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Spectacularly Broken #1
Spectacularly Broken
Turns out naked and hungover on the floor is not the most strategically sound place to be when your dad comes home early. Take it from someone who learned the hard nineteen-year-old Lysander Shepherd--son of movie stars, spoiled brat, enthusiastic proponent of drugs and orgies...and now, unwilling resident of Oak Hill Manor, a retreat for troubled teenagers.
Before he knows what's happening, his designer duds have been switched for tie-dye shirts in therapy team colors, and he is surrounded by an assortment of a timid nerd, a mute girl, a hyperactive kid...and captivating loner Cai Fields, who is admittedly pretty hot, but seems to hate the world in general and Lysander in particular.
Soon Lysander struggles with lies, withdrawal, and several uncomfortable revelations that he never intended to make, but he also gains surprising amounts of support right in the middle of secret late-night parties, fisticuffs over doing the dishes, and, of all things, croissant blackmail. Even as Cai and Lysander finally give in to the irresistible attraction between them and make a grasp for happiness, their darkest secrets remain--secrets with the power to destroy everything they've fought so hard to have.
Before he knows what's happening, his designer duds have been switched for tie-dye shirts in therapy team colors, and he is surrounded by an assortment of a timid nerd, a mute girl, a hyperactive kid...and captivating loner Cai Fields, who is admittedly pretty hot, but seems to hate the world in general and Lysander in particular.
Soon Lysander struggles with lies, withdrawal, and several uncomfortable revelations that he never intended to make, but he also gains surprising amounts of support right in the middle of secret late-night parties, fisticuffs over doing the dishes, and, of all things, croissant blackmail. Even as Cai and Lysander finally give in to the irresistible attraction between them and make a grasp for happiness, their darkest secrets remain--secrets with the power to destroy everything they've fought so hard to have.
204 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2015
8 people are currently reading
931 people want to read
About the author
Sage C. Holloway
5 books60 followersSage C. Holloway is a parent, sex-positive feminist, pet store employee and resident fruitcake. Her childhood dream consisted of being a writer and an astronaut, and so far, she is about fifty percent there.
She has one husband, who seems to be the only one capable of putting up with her on a regular basis, and one toddler with a life goal of wreaking the ultimate havoc. She is also owned by three cats, who do an excellent job of assisting her by lying on her manuscripts whenever they can tear themselves away from lording over the living room.
Sage loves glitter and loathes Wisconsin winters. She is delighted when she meets people who share her strange sense of humor.
She has one husband, who seems to be the only one capable of putting up with her on a regular basis, and one toddler with a life goal of wreaking the ultimate havoc. She is also owned by three cats, who do an excellent job of assisting her by lying on her manuscripts whenever they can tear themselves away from lording over the living room.
Sage loves glitter and loathes Wisconsin winters. She is delighted when she meets people who share her strange sense of humor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
August 24, 2015
Spectacularly Broken is Spectacularly Beautiful.
I'm not the first to compare this book to John Hughes' The Breakfast Club , the quintessential movie of Generation X, with which I identify.
In the movie, a group of misfits (the princess, the athlete, the brain, the stoner, the outcast) band together during a weekend detention.
In this book, a group of damaged, fragile teens paint, make T-shirts, throw chairs out of windows (well, one of them does), wash dishes (except Lys, who thinks dishwater is the devil's spawn), fuck in a pantry (technically blowjobs; the fucking comes later, on a roof), sneak contraband beer and candy, and come ALIVE.
Lysander, named after his mother's favorite play (you figure out which one), drowns himself in drugs and sex. Sent to an inpatient facility by his absent movie star father, Lysander, flirtatious, unabashedly gay, and so fond of those tight-fitting jeans that show off his lithe body, wants to be anyone but himself.
The idea of switching identities is not a new one, but I found it particularly fascinating here, considering that Cai, the other MC, lost his other half, and has almost no identity left, stolen or otherwise.
I usually prefer dual, third-person POV, but Lysander is a wonderful, honest narrator. He's not worthless, as much as he thinks he is. He's kind, thoughtful, introspective (when he allows himself to be), capable of feeling pain ... and LOVE.
And brooding Cai, with his tough-guy persona, gauges, piercings, and utter hollowness, just needs someone to cuddle, someone who'll hold him tight and never let go.
This is a N/A tale of hurt and comfort, a tale of teens on the brink of adulthood coming together for support and friendship.
Because everyone needs a reason to live.
I loved every single secondary character in this book: quiet Finn, Lys' cousin, haunted by loneliness and betrayal; loyal Jarrett, not thinking much of himself at all; hyper Nicky, who means well but can't always control his impulses; silent Lexa, hiding so much pain behind her worn sweater.
There is angst here, but healing as well.
Lys and Cai need each other. Their love fills in all the little gaps, the burnt, broken, empty places.
I absolutely loved this enemies-to-lovers, coming-of-age story. It's sexy and heartfelt and hopeful in all the right ways. It made me FEEL.
And the HEA was, you guessed it ... SPECTACULAR.
Why did I wait so long to read this one? Why have you?
I'm not the first to compare this book to John Hughes' The Breakfast Club , the quintessential movie of Generation X, with which I identify.
In the movie, a group of misfits (the princess, the athlete, the brain, the stoner, the outcast) band together during a weekend detention.
In this book, a group of damaged, fragile teens paint, make T-shirts, throw chairs out of windows (well, one of them does), wash dishes (except Lys, who thinks dishwater is the devil's spawn), fuck in a pantry (technically blowjobs; the fucking comes later, on a roof), sneak contraband beer and candy, and come ALIVE.
Lysander, named after his mother's favorite play (you figure out which one), drowns himself in drugs and sex. Sent to an inpatient facility by his absent movie star father, Lysander, flirtatious, unabashedly gay, and so fond of those tight-fitting jeans that show off his lithe body, wants to be anyone but himself.
The idea of switching identities is not a new one, but I found it particularly fascinating here, considering that Cai, the other MC, lost his other half, and has almost no identity left, stolen or otherwise.
I usually prefer dual, third-person POV, but Lysander is a wonderful, honest narrator. He's not worthless, as much as he thinks he is. He's kind, thoughtful, introspective (when he allows himself to be), capable of feeling pain ... and LOVE.
And brooding Cai, with his tough-guy persona, gauges, piercings, and utter hollowness, just needs someone to cuddle, someone who'll hold him tight and never let go.
This is a N/A tale of hurt and comfort, a tale of teens on the brink of adulthood coming together for support and friendship.
Because everyone needs a reason to live.
I loved every single secondary character in this book: quiet Finn, Lys' cousin, haunted by loneliness and betrayal; loyal Jarrett, not thinking much of himself at all; hyper Nicky, who means well but can't always control his impulses; silent Lexa, hiding so much pain behind her worn sweater.
There is angst here, but healing as well.
Lys and Cai need each other. Their love fills in all the little gaps, the burnt, broken, empty places.
I absolutely loved this enemies-to-lovers, coming-of-age story. It's sexy and heartfelt and hopeful in all the right ways. It made me FEEL.
And the HEA was, you guessed it ... SPECTACULAR.
Why did I wait so long to read this one? Why have you?
September 15, 2015
3.75 Stars!!
“Spectacularly Broken” was a great coming of age story about a group of misfits, five damaged teens, who despite the fact they are different from each other, they become friends and eventually they find acceptance and even love. The story fallows Lysander Shepard, a 19 years old boy who’s a spoiled rich kid, the son of a famous actor. His father pays little attention to him and Lysander is convinced he’s not capable of love. Lys is looking for attention so he has orgies, he takes drugs and he drinks a lot. He continues to waste and destroy his life until his father decides to send him to “Oak Hill Manor”, a house for troubled teens. But first he is send to his aunt to pick up his cousin who will also be sent to this house. To have a little fun the two boys decide to switch identities. They are looking alike so they are confident no one will figure out who is who.
In the group home, Lys meets other kids who have their own issues. At first he doesn’t want to be there, but as the story progresses he realizes this home is not as worse as he initially thought. He also realizes how pointless his life is without the wild lifestyle. Lys meets Cai, a boy who has his own issues, more serious, who is damaged, but who still needs friendship, attention and love.
I liked this one! The premise was interesting enough, the writing was pretty great, captured my attention from start to finish and overall was a great debut. What I liked the most about this one was the dynamic between the five teens. I liked how they interacted with each other, even in the beginning when they didn’t know each other very well. Their interactions between them felt real, honest and I loved how in such a short time they found acceptance and love in each other. I felt for every one of them and each character was interesting and unique in their own way.
The story is told entirely from Lys’s POV. Lys was easy to like. He’s kind and considerate and most of the time his voice felt honest. Through his eyes we get to know the other four kids, his cousin and also his father. Cai was a likeable character as well. His life shattered when he lost his twin and all he needs now is someone who’s willing to be there for him no matter what, someone who is willing to love him even if he’s broken.
The progression of Lys and Cai’s relationship was done pretty well since the book wasn’t so long. However I can’t say I felt so connected with either of them. Anyway, if you’re looking for a character-driven story with a enemies to lovers premise this might be the book for you. Overall, a good read!
“Spectacularly Broken” was a great coming of age story about a group of misfits, five damaged teens, who despite the fact they are different from each other, they become friends and eventually they find acceptance and even love. The story fallows Lysander Shepard, a 19 years old boy who’s a spoiled rich kid, the son of a famous actor. His father pays little attention to him and Lysander is convinced he’s not capable of love. Lys is looking for attention so he has orgies, he takes drugs and he drinks a lot. He continues to waste and destroy his life until his father decides to send him to “Oak Hill Manor”, a house for troubled teens. But first he is send to his aunt to pick up his cousin who will also be sent to this house. To have a little fun the two boys decide to switch identities. They are looking alike so they are confident no one will figure out who is who.
In the group home, Lys meets other kids who have their own issues. At first he doesn’t want to be there, but as the story progresses he realizes this home is not as worse as he initially thought. He also realizes how pointless his life is without the wild lifestyle. Lys meets Cai, a boy who has his own issues, more serious, who is damaged, but who still needs friendship, attention and love.
I liked this one! The premise was interesting enough, the writing was pretty great, captured my attention from start to finish and overall was a great debut. What I liked the most about this one was the dynamic between the five teens. I liked how they interacted with each other, even in the beginning when they didn’t know each other very well. Their interactions between them felt real, honest and I loved how in such a short time they found acceptance and love in each other. I felt for every one of them and each character was interesting and unique in their own way.
The story is told entirely from Lys’s POV. Lys was easy to like. He’s kind and considerate and most of the time his voice felt honest. Through his eyes we get to know the other four kids, his cousin and also his father. Cai was a likeable character as well. His life shattered when he lost his twin and all he needs now is someone who’s willing to be there for him no matter what, someone who is willing to love him even if he’s broken.
The progression of Lys and Cai’s relationship was done pretty well since the book wasn’t so long. However I can’t say I felt so connected with either of them. Anyway, if you’re looking for a character-driven story with a enemies to lovers premise this might be the book for you. Overall, a good read!
May 18, 2018
Cross-posted at Shelf Inflicted and at Outlaw Reviews
I have such mixed feelings about this book.
On the plus side, it is well written, engaging, warm, funny, and sad.
19-year-old Lysander parties hard, has too much sex, and has no clue what he wants out of life. His father is a famous actor and absentee parent who provides everything but the support and structure kids need while they are growing up.
Beyond frustrated, Lysander’s father sends him away for a few weeks to Oak Hill Manor, a retreat for troubled children. He is accompanied by his cousin, Finn, who shares a resemblance, but lives a totally different life.
At the retreat, Finn and Lysander are in separate groups with other troubled teens. While participating in group therapy sessions, games and activities, they get to know each other and form friendships. Lysander keeps a low profile, not wanting to reveal his background to others. How he accomplishes this is a spoiler, so I won’t say anything more. I will just say it is fun, clever and entertaining.
Though it wasn’t difficult for me to warm up to Lysander and his newfound friends, I was disturbed that kids were grouped together seemingly without any regard for the problems that brought them to Oak Hill Manor. I felt the therapists and staff were lacking in knowledge, sensitivity, and had little regard for confidentiality. The problems faced by the retreat attendees were portrayed in such a shallow and simplistic way that I very nearly set the book aside. I’ve read other books that dealt much more sensitively and realistically with serious trauma and mental health problems. This wasn’t it.
If you can overlook this, enjoy the story for Lysander’s thoughtful narration, his growth, the love and friendships that anchor him, and the touching revelations between father and son that had me tearing up. I would have preferred an open ending rather than the conveniently happy-sappy ending that diminishes this story’s worth.
I’m still glad I read it.
Thanks to Nichole from Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group for lending this to me.
I have such mixed feelings about this book.
On the plus side, it is well written, engaging, warm, funny, and sad.
19-year-old Lysander parties hard, has too much sex, and has no clue what he wants out of life. His father is a famous actor and absentee parent who provides everything but the support and structure kids need while they are growing up.
Beyond frustrated, Lysander’s father sends him away for a few weeks to Oak Hill Manor, a retreat for troubled children. He is accompanied by his cousin, Finn, who shares a resemblance, but lives a totally different life.
At the retreat, Finn and Lysander are in separate groups with other troubled teens. While participating in group therapy sessions, games and activities, they get to know each other and form friendships. Lysander keeps a low profile, not wanting to reveal his background to others. How he accomplishes this is a spoiler, so I won’t say anything more. I will just say it is fun, clever and entertaining.
Though it wasn’t difficult for me to warm up to Lysander and his newfound friends, I was disturbed that kids were grouped together seemingly without any regard for the problems that brought them to Oak Hill Manor. I felt the therapists and staff were lacking in knowledge, sensitivity, and had little regard for confidentiality. The problems faced by the retreat attendees were portrayed in such a shallow and simplistic way that I very nearly set the book aside. I’ve read other books that dealt much more sensitively and realistically with serious trauma and mental health problems. This wasn’t it.
If you can overlook this, enjoy the story for Lysander’s thoughtful narration, his growth, the love and friendships that anchor him, and the touching revelations between father and son that had me tearing up. I would have preferred an open ending rather than the conveniently happy-sappy ending that diminishes this story’s worth.
I’m still glad I read it.
Thanks to Nichole from Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group for lending this to me.
November 23, 2019
I needed this one.
Breakfast Club mm-ya-na version.
Well written, refreshing and damn entertaining.
Breakfast Club mm-ya-na version.
Well written, refreshing and damn entertaining.
July 29, 2015
Damn. I waited too long to review this one. But I loved it.
August 25, 2015
I can't believe I let this gem sitting on my kindle unread all this time. Spectacularly Broken was spectacularly good! This is my idea of N/A. I loved everything about, the MCs, the secondary characters, the dynamics between this group of teens and how they all became friends through healing. And the sex, lets not forget the sex!
Oh, and piercings! Holy shit so many piercings *mutters*Jacob's ladder*mutters.
I am aware I'm not making much sense. Because it's late and I'm sleepy and I'm on vacation.
Bottom line, I loved the book. Now go read Dani's review .
Oh, and piercings! Holy shit so many piercings *mutters*Jacob's ladder*mutters.
I am aware I'm not making much sense. Because it's late and I'm sleepy and I'm on vacation.
Bottom line, I loved the book. Now go read Dani's review .
August 30, 2015
4.25 Stars!
Really good read. Loved the "Breakfast Club" like premise.
Misfits coming together making each other feel a little less misfit.
Bonding over their lives, their quirks, their struggles.
Finding love and frienships in the people and places you least expected.
Really good read. Loved the "Breakfast Club" like premise.
Misfits coming together making each other feel a little less misfit.
Bonding over their lives, their quirks, their struggles.
Finding love and frienships in the people and places you least expected.
February 8, 2017
Re-read January 2 2016.
Still awesome!
-------------------------------
4.5 stars
BR with the lovely Elsbeth.
It was such a pleasure reading this. The writing was so captivating, this book made me smile, it made me laugh out loud and it made me cry.
This could have easily have become a depressing story because of the heavy subjects, but it wasn’t. Was there angst? Yes there was. Was it gut wrenching, pull out your hair angst? No, it wasn’t.
Lysander is a spoiled rich 19 year old looking for attention by having orgies, doing drugs and basically messing up his life. His father sends him to a home for troubled teenagers to cope with his problems.
He gets sent to his aunt first to pick up his cousin Finn, who is also being sent to the home. On the way over Finn tells Lysander that being a rich kid is easy, so Lysander suggests they switch identities. They look a lot alike so he is positive no one will notice.
In the group home he meets other kids who all have their own problems. And then there is bad boy Cai. Cai and Lysander don’t like each other… well, at first.
“I still haven’t decided if you’re okay or if you’re an asshole,” Cai informed me succinctly. “That’s fine. If it comes down to it, we can hate-fuck.”
These boys were so incredibly hot together. Scorching hot!
I fell in love with Lysander and his quirky sense of humor. He was absolutely awesome!
I also really liked Finn and the unexpected friendship between him and Lysander. The switched identity stuff was hilarious at times.
“So, I had therapy today. Um.” Finn swayed a little. “Dr. Brookhard asked me some interesting questions.”
“Oh yeah?”
“Yeah.” He looked at me, biting his lip. “You want to tell me about your cocaine addiction?”
I groaned, throwing my head back. “I don’t have a cocaine addiction.”
“Oh. Well. Um.” Finn cleared his throat. “You kinda do now.”
And the other kids at the group home were amazing. Each had their own set of problems and it all felt so real to me. No flat side characters here.
There is some angst at the end, but I knew that was inevitable. It wasn’t that bad and it wasn’t prolonged to create a plot. I was impressed that the rest of the book made me have all these happy feelings even though it revolved around people who considered themselves broken. Spectacularly Broken.
Still awesome!
-------------------------------
4.5 stars
BR with the lovely Elsbeth.
It was such a pleasure reading this. The writing was so captivating, this book made me smile, it made me laugh out loud and it made me cry.
This could have easily have become a depressing story because of the heavy subjects, but it wasn’t. Was there angst? Yes there was. Was it gut wrenching, pull out your hair angst? No, it wasn’t.
Lysander is a spoiled rich 19 year old looking for attention by having orgies, doing drugs and basically messing up his life. His father sends him to a home for troubled teenagers to cope with his problems.
He gets sent to his aunt first to pick up his cousin Finn, who is also being sent to the home. On the way over Finn tells Lysander that being a rich kid is easy, so Lysander suggests they switch identities. They look a lot alike so he is positive no one will notice.
In the group home he meets other kids who all have their own problems. And then there is bad boy Cai. Cai and Lysander don’t like each other… well, at first.
“I still haven’t decided if you’re okay or if you’re an asshole,” Cai informed me succinctly. “That’s fine. If it comes down to it, we can hate-fuck.”
These boys were so incredibly hot together. Scorching hot!
I fell in love with Lysander and his quirky sense of humor. He was absolutely awesome!
I also really liked Finn and the unexpected friendship between him and Lysander. The switched identity stuff was hilarious at times.
“So, I had therapy today. Um.” Finn swayed a little. “Dr. Brookhard asked me some interesting questions.”
“Oh yeah?”
“Yeah.” He looked at me, biting his lip. “You want to tell me about your cocaine addiction?”
I groaned, throwing my head back. “I don’t have a cocaine addiction.”
“Oh. Well. Um.” Finn cleared his throat. “You kinda do now.”
And the other kids at the group home were amazing. Each had their own set of problems and it all felt so real to me. No flat side characters here.
There is some angst at the end, but I knew that was inevitable. It wasn’t that bad and it wasn’t prolonged to create a plot. I was impressed that the rest of the book made me have all these happy feelings even though it revolved around people who considered themselves broken. Spectacularly Broken.
August 28, 2017
Loved this one. The MC's were a bit younger than I prefer, but the storyline was great. Hit me right in the feels and even tough this book is about broken people, there are plenty of laugh out loud moments.
There was also some nice steam that I didn't expect. Beautiful story about two broken boys (or whatever you call an 18 year old) helping each other heal.
It's about a group of people being there for one another, supporting each other. I loved all the sidecharacters in this book and they all played a big part in this story.
I'm not gonna explain the whole plot...just read the book...you won't be sorry
4,5 stars from me
I loved Lisander and Cai together...so freaking cute ;)
There was also some nice steam that I didn't expect. Beautiful story about two broken boys (or whatever you call an 18 year old) helping each other heal.
It's about a group of people being there for one another, supporting each other. I loved all the sidecharacters in this book and they all played a big part in this story.
I'm not gonna explain the whole plot...just read the book...you won't be sorry
4,5 stars from me
I loved Lisander and Cai together...so freaking cute ;)
August 3, 2016
4.5, rounded up
More crying for me. This almost made my 'there was sobbing' shelf, but I managed to keep it to a steady stream of tears and deep breathing.
More crying for me. This almost made my 'there was sobbing' shelf, but I managed to keep it to a steady stream of tears and deep breathing.
June 3, 2016
Re-read June 2016. Loved it again! Probably my favourite NA m/m romance ...
-------------------
5 stars for this superbly good NA coming of age story
Lysander is the poor little rich boy. Hard partying, drug abusing and sex addicted. His absentee father is a famous movie star. When his partying goes one step too far, his father sends him to a facility for troubled teens. Lysander's cousin, Finn, is also attending. At the retreat, Lysander is grouped with four other teens, all with very troubled pasts.
One of the things I loved best here is that Lysander, and each of the other members of his group, are so well developed. Each of them has so many dimensions and they are more than just their troubled pasts. They gradually learn to trust each other and they help each other grow.
And what I loved most was Lysander and Cai's relationship. I loved watching them progress from hating each other, to acting on their attraction, to friends and then to more. Just a beautiful love story.
Nice epilogue too … I feel like they're all going to make it.
Highly recommended.
-------------------
5 stars for this superbly good NA coming of age story
Lysander is the poor little rich boy. Hard partying, drug abusing and sex addicted. His absentee father is a famous movie star. When his partying goes one step too far, his father sends him to a facility for troubled teens. Lysander's cousin, Finn, is also attending. At the retreat, Lysander is grouped with four other teens, all with very troubled pasts.
One of the things I loved best here is that Lysander, and each of the other members of his group, are so well developed. Each of them has so many dimensions and they are more than just their troubled pasts. They gradually learn to trust each other and they help each other grow.
And what I loved most was Lysander and Cai's relationship. I loved watching them progress from hating each other, to acting on their attraction, to friends and then to more. Just a beautiful love story.
Nice epilogue too … I feel like they're all going to make it.
Highly recommended.
January 6, 2016
Holy cow, that was an amazing debut for Sage Holloway!! I absolutely loved this story! Not just the main characters (Lysander/Haze and Cai), but all the secondary characters too... Finn, Lexa, Nicky, Jarrett. Lysander is a spoiled rich kid, the son of a famous actor. His dad pays little attention to him, leaving Lys with lots of time on his hands which he fills with sex, drugs, and alcohol. When his dad reaches his breaking point, he sends Lys to Oak Hill Manor along with his cousin, who has serious issues of his own. It's not rehab, it's more of a program for troubled teens. I was very impressed with how Lysander embraced the program and actually made an effort to turn his life around. I loved the first person POV. Lys is very funny and I enjoyed being inside his head and hearing his thoughts. I hope to read more from this author. 5 stars!!
September 1, 2015
4.5 Stars
August 8, 2016
En mi muy modesta opinión, el resumen es que es un mal libro. Personajes que son estereotipos, temas de mucha importancia tratados con superficialidad, absoluta incoherencia en la actitud y comportamientos de los protagonistas. Es como una película de sobremesa los domingos, que sabes exactamente todo lo que va a pasar y lo mala que es, y aun así la ves.
Un libro que toca temas sensibles no es mejor que otro solo por hacerlo, hay que saber desarrollarlos. Si no se sabe hacerlo, es mejor quedarse con tramas y caracteres más sencillos, que no por ello son peores. Es insultante la falta de compromiso e información con y sobre lo que se está escribiendo.
Un libro que toca temas sensibles no es mejor que otro solo por hacerlo, hay que saber desarrollarlos. Si no se sabe hacerlo, es mejor quedarse con tramas y caracteres más sencillos, que no por ello son peores. Es insultante la falta de compromiso e información con y sobre lo que se está escribiendo.
December 2, 2016
I loved this book with every cell in my body!
Lysander is a spoiled kid that has issues, the problem is he doesn't see this issues, he's "having fun".
After his latest sex ans drug fest his dad has enough and decides to send him to a center and get help, Lys obviously doesn't want to but his dad puts an ultimatum.
Lysander goes to the center with his cousin, Finn, in the journey they share some stuff and have the awesome (seriously stupid) idea of exchange lives because nobody knows them on the center.
Lysander meets 4 weird kids, Broody Caí, Sad Jerreth, Hyperactive Nicky and Silent Lexa.
I read Dani's review and she mentioned The Breakfast Club and that's exactly how I felt reading this book. this is a group of misfits, they all have their own stories and even though your reading Lysander's POV you get to know these kids and connect with them.
Lysander was a spoiled kid but he was so real, he was brat but see how he realized little by little he was privileged and how everyone had other issues and maybe they needed someone to be there for them was beautiful, his growing was amazing to read and even though you are still mad about the fact that he's not honest with Cai it makes sense because he is a kid and fucks up.
I wanted so much more, I wanted Cai's POV and I wanted more about Finn, Lexa, Jarreth and Nicky. Getting to know all the characters and the different stories is what made this story so good, the friendship they develop is so good and reading the epilogue leaves you with a smile and so much hope.
Lysander is a spoiled kid that has issues, the problem is he doesn't see this issues, he's "having fun".
After his latest sex ans drug fest his dad has enough and decides to send him to a center and get help, Lys obviously doesn't want to but his dad puts an ultimatum.
Lysander goes to the center with his cousin, Finn, in the journey they share some stuff and have the awesome (seriously stupid) idea of exchange lives because nobody knows them on the center.
Lysander meets 4 weird kids, Broody Caí, Sad Jerreth, Hyperactive Nicky and Silent Lexa.
I read Dani's review and she mentioned The Breakfast Club and that's exactly how I felt reading this book. this is a group of misfits, they all have their own stories and even though your reading Lysander's POV you get to know these kids and connect with them.
Lysander was a spoiled kid but he was so real, he was brat but see how he realized little by little he was privileged and how everyone had other issues and maybe they needed someone to be there for them was beautiful, his growing was amazing to read and even though you are still mad about the fact that he's not honest with Cai it makes sense because he is a kid and fucks up.
I wanted so much more, I wanted Cai's POV and I wanted more about Finn, Lexa, Jarreth and Nicky. Getting to know all the characters and the different stories is what made this story so good, the friendship they develop is so good and reading the epilogue leaves you with a smile and so much hope.
August 23, 2017
That was a whole lotta awesome!
Wish Finn would've junk punched Lane once though👊🏼
Wish Finn would've junk punched Lane once though👊🏼
September 15, 2015
This is one of those books you never expected to be that good. I was prepared for some major angst factor and over the top pity party. But my golly, I'd never seen so many misfits in one book and find the story and the characters endearing and heartwarming. This is a story of trust, friendship, and survival. How these broken teens tried to find solace in each other's company. The author really did a clever and brilliant job in portraying these wonderful characters. I didn't find their back stories overbearing and cliched. They felt sincere and uplifting. The way they battled with their inner demons was very courageous. Lysander's voice was very inclusive and light. In the end, I was filled with these tingly feelings knowing all of them are going to be okay. I am a fan already of Sage C. Holloway.
June 4, 2015
3.5 Stars
I mostly enjoyed this book. I found a section in the middle that kind of dragged for me, but other than that, I really enjoyed it. It was a bit different than I expected, but that isn't a bad thing.
Lysander is a rich kid. His mom died when he was born and his dad, a famous actor, is away working on projects too much to play much of a hand in raising him, so Lysander has been left to his own devices for much of his life. I can't say that's been a good thing. In fact, Lysander is a spoiled, rich, drug addict and if he keeps the path he was on when this book started, I don't think things would have ended well for him.
He gets sent to a Oak Hill Manor, a group home for troubled teens, with his cousin, who isn't rich or spoiled and has very different issues. They make a seemingly harmless bet while on their way to the home, just to keep things interesting, plus, they each get to try something new.
While at Oak Hill Manor, Lysander gets to experience what it means to not be anyone special. He's not treated with kid gloves and is expected to do what everyone else is expected to do. He balked at everything at first, because he wasn't used to having to do much of anything himself. One of the other teenagers in his group, Cai, doesn't take BS from anyone, including Lysander, so they form a rivalry, that quickly turns into sex, which then turns into more. Lysander uses the opportunity in the home to find things about himself he enjoys. He gets to live outside his normal world for a while and it was good for him.
Cai definitely has some issues. He's hurting and he's angry and he doesn't talk about himself, but he's a bit damanged, physically and emotionally. He doesn't trust easily at all, and it takes him some serious courage to trust Lysander with his past and his heart. I really liked Cai and Lysander together. With each other, they were able to be better than they were alone and they find some common ground that neither expected.
So, overall, a good read.
I mostly enjoyed this book. I found a section in the middle that kind of dragged for me, but other than that, I really enjoyed it. It was a bit different than I expected, but that isn't a bad thing.
Lysander is a rich kid. His mom died when he was born and his dad, a famous actor, is away working on projects too much to play much of a hand in raising him, so Lysander has been left to his own devices for much of his life. I can't say that's been a good thing. In fact, Lysander is a spoiled, rich, drug addict and if he keeps the path he was on when this book started, I don't think things would have ended well for him.
He gets sent to a Oak Hill Manor, a group home for troubled teens, with his cousin, who isn't rich or spoiled and has very different issues. They make a seemingly harmless bet while on their way to the home, just to keep things interesting, plus, they each get to try something new.
While at Oak Hill Manor, Lysander gets to experience what it means to not be anyone special. He's not treated with kid gloves and is expected to do what everyone else is expected to do. He balked at everything at first, because he wasn't used to having to do much of anything himself. One of the other teenagers in his group, Cai, doesn't take BS from anyone, including Lysander, so they form a rivalry, that quickly turns into sex, which then turns into more. Lysander uses the opportunity in the home to find things about himself he enjoys. He gets to live outside his normal world for a while and it was good for him.
Cai definitely has some issues. He's hurting and he's angry and he doesn't talk about himself, but he's a bit damanged, physically and emotionally. He doesn't trust easily at all, and it takes him some serious courage to trust Lysander with his past and his heart. I really liked Cai and Lysander together. With each other, they were able to be better than they were alone and they find some common ground that neither expected.
So, overall, a good read.
April 28, 2015
I really enjoyed this debut book from this author. Lysander is a spoiler rich boy who does too many drugs, has too much sex and has no direction in his life. His father, who is absent most of the time, decides Lysander needs a wake up call and sends him to a camp for young adults with emotional problems. Lysander's cousin Finn gets sent also for issues of his own. On the way the two boys decide each has the better life so they change identities before they arrive. Once there Lysander realizes his life really is a mess and he needs to start working on fixing things. Lysander also meets Cai, a dark and broody boy in his group who has demons of his own. The story follows the young men's journey to putting their lives back together and to falling in love.
I thought this book was really well done. The characters were great and I enjoyed them all. There are a host of side characters and I was interested in what was going on with each and every one of them. The story reminded me of the movie The Breakfast Club where a bunch of very different but equally broken kids become friends against the odds. The romance was also well done and Ioved the scenes with Lysander and Cai together. It was touching watching them fall for each other. The sexy times were super good. These two were smoking hot together.
A really sold, well done read. A definite recommend from me. I can't wait to see what else this author can do.
I thought this book was really well done. The characters were great and I enjoyed them all. There are a host of side characters and I was interested in what was going on with each and every one of them. The story reminded me of the movie The Breakfast Club where a bunch of very different but equally broken kids become friends against the odds. The romance was also well done and Ioved the scenes with Lysander and Cai together. It was touching watching them fall for each other. The sexy times were super good. These two were smoking hot together.
A really sold, well done read. A definite recommend from me. I can't wait to see what else this author can do.
November 7, 2015
Прелесть! Хейз шикарен, конечно. Кай... Вообще молчу! Люблю обоих.
И еще, это тот редкий случай, когда присутствие второстепенных персонажей действительно прибавляло книге плюсов!
Персонажи рулят! Однозначно.
И еще, это тот редкий случай, когда присутствие второстепенных персонажей действительно прибавляло книге плюсов!
Персонажи рулят! Однозначно.
April 18, 2017
4.75 stars! Brilliant work! Lysander will forever have a place in my heart ❤️
July 13, 2015
I was really looking forward to this one based on reviews but for me it was just alright. Part may be that I'd just read Take the Long Way Home not too long ago and they were similar in that they both have a coming of age feel to them and feature troubled teen/young adult characters. The writing is polished in this book but I just never fully warmed up to Lysander and Cai. I'm clearly in the minority however though so don't let me discourage you from reading this one. I'd read another from the author and this was an impressive debut.
June 4, 2016
Read this in one setting, just bowls along. Appealing characters, interesting plot, loved it!
April 7, 2015
3.5 Stars
I have such a love/hate relationship with this book. There were parts that touched me deeply and others that seemed either cheesy or they downright pissed me off. And while I understand that the characters were teenagers (with the exception of the parents of course), their behavior seemed too immature at times.
I'm having such a hard time pin-pointing exactly what I didn't like, because overall this book was pretty good. But as much as I want to, I can't give it 4 stars (IT'S DEFINITELY BETTER THAN 3 STARS, BUT SINCE WE CAN'T DO 1/2 STAR RATINGS, THE BOOK HAS TO SUFFER). I think the setting in which most of the story took place was what didn't work for me. I simply don't get the point of that "clinic" (Oak Hill Manor) or whatever it was. If it's for troubled teens that abuse drugs and have way too much sex as a cry for attention, then you can't go and mix them with other teenagers who were sexually abused as children and are now having difficulties integrating in the society.
And how about teenagers who suffer from the loss of a loved one, the one person who meant the most to them? What do they have in common with the rest of the teenagers at Oak Hill Manor? They were all simply too different from one another and didn't have many things in common. So for them to be attending the same therapy sessions didn't make much sense to me.
The writing was good, the grammar was stellar (and if it wasn't, I was too focused on the story to notice any errors) and I definitely got the impression that a teenager was narrating the story. I do wish we would've gotten to know more about Cai and I wish there was an epilogue 10 years into the future, because I would've liked to see them as adults.
I have such a love/hate relationship with this book. There were parts that touched me deeply and others that seemed either cheesy or they downright pissed me off. And while I understand that the characters were teenagers (with the exception of the parents of course), their behavior seemed too immature at times.
I'm having such a hard time pin-pointing exactly what I didn't like, because overall this book was pretty good. But as much as I want to, I can't give it 4 stars (IT'S DEFINITELY BETTER THAN 3 STARS, BUT SINCE WE CAN'T DO 1/2 STAR RATINGS, THE BOOK HAS TO SUFFER). I think the setting in which most of the story took place was what didn't work for me. I simply don't get the point of that "clinic" (Oak Hill Manor) or whatever it was. If it's for troubled teens that abuse drugs and have way too much sex as a cry for attention, then you can't go and mix them with other teenagers who were sexually abused as children and are now having difficulties integrating in the society.
And how about teenagers who suffer from the loss of a loved one, the one person who meant the most to them? What do they have in common with the rest of the teenagers at Oak Hill Manor? They were all simply too different from one another and didn't have many things in common. So for them to be attending the same therapy sessions didn't make much sense to me.
The writing was good, the grammar was stellar (and if it wasn't, I was too focused on the story to notice any errors) and I definitely got the impression that a teenager was narrating the story. I do wish we would've gotten to know more about Cai and I wish there was an epilogue 10 years into the future, because I would've liked to see them as adults.
August 27, 2015
4.5 stars!! This was very good; sweet and sexy with some difficult times for all the characters at this troubled teen center called Oak Hill. The story moved along and I really fell for both Lysander and Cai. I enjoyed hearing the story from Lysander's POV - he was smart; funny and mature for a gay man/boy of 19. Even though this was an inta-love situation; it didn't bother me at all - it was written is such a way to make me understand and accept how it happened. All the supporting characters were great too! Anyway - I've ready some disappointing stories recently and this was definitely a shining star!!! There also was a very brief "epilogue" on the author's website for Lys and Cai which gave a great HEA. Book was very well done and it exceeded my expectations as compared to many of the YA/NA stories out there. I need to figure out how to find and insert gifs - my reviews are so boring :(
August 21, 2015
There were things about this book I liked very much and others I didn’t. Overall a good story. I liked Lysander (Haze) a lot, probably because he was the narrator and had issues I could relate to. I felt for Cai, I cannot imagine losing (well I kind of can) a sibling, especially a twin. My biggest issue mostly was the part where Cai goes missing. Felt very theatrical and dragged a bit. The group house thing at the end also bugged me. Wrapped up a little too nicely with everyone being able to get into colleges close enough for everyone to live in the same house.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2017
Love love love
Such an emotionally charged book. I loved every second of - sucked in from the very first page. Totally recommend it to everyone.
Such an emotionally charged book. I loved every second of - sucked in from the very first page. Totally recommend it to everyone.
May 23, 2016
“Just because other people might have worse problems doesn’t mean you’re not allowed one.”
Deep, moving, important. You don’t get to choose what happens to you, your life can go on smoothly until the day you die or you can find your path filled with so many obstacles that makes you just want to give up. The important thing is reaching out, having people around who sees something wrong about you and gets you the help you need. It’s not truly a road to be cured, it’s a journey to get better and learn to live with whatever issues you may have, surrounded by people who loves you.
Such a short book with deep characters, each of them with hard pasts and on going issues keeping them from living their lives to the fullest. The only bad thing about this is that it’s too short. I could’ve read about the characters for hundreds of pages more.
“My full name is Lysander Aurelius Cassius Shepherd. Can you tell my father hated me from the start?”
Lysander is spoiled, rich, son of a famous actor, lives his life between parties and shopping. Not a healthy life. But why does he feel the need to do that? Why is he so bored with everything that he feels the need to drown himself in every addiction he can think of? Lys is a good guy, sweet and caring. He has an attitude, that can’t be denied, but he tries his best and it’s oblivious of the effect he has on others.
He is sent to a camp for troubled kids and makes friends with his group’s companions. There is one friend in particular who seems to have caught his attention, at first because they hated each other, then feelings were all over the place, one thing lead to another and, kaboom, one big mess.
His interaction with Cai is sweet and adorable, painful and intense. Lys is hiding his identity but strips himself of every other thing he’s been hiding inside of him. Lys feels so good with Cai and it’s a scary feeling, never felt before. What the hell is love and why he, of all the people, has to feel it? Oh boy, you cuddling beautiful human being, you were meant to fall head over heels for him.
“Hello.” I purred and raised my hands to stretch seductively.
Not everything is good, they share a lot of hot and romantically sweet moments, that’s true, but Cai is troubled, has so many issues he knows can’t be fixed. It’s okay not be perfect, to have pieces missing, pieces you know can’t be replaced because they are lost forever. Cai found in Lys someone who can fill his void, not fix his problems but help him moving on to new things in life, getting better and be loved, giving his best to shine even in dark situations.
I love how important is the support of one another. How every single one of the members of Lys’ group, opened up for one another, feeling safe in their little group, feeling it was okay to share their experiences to lift a weight that was keeping them from seeing that, no matter how black they feel, there is always place for a ray of sunshine, hope for a better future, for a smile, an understanding, a helping hand, a friend.
Deep, moving, important. You don’t get to choose what happens to you, your life can go on smoothly until the day you die or you can find your path filled with so many obstacles that makes you just want to give up. The important thing is reaching out, having people around who sees something wrong about you and gets you the help you need. It’s not truly a road to be cured, it’s a journey to get better and learn to live with whatever issues you may have, surrounded by people who loves you.
Such a short book with deep characters, each of them with hard pasts and on going issues keeping them from living their lives to the fullest. The only bad thing about this is that it’s too short. I could’ve read about the characters for hundreds of pages more.
“My full name is Lysander Aurelius Cassius Shepherd. Can you tell my father hated me from the start?”
Lysander is spoiled, rich, son of a famous actor, lives his life between parties and shopping. Not a healthy life. But why does he feel the need to do that? Why is he so bored with everything that he feels the need to drown himself in every addiction he can think of? Lys is a good guy, sweet and caring. He has an attitude, that can’t be denied, but he tries his best and it’s oblivious of the effect he has on others.
He is sent to a camp for troubled kids and makes friends with his group’s companions. There is one friend in particular who seems to have caught his attention, at first because they hated each other, then feelings were all over the place, one thing lead to another and, kaboom, one big mess.
His interaction with Cai is sweet and adorable, painful and intense. Lys is hiding his identity but strips himself of every other thing he’s been hiding inside of him. Lys feels so good with Cai and it’s a scary feeling, never felt before. What the hell is love and why he, of all the people, has to feel it? Oh boy, you cuddling beautiful human being, you were meant to fall head over heels for him.
“Hello.” I purred and raised my hands to stretch seductively.
Not everything is good, they share a lot of hot and romantically sweet moments, that’s true, but Cai is troubled, has so many issues he knows can’t be fixed. It’s okay not be perfect, to have pieces missing, pieces you know can’t be replaced because they are lost forever. Cai found in Lys someone who can fill his void, not fix his problems but help him moving on to new things in life, getting better and be loved, giving his best to shine even in dark situations.
I love how important is the support of one another. How every single one of the members of Lys’ group, opened up for one another, feeling safe in their little group, feeling it was okay to share their experiences to lift a weight that was keeping them from seeing that, no matter how black they feel, there is always place for a ray of sunshine, hope for a better future, for a smile, an understanding, a helping hand, a friend.
August 10, 2015
So, this pretty much hit every one of my buttons. So freakin' good.
Wonderful characters all around--not just Lysander and Cai and Finn (who was almost a third MC), but everyone else in the green group. We didn't get a lot of time with Lysander's dad, but I think we got enough of him to understand his motivations and understand why Lysander thought he was such a crappy father.
I was a little uncertain at first about how the whole Parent-Trap thing was going to play out, but it ended up being such an interesting twist on what I think would have been a very good story anyway. It didn't detract or overwhelm the book, and it wasn't the main focus. The whole thing could have become muddled, I think, but it didn't--she balanced all of it very well.
Sage's writing is solid and polished--maybe this is the first thing she's published officially, but there's no way this is the first thing she's written. It's too well plotted and told, and she has a really easy way with the language that made this a real pleasure to read.
I really loved the epilogue. What a perfect way to wrap it up. <3
I did cry through, like, half of the book, but I don't think it ever became as depressing as it very easily could have given what everyone had been through. The emotion was nicely balanced throughout the book. Lots of tugged heartstrings, but also lots of little victory moments and emotional highs.
I'm already looking forward to reading it again.
Wonderful characters all around--not just Lysander and Cai and Finn (who was almost a third MC), but everyone else in the green group. We didn't get a lot of time with Lysander's dad, but I think we got enough of him to understand his motivations and understand why Lysander thought he was such a crappy father.
I was a little uncertain at first about how the whole Parent-Trap thing was going to play out, but it ended up being such an interesting twist on what I think would have been a very good story anyway. It didn't detract or overwhelm the book, and it wasn't the main focus. The whole thing could have become muddled, I think, but it didn't--she balanced all of it very well.
Sage's writing is solid and polished--maybe this is the first thing she's published officially, but there's no way this is the first thing she's written. It's too well plotted and told, and she has a really easy way with the language that made this a real pleasure to read.
I really loved the epilogue. What a perfect way to wrap it up. <3
I did cry through, like, half of the book, but I don't think it ever became as depressing as it very easily could have given what everyone had been through. The emotion was nicely balanced throughout the book. Lots of tugged heartstrings, but also lots of little victory moments and emotional highs.
I'm already looking forward to reading it again.
July 4, 2015
This is Sage C. Holloway’s first novel and it’s nothing short of spectacular! It was very much like the kids from “The Breakfast Club” were transported into a retreat facility and with some twist and turn with the characterization; you’ve got yourself this wonderful novel!
I absolutely adore Cai and Lys here because they really do complement each other. I also loved the dynamics of their group as they became closer and started to bond and eventually became friends. I loved that you can easily picture each character and really root for them. Aside from the main couple, I find Nicky especially adorable.
Their issues are the typical troubled young adult issues – angst and all so that is nothing new in the story. The main pull of the novel though is the likeability of each character. Despite their rather troubling situation, the author makes it possible for readers to easily love them.
As typical as the story goes, I still end up loving every minute reading it. I would really like a follow-up from this spectacular debut! Congratulations Miss Holloway!!!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
I absolutely adore Cai and Lys here because they really do complement each other. I also loved the dynamics of their group as they became closer and started to bond and eventually became friends. I loved that you can easily picture each character and really root for them. Aside from the main couple, I find Nicky especially adorable.
Their issues are the typical troubled young adult issues – angst and all so that is nothing new in the story. The main pull of the novel though is the likeability of each character. Despite their rather troubling situation, the author makes it possible for readers to easily love them.
As typical as the story goes, I still end up loving every minute reading it. I would really like a follow-up from this spectacular debut! Congratulations Miss Holloway!!!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
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