect besides Mason everyone’s motivation is very unclear.
Another thing I didn’t like is the fact that this book only follows the characters in the present, none of the characters are fleshed out well. In fact I hope that the successive books in the series will contain revelations about the characters, with their backgrounds and motivations at its center and how these affect what occurs in the academy.
Mason is a really innocent kid living with his grandmother. I suppose that means his parents are dead but again this is not explicitly stated. We meet Mason for a really short time but I believe he is the only one who wants to turn his back firmly on his sexuality in order to appease his sense of religion and his grandmother.
Jake is an actor who gets out-ted by circumstance but seems the least bothered by his situation as he gets ever more reckless.
Kyle and Alex have been together for three years. While I could still understand Alex, Kyle has all these walls around him that we never get to see through. But I think there relationship is salvageable if the flashback holds any weight but Kyle’s anger seems to be getting the best of him.
While Jimmy, is the one with the secret.
This book has a lot of potential and can redeem it's self in the books to come but as a standalone this book ends too abruptly and offers only a glimpse into the lives of its characters but is unable to make us understand them.
June 14, 2015
A free copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
Story follows alternative pov. starting with Jimmy from his first day at the academy, being dropped off by his father, and him getting situated and acquainted with the other boys: Alex (Kyle's boyfriend, best friend and whipping boy), Kyle (the rich boy dubbed ice queen), Jake (Jimmy's roommate and the cocky shameless lothario of the group) and the arrival of new kid Mason. Then subsequently shifts to Jake, Mason and Kyle where we get their stories of why they are attending the academy.
I found a few mistakes. Author used James in place of Jimmy one time. There's some grammar issues but not enough to really annoy a reader.
The story was quite intriguing from the start to end. I would have rated it a lot higher had it been longer but for such a short read it and start to a series it was a great read. I'll definitely be reading the next installment, especially after the revelation behind why Jimmy is attending the academy.
Story follows alternative pov. starting with Jimmy from his first day at the academy, being dropped off by his father, and him getting situated and acquainted with the other boys: Alex (Kyle's boyfriend, best friend and whipping boy), Kyle (the rich boy dubbed ice queen), Jake (Jimmy's roommate and the cocky shameless lothario of the group) and the arrival of new kid Mason. Then subsequently shifts to Jake, Mason and Kyle where we get their stories of why they are attending the academy.
I found a few mistakes. Author used James in place of Jimmy one time. There's some grammar issues but not enough to really annoy a reader.
The story was quite intriguing from the start to end. I would have rated it a lot higher had it been longer but for such a short read it and start to a series it was a great read. I'll definitely be reading the next installment, especially after the revelation behind why Jimmy is attending the academy.
June 15, 2015
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Where do I even start?! I think I was more then 2/3 the way through the Ebook before I even realized that this was a more of a part 1 than a book 1 situation. From the way the beginning just jumps right in, I was expecting some sort of love scene to show, but it never happened. After reading some other reviews, then I finally figured out this was only the beginning of a multi-part story.
For only being 77 pages, the book took me a long time to get through compared to others of the same length. The rhythm of the writing style was hard for me to fall into and to follow four different character storylines, a narrator that is one of the characters, and then fall off the cliffhanger.
Even though I only gave this Ebook a 3 star rating, I am intrigued enough that I plan on picking up the next installments. I have a feeling there will be some hurt and deep feelings emerging soon.
Where do I even start?! I think I was more then 2/3 the way through the Ebook before I even realized that this was a more of a part 1 than a book 1 situation. From the way the beginning just jumps right in, I was expecting some sort of love scene to show, but it never happened. After reading some other reviews, then I finally figured out this was only the beginning of a multi-part story.
For only being 77 pages, the book took me a long time to get through compared to others of the same length. The rhythm of the writing style was hard for me to fall into and to follow four different character storylines, a narrator that is one of the characters, and then fall off the cliffhanger.
Even though I only gave this Ebook a 3 star rating, I am intrigued enough that I plan on picking up the next installments. I have a feeling there will be some hurt and deep feelings emerging soon.
March 29, 2015
I enjoyed this book, and am looking forward to reading part 2 and 3.
The story so far is all of the back story of the characters, setting up hopefully for a sexy and action packed parts 2 and 3. The mix of boys and how they came to be at the academy is interesting and I am looking forward to seeing how things end up for them all.
The story has a steady pace, at first the flashbacks were a little confusing, but after the first couple it all fell into place. in the copy that i read there were a few grammatical mistakes, but nothing major.
I'm looking for to the next instalment.
I was given copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story so far is all of the back story of the characters, setting up hopefully for a sexy and action packed parts 2 and 3. The mix of boys and how they came to be at the academy is interesting and I am looking forward to seeing how things end up for them all.
The story has a steady pace, at first the flashbacks were a little confusing, but after the first couple it all fell into place. in the copy that i read there were a few grammatical mistakes, but nothing major.
I'm looking for to the next instalment.
I was given copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2015
I like the character Jimmy and I like that each character is given a back story. The descriptions of each character and the academy itself are really well done, but I didn't like that it just sort of ended. There are a LOT of similarities between this and the movie "But, I'm A Cheerleader" too. I might be interested in reading the rest of the trilogy.
I was given a free copy by the author is exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.
I was given a free copy by the author is exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.
June 14, 2015
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Really interesting concept of a gay conversion camp. A good introduction to the 5 boys who are participating at the Lost Boys Academy with each other. However, that was all it was, an introduction. I really didn't get much insight into any character and they almost felt like caricatures. I'm not sure I'm hooked enough to continue with the series.
Overall a 3.5 star read, rounded down to 3 due to the typos.
Really interesting concept of a gay conversion camp. A good introduction to the 5 boys who are participating at the Lost Boys Academy with each other. However, that was all it was, an introduction. I really didn't get much insight into any character and they almost felt like caricatures. I'm not sure I'm hooked enough to continue with the series.
Overall a 3.5 star read, rounded down to 3 due to the typos.
June 26, 2015
I was given a copy of this book free by the author in exchange for an unbiased review.
A very short, easy to read story.
This book sets up the rest of the series. Its about the Lost Boys Academy where young men are sent to stop them being gay.
This first book gives us a little bit of the pupils backstories.
I really enjoyed reading this book and will certainly be reading more of the series.
A very short, easy to read story.
This book sets up the rest of the series. Its about the Lost Boys Academy where young men are sent to stop them being gay.
This first book gives us a little bit of the pupils backstories.
I really enjoyed reading this book and will certainly be reading more of the series.
July 14, 2015
I was given a copy of this book for my review. I enjoyed reading this book and there were a few surprises in the book. I think that there weren't enough detail before the book was over. I would have liked to read more content before the cliffhanger.
September 6, 2015
It's not a bad read necessarily but I think it worked much better as a webcomic.
February 19, 2016
Now, I want to know whether Jake will accomplish his hard task or not, but the book was not so great. A lot of misplaced flashbacks deteriorate the interesting plot the author described.
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