Surviving

by Edward Kendrick

When Terry and Kel Coleman run from their abusive father, they end up in Denver. The day they arrive, they meet three street kids named Rudy, Snap, and Josie. The brothers move into the trio's squat where Rudy and the others teach Terry and Kel the ins-and-outs of survival on the streets. While that happens, Terry and Rudy are drawn to each other and begin a tentative relationship.

Then Kel is almost kidnapped by a man sent by his father to bring him home. Forced to leave their squat to keep Kel safe, they turn to a local pastor for help. Thanks to the pastor, the five young people may find hope for their future -- if they can survive the present. In the process, can the budding relationship between Terry and Rudy survive, or will it be torn apart by the life they're forced to live?

Genres: M M Romance, Abuse

166 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 22, 2015

About the author

Born and bred Cleveland, I earned a degree in technical theater, later switched to costuming, and headed to NYC. Finally seeing the futility of trying to become rich and famous in the Big Apple, I joined VISTA—Volunteers in Service to America—ending up in Chicago for three years. Then it was on to Denver, where I put down roots and worked as a costume designer until I retired in 2007.

I began writing a few years ago after joining an online fanfic group. Two friends and I then started a group for writers, where they could post any story they wished, no matter the genre or content. Since then I've been writing for publication. My first book came out in February of 2011. Most, but not all, of my work is M/M, either mildly erotic or purely 'romantic'. More often than not it involves a mystery or action/adventure, and is sometimes paranormal as well.

Reviews

[Cathy Brockman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terry and his younger brother Kelly have lived in fear and abuse by their father all their lives, Terry taking the beatings for Kelly. Once Kel turned 16, Terry had enough and they packed a bag and ran away to Colorado thinking it would be far enough away that their father couldn’t find them. They had no idea what to do or where to go. They did know they didn’t want to sell their body or drugs, but that was as far as they had thought it out. At the Mall they meet a group of kids asking for change and decide to ask them how to survive the streets.
Snap, Josie and Rudy have been on the streets mostly since being teens. They are a close-knit group and haven’t wanted to take others in with them but after meeting these two boys they decide to make an exception and teach them how to survive.
This is a very well done story of street life. It isn’t the typical all kids on the streets are thugs, druggies or prostitutes. This shows that some are out there just to get away from a terrible life or have been tossed out like yesterday’s trash and are trying to survive without being one of the above statistics.
I love how Edward fills his story with several characters, all intriguing and integral to the story instead of focusing on one main character, has an interesting plot, tosses in some mystery and some mild sex.
If you like young adult, street life, a little mystery, mild sex and a satisfying ending this is for you.


* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

[Dakota Storm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing story by Edward Kendrick, I can never put his books down once I start reading them. This book is definitely one of my favorites, I loved the characters and the emotions throughout. I loved the way the author described stree life and sticking together, living day by day and pushing forward. Rudy and Terry are both amazing characters, they are both supportive, protective and father hen like (lol). The others are just as great but they rely on Rudy and Terry to keep them safe, fed and a family. This book gives you hope that there are good people out in the world that are willing to help. I especially loved the hope and hard work these kids portrayed wanting more out of life, not giving in to the life on the streets. This story just hit me in the heart from the beginning especially the love Terry has for his brother Kel. I also loved the budding relationship between Ter and Rudy, they feelings for each other and the exploring each other as well. Great story, amazing writing, very emotional and caring and a all around amazing story. 5 stars. Review by Nanee at Up All Night Read All Day

[Mrsgeo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this very much.

[Libbsmm · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars