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Hush
Wren is one of "the gifted”—a man with the power to compel others’ feelings and desires. He uses his power as a game of sexual consent until Cameron, a naive college student, enters his life. As Cameron begins to understand his sexuality and gain confidence under Wren’s tutelage, Wren grows to recognize new and unexpected things about himself. Can their game become a relationship as the power shifts from teacher to student?
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2015
1 person is currently reading
623 people want to read
About the author
Jude Sierra
7 books110 followersJude began her writing career at the age of eight when she immortalized her summer vacation with ten entries in a row that read “pool+tv”.
As a sucker for happy endings and well written emotional arcs and characters, Jude is an unapologetic bookaholic. She finds bookstores and libraries unbearably sexy and, to her husband’s dismay, is attempting to create her own in their living room.
She is a writer of many things that hope to find their way out of the sanctuary of her hard drive, and many that have found a home in a fanfiction community.
She is currently working on her Master of Arts in Writing and Rhetoric and managing a home filled with her husband, two young sons, and two cats. Her first novel, Hush, was published in 2015 and her second novel, What it Takes, was published in January of 2016. She has an upcoming novel, Idlewild, coming in October of 2016
As a sucker for happy endings and well written emotional arcs and characters, Jude is an unapologetic bookaholic. She finds bookstores and libraries unbearably sexy and, to her husband’s dismay, is attempting to create her own in their living room.
She is a writer of many things that hope to find their way out of the sanctuary of her hard drive, and many that have found a home in a fanfiction community.
She is currently working on her Master of Arts in Writing and Rhetoric and managing a home filled with her husband, two young sons, and two cats. Her first novel, Hush, was published in 2015 and her second novel, What it Takes, was published in January of 2016. She has an upcoming novel, Idlewild, coming in October of 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 22, 2023
✰ 3.25 stars ✰
“You can,” Cam chants with his mouth against Wren’s cheek. “You can, you can, just be here with me.” He traces Wren’s cheek with a soft finger. “Please don’t.”
He nudges Wren’s nose with his own, and when Wren opens his eyes Cam’s are on his, steady and wide open and ready. “Let me in, please let me in.”
Wren exhales. Exhales and wants and listens to the clamor of his skin, so desperate for Cam’s touch. It’s only fucking, he tells himself. It’s only fucking.
He keeps chanting even when his body betrays that it’s not, even when his heart feels as if it will burst because Cam’s hands are all over him, his lips too, his whispered praise and affirmation making a tender wreck of Wren’s heart.”
It took me a hot minute to realize that there were actually two people gracing the cover of Hush. 🙈 Perhaps, I was compelled to look elsewhere and got distracted. 😅 And if that were the case, it certainly achieved what it intended to do; because, here's the thing. Objectively, this is your typical NA MM Romance, but with a slight twist, where there are humans with these latent meta-powers that give them this unique ability to use their skills to maneuver's other's emotions as they deem fit. And if this slightly rather flimsy and underdeveloped side plot had not existed, and it had simply been a story about two young college boys who start up a steamy mutual friends with benefits set-up, this might have been more of a favorable read. 🙍🏻♀️
“Wren knows that spontaneity has its own pleasure and that getting caught up in something provocative and impetuous can be a liberating experience, made hotter by its unexpectedness.
Sometimes even he feels constrained by the structures he uses to protect himself from the world.”
On the first day of his freshman year, doe-eyed and inexperienced Cam feels the seductive pull of Wren, 'a beautiful enigma, a bright light that’s blinding and sudden.' He can't help but be drawn to him, and seek him out with the full desire of pursuing something more, in order for him to better understand his own sexuality, But, as much as 'Wren wants Cam, wants to take him apart and touch him, have him until they’re both half blind, he has his rules - 'Taking Cam, who apparently didn’t know or understand who Wren is, would be wrong. It’s a game for a reason: because no one gets hurt, not him or the person he’s with.' And with that, he repels him - wards him off so that it prevents him from ever getting close to him.
A year goes by and as Cam pursues different relationships in order to better understand himself and his attraction to others, he has never forgotten Wren, 'who’s light-boned and lithe and incredibly sexy, and it seems so wrong to be thinking of him right now, but I can’t stop.'. That incessant invisible pull is always there - and one night while going out to a bar with his friends, he feels that fierce tug again - compelling him to seek Wren out and give them another chance. But, there is a reason why Wren pushes him away - that 'the game is a safe way to feel physical release and intimacy and fun, without having to let go or risk himself'. 😔 He didn't ever want to let himself ever be vulnerable at anyone's hands ever again - wanting to keep that semblance of dominance - the upper hand, so to speak, in their romantic endeavors. Yet, the more time he takes taking Cam apart - the more he gives in to sweet temptation and drowns the both of them the reprieve to bask in blissful glow - Wren slowly realizes that, somehow, along the way, he was no longer the one pulling the other towards them.😟
Before their eventual meeting, the story navigates into two distinctive narratives - one featuring 'small-town, out-of-touch Cam', as he embraces the college lifestyle - trying to shed the repressed side of him and exploring new facets to his sexuality and romantic preferences and the other of Wren, someone cursed with the ability to draw people towards him for the sake of his own to desire and also to enjoy it, to use it to compel pleasure, comfort or relaxation in others.🫣 I appreciated seeing the two glimpses of their lives, because I got to see just how different they were as people. I liked how believable and realistic Cam's exploration into his own sexuality was - as he slowly grasped that labels were more than just gay, straight, or bisexual - for 'the spark of heat between him and Wren felt completely natural, in a way Cam doesn’t understand. But he’s not felt anything quite like it with anyone since.'
And that's why it's impossible for him to forget Wren - someone who awakened a part of him that he didn't know lay dormant. It's never really explained how certain humans were gifted with these special unique powers (which is a shame, because they really did feel unnecessary to the overall story), I liked getting a little background into Wren's life - why he is closed off the way he is - why he chose never to let feelings get involved in this little game of pleasure that he aroused in his intended, because 'he remembers what it felt like to have that trust broken. In the wake of broken promises, Wren refused to touch or let himself be touched intimately, to relive that vulnerability with no one to catch him in the fall.' 😟 And I loved how the author heightened the suspense to their eventual meeting - it was almost hypnotic as to how you can feel that impending moment that it'll hit and everything will tumble apart. 💫
“The sensations of pleasure and helplessness Wren implanted in him ebb slowly; a keener awareness of where he is and what he just did comes over him.
He should be ashamed or embarrassed to have done something so public, to have enjoyed feeling used and commanded. But instead Cam feels elated and expansive, electric and hungry for more.”
That scene where the author builds up the tension of latent want at the club - uff, it was almost hypnotic - painfully so!❤️🔥❤️🔥 Sizzling sexual repressed tension that exploded the instant they started up their set-up with 'a rise of sensuality, a surge of confidence.' For even under the guise of his powers, their relationship tends to veer slightly towards a D/S relationship that doesn't feel objectionable or questionable, because there really was no false pretense between them. Once Wren sweetly warned him beforehand that 'I’m going to make you use me. I’m going to make you want things you never thought you would, Cam craved it. 'The idea of being someone’s plaything, of being compelled by someone else, taken out of his body, away from the constant running of his consciousness and his hesitation, is suddenly the single most erotic thing he’s ever desired.' 😳😳 And it's an interesting take that how far Wren has Cam wrapped around him - completely cutting him off from all other people in his life, focusing solely on him that makes him neglect his studies, you start to also see a shift in Wren's view on their arrangement.
For that's really when all the pieces started to come together. How their reasons for still being in this liaison wasn't all that they though it was - relationships or feelings weren't part of the deal and what the author shined at showing was how they both approached it that befitted their personalities. 👍🏻 I liked being in Cam's head - how, even if he understood that the pleasure he sought from Wren may be disapproving to some, that it wasn't healthy or normal - it was those special rare moments that he shared with Wren that he started to appreciate more. That he wanted to see him beyond just their no-strings attached hook-ups, that he was slowly falling in love with him and not afraid to admit it> Even when he could sense Wren pulling away for the same reason, he fought to have him see that they shared was okay - that being himself in front of him - to trust in him wouldn't make him weak. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 And the build-up to that was good - I liked how it was portrayed -once Cam realized that he didn't let Wren run away from what they had - that this could be something real, if he just allowed himself to trust in him - to believe that he would never take advantage of him - that he wants to reciprocate all the emotions Wren wrung out of him - my heart felt those intense feelings, too. 🥲🥲
“He’s never been pulled before, and this is strong; he’s helpless. And so he follows as he must.
This doesn’t stop Wren from turning Cam around to search his lovely eyes in the near dark, even when it feels as though Wren’s heart might climb out of his chest, it beats so hard with fear.”
And when they confront their feelings head-on, the exposure of all their insecurities and doubts, when Wren was the way he was, why Cam felt even more determined to keep him close - it was drawn out so intimate and possibly the most honest they've ever allowed themselves to be with each other. 🥹 There was something so especially tender about that scene at Wren's apartment, where Cam confronts him - asks him to believe in them, that their feelings were something valid - that it was inevitable now to accept the inevitable - that this was no longer a game, not when the intensity of their emotions of wanting to be with each other. I felt drawn into their relationship and I wanted Wren to realize how much he actually did care for Cam - that all the moments that he couldn't keep chalking it up to just his gift. 🥺
While I did have a few qualms with the writing and I admit, I was a bit put-off by the fact that Cam allowed himself to be at the mercy of Wren's whims, whenever and however he deemed fit, what still stood out for me, there was something inherently appealing about the writing. It was sensual and evocative and very tempting - that it wanted the reader to experience the same thrum of desire coursing through the characters. And looking back at this review, which feels more like an analysis of the story itself, I realize that this simply wasn't just a hot story about two people getting off under the guise of these so-called powers that compelled them towards each other. It was about someone who came into another's life and brought him out of the wall of hurt that he had built around himself. So, while this whole notion of it's these powers that Wren possesses to compel people towards him, is simply a fanciful way of wording what essentially was simply just a mutual attraction that developed between the two, there was still a cathartic and rewarding end that made me appreciate taking a chance with this. 🧡
“You can,” Cam chants with his mouth against Wren’s cheek. “You can, you can, just be here with me.” He traces Wren’s cheek with a soft finger. “Please don’t.”
He nudges Wren’s nose with his own, and when Wren opens his eyes Cam’s are on his, steady and wide open and ready. “Let me in, please let me in.”
Wren exhales. Exhales and wants and listens to the clamor of his skin, so desperate for Cam’s touch. It’s only fucking, he tells himself. It’s only fucking.
He keeps chanting even when his body betrays that it’s not, even when his heart feels as if it will burst because Cam’s hands are all over him, his lips too, his whispered praise and affirmation making a tender wreck of Wren’s heart.”
It took me a hot minute to realize that there were actually two people gracing the cover of Hush. 🙈 Perhaps, I was compelled to look elsewhere and got distracted. 😅 And if that were the case, it certainly achieved what it intended to do; because, here's the thing. Objectively, this is your typical NA MM Romance, but with a slight twist, where there are humans with these latent meta-powers that give them this unique ability to use their skills to maneuver's other's emotions as they deem fit. And if this slightly rather flimsy and underdeveloped side plot had not existed, and it had simply been a story about two young college boys who start up a steamy mutual friends with benefits set-up, this might have been more of a favorable read. 🙍🏻♀️
“Wren knows that spontaneity has its own pleasure and that getting caught up in something provocative and impetuous can be a liberating experience, made hotter by its unexpectedness.
Sometimes even he feels constrained by the structures he uses to protect himself from the world.”
On the first day of his freshman year, doe-eyed and inexperienced Cam feels the seductive pull of Wren, 'a beautiful enigma, a bright light that’s blinding and sudden.' He can't help but be drawn to him, and seek him out with the full desire of pursuing something more, in order for him to better understand his own sexuality, But, as much as 'Wren wants Cam, wants to take him apart and touch him, have him until they’re both half blind, he has his rules - 'Taking Cam, who apparently didn’t know or understand who Wren is, would be wrong. It’s a game for a reason: because no one gets hurt, not him or the person he’s with.' And with that, he repels him - wards him off so that it prevents him from ever getting close to him.
A year goes by and as Cam pursues different relationships in order to better understand himself and his attraction to others, he has never forgotten Wren, 'who’s light-boned and lithe and incredibly sexy, and it seems so wrong to be thinking of him right now, but I can’t stop.'. That incessant invisible pull is always there - and one night while going out to a bar with his friends, he feels that fierce tug again - compelling him to seek Wren out and give them another chance. But, there is a reason why Wren pushes him away - that 'the game is a safe way to feel physical release and intimacy and fun, without having to let go or risk himself'. 😔 He didn't ever want to let himself ever be vulnerable at anyone's hands ever again - wanting to keep that semblance of dominance - the upper hand, so to speak, in their romantic endeavors. Yet, the more time he takes taking Cam apart - the more he gives in to sweet temptation and drowns the both of them the reprieve to bask in blissful glow - Wren slowly realizes that, somehow, along the way, he was no longer the one pulling the other towards them.😟
Before their eventual meeting, the story navigates into two distinctive narratives - one featuring 'small-town, out-of-touch Cam', as he embraces the college lifestyle - trying to shed the repressed side of him and exploring new facets to his sexuality and romantic preferences and the other of Wren, someone cursed with the ability to draw people towards him for the sake of his own to desire and also to enjoy it, to use it to compel pleasure, comfort or relaxation in others.🫣 I appreciated seeing the two glimpses of their lives, because I got to see just how different they were as people. I liked how believable and realistic Cam's exploration into his own sexuality was - as he slowly grasped that labels were more than just gay, straight, or bisexual - for 'the spark of heat between him and Wren felt completely natural, in a way Cam doesn’t understand. But he’s not felt anything quite like it with anyone since.'
And that's why it's impossible for him to forget Wren - someone who awakened a part of him that he didn't know lay dormant. It's never really explained how certain humans were gifted with these special unique powers (which is a shame, because they really did feel unnecessary to the overall story), I liked getting a little background into Wren's life - why he is closed off the way he is - why he chose never to let feelings get involved in this little game of pleasure that he aroused in his intended, because 'he remembers what it felt like to have that trust broken. In the wake of broken promises, Wren refused to touch or let himself be touched intimately, to relive that vulnerability with no one to catch him in the fall.' 😟 And I loved how the author heightened the suspense to their eventual meeting - it was almost hypnotic as to how you can feel that impending moment that it'll hit and everything will tumble apart. 💫
“The sensations of pleasure and helplessness Wren implanted in him ebb slowly; a keener awareness of where he is and what he just did comes over him.
He should be ashamed or embarrassed to have done something so public, to have enjoyed feeling used and commanded. But instead Cam feels elated and expansive, electric and hungry for more.”
That scene where the author builds up the tension of latent want at the club - uff, it was almost hypnotic - painfully so!❤️🔥❤️🔥 Sizzling sexual repressed tension that exploded the instant they started up their set-up with 'a rise of sensuality, a surge of confidence.' For even under the guise of his powers, their relationship tends to veer slightly towards a D/S relationship that doesn't feel objectionable or questionable, because there really was no false pretense between them. Once Wren sweetly warned him beforehand that 'I’m going to make you use me. I’m going to make you want things you never thought you would, Cam craved it. 'The idea of being someone’s plaything, of being compelled by someone else, taken out of his body, away from the constant running of his consciousness and his hesitation, is suddenly the single most erotic thing he’s ever desired.' 😳😳 And it's an interesting take that how far Wren has Cam wrapped around him - completely cutting him off from all other people in his life, focusing solely on him that makes him neglect his studies, you start to also see a shift in Wren's view on their arrangement.
For that's really when all the pieces started to come together. How their reasons for still being in this liaison wasn't all that they though it was - relationships or feelings weren't part of the deal and what the author shined at showing was how they both approached it that befitted their personalities. 👍🏻 I liked being in Cam's head - how, even if he understood that the pleasure he sought from Wren may be disapproving to some, that it wasn't healthy or normal - it was those special rare moments that he shared with Wren that he started to appreciate more. That he wanted to see him beyond just their no-strings attached hook-ups, that he was slowly falling in love with him and not afraid to admit it> Even when he could sense Wren pulling away for the same reason, he fought to have him see that they shared was okay - that being himself in front of him - to trust in him wouldn't make him weak. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 And the build-up to that was good - I liked how it was portrayed -once Cam realized that he didn't let Wren run away from what they had - that this could be something real, if he just allowed himself to trust in him - to believe that he would never take advantage of him - that he wants to reciprocate all the emotions Wren wrung out of him - my heart felt those intense feelings, too. 🥲🥲
“He’s never been pulled before, and this is strong; he’s helpless. And so he follows as he must.
This doesn’t stop Wren from turning Cam around to search his lovely eyes in the near dark, even when it feels as though Wren’s heart might climb out of his chest, it beats so hard with fear.”
And when they confront their feelings head-on, the exposure of all their insecurities and doubts, when Wren was the way he was, why Cam felt even more determined to keep him close - it was drawn out so intimate and possibly the most honest they've ever allowed themselves to be with each other. 🥹 There was something so especially tender about that scene at Wren's apartment, where Cam confronts him - asks him to believe in them, that their feelings were something valid - that it was inevitable now to accept the inevitable - that this was no longer a game, not when the intensity of their emotions of wanting to be with each other. I felt drawn into their relationship and I wanted Wren to realize how much he actually did care for Cam - that all the moments that he couldn't keep chalking it up to just his gift. 🥺
While I did have a few qualms with the writing and I admit, I was a bit put-off by the fact that Cam allowed himself to be at the mercy of Wren's whims, whenever and however he deemed fit, what still stood out for me, there was something inherently appealing about the writing. It was sensual and evocative and very tempting - that it wanted the reader to experience the same thrum of desire coursing through the characters. And looking back at this review, which feels more like an analysis of the story itself, I realize that this simply wasn't just a hot story about two people getting off under the guise of these so-called powers that compelled them towards each other. It was about someone who came into another's life and brought him out of the wall of hurt that he had built around himself. So, while this whole notion of it's these powers that Wren possesses to compel people towards him, is simply a fanciful way of wording what essentially was simply just a mutual attraction that developed between the two, there was still a cathartic and rewarding end that made me appreciate taking a chance with this. 🧡
dnf
March 11, 2017DNF at 49%
Told in third-person, present tense and shifting pov's.
Wren is gifted and his gift is that of compulsion. He can compel you to feel things, do things and say things. He wants to play with Cam, use him and abuse him but not without his true consent. Uh huh. Or so he says. I found it creepy as fuck. In the beginning of the book we spend more time in Cam's head. He is sweet, kind, innocent and sheltered. He grew up in a small town in Nebraska so he never heard of the "gifted" and when he finds out he realizes that is what Wren was doing to him and he wants it. Wren came off as controlling, immature, and selfish. He has to control everything and everyone because of that one time he let someone in and they hurt him. He even controls his best friend so much with his rules that she is not even allowed to speak her mind with him.
The consent is shaky because Cam is compelled by Wren and acts obsessed and addicted. I'm all for insta-lust but I don't like how Wren treats Cam like a plaything to be used. Yeah, sometimes it's hot in books but here it just felt wrong and icky.
The pov shifts are weird. It shifts relatively easy at first and then it shifts a bit too rapidly for my tastes. I really don't like third person and the constant pov changes made it even more difficult to keep up with.
Can't recommend.
Told in third-person, present tense and shifting pov's.
Wren is gifted and his gift is that of compulsion. He can compel you to feel things, do things and say things. He wants to play with Cam, use him and abuse him but not without his true consent. Uh huh. Or so he says. I found it creepy as fuck. In the beginning of the book we spend more time in Cam's head. He is sweet, kind, innocent and sheltered. He grew up in a small town in Nebraska so he never heard of the "gifted" and when he finds out he realizes that is what Wren was doing to him and he wants it. Wren came off as controlling, immature, and selfish. He has to control everything and everyone because of that one time he let someone in and they hurt him. He even controls his best friend so much with his rules that she is not even allowed to speak her mind with him.
The consent is shaky because Cam is compelled by Wren and acts obsessed and addicted. I'm all for insta-lust but I don't like how Wren treats Cam like a plaything to be used. Yeah, sometimes it's hot in books but here it just felt wrong and icky.
The pov shifts are weird. It shifts relatively easy at first and then it shifts a bit too rapidly for my tastes. I really don't like third person and the constant pov changes made it even more difficult to keep up with.
Can't recommend.
May 1, 2016
Reviewed for From Top to Bottom Reviews
OMG! What a book, what a brilliantly written story. So captivating and beautiful!
I don't know why it took me so long to read it.
I read What it Takes by Jude Sierra back in january, LOVED it, and bought Hush right after I had finished it but then I never started it.
About two weeks ago Hush constantly popped up on my twitter and goodreads timeline and I thought I had to finally read it. And OMG! Why did I wait so long??
It's so good!
I had a bit of a problem to get into it at first (we're talking like the first two chapters here, so really not that long) because of how fast the POV switched. But once I was in I loved that we got both Wren's and Cam's point of view.
This story isn't your usual m/m romance. But Jude Sierra seamlessly wove the supernatural part of the story into the real world and created an enthralling story with fantastic characters. I found the “gifted” population really interesting and would have maybe liked a bit more information about that.
I loved both protagonists but especially connected with Wren. He's so scared of getting hurt and think that if he has absolute control over Cam (or well any situation really) he won't get hurt again. So right from the beginning he tries to call the shots but doesn't anticipate that Cam would get under his skin regardless of who is in control.
Cam was a great character. I felt like he took everything in stride, no matter what Wren did.
When I first read the blurb for Hush I was a bit worried about the consent aspect of this story because Wren can compel anyone to do anything he wants. It just screamed dangerous to me. But Jude Sierra never crossed that line. Everything Wren does, he does with full consent from Cam.
Hush is very different from What it Takes but I loved it. Shows that Jude Sierra can probably write anything and we (the readers) can be sure it's good! Wren is not the only one who can compel. Jude Sierras writing style is also so damn compelling and almost hypnotic that I found it hard to put this one down. She pulls you in and doesn't let you go and I really, really didn't want this book to be over.
Hush is a compelling, thoroughly entertaining and wonderful story. Definitely recommend this one and if you haven't read What it Takes yet be sure to check that out too! Ms. Sierra is one of my auto-buy authors and I'm really, really looking forward to Idlewild which comes out in october.
OMG! What a book, what a brilliantly written story. So captivating and beautiful!
I don't know why it took me so long to read it.
I read What it Takes by Jude Sierra back in january, LOVED it, and bought Hush right after I had finished it but then I never started it.
About two weeks ago Hush constantly popped up on my twitter and goodreads timeline and I thought I had to finally read it. And OMG! Why did I wait so long??
It's so good!
I had a bit of a problem to get into it at first (we're talking like the first two chapters here, so really not that long) because of how fast the POV switched. But once I was in I loved that we got both Wren's and Cam's point of view.
This story isn't your usual m/m romance. But Jude Sierra seamlessly wove the supernatural part of the story into the real world and created an enthralling story with fantastic characters. I found the “gifted” population really interesting and would have maybe liked a bit more information about that.
I loved both protagonists but especially connected with Wren. He's so scared of getting hurt and think that if he has absolute control over Cam (or well any situation really) he won't get hurt again. So right from the beginning he tries to call the shots but doesn't anticipate that Cam would get under his skin regardless of who is in control.
Cam was a great character. I felt like he took everything in stride, no matter what Wren did.
When I first read the blurb for Hush I was a bit worried about the consent aspect of this story because Wren can compel anyone to do anything he wants. It just screamed dangerous to me. But Jude Sierra never crossed that line. Everything Wren does, he does with full consent from Cam.
Hush is very different from What it Takes but I loved it. Shows that Jude Sierra can probably write anything and we (the readers) can be sure it's good! Wren is not the only one who can compel. Jude Sierras writing style is also so damn compelling and almost hypnotic that I found it hard to put this one down. She pulls you in and doesn't let you go and I really, really didn't want this book to be over.
Hush is a compelling, thoroughly entertaining and wonderful story. Definitely recommend this one and if you haven't read What it Takes yet be sure to check that out too! Ms. Sierra is one of my auto-buy authors and I'm really, really looking forward to Idlewild which comes out in october.
May 21, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Cam and Wren, the leading men, had chemistry--deep, supernatural chemistry that transcends both of their plans. And while sometimes Wren playing the control freak irritated me, it was all for a reason that very much played to the character, and the second half of the book really brought me around to liking Wren quite a bit. And Cam is endearing and sweet, very much his own person and a growing one at that. And that's where Jude Sierra really shines--the characters, and I really should mention the side characters, who all took on a life of their own and were compelling and realistic. A+, very enjoyable, very sexy.
May 19, 2015
I had the pleasure of reading Jude Sierra's Hush twice before writing this review. I am more than pleased to report that my second reading was better and even more enjoyable than the first – the book, on a second look, never fell flat or felt repetitive.
Sierra's writing is nuanced and lovely. Originally a poet, her prose is laced with flowing words and beautiful descriptions. It was with that poetic attention that she created two amazing main characters and a phenomenal supporting cast that left me clamoring for more. In her debut book, Sierra takes us on a compelling journey set in the backdrop of a city where supernatural powers abound, yet in such a normal setting as a university. Hush is the story of Cam and Wren, two college students, and how they (eventually) came to fall in love. On the surface, it's a solid romance piece with frankly smoking hot sex scenes, an interesting storyline, and a happy ending. But it's so much more than that, and she digs so much deeper into character development.
Cam's story is a wonderful coming-of-age adventure, in which he displays more courage and grace than I could ever hope to possess. Through the raging waters of change and growth and self-discovery, he maintains an amazing amount of self-possession and self-assurance even in darker moments when he confesses he has no idea who he really is. He's truly a remarkable character, and it was a joy getting to watch him emerge from his Nebraska-imposed chrysalis.
On the opposite side of the card completely, Wren is one of the "gifted," a vulnerable boy who's been so hurt in the past, he's constructed his own suit of armor out of very carefully-chosen clothing. In all honesty he seemed a bit clichéd to me when I first read his voice, but upon further inspection I saw so clearly what a delightful character he is. While he'd like to think his heart is boarded up solid, he's full of compassion and loyalty; even the rigor of his self-imposed "rules" is not only for his own preservation, but to assure he doesn't hurt others with his gift as well.
Throughout the book, I watched negotiations of consent play out, witnessed highly-anticipated role-reversals, and fell in love with not only Cam and Wren, but Maggie, Nora, Peyton, and Nate as well, Sierra's fantastically-constructed supporting cast. (I loved them so much I want them to have their own book. Hint hint to the author…) The sex scenes are hot, but also carefully written, and the moments of emotional intimacy are lush and satisfying.
Boasting excellent character development and Sierra's exquisite prose, Hush, at its core, is an authentic and exciting look into vulnerability, the many ways in which it can be achieved, and the strength it takes to do so. Highly recommended!
Sierra's writing is nuanced and lovely. Originally a poet, her prose is laced with flowing words and beautiful descriptions. It was with that poetic attention that she created two amazing main characters and a phenomenal supporting cast that left me clamoring for more. In her debut book, Sierra takes us on a compelling journey set in the backdrop of a city where supernatural powers abound, yet in such a normal setting as a university. Hush is the story of Cam and Wren, two college students, and how they (eventually) came to fall in love. On the surface, it's a solid romance piece with frankly smoking hot sex scenes, an interesting storyline, and a happy ending. But it's so much more than that, and she digs so much deeper into character development.
Cam's story is a wonderful coming-of-age adventure, in which he displays more courage and grace than I could ever hope to possess. Through the raging waters of change and growth and self-discovery, he maintains an amazing amount of self-possession and self-assurance even in darker moments when he confesses he has no idea who he really is. He's truly a remarkable character, and it was a joy getting to watch him emerge from his Nebraska-imposed chrysalis.
On the opposite side of the card completely, Wren is one of the "gifted," a vulnerable boy who's been so hurt in the past, he's constructed his own suit of armor out of very carefully-chosen clothing. In all honesty he seemed a bit clichéd to me when I first read his voice, but upon further inspection I saw so clearly what a delightful character he is. While he'd like to think his heart is boarded up solid, he's full of compassion and loyalty; even the rigor of his self-imposed "rules" is not only for his own preservation, but to assure he doesn't hurt others with his gift as well.
Throughout the book, I watched negotiations of consent play out, witnessed highly-anticipated role-reversals, and fell in love with not only Cam and Wren, but Maggie, Nora, Peyton, and Nate as well, Sierra's fantastically-constructed supporting cast. (I loved them so much I want them to have their own book. Hint hint to the author…) The sex scenes are hot, but also carefully written, and the moments of emotional intimacy are lush and satisfying.
Boasting excellent character development and Sierra's exquisite prose, Hush, at its core, is an authentic and exciting look into vulnerability, the many ways in which it can be achieved, and the strength it takes to do so. Highly recommended!
June 16, 2019
I was hesitant at first to buy Hush, by Jude Sierra, because of the potential consent issues of the book. A protagonist with the power to compel other’s feelings? That had danger written all over it to my sensibilities. Then it came out, and I heard other reviewers raving about it, and I had to see what the fuss was all about. I used some of the teacher’s gifts I received at the end of the school year to give it a try, and I LOVED it.
Cameron is a young Midwestern boy starting college in the big city. He has never had a relationship nor a real interest in one in his life. He makes friends with his roommate and enjoys his classes, and coasts through his first semester unscathed. Then comes Wren, a man in one of his second semester classes, who Cameron is immediately drawn to. Wren is gifted, meaning he has special powers, but Cameron hadn’t heard of the gifted before. Wren refuses to “play with new”, so Cameron finds himself a girlfriend so he won’t be new anymore.
The entire book is a back and forth between the two men as they each try to figure themselves out and figure each other out at the same time. Neither man has a full picture of who he is. Cam didn’t even figure out he was gay until a third of the way through the book, despite his attraction to Wren. Wren isn’t aware that he can have a real relationship because his first boyfriend was such a complete jerk and he blamed his gifts, not the man.
The rich language in this book fulfills my English teacher’s soul. There are so many breathtaking descriptions in Sierra’s writing. The vivid imagery and lush impressions she leaves in the prose create a world that was hard to let go of when I put the book down. I could smell the coffee, hear the music, and feel the connection that the boys had between them. Here is one small example of what I’m talking about: “Bright lights spill from the doors of the dorms. Glowing windows scatter yellow luminescence like stars." The book is full of such images, which cause the words to spring to life in my mind.
Another thing that I loved in this book is that it leaves some unanswered questions. The main storyline itself is wrapped up neatly, but there are pieces I still wonder about. Was Cam himself gifted? How will his family feel about his new connection with a gifted man? I can’t wait for the sequel.
Cameron is a young Midwestern boy starting college in the big city. He has never had a relationship nor a real interest in one in his life. He makes friends with his roommate and enjoys his classes, and coasts through his first semester unscathed. Then comes Wren, a man in one of his second semester classes, who Cameron is immediately drawn to. Wren is gifted, meaning he has special powers, but Cameron hadn’t heard of the gifted before. Wren refuses to “play with new”, so Cameron finds himself a girlfriend so he won’t be new anymore.
The entire book is a back and forth between the two men as they each try to figure themselves out and figure each other out at the same time. Neither man has a full picture of who he is. Cam didn’t even figure out he was gay until a third of the way through the book, despite his attraction to Wren. Wren isn’t aware that he can have a real relationship because his first boyfriend was such a complete jerk and he blamed his gifts, not the man.
The rich language in this book fulfills my English teacher’s soul. There are so many breathtaking descriptions in Sierra’s writing. The vivid imagery and lush impressions she leaves in the prose create a world that was hard to let go of when I put the book down. I could smell the coffee, hear the music, and feel the connection that the boys had between them. Here is one small example of what I’m talking about: “Bright lights spill from the doors of the dorms. Glowing windows scatter yellow luminescence like stars." The book is full of such images, which cause the words to spring to life in my mind.
Another thing that I loved in this book is that it leaves some unanswered questions. The main storyline itself is wrapped up neatly, but there are pieces I still wonder about. Was Cam himself gifted? How will his family feel about his new connection with a gifted man? I can’t wait for the sequel.
May 22, 2015
In a nutshell: Gorgeous prose, careful character development and ridiculously hot sex scenes.
It seems cliche to say this is not your average love story, but Hush is unlike anything I've ever read. Readers, you will not be disappointed by the journey Jude Sierra takes you on, and I encourage you to let go of all of your ideas about what might happen or what should happen, and let her take you on this ride. As the story unfolds, you'll be caught up in the push and pull of Cam and Wren's relationship, and Cam's sexual awakening. Then suddenly you realize the power dynamics have shifted and then, oh boy--hang on because, WOW.
I'm not usually impressed with the final sex scenes in books, but this one is stunning. The best final sex scene I've ever read--maybe the best sex scene I've ever read, period.
It seems cliche to say this is not your average love story, but Hush is unlike anything I've ever read. Readers, you will not be disappointed by the journey Jude Sierra takes you on, and I encourage you to let go of all of your ideas about what might happen or what should happen, and let her take you on this ride. As the story unfolds, you'll be caught up in the push and pull of Cam and Wren's relationship, and Cam's sexual awakening. Then suddenly you realize the power dynamics have shifted and then, oh boy--hang on because, WOW.
I'm not usually impressed with the final sex scenes in books, but this one is stunning. The best final sex scene I've ever read--maybe the best sex scene I've ever read, period.
October 7, 2015
The writing in this novel is captivating. There are at least half a dozen phrases crafted so beautifully in Hush that you don’t need to check Jude Sierra's bio to know that she has a background in poetry. I look forward to seeing what comes next from this author!
June 5, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
The unique angle this book has it just one of the many reasons I enjoyed it so much. The angle I am referring to is Wren’s ability to compel people. This entails something as complex as compelling forth desires and feelings during sexual play to something tamer, such as compelling someone to simply walk into a specific room. One aspect of the story line deals with how a person can offer consent when they are being compelled. It also deals with desire and manipulation and finally the desire to be manipulated.
At first glance, Wren comes off as a player. He never plays long with the same person, he sets all of the rules, and he never lets anyone get too close. But there is so much more behind Wren’s carefully constructed walls. It did take a while to fully get the feeling that the desire to be compelled was fully consensual and Wren never took advantage of anyone. This may have had to do how the initial spark he had with Cam was played out as it was not fully clear at first that their initial chemistry was natural.
There was so much going on here. Although Wren’s character offered the driving force behind the story, we don’t learn that much about him initially. He has a persona he puts on every day to face the world and he was intriguing and mysterious and alluring. The story was purposefully written to keep us in the dark as a good portion of his story is not offered until much later on.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
The unique angle this book has it just one of the many reasons I enjoyed it so much. The angle I am referring to is Wren’s ability to compel people. This entails something as complex as compelling forth desires and feelings during sexual play to something tamer, such as compelling someone to simply walk into a specific room. One aspect of the story line deals with how a person can offer consent when they are being compelled. It also deals with desire and manipulation and finally the desire to be manipulated.
At first glance, Wren comes off as a player. He never plays long with the same person, he sets all of the rules, and he never lets anyone get too close. But there is so much more behind Wren’s carefully constructed walls. It did take a while to fully get the feeling that the desire to be compelled was fully consensual and Wren never took advantage of anyone. This may have had to do how the initial spark he had with Cam was played out as it was not fully clear at first that their initial chemistry was natural.
There was so much going on here. Although Wren’s character offered the driving force behind the story, we don’t learn that much about him initially. He has a persona he puts on every day to face the world and he was intriguing and mysterious and alluring. The story was purposefully written to keep us in the dark as a good portion of his story is not offered until much later on.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
January 7, 2018
4.5 stars from me. I loved What It Takes and thought I'd take a chance on this one, although I can't say I was too thrilled by the 3rd person POV and the use of present tense.
Jude's writing flows very smoothly, and the premise of the story [that there are people out there with psychic abilities, living amongst us ordinary mortals but maybe using those abilities to their own advantage] was intriguing to say the least. I didn't enjoy the fact that Wren toyed with [or compelled] Cam... as a cat toys with a bird for quite a while, not simply because he could, but because he didn't want to get his heart broken again, he could stay in charge and move things along at his own pace. This was a coming of age story as far as Cam was concerned. He was just such a lovely young man, so innocent and kind and completely confused about his very strong feelings towards Wren...he had no clue that it was OK to think that way about a guy 💜 [I'm not sure that my asexual bookshelf applies really cos Cam was a complete innocent, and went out with 1 girl before falling head over heels for Wren].
And then all of a sudden, things changed and you could just tell that Wren wasn't the only one of the pair in love and the 'power' dynamic sort of tipped towards Cam, but Wren was still trying to keep his feelings hidden, until he could work things through in his own mind. The secondary characters in this story were really good too, very supportive and there for both of their friends. Great read, enjoy.
Jude's writing flows very smoothly, and the premise of the story [that there are people out there with psychic abilities, living amongst us ordinary mortals but maybe using those abilities to their own advantage] was intriguing to say the least. I didn't enjoy the fact that Wren toyed with [or compelled] Cam... as a cat toys with a bird for quite a while, not simply because he could, but because he didn't want to get his heart broken again, he could stay in charge and move things along at his own pace. This was a coming of age story as far as Cam was concerned. He was just such a lovely young man, so innocent and kind and completely confused about his very strong feelings towards Wren...he had no clue that it was OK to think that way about a guy 💜 [I'm not sure that my asexual bookshelf applies really cos Cam was a complete innocent, and went out with 1 girl before falling head over heels for Wren].
And then all of a sudden, things changed and you could just tell that Wren wasn't the only one of the pair in love and the 'power' dynamic sort of tipped towards Cam, but Wren was still trying to keep his feelings hidden, until he could work things through in his own mind. The secondary characters in this story were really good too, very supportive and there for both of their friends. Great read, enjoy.
June 7, 2015
Here are the things that made this book work for me:
1. The language and the writing. Jude excels at intimacy, she is a powerful storyteller and I was immediately at home in the world she created. Relaxing into her words was like having a loved and trusted friend whisper poetry into my ear. Jude’s background is in poetry, and it really shows in the way she crafts her work.
2. I immediately cared about the characters. That is usually an incredibly hard sell for me personally, but the characters Jude created were luminous and distinct, interesting, flawed, relatable, and I cared what happened to them. Jude sinks deep into character and invites the reader along, and for me it was an intense and deeply enjoyable immersion.
3. The minimalism of this book really, really worked for me. I happen to personally really love reading (and writing) stories where not much happens externally, but the entire arc of story is driven by characters’ internal experiences. Jude’s minimalist take defies typical romantic writing conventions, in a wonderful, workable way. For me this enhanced the intimacy of the entire work, and put me as a reader very close to what I cared most about.
4. The power dynamics and sex were incredibly hot. Power dynamics combined with emotional and sexual intimacy issues (and the resolution thereof) is basically a bulletproof kink for me. Hot and deeply emotionally satisfying.
A beautiful book. Such a beautiful book. It made me so happy. I heartily, heartily recommend Hush for your reading pleasure.
1. The language and the writing. Jude excels at intimacy, she is a powerful storyteller and I was immediately at home in the world she created. Relaxing into her words was like having a loved and trusted friend whisper poetry into my ear. Jude’s background is in poetry, and it really shows in the way she crafts her work.
2. I immediately cared about the characters. That is usually an incredibly hard sell for me personally, but the characters Jude created were luminous and distinct, interesting, flawed, relatable, and I cared what happened to them. Jude sinks deep into character and invites the reader along, and for me it was an intense and deeply enjoyable immersion.
3. The minimalism of this book really, really worked for me. I happen to personally really love reading (and writing) stories where not much happens externally, but the entire arc of story is driven by characters’ internal experiences. Jude’s minimalist take defies typical romantic writing conventions, in a wonderful, workable way. For me this enhanced the intimacy of the entire work, and put me as a reader very close to what I cared most about.
4. The power dynamics and sex were incredibly hot. Power dynamics combined with emotional and sexual intimacy issues (and the resolution thereof) is basically a bulletproof kink for me. Hot and deeply emotionally satisfying.
A beautiful book. Such a beautiful book. It made me so happy. I heartily, heartily recommend Hush for your reading pleasure.
September 20, 2015
Hush is a magical book that completely took me by surprise. I knew I would like it (I've long been a fan of Jude's fan work), but I had no idea how much it would draw me in and not let me go, to the tune of me reading it cover-to-cover in less than four hours. It had a hold on me much the way Wren had a hold on Cam, and, just like Cam, I was more than happy with that arrangement.
One thing that surprised me about the book was that, despite Wren saying that he was going to make Cam want to do things he never knew he wanted, the things he ends up compelling Cam to do are, in the grand scheme of things, relatively tame. (Though it's possible I just read too much of a certain brand of fanfiction and what is tame to me maybe isn't so tame to general audiences.)
I love that there are hints throughout the book about certain people (Peyton in particular, and Cam himself for another), but they're never really flushed out, leaving the reader satisfied but still wanting to know more – which I sincerely hope is a hint that there's a sequel planned.
One thing that surprised me about the book was that, despite Wren saying that he was going to make Cam want to do things he never knew he wanted, the things he ends up compelling Cam to do are, in the grand scheme of things, relatively tame. (Though it's possible I just read too much of a certain brand of fanfiction and what is tame to me maybe isn't so tame to general audiences.)
I love that there are hints throughout the book about certain people (Peyton in particular, and Cam himself for another), but they're never really flushed out, leaving the reader satisfied but still wanting to know more – which I sincerely hope is a hint that there's a sequel planned.
June 3, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four stars!
I really enjoyed this story. The side characters are so wonderful and they bring so much life to the story. Cam takes all the things thrown his way pretty easily. Wren has to control everything because he’s scared of getting hurt. I found the “gifted” population interesting. It’s like a not-so-secret secret. I’d love to know more about that aspect of the story. More about how people perceive it or react to it beyond one random bigot in the story that doesn’t really go anywhere. It was interesting watching Wren be in denial of his feelings for so long it’s both sweet and hard to watch when he figures it out. Cam is so hot for Wren’s controlling gift and they go to some pretty kinky places with it. Soxiled was hysterical! I loved how Cam and his roommate make it into this big joke. Cam and Wren have a great start for a relationship but I’d love to see how they survive long term.
Four stars!
I really enjoyed this story. The side characters are so wonderful and they bring so much life to the story. Cam takes all the things thrown his way pretty easily. Wren has to control everything because he’s scared of getting hurt. I found the “gifted” population interesting. It’s like a not-so-secret secret. I’d love to know more about that aspect of the story. More about how people perceive it or react to it beyond one random bigot in the story that doesn’t really go anywhere. It was interesting watching Wren be in denial of his feelings for so long it’s both sweet and hard to watch when he figures it out. Cam is so hot for Wren’s controlling gift and they go to some pretty kinky places with it. Soxiled was hysterical! I loved how Cam and his roommate make it into this big joke. Cam and Wren have a great start for a relationship but I’d love to see how they survive long term.
July 3, 2015
Hush is a leisurely book with lush prose, paranormal masquerading in a comfortable, accessible way as contemporary. What could have been a very dark story (and to be frank, my own tastes mean I would have liked it darker, but I think it's a better fit for more readers just the way it is), is oddly gentle; the tropes and anxieties around extraordinary powers and how they are navigated in a relationship are flipped in intriguing ways, equalizing a lot of the dynamic.
This isn't a book to be devoured. This is high quality -- and very satisfying -- chocolate. A chapter before bed, read as leisurely as the narrative and prose deserve is the right way to go here. I know that's antithetical to a lot of the reading habits of our voracious genre, but this is a book that should be allowed to linger.
Probably a 5* read for people with less interest in the dark/uncomfortable/edgy than I have.
(Full disclosure: I know the author and she sent me an ARC for honest review)
This isn't a book to be devoured. This is high quality -- and very satisfying -- chocolate. A chapter before bed, read as leisurely as the narrative and prose deserve is the right way to go here. I know that's antithetical to a lot of the reading habits of our voracious genre, but this is a book that should be allowed to linger.
Probably a 5* read for people with less interest in the dark/uncomfortable/edgy than I have.
(Full disclosure: I know the author and she sent me an ARC for honest review)
August 6, 2015
What struck me first as I read this book, was the beautiful writing style. It had such a lyrical and flowing feel to it that some parts you had to read very slowly and carefully to get the complete impact.
But this is also such a lovely coming of age story, how growing up is a process and sometimes it's a continuous growth and sometimes it happens in intervals where the growth can even stagnate at certain level.
I found the characters to be very empathetic and I loved how the writer chose to reveal aspects of the characters through out the story, especially with the main characters, Cam and Wren.
The paranormal aspect works very well - we get a certain amount of explanation for the but it never becomes heavy-handed and there remains a degree of mystery about it which I thought worked well.
All in all, this is a wonderful and sensuous love story.
But this is also such a lovely coming of age story, how growing up is a process and sometimes it's a continuous growth and sometimes it happens in intervals where the growth can even stagnate at certain level.
I found the characters to be very empathetic and I loved how the writer chose to reveal aspects of the characters through out the story, especially with the main characters, Cam and Wren.
The paranormal aspect works very well - we get a certain amount of explanation for the but it never becomes heavy-handed and there remains a degree of mystery about it which I thought worked well.
All in all, this is a wonderful and sensuous love story.
October 8, 2015
Let me tell you a story. I sat down with my lunch to start this book, with the plan to just read the first chapter or two and then get some chores done. And now it's dark outside, the book is over, and I'm slightly disoriented? Very few books have sucked me in as much as this one, and I found myself completely enthralled by Wren and Cam's story. I'm not quite convinced that Jude Sierra doesn't have a gift of her own that compelled me into this story, because I could literally not put this down. It's a sweet, earnest, and sexy story with stellar writing and characters that you really feel. I can't wait to see what else Jude has in store for us, and I will eagerly be waiting for her next book!
December 31, 2015
The writing in this book is absolutely beautiful. That was what first drew me in, but then I quickly fell in love with pretty much every single character in the story. It was so easy to feel for them and with them and ugh seriously I just want to wrap them in a blanket and keep them safe and be friends with all of them. I liked the friendships in this story as much as the love story - a good friendship story will always get me and I really liked how both Wren and Cam had amazing friends who truly loved them. A beautiful book!
August 27, 2015
Teaser
If you like angst, read this book: this story is full of it. If you like a good MC, you can find one here. Even if you like a happy ending, Hush has one. But, be warned, it may take you a while to get into the story and feel the flow. Even then, it may not be what you want.
For My Full Review See:
http://blog.queercentricbooks.com/hus...
OR
FB: Kimmers' Erotic Book Banter
https://www.facebook.com/KimmersEroti...
If you like angst, read this book: this story is full of it. If you like a good MC, you can find one here. Even if you like a happy ending, Hush has one. But, be warned, it may take you a while to get into the story and feel the flow. Even then, it may not be what you want.
For My Full Review See:
http://blog.queercentricbooks.com/hus...
OR
FB: Kimmers' Erotic Book Banter
https://www.facebook.com/KimmersEroti...
July 6, 2015
I received this book from a Goodreads First Reads giveaway and I'm so glad that I did. I really enjoyed this book and the content of it. It had an interesting concept and the writer's words flowed pretty incredibly to draw me into that world. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for something original and different from the majority of the stories that are being published these days.
December 2, 2016
I should say that this isn't a book I would have normally read. The things that makes this book desirable should be the impact of Wren's gifts on his relationship with Cam. Much like his initial response Cam's "newness" & overall lack of life experience was concerning. I almost wish this concept had been introduced with two older more knowledgeable characters...
November 4, 2016
amazingly done. pretty hot too. ;)
April 25, 2016
Just wonderful! Loved.
I'll write my version of a review when it's not 340 am.
I'll write my version of a review when it's not 340 am.
June 26, 2015
Reviewed by Kimmers for QUEERcentric Books
4 Stars
So this book had me verklempt from the first page and I stayed that way until the very end. In fact it is the first book for which I had to let my review stew after I wrote it.
I am still left wondering... did I like Jude Sierra's Hush or didn’t I?
I struggled in the beginning of the story. The paragraphs seemed so convoluted and full of analogies that it did not make any sense. It was almost as if in trying to set the scene for you, Jude Sierra included so much detail that she made the plot confusing.
Then there was the feeling of whiplash: you were in one scene setting one minute and somewhere else entirely the next, or in this conversation one moment and in another the next. And then, quite suddenly, a time skip and nine months have passed. Even more, at this point in the story, the next 30% of the book ends up only being about Cam.
Oh, that’s not to say that I minded too much; Cam is a beautiful, loving main character.
Cam’s brief interactions with Wren have left him with feelings that he needs to come to terms with while he also figures out his life.
When Wren finally truly comes into play: He. Is. Complex. The only thing you are really certain about Wren is that he has been hurt. As a result, he is afraid to be in a relationship.
Wren’s objective is to use his “gift” to keep himself at bay. As Wren describes it, his relationship with Cam is a game and he uses his gift to play the game. As I saw the progression of Wren’s character, I felt like he was turned on by dominance, plain and simple. He says so himself: “I’m going to use you, Cam... I’m going to make you want things you never thought you would.”
Read the full review on QUEERcentric Books
4 Stars
So this book had me verklempt from the first page and I stayed that way until the very end. In fact it is the first book for which I had to let my review stew after I wrote it.
I am still left wondering... did I like Jude Sierra's Hush or didn’t I?
I struggled in the beginning of the story. The paragraphs seemed so convoluted and full of analogies that it did not make any sense. It was almost as if in trying to set the scene for you, Jude Sierra included so much detail that she made the plot confusing.
Then there was the feeling of whiplash: you were in one scene setting one minute and somewhere else entirely the next, or in this conversation one moment and in another the next. And then, quite suddenly, a time skip and nine months have passed. Even more, at this point in the story, the next 30% of the book ends up only being about Cam.
Oh, that’s not to say that I minded too much; Cam is a beautiful, loving main character.
Cam’s brief interactions with Wren have left him with feelings that he needs to come to terms with while he also figures out his life.
The only thing you are really certain about Wren is that he has been hurt.
When Wren finally truly comes into play: He. Is. Complex. The only thing you are really certain about Wren is that he has been hurt. As a result, he is afraid to be in a relationship.
Wren’s objective is to use his “gift” to keep himself at bay. As Wren describes it, his relationship with Cam is a game and he uses his gift to play the game. As I saw the progression of Wren’s character, I felt like he was turned on by dominance, plain and simple. He says so himself: “I’m going to use you, Cam... I’m going to make you want things you never thought you would.”
Read the full review on QUEERcentric Books
May 21, 2015
*copy provided by the author/publisher via Pride Promotions in exchange for an honest review*
This was an enjoyable read. I was confused at first, but once I understood what was going on I settled in for the ride, and what a ride it was. Cam and Wren had a chemistry that was out of this world. The sexual tension was palpable. While Wren wasn't always the most likable of characters, I really liked both of the main characters. I loved Cam. Jude told a beautiful coming of age story for him. It was powerful to watch him discover who he really is and what/who he wants. I wasn't sure what to think of Wren. I spent most of the story thinking he was such a jerk, and he was, but in the end I was so heartbroken for him. He struggled. He knows he's falling in love with Cam, and that is definitely against the rules Wren has set. He tries to fight it, but it just makes him even more miserable. Wren is scared of being hurt, so he's made rules and built walls, but the walls don't keep his feelings for Cam at bay.
I loved Nora, Nate and Maggie. They were very well developed supporting characters. They were more than just there. They added to the story.
While I did enjoy this book, it could have used some help. I liked watching Cam discover who he was, but I felt this part of the book took too long. I would have loved for the main characters to have figured things out a bit sooner in the story. I liked the dual POV, but at times it jumped from one scene to another with no rhyme or reason, and without feeling like the prior scene was completed. I just think it needed some help with flow issues. I do recommend it, and I'm looking forward to see what's in store from this author next.
May 18, 2015
ThreeandHalfStars
The beginning of this story was hard for me to get into as it drivels on and on about pointless things that only made the story dull to me. I understand that we had to know what Cam has gone through to get to where he was, but it was really long winded.
However once him and Wren start their escapes, it was wildly interesting. However, there were many times were I couldn't figure out what was going on with them. There was no keeping track of how much time had passed between gaps in the story so it was hard to keep up. Some scenes were only half a page long and felt awkward.
While underneath I really loved the story and the two men trying to figure out how to make what they had work, I really felt like there could've been additional edits as there are errors littered through out the story as well as things like 'picking and picking' and other repetitious words and phrases that really slowed and detracted from the story. There also appeared to be missing words.
However, that being said, I liked the story and the characters and the development that happened throughout so I would read work from this author again.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
The beginning of this story was hard for me to get into as it drivels on and on about pointless things that only made the story dull to me. I understand that we had to know what Cam has gone through to get to where he was, but it was really long winded.
However once him and Wren start their escapes, it was wildly interesting. However, there were many times were I couldn't figure out what was going on with them. There was no keeping track of how much time had passed between gaps in the story so it was hard to keep up. Some scenes were only half a page long and felt awkward.
While underneath I really loved the story and the two men trying to figure out how to make what they had work, I really felt like there could've been additional edits as there are errors littered through out the story as well as things like 'picking and picking' and other repetitious words and phrases that really slowed and detracted from the story. There also appeared to be missing words.
However, that being said, I liked the story and the characters and the development that happened throughout so I would read work from this author again.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
May 30, 2015
ThreeandHalfStars
The beginning of this story was hard for me to get into as it drivels on and on about pointless things that only made the story dull to me. I understand that we had to know what Cam has gone through to get to where he was, but it was really long winded.
However once him and Wren start their escapes, it was wildly interesting. However, there were many times were I couldn't figure out what was going on with them. There was no keeping track of how much time had passed between gaps in the story so it was hard to keep up. Some scenes were only half a page long and felt awkward.
While underneath I really loved the story and the two men trying to figure out how to make what they had work, I really felt like there could've been additional edits as there are errors littered through out the story as well as things like 'picking and picking' and other repetitious words and phrases that really slowed and detracted from the story. There also appeared to be missing words.
However, that being said, I liked the story and the characters and the development that happened throughout so I would read work from this author again.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
The beginning of this story was hard for me to get into as it drivels on and on about pointless things that only made the story dull to me. I understand that we had to know what Cam has gone through to get to where he was, but it was really long winded.
However once him and Wren start their escapes, it was wildly interesting. However, there were many times were I couldn't figure out what was going on with them. There was no keeping track of how much time had passed between gaps in the story so it was hard to keep up. Some scenes were only half a page long and felt awkward.
While underneath I really loved the story and the two men trying to figure out how to make what they had work, I really felt like there could've been additional edits as there are errors littered through out the story as well as things like 'picking and picking' and other repetitious words and phrases that really slowed and detracted from the story. There also appeared to be missing words.
However, that being said, I liked the story and the characters and the development that happened throughout so I would read work from this author again.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
February 8, 2018
The book is... meh. I didn't really hate it, I just couldn't give two hoots about any of it.
It didn't help that this book switches POVs between the main characters EVERY OTHER PARAGRAPH. Every paragraph is only about at most 200 words.
This book also has the audacity to use rapey words like, "True consent." Ugh, I'm too tired to point out the rape culture in this book.
It didn't help that this book switches POVs between the main characters EVERY OTHER PARAGRAPH. Every paragraph is only about at most 200 words.
This book also has the audacity to use rapey words like, "True consent." Ugh, I'm too tired to point out the rape culture in this book.
May 29, 2018
This was just a weird story, and not in a good way. The world building with the 'gifted' was very poorly done. It was barely explained what being 'gifted' means, even after the wikipedia info dump in the middle of the book. It's almost like the author is unsure of what it means as well.
This wasn't a love story as much as it was a lust story. I don't buy for a minute that Cam would have fallen for Wren if it wasn't for the Compelling. And don't get me started on that. For a book that was published by an offshoot of Interlude Press, "Consent", this whole book was just a bunch of dubcon that wasn't even fun, it was just uncomfortable.
The characters were all really flat. I don't understand the point of Cam having a twin sister. She was only ever on the phone and might as well not have even been there. And their home life didn't seem so bad??? I mean, I get that they were both stifled or whatever, but the way they wanted to get away from home made it seem a lot worse.
Wren's reasons for either compelling or not compelling were all really stupid. He didn't want Cam to be with him just because of compelling and yet...all he did was compel him?? Ooooooookay.
Waste of a read.
This wasn't a love story as much as it was a lust story. I don't buy for a minute that Cam would have fallen for Wren if it wasn't for the Compelling. And don't get me started on that. For a book that was published by an offshoot of Interlude Press, "Consent", this whole book was just a bunch of dubcon that wasn't even fun, it was just uncomfortable.
The characters were all really flat. I don't understand the point of Cam having a twin sister. She was only ever on the phone and might as well not have even been there. And their home life didn't seem so bad??? I mean, I get that they were both stifled or whatever, but the way they wanted to get away from home made it seem a lot worse.
Wren's reasons for either compelling or not compelling were all really stupid. He didn't want Cam to be with him just because of compelling and yet...all he did was compel him?? Ooooooookay.
Waste of a read.
June 24, 2018
Even though I pretty much read this in one sitting, I don’t think this book is my cuppa. So much hinges on attraction and angst here that I never felt the romance developed. And for the majority of the book, Wren and Cam hardly bring out the best in each other.
It’s clear even from Jude Sierra debut, Hush, that she’s a talented writer. But I really hope we see more of her writing like A Tiny Piece of Something Greater, which has not only Sierra’s trademark lyrical prose, but compelling characters, emotional depth, and measurable character development.
It’s clear even from Jude Sierra debut, Hush, that she’s a talented writer. But I really hope we see more of her writing like A Tiny Piece of Something Greater, which has not only Sierra’s trademark lyrical prose, but compelling characters, emotional depth, and measurable character development.
December 17, 2019
Jude Sierra's writing is so impossibly lovely. This book jumps around from POV a lot, but I found that instead of distracting me, it added to the sense of magic running through the book.
It's not going to be a book for everyone, I think issues of consent are handled well, but there are certainly things that would make people uncomfortable. Still, I really enjoyed this, it was different and exciting.
It's not going to be a book for everyone, I think issues of consent are handled well, but there are certainly things that would make people uncomfortable. Still, I really enjoyed this, it was different and exciting.
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