What do you think?
Rate this book
מרכבות באיילון
מרכבות באיילון הספר הישראלי שהפך לרב מכר בינלאומי.
נדמה שלדן גרין יש הכל, הוא הבעלים של גרינטק טכנולוגיות, גר בהרצליה פיתוח ונראה כמו כוכב קולנוע. אבל העיניים הכחולות שלו מחביאות סערה שמאיימת לרסק אותו. סיום הנישואין שלו ללנה, הזיכרונות שלו מאביו המנוח, האכזבה שלו מעצמו והמלחמות הפנימיות שלו, דוחקות אותו אל הקצה.
תום פרימן הוא הומוסקסואל וחייל בודד שהגיע מטקסס. הוא משרת ביחידה קרבית ונחוש בדעתו להילחם עבור המדינה שלו, מדינה שהוא אוהב ומאמין בה. אבל תום לא הגיע לארץ מבחירה אלא מבריחה ועכשיו הוא מחפש בית. דן ותום נפגשים בנקודה מכרעת בחיי שניהם. אף אחד מהם לא חשב שמה שהחל כהתנדבות ואימוץ חייל בודד, ישנה את נתיב חייהם. הם יוצאים יחד למסע של חיפוש וגילוי. הם לומדים לשאול את השאלות הנכונות ולחפש את התשובות.
בתוך הפקקים של איילון, בהמולה של העיר, בשדה הקרב, ועמוק בתוך החלומות שלהם, יחד הם מקלפים שכבות של כאב ומוצאים את עצמם “מרכבות באיילון” הוא רומן פסיכו־ריאליסטי עכשווי המתאר מערכת יחסים מורכבת הנרקמת בין שני גברים. זה סיפור סוחף, מותח, מרגש ומטלטל שנוגע בכל החלקים המרכיבים את החיים.
נדמה שלדן גרין יש הכל, הוא הבעלים של גרינטק טכנולוגיות, גר בהרצליה פיתוח ונראה כמו כוכב קולנוע. אבל העיניים הכחולות שלו מחביאות סערה שמאיימת לרסק אותו. סיום הנישואין שלו ללנה, הזיכרונות שלו מאביו המנוח, האכזבה שלו מעצמו והמלחמות הפנימיות שלו, דוחקות אותו אל הקצה.
תום פרימן הוא הומוסקסואל וחייל בודד שהגיע מטקסס. הוא משרת ביחידה קרבית ונחוש בדעתו להילחם עבור המדינה שלו, מדינה שהוא אוהב ומאמין בה. אבל תום לא הגיע לארץ מבחירה אלא מבריחה ועכשיו הוא מחפש בית. דן ותום נפגשים בנקודה מכרעת בחיי שניהם. אף אחד מהם לא חשב שמה שהחל כהתנדבות ואימוץ חייל בודד, ישנה את נתיב חייהם. הם יוצאים יחד למסע של חיפוש וגילוי. הם לומדים לשאול את השאלות הנכונות ולחפש את התשובות.
בתוך הפקקים של איילון, בהמולה של העיר, בשדה הקרב, ועמוק בתוך החלומות שלהם, יחד הם מקלפים שכבות של כאב ומוצאים את עצמם “מרכבות באיילון” הוא רומן פסיכו־ריאליסטי עכשווי המתאר מערכת יחסים מורכבת הנרקמת בין שני גברים. זה סיפור סוחף, מותח, מרגש ומטלטל שנוגע בכל החלקים המרכיבים את החיים.
285 pages, Paperback
First published April 11, 2015
17 people are currently reading
1552 people want to read
About the author
Limor Moyal
2 books59 followersMy name is Limor Moyal, I was born in Israel on the night of October 4th 1973, straight into the battle clouds of the Yom Kippur War. I was born curious, alert and passionate about everything that the world around me has to offer. Curiosity and desire, these two traits lead me to any choice and decision I made in life. I explore anything that catches my interest and attention, I'm a true believer in 'CARPE DIEM', and act on my dreams, never postponing them. As I see it, life is short and sweet and I you should never do things tomorrow if they can be done today. I consider myself an artist. I love art and I love words, combining the two together is my way to express myself, which reflects my artistic personality as well as my romantic yet realistic soul. When I'm writing it feels like sculpting with words, just like real art, only the materials I'm using are adjectives, metaphors, and descriptive images. Even before I started writing I was, and still am, a devout reader. I read a lot, it won't be an exaggeration to say that I read three books a week. I read mostly English, since I'm a big believer in reading the original language, (even though my native tounge is Hebrew). I read novels of all genres, mostly contemporary but I do read historic novels from time to time (Mystery, Paranormal, Military, MM) and of course I also read classics (Bronte, Austen, Fitzgerald, Virginia Woolf) as well as known contemporary writers like Haruki Murikmi and Paul Oster. The classics were those who shaped me as a person and a reader. When I begin a relationship with a book, the connection starts without any preconditions from me, except for the basic requirement that the book would not insult my intelligence, but I can easily manage with everything else (dirty talk, taboo content, out of comfort zone content, or dark materials are welcomed). Between me and a book there is a very symbiotic connection, I give him my time, my heart and the utmost respect and openness, and in exchange I expect the book to teach me, excite me, maybe even change me, shake me and leave me with something that was not there before. A book that manages to do so will receive a special spot in my heart and perhaps a review here on the site or on Goodreads, in order to share the experience with you. Then one day I felt ready, that I'm all grown up (I always said I wanted to be a writer when I grew up) and when the time came, I wrote my first book "Chariots on the Highway" (The original name in Hebrew is "Chariots on the Ayalon")
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
July 10, 2015
0 stars. DNF @48%. Review posted April 21, 2015
Well, this is awkward on several levels. Firstly, Limor and I are mutual followers and fellow M/M lovers and just that little fact makes it even more awkward to review her book. Secondly, I'm not being mean when I say that everything about Chariots on the Highway was kind of awkward. I'm just being honest when I state that this book was a failure all along the line and nobody needs to get on my case for voicing my honest and candid opinion. No worries, I'll make sure to back up my low rating.
I chose to give this debut a shot because I really liked the cover very much and the premise sounded interesting. Also, the different setting intrigued me. In the end, however, I was sorely disappointed by Chariots on the Highway. I've had so many issues to deal with that I felt compelled to abandon the book and there's no need to sugarcoat anything here. Awkward, corny and choppy writing, stilted dialogue, uninteresting and embarrassing characters, drawn-out problems, a long-winded storyline and other redundant things made for an exasperating reading experience. I was bored out of my mind because the story wasn't the least bit engaging and I could not for the life of me connect with the characters. The constant talk about sorrow and sadness was a total nuisance I did not need. All the melodrama nurtured my annoyance and Dan's morbid case of jealousy made me almost blow a fuse. Get a grip, you jerk! Oops. I just made use of an exclamation mark. Anyway, another very big issue of mine was the terribly shoddy editing/proofreading. Someone told me that I need to take into account that I'm reading the translated English version and things might feel weird and unnatural. Duh. Then I must remind this person of the following simple yet very important little fact:
The editing does play a major role in the quality of a book. And there are good translations and bad translations. If the translation is a bad one, it sure will affect the reader's experience and it will be reflected in the reader's rating.
English is not my mother tongue but I predict that every English Grammar Nazi out there will shred this book to pieces (syntax, punctuation, typos, grammar).
This, right here made me almost abandon ship @13%:
He found himself looking at a beautiful, young guy; it was a beauty one didn't get to see every day. Tom was just as tall as him, 6'1, but with broad shoulders and a chest filling out his shirt to perfection. He had an angel's face of deep bronze, his skin looked like it had been kissed by the sun. He had clear, shiny hazelnut eyes that reflected wisdom, depth and strength, and a crown of long eye lashes curled around each of them. His dark blond hair was trimmed short, military style, and he had a heart-melting smile, baring a row of white bright teeth. He had a shiny bright scar diagonally crossing his right eyebrow, which added so much grace, as if an artist placed it there. All this beauty was covered by a thin layer of soldiering dust that only made the beauty stand out even more.
But what captivated Dan the most was the dimple in his cheek when he smiled, his curved smile was the highlight! Perfect bone structure, Dan thought to himself.
Cheesy, much? Also, Dan doesn't know Tom at all but one look is enough to determine that Tommy boy is full of depth, wisdom and strength.
Redundant, uninteresting narrative:
On Tuesday morning, Dan woke up feeling as if he was on a mission, and he wanted it to succeed! He tried to define for himself what exactly success would mean in his meeting with Tom. Would success be Tom liking him and viewing him as some sort of older brother? Would they have a good rapport with each other? Could he find common ground with a regular military Joe when his own service was twelve years behind him? He had no idea what success would look like or mean. But one thing he did know, the opposite of success is failure, and failure wasn't an option!
Failure not being an option was his motto, one of the many marks on his soul that his father had left behind, and this particular one, unlike the others, had actually served him well over the years.
To prevent failure, he decided to dedicate the day to preparations. (…)
A fuck-ton of exclamation marks:
It's a thrilling piece of history that he gave me as a gift!
"It's very altruistic, but it kind of misses the point of giving of yourself. Your money is not you!" Dan agreed completely on that one.
He hadn't experienced that feeling ever since his mom. His dad loved him very much, there was no doubting it!
There are other soldiers here and they're getting used to the idea that there's a sap on base will (???) to take all the fucking responsibility!
Anyway, right now he's staying at the Lone Soldiers Center, when he leaves for the weekend, but basically he has no home!
"No poor people, not something involving donations and preferably nothing with groups!" he declared.
She thought for a second. "That doesn't leave too many options you know, rich and happy people won't really need your services!"
"Definitely a deal breaker, I'm not sure if it's worth it! Seriously consider this, Texas."
The problem with the vases:
"They live here, that's what they're doing wrong! And I want them to live somewhere else or not at all! My ex-wife flooded the house with unnecessary crap that I don't understand who would need or why they would need it. My ex is gone, but the crap's still here and I can't stand to look at it!"
Tom cringed at the thought of Dan being married. The thought that this perfect man couldn't be his, hurt him much more than it should, given the fact that they had just met, but something in the sadness and loneliness that was obviously latched onto Dan's soul touched Tom.
(…)
"Are you upset that she's gone?" asked Tom hesitantly, trying to think of anything but his own feelings.
"What? No!!! I couldn't be happier.
Baba's eyes are twitching nervously.
"Great idea! eBay! You're a genius, Texas. I'm making you my 'Crap Manager.' Take it all and sell it on eBay, just make it go away. And take the money from the sales, I don't want to see a dime of it, and if you say 'no' we're going with a 'vase range'!"
"Unlike you, Texas. I don't think you're familiar with the word 'limit'!"
The nicknames Texas, Just Dan and Yoda didn't resonate with me at all.
Tom wore jeans, a black tank top and a biker jacket, took the Jeep's keys, sent Dan a smile and a little wink, "Later, 'Just Dan'," he said, and shut the door behind him.
But then, while standing on the deck, barefoot and immersed in pleasant scents and magical sounds, when Tom would soon come and share this atmosphere with him, he knew that he was seeing a soap bubble, and he forced himself to enjoy it before it popped.
"First of all, it's not me! I have no idea how to operate a washing machine. It's a miracle I even know where it is inside this monument. Sveta, my maid, was here yesterday and decided on her own that there was a biological hazard, so she took care of it. It's not a big deal, Texas!"
Dan almost melted all over the deck from the man's honesty. He wanted to hug him and never let go, he wanted to tell him that the exchange he was getting, from Tom's presence in his life, was tenfold more than Sveta doing his laundry.
My friend's response to this lovely quote: Did he just compare the experience of having a person in his life to getting laundry done? o.O
His pulse intensified while he was trying to wear a straight face, but deep within himself he felt a tidal wave of emotions of every possible kind washing over him.
The following quotes are pretty epic in a very negative way.
The sexual tension between them reached immense levels, and more than once, one of them had to stop a training session to excuse himself to take care of a private tension.
Technically, the sex was great; He had to kill these emotions before they could choke him and shatter him to pieces.
@27%
Tom realizing
The pill and the beer were travelling in his veins, and the dizzy sensation joined his jarring experience with Tom on the beach.
He felt lost, but also free. He felt an end, but a little bit of a beginning. He felt sorrow, but a little joy. He was tired, he was exhausted, he was drunk and he fell asleep, but it wasn't really a deep sleep, it was more of a middle ground.
A weird stomach ache, an annoying buzz in his ears, and a sour, green feeling. Definitely jealousy.
Dan heard the whispered words and in that second, his and Tom's look locked, and the sadness they felt flowed between them.
He looked at Dan and smiled, and Dan was drawn to him as if Tom was the fresh air above the ocean Dan was drowning in, and he needed a deep breath.
Flora's questions, which up until now were a quiet humming sound in his head, turned into loud sirens.
"What I'm trying to tell you Dan, is that
Dan took a breath and could feel his stomach turning, his heart standing still, his blood freezing in his veins, his mouth drying up.
He took a deep breath and looked Dan deep into his eyes, a piercing, sad, naked and screaming-with-pain look, a look that wasn't going to change until he explained himself.
As if the exclamations points weren't too much already, the author made use of CAPITALS and bold letters.
"Whatever I want, Dan? I'll tell you what I want: I want you, Dan, naked and mine! Can you give me that?" Tom demanded.
"(…) I also feel all those things towards you, Dan, but I want you naked and mine. Naked and submissive and desiring, I want to conquer your body, not only your soul. I want to taste you, drink you, mark you, penetrate you, and make you mine, body and soul. I'm not willing to settle just parts of you, I want it all! I want to know every inch of skin on your body, I want to fall asleep and wake up with you, and I know, Dan, I know that THAT, you can't give me. (…)"
The satisfaction of the practical act could not have filled the enormous vacuum that was created in him as a result
He collected himself, and waited for the right moment to come into the bubble of privacy that had formed before his eyes.
Plenty of grammar issues, typos etc.
Situation as per April 19, 2015
Keep in mind the list is not complete
Being a soldier can be lonely, even if you're not an actual lone solder, (…)
He stopped for a moment to organize his thoughts and burp, his needed to clear his head.
Tom opened his own bottle, and took a few longs sips (…)
"That If (…)
To his disappointment, but not surprise, he found a note folded (…)
I told him it's les foreign, (…)
Your and you're...
"You're hair's fine today, boss, it's your face!"
"You're stuffed mushrooms are the bomb, what's the white sauce on top?"
He thanked the fashion gods and Sveta, for the tight pair of jeans that were laid on the top of the stack of his pants shelf this morning that did great job hiding this conversation's outcome.
"(…) but I promised her a comfortable satisfying life and I couldn't even giver her that!"
"Yeah, master Yoda? And what's my problem exactly?" asked Dan with sarcasm hiding a painful 'stab' from the truth Tom's words.
"Let me get this straight! Kfir, who's a veterinarian, it taking you finishing? (…)"
And again he felt how all those emotions were gathering into the core of his body.
He needed unload the frustration and the anger.
crème Brulee = crème brûlée
(…) Tom told her with a smiled laced with sadness.
Maybe he couldn't change the result, but he could change the way he feel about it.
Dan was a little depressed when Tom arrived, and they were both sat on the couch in the living room, lost in thought.
He remembered the biblical story, he remember how Abraham was forced (…)
(…) because he heard a familiar voice shouting at him for afar, (…)
Tom looked at him and the angry look changed into an aching broken one, Dan though that if he'd listen carefully he would hear the crack of a heart breaking.
"(…) You looked at me with your sad blues and 'poof', my iron dome was hopelessly destroyed!
What choice do he have?
A day old stubble decorated his face, and some of the whiskered shined with the whiteness of old age.
(…) which allowed those who could afford it to hide their secrets comfortably, and sleep peacefully with a cellophane wrapped conscience, (…)
(…) wet face, Adam gaze was empty as always...
He looked perfect, and the smell of the cologne washed the entire upper floor.
"(…) I think if you put 'you-kind-of-stuff' in here, ...
(…) he said with sadness as a wave of guilt washed him.
"(…)It's got an amazing clip by Carey Mulligan singing New York, New York in the most perfect and sad performance I've ever heard."
Bottom line, I'm very sorry to say that Chariots on the Highway was way too amateurish and, considering the incredibly high average rating of 4.93, couldn't meet my expectations. Not by a long shot.
Onwards...
P.S. The detachable chest was almost as good as the detachable dick in Stripped Expectations.
Well, this is awkward on several levels. Firstly, Limor and I are mutual followers and fellow M/M lovers and just that little fact makes it even more awkward to review her book. Secondly, I'm not being mean when I say that everything about Chariots on the Highway was kind of awkward. I'm just being honest when I state that this book was a failure all along the line and nobody needs to get on my case for voicing my honest and candid opinion. No worries, I'll make sure to back up my low rating.
I chose to give this debut a shot because I really liked the cover very much and the premise sounded interesting. Also, the different setting intrigued me. In the end, however, I was sorely disappointed by Chariots on the Highway. I've had so many issues to deal with that I felt compelled to abandon the book and there's no need to sugarcoat anything here. Awkward, corny and choppy writing, stilted dialogue, uninteresting and embarrassing characters, drawn-out problems, a long-winded storyline and other redundant things made for an exasperating reading experience. I was bored out of my mind because the story wasn't the least bit engaging and I could not for the life of me connect with the characters. The constant talk about sorrow and sadness was a total nuisance I did not need. All the melodrama nurtured my annoyance and Dan's morbid case of jealousy made me almost blow a fuse. Get a grip, you jerk! Oops. I just made use of an exclamation mark. Anyway, another very big issue of mine was the terribly shoddy editing/proofreading. Someone told me that I need to take into account that I'm reading the translated English version and things might feel weird and unnatural. Duh. Then I must remind this person of the following simple yet very important little fact:
The editing does play a major role in the quality of a book. And there are good translations and bad translations. If the translation is a bad one, it sure will affect the reader's experience and it will be reflected in the reader's rating.
English is not my mother tongue but I predict that every English Grammar Nazi out there will shred this book to pieces (syntax, punctuation, typos, grammar).
This, right here made me almost abandon ship @13%:
He found himself looking at a beautiful, young guy; it was a beauty one didn't get to see every day. Tom was just as tall as him, 6'1, but with broad shoulders and a chest filling out his shirt to perfection. He had an angel's face of deep bronze, his skin looked like it had been kissed by the sun. He had clear, shiny hazelnut eyes that reflected wisdom, depth and strength, and a crown of long eye lashes curled around each of them. His dark blond hair was trimmed short, military style, and he had a heart-melting smile, baring a row of white bright teeth. He had a shiny bright scar diagonally crossing his right eyebrow, which added so much grace, as if an artist placed it there. All this beauty was covered by a thin layer of soldiering dust that only made the beauty stand out even more.
But what captivated Dan the most was the dimple in his cheek when he smiled, his curved smile was the highlight! Perfect bone structure, Dan thought to himself.
Cheesy, much? Also, Dan doesn't know Tom at all but one look is enough to determine that Tommy boy is full of depth, wisdom and strength.
Redundant, uninteresting narrative:
On Tuesday morning, Dan woke up feeling as if he was on a mission, and he wanted it to succeed! He tried to define for himself what exactly success would mean in his meeting with Tom. Would success be Tom liking him and viewing him as some sort of older brother? Would they have a good rapport with each other? Could he find common ground with a regular military Joe when his own service was twelve years behind him? He had no idea what success would look like or mean. But one thing he did know, the opposite of success is failure, and failure wasn't an option!
Failure not being an option was his motto, one of the many marks on his soul that his father had left behind, and this particular one, unlike the others, had actually served him well over the years.
To prevent failure, he decided to dedicate the day to preparations. (…)
A fuck-ton of exclamation marks:
It's a thrilling piece of history that he gave me as a gift!
"It's very altruistic, but it kind of misses the point of giving of yourself. Your money is not you!" Dan agreed completely on that one.
He hadn't experienced that feeling ever since his mom. His dad loved him very much, there was no doubting it!
There are other soldiers here and they're getting used to the idea that there's a sap on base will (???) to take all the fucking responsibility!
Anyway, right now he's staying at the Lone Soldiers Center, when he leaves for the weekend, but basically he has no home!
"No poor people, not something involving donations and preferably nothing with groups!" he declared.
She thought for a second. "That doesn't leave too many options you know, rich and happy people won't really need your services!"
"Definitely a deal breaker, I'm not sure if it's worth it! Seriously consider this, Texas."
The problem with the vases:
"They live here, that's what they're doing wrong! And I want them to live somewhere else or not at all! My ex-wife flooded the house with unnecessary crap that I don't understand who would need or why they would need it. My ex is gone, but the crap's still here and I can't stand to look at it!"
Tom cringed at the thought of Dan being married. The thought that this perfect man couldn't be his, hurt him much more than it should, given the fact that they had just met, but something in the sadness and loneliness that was obviously latched onto Dan's soul touched Tom.
(…)
"Are you upset that she's gone?" asked Tom hesitantly, trying to think of anything but his own feelings.
"What? No!!! I couldn't be happier.
Baba's eyes are twitching nervously.
"Great idea! eBay! You're a genius, Texas. I'm making you my 'Crap Manager.' Take it all and sell it on eBay, just make it go away. And take the money from the sales, I don't want to see a dime of it, and if you say 'no' we're going with a 'vase range'!"
"Unlike you, Texas. I don't think you're familiar with the word 'limit'!"
The nicknames Texas, Just Dan and Yoda didn't resonate with me at all.
Tom wore jeans, a black tank top and a biker jacket, took the Jeep's keys, sent Dan a smile and a little wink, "Later, 'Just Dan'," he said, and shut the door behind him.
But then, while standing on the deck, barefoot and immersed in pleasant scents and magical sounds, when Tom would soon come and share this atmosphere with him, he knew that he was seeing a soap bubble, and he forced himself to enjoy it before it popped.
"First of all, it's not me! I have no idea how to operate a washing machine. It's a miracle I even know where it is inside this monument. Sveta, my maid, was here yesterday and decided on her own that there was a biological hazard, so she took care of it. It's not a big deal, Texas!"
Dan almost melted all over the deck from the man's honesty. He wanted to hug him and never let go, he wanted to tell him that the exchange he was getting, from Tom's presence in his life, was tenfold more than Sveta doing his laundry.
My friend's response to this lovely quote: Did he just compare the experience of having a person in his life to getting laundry done? o.O
His pulse intensified while he was trying to wear a straight face, but deep within himself he felt a tidal wave of emotions of every possible kind washing over him.
The following quotes are pretty epic in a very negative way.
The sexual tension between them reached immense levels, and more than once, one of them had to stop a training session to excuse himself to take care of a private tension.
Technically, the sex was great; He had to kill these emotions before they could choke him and shatter him to pieces.
@27%
Tom realizing
The pill and the beer were travelling in his veins, and the dizzy sensation joined his jarring experience with Tom on the beach.
He felt lost, but also free. He felt an end, but a little bit of a beginning. He felt sorrow, but a little joy. He was tired, he was exhausted, he was drunk and he fell asleep, but it wasn't really a deep sleep, it was more of a middle ground.
A weird stomach ache, an annoying buzz in his ears, and a sour, green feeling. Definitely jealousy.
Dan heard the whispered words and in that second, his and Tom's look locked, and the sadness they felt flowed between them.
He looked at Dan and smiled, and Dan was drawn to him as if Tom was the fresh air above the ocean Dan was drowning in, and he needed a deep breath.
Flora's questions, which up until now were a quiet humming sound in his head, turned into loud sirens.
"What I'm trying to tell you Dan, is that
Dan took a breath and could feel his stomach turning, his heart standing still, his blood freezing in his veins, his mouth drying up.
He took a deep breath and looked Dan deep into his eyes, a piercing, sad, naked and screaming-with-pain look, a look that wasn't going to change until he explained himself.
As if the exclamations points weren't too much already, the author made use of CAPITALS and bold letters.
"Whatever I want, Dan? I'll tell you what I want: I want you, Dan, naked and mine! Can you give me that?" Tom demanded.
"(…) I also feel all those things towards you, Dan, but I want you naked and mine. Naked and submissive and desiring, I want to conquer your body, not only your soul. I want to taste you, drink you, mark you, penetrate you, and make you mine, body and soul. I'm not willing to settle just parts of you, I want it all! I want to know every inch of skin on your body, I want to fall asleep and wake up with you, and I know, Dan, I know that THAT, you can't give me. (…)"
The satisfaction of the practical act could not have filled the enormous vacuum that was created in him as a result
He collected himself, and waited for the right moment to come into the bubble of privacy that had formed before his eyes.
Plenty of grammar issues, typos etc.
Situation as per April 19, 2015
Keep in mind the list is not complete
Being a soldier can be lonely, even if you're not an actual lone solder, (…)
He stopped for a moment to organize his thoughts and burp, his needed to clear his head.
Tom opened his own bottle, and took a few longs sips (…)
"That If (…)
To his disappointment, but not surprise, he found a note folded (…)
I told him it's les foreign, (…)
Your and you're...
"You're hair's fine today, boss, it's your face!"
"You're stuffed mushrooms are the bomb, what's the white sauce on top?"
He thanked the fashion gods and Sveta, for the tight pair of jeans that were laid on the top of the stack of his pants shelf this morning that did great job hiding this conversation's outcome.
"(…) but I promised her a comfortable satisfying life and I couldn't even giver her that!"
"Yeah, master Yoda? And what's my problem exactly?" asked Dan with sarcasm hiding a painful 'stab' from the truth Tom's words.
"Let me get this straight! Kfir, who's a veterinarian, it taking you finishing? (…)"
And again he felt how all those emotions were gathering into the core of his body.
He needed unload the frustration and the anger.
crème Brulee = crème brûlée
(…) Tom told her with a smiled laced with sadness.
Maybe he couldn't change the result, but he could change the way he feel about it.
Dan was a little depressed when Tom arrived, and they were both sat on the couch in the living room, lost in thought.
He remembered the biblical story, he remember how Abraham was forced (…)
(…) because he heard a familiar voice shouting at him for afar, (…)
Tom looked at him and the angry look changed into an aching broken one, Dan though that if he'd listen carefully he would hear the crack of a heart breaking.
"(…) You looked at me with your sad blues and 'poof', my iron dome was hopelessly destroyed!
What choice do he have?
A day old stubble decorated his face, and some of the whiskered shined with the whiteness of old age.
(…) which allowed those who could afford it to hide their secrets comfortably, and sleep peacefully with a cellophane wrapped conscience, (…)
(…) wet face, Adam gaze was empty as always...
He looked perfect, and the smell of the cologne washed the entire upper floor.
"(…) I think if you put 'you-kind-of-stuff' in here, ...
(…) he said with sadness as a wave of guilt washed him.
"(…)It's got an amazing clip by Carey Mulligan singing New York, New York in the most perfect and sad performance I've ever heard."
Bottom line, I'm very sorry to say that Chariots on the Highway was way too amateurish and, considering the incredibly high average rating of 4.93, couldn't meet my expectations. Not by a long shot.
Onwards...
P.S. The detachable chest was almost as good as the detachable dick in Stripped Expectations.
April 16, 2015
I'm torn when it comes to this book.
I loved Dan and Tom as a couple. I have a soft spot for friends to lovers stories. And I loved the friendship between them as well as the romantic relationship. It was lovely and I would have loved more of the two of them together.
I also really loved the setting, Israel. And I loved learning more about the culture.
I'm also a huge fan of military stories, so that was something I really enjoyed about this book, too.
And the sex scenes were really steamy and emotional, which I love. I think what added to the sex scenes for me was already loving these guys and just wanting them to be together.
The one thing that brought this book down for me was the fact Tom was with someone else for part of this book. It added some angst to the story that I didn't really like.
I loved Dan and Tom as a couple. I have a soft spot for friends to lovers stories. And I loved the friendship between them as well as the romantic relationship. It was lovely and I would have loved more of the two of them together.
I also really loved the setting, Israel. And I loved learning more about the culture.
I'm also a huge fan of military stories, so that was something I really enjoyed about this book, too.
And the sex scenes were really steamy and emotional, which I love. I think what added to the sex scenes for me was already loving these guys and just wanting them to be together.
The one thing that brought this book down for me was the fact Tom was with someone else for part of this book. It added some angst to the story that I didn't really like.
May 15, 2015
An uplifting and optimistic read
Marianne Faithful, The Arctic Monkeys and Johnny Cash are just three of the diverse musicians whose songs provide a soundtrack to this original and imaginative novel.
Dan is a successful businessman man in his thirties. Recently divorced, he feels something is missing from his life. Sharron, his P.A, suggests he take in a lone soldier (foreign soldiers serving in the Israeli Defense Force who need a home; a refuge from the stresses of army life). Reserved and cynical, Dan is at first unsure, but feeling lonely, he agrees to take Tom, a soldier in his twenties from Texas.
Tom and Dan quickly become friends. Although at first seeming to have little in common, they feel at ease with each other, spending time chatting about their days, cooking and listening to music. Tom takes an interest in Dan's life, encouraging him to visit his brother, Adam, who has cerebral palsy. Dan opens up to Tom about his childhood and his difficult relationship with his father. Tom is evasive about his past and his reasons for coming to Israel, and Dan is intrigued. Their friendship develops into something deeper, although Tom assumes Dan is not interested and starts seeing someone else. Dan is confused. His stepmother, Flora, a hippyish woman in her sixties, a perceptive and understanding woman, encourages Dan to realise the depth of his feelings.
For someone who has never been to Israel and knows little about Jewish culture and traditions, the story was very interesting. At one point Dan has a conversation in which he discusses Orthordox Jews and their beliefs, and I found this very thought provoking. The scenes where Tom takes part in the military operation are dramatic and tense. The fear of the soldiers is conveyed well and the writing is descriptive and detailed.
The theme of highways is used in the book in several ways. Dan travels regularly along the Ayalon highway to and from his work. He has a dream of a chariot on the highway and Flora writes a letter to Dan, in which she tells him that life is so much easier if you have a passenger with you as you travel along life's highway. I found this letter to be very touching and the writing evocative and poetical with Flora's concern and love for Dan shining through.
This is an uplifting and optimistic read, a novel which sends out a message of hope in the belief that love really will conquer all.
Marianne Faithful, The Arctic Monkeys and Johnny Cash are just three of the diverse musicians whose songs provide a soundtrack to this original and imaginative novel.
Dan is a successful businessman man in his thirties. Recently divorced, he feels something is missing from his life. Sharron, his P.A, suggests he take in a lone soldier (foreign soldiers serving in the Israeli Defense Force who need a home; a refuge from the stresses of army life). Reserved and cynical, Dan is at first unsure, but feeling lonely, he agrees to take Tom, a soldier in his twenties from Texas.
Tom and Dan quickly become friends. Although at first seeming to have little in common, they feel at ease with each other, spending time chatting about their days, cooking and listening to music. Tom takes an interest in Dan's life, encouraging him to visit his brother, Adam, who has cerebral palsy. Dan opens up to Tom about his childhood and his difficult relationship with his father. Tom is evasive about his past and his reasons for coming to Israel, and Dan is intrigued. Their friendship develops into something deeper, although Tom assumes Dan is not interested and starts seeing someone else. Dan is confused. His stepmother, Flora, a hippyish woman in her sixties, a perceptive and understanding woman, encourages Dan to realise the depth of his feelings.
For someone who has never been to Israel and knows little about Jewish culture and traditions, the story was very interesting. At one point Dan has a conversation in which he discusses Orthordox Jews and their beliefs, and I found this very thought provoking. The scenes where Tom takes part in the military operation are dramatic and tense. The fear of the soldiers is conveyed well and the writing is descriptive and detailed.
The theme of highways is used in the book in several ways. Dan travels regularly along the Ayalon highway to and from his work. He has a dream of a chariot on the highway and Flora writes a letter to Dan, in which she tells him that life is so much easier if you have a passenger with you as you travel along life's highway. I found this letter to be very touching and the writing evocative and poetical with Flora's concern and love for Dan shining through.
This is an uplifting and optimistic read, a novel which sends out a message of hope in the belief that love really will conquer all.
June 24, 2015
Wow, this book blew me away. I was expecting your typical gay romance but Chariots on the Highway was SO much more!
Don't get me wrong the romantic side of this book was inspiring and HOT, but it was also one of the most profound and emotional wrought books I have read in a while, gay or straight. The writing and emotions were so raw that it really impacts the reader and makes them feel quite a broad spectrum of emotion. This book was well written, with interesting three dimensional characters, and a unique storyline. I highly recommend it! Dan and Tom were great heroes, and the aspect of being an Israeli soldier truly made this book different- in an amazing way.
Don't get me wrong the romantic side of this book was inspiring and HOT, but it was also one of the most profound and emotional wrought books I have read in a while, gay or straight. The writing and emotions were so raw that it really impacts the reader and makes them feel quite a broad spectrum of emotion. This book was well written, with interesting three dimensional characters, and a unique storyline. I highly recommend it! Dan and Tom were great heroes, and the aspect of being an Israeli soldier truly made this book different- in an amazing way.
May 29, 2015
To be honest, I don't read much gay fiction and I didn't really know what to expect from this book. One of my friends recommended it to me and raved about it so I thought that I would give it a try. I found that the book has deep meaning and I connected with the characters. Dan just got out of a bad marriage and is going through a painful divorce. Having a romance is one of the last things on his mind and he is still trying to get through the days as a single man. He volunteers to take his mind off of things. Through the volunteer work, he meets Tom, who is serving in the IDF. He was born in Israel and has a connection since he was born there. The two end up being roommates and Dan starts to see what he was missing in his life. The sex scenes were beautifully written and I could feel the emotion from the characters. They felt like the perfect match to me and I loved reading this novel! I hope that there will be a sequel in the making!
April 14, 2015
Well well well "Chariots on the Highway" what can I say??? PERFECTION!!!
I was one of the luckiest beta readers that got the chance to get to know Dan & Tom's story from a few months ago and I have to say - THEIR AMAZIMG STORY STILL LIVES IN MY HEART!!!!
Its not that often that a story can take you places that you've never been before, but that story sure has...
Ups and downs of feelings and events that left me hooked from the title 'till the final word - just like any highway, you just can't put your eyes off of the road.
I hope the the writer is going to continue their story, because I sure would like to know what happens next!!
Thank You Limor for an overwhelming ride :-)
I was one of the luckiest beta readers that got the chance to get to know Dan & Tom's story from a few months ago and I have to say - THEIR AMAZIMG STORY STILL LIVES IN MY HEART!!!!
Its not that often that a story can take you places that you've never been before, but that story sure has...
Ups and downs of feelings and events that left me hooked from the title 'till the final word - just like any highway, you just can't put your eyes off of the road.
I hope the the writer is going to continue their story, because I sure would like to know what happens next!!
Thank You Limor for an overwhelming ride :-)
June 17, 2015
First i have to say I'm drooling over Dan's filled mushrooms and i want the recipe ASAP!!!
What an amazing book ...
I enjoyed everything about it : The slow burn, the contrast between Dan and Tom, the Israeli setting and even the battle field moments...
Chariots on the Highway is a unique read. it start slowly as a sort of family drama with psychological elements, evolving to a gay for you romance, and then you get the military part that boiled your blood. and if that's not enough a deep insight on Jewish religion and how it affects gays in Israel.
wonderful read.
What an amazing book ...
I enjoyed everything about it : The slow burn, the contrast between Dan and Tom, the Israeli setting and even the battle field moments...
Chariots on the Highway is a unique read. it start slowly as a sort of family drama with psychological elements, evolving to a gay for you romance, and then you get the military part that boiled your blood. and if that's not enough a deep insight on Jewish religion and how it affects gays in Israel.
wonderful read.
March 8, 2017
For a book converted from Hebrew and then edited in English I think it's a great read. Good strong writing, plot and MC's. Translating a book and then putting it together in another language is no easy feat. Great job all round.
It's also interesting to see a M/M story set in Israel and how the different culture works.
It's also interesting to see a M/M story set in Israel and how the different culture works.
Read
October 11, 2016
Update June 2015
'Chariots' is now live on Amazon after several Re-edits.
May 10, 2015
I read the first chapter, and I was hooked. I stayed up all night reading. I just couldn’t put it down! This is one of those rare books that you wouldn’t change a single thing, even if you could. Dan and Tome are wonderfully drawn characters. I will say some scenes hit me pretty emotionally just cause I related to them on a personal level so at times I had a tough time getting through them without tearing up. I highly recommend this book its honestly an incredible read.
April 20, 2015
I will start with a short overview of my thoughts on this one...I loved it. Great characters, good plot, good dynamics with the couple and the secondary characters, a believable background stories that surround the dramatic plot, and the fact the story takes place in Israel with Israeli MCs. Perfection!.
Now, more detailed. This one really hit a lot of the buttons for me. This two very different, beautiful, contrasted MCs, who come to the relationship with no intentions of finding love (one is gay who doesn’t date, and the other straight divorced and depressed) and build something great together.
The psychological aspect amazed me, you act like a fly on the wall listening to Dan sessions with his shrink, analyzing his deepest thoughts, fears, lusts and past pains, taking off layers of pained you just want to hold him and tell him that it will be okay, that there is a light in the end of his road. It felt so real to me, that I can't believe he is a fiction character.
The action (military operation) part of the book was the part that would normally seem over the top, but the author makes it work. It creates tension and angst,(rumor has it that she based it on true events) and adds an interesting element to the dynamics between the main characters and a window to Israel inner politics regarding religion, military, political stands and etc.
If you like gay for you stories, this book is just your thing.
Now, more detailed. This one really hit a lot of the buttons for me. This two very different, beautiful, contrasted MCs, who come to the relationship with no intentions of finding love (one is gay who doesn’t date, and the other straight divorced and depressed) and build something great together.
The psychological aspect amazed me, you act like a fly on the wall listening to Dan sessions with his shrink, analyzing his deepest thoughts, fears, lusts and past pains, taking off layers of pained you just want to hold him and tell him that it will be okay, that there is a light in the end of his road. It felt so real to me, that I can't believe he is a fiction character.
The action (military operation) part of the book was the part that would normally seem over the top, but the author makes it work. It creates tension and angst,(rumor has it that she based it on true events) and adds an interesting element to the dynamics between the main characters and a window to Israel inner politics regarding religion, military, political stands and etc.
If you like gay for you stories, this book is just your thing.
April 20, 2015
I liked this book a lot.
Israel is such an interesting country and the military part was great.
The characters were amazing (I loved Flora!).
I needed to google A LOT of things (what I very much like) and I learnt even more.
E.g. now I am very familiar with the Israeli highway system. I also learnt that 1 ILS is 0,23 € and that I have no idea how to pronounce any of the city names!
The military aspect of the book was something exciting. Like in the USA, the military is an important part of Israel and is appreciated by its people (I am from a county where we only joke and laugh about our military), so it I am always fascinated by the love of the military in other countries.
-> I was kind of shocked that Tom was allowed to bring his M16 home. IDK but isn't it a really dangerous weapon to have at home?
Tom and Dan are great people who deserve to be loved. I liked that they were no klischee guys (like Kurt Hummels from glee). They were male and I loved it.
Israel is such an interesting country and the military part was great.
The characters were amazing (I loved Flora!).
I needed to google A LOT of things (what I very much like) and I learnt even more.
E.g. now I am very familiar with the Israeli highway system. I also learnt that 1 ILS is 0,23 € and that I have no idea how to pronounce any of the city names!
The military aspect of the book was something exciting. Like in the USA, the military is an important part of Israel and is appreciated by its people (I am from a county where we only joke and laugh about our military), so it I am always fascinated by the love of the military in other countries.
-> I was kind of shocked that Tom was allowed to bring his M16 home. IDK but isn't it a really dangerous weapon to have at home?
Tom and Dan are great people who deserve to be loved. I liked that they were no klischee guys (like Kurt Hummels from glee). They were male and I loved it.
December 29, 2015
If I were to award my best debut book this year, Chariots on the Highway is definitely part of my top three on my list of nominees. Initially, I dismissed this as a gay-for-you romance upon reading its blurb but lo and behold, I was totally blown away by its sheer genius – realistic lines, vibrant and relatable characters and the whole setting was utter perfection! I could not believe at first that I did not pick this up because of my preconceived ideas about it. Boy was I wrong!
From the very first time, Dan Green was introduced while settling his divorce and eventually “adopting” a lone soldier by the name of Tom Freeman, I was already hooked. There was instant chemistry between them and it went stronger as their relationship went deeper. At least until Dan recognized what he’s been missing and trying to find that thing. Of course, this “soul-searching” thing will not be possible without the help of other side characters on Dan’s side most especially Mike (his shrink) and Flora (his stepmom).
I loved that there was Kfir’s character (whom Tom dated) that made it easier for Dan to realize that he’s actually falling in love with Tom. It wasn’t an easy change for Dan but he accepted it. I’m not sure how open the Israeli society with the subject of homosexuality but from what I reckon reading this book, they are pretty liberal about it.
I loved that the sex scenes were written very much tenderly and how Tom guided Dan through their blossoming relationship. I loved the delicacy of their love-making. It was worth the wait once they realized that they would be good for each other.
There was parallelism between the title and Dan’s regular travels along the Ayalon highway and how in life, he needs someone like a passenger to be there with him. I thought that was a nice analogy and how it clearly reflected Dan’s journey to finding his purpose – and finding his true love.
Also, it is very important to note that the author did not focus solely on the romance aspect between Dan and Tom. It was very educational as well for those who are not familiar with a lone soldier in the Israel Defense Forces like myself. The sacrifice, the courage and their love for their country is simply astounding!
There was also religion as an issue involving Tom’s family. I just hate fanaticism. It’s unhealthy and sure as hell ugly.
Overall, the story’s as magical as the setting. I don’t know why the setting just gave a vibe of tranquility and chaos – mixed together. It was just so beautiful! Thank you Limor Moyal for this eye-opening and beautifully rendered story! Keep writing! Bravo!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
From the very first time, Dan Green was introduced while settling his divorce and eventually “adopting” a lone soldier by the name of Tom Freeman, I was already hooked. There was instant chemistry between them and it went stronger as their relationship went deeper. At least until Dan recognized what he’s been missing and trying to find that thing. Of course, this “soul-searching” thing will not be possible without the help of other side characters on Dan’s side most especially Mike (his shrink) and Flora (his stepmom).
I loved that there was Kfir’s character (whom Tom dated) that made it easier for Dan to realize that he’s actually falling in love with Tom. It wasn’t an easy change for Dan but he accepted it. I’m not sure how open the Israeli society with the subject of homosexuality but from what I reckon reading this book, they are pretty liberal about it.
I loved that the sex scenes were written very much tenderly and how Tom guided Dan through their blossoming relationship. I loved the delicacy of their love-making. It was worth the wait once they realized that they would be good for each other.
There was parallelism between the title and Dan’s regular travels along the Ayalon highway and how in life, he needs someone like a passenger to be there with him. I thought that was a nice analogy and how it clearly reflected Dan’s journey to finding his purpose – and finding his true love.
Also, it is very important to note that the author did not focus solely on the romance aspect between Dan and Tom. It was very educational as well for those who are not familiar with a lone soldier in the Israel Defense Forces like myself. The sacrifice, the courage and their love for their country is simply astounding!
There was also religion as an issue involving Tom’s family. I just hate fanaticism. It’s unhealthy and sure as hell ugly.
Overall, the story’s as magical as the setting. I don’t know why the setting just gave a vibe of tranquility and chaos – mixed together. It was just so beautiful! Thank you Limor Moyal for this eye-opening and beautifully rendered story! Keep writing! Bravo!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
April 22, 2015
that was a captivating heart melting story between two men. each unique and beautiful in his own special way. Together they from a bond that transform gradually to love.
Dan is a reach gorgeous businessman who just got divorced and looking for something to distract him from his own demons, he finds that volunteering can help him and adopts Tom, a foreign lone soldier.
The friendship between them grow slowly, and Dan realizes that he needs Tom as much as Tom needs him, he realizes that what he feels for Tom is more than just care, but something like lust .that revelation makes him question his own sexuality and confuses him.
When Tom starts dating a new guy, the jealousy that Dan feels threaten to drawn him, and forces him to act on his feelings.
It was an amazing read, the writing is witty and flowing .
I enjoyed every second, and couldn't put it down. And if you are a true book lover, don't miss this one! It is one of a kind.
February 11, 2017
סיפורו של דן גרין, שבגיל 34 לאחר גירושים מהירים מוצא את עצמו מדוכא וחסר מטרה בחיים. דן העשיר, מנהל את החברה שהקים לסחר בציוד רפואי, אבל חסרה לו מטרה בחיים.
אשתו השניה של אביו שנפטר, מציעה לו להתנדב. אבל מאחר ודן לא מעוניין בהתנדבות בקבוצות, וכסף זו לא התנדבות, הוא בוחר לאמץ חייל בודד שהגיע לצבא מטקסס שבארהב.
תום, חייל ביחידה קרבית הגיע לארץ בעקבות משבר משפחתי שברוב הספר לא מובהר. הוא הומו גאה ומבוסס בתפיסה העצמית שלו והמפגש שלו עם דן מצמיח ידידות גברית עמוקה.
הרעיון בבסיס הספר טוב ומלא פוטנציאל אבל היישום. אוי היישום.
ראשית, מיקום העלילה בהרצליה פיתוח, במחוז העשירים והיפים: דן בחור נאה עד מאוד, עשיר ומבוסס. רק בכדי להתפטר מאשתו לנה הוא משלם 8 מליון שקלים כי הוא מרגיש אשם. טיעון די מטומטם אבל שיהיה. אני מניחה שהעושר נועד להוציא מהמשוואה בעיות של זוג גברים הומואים שגם מתמודדים עם בעיות כלכליות מעבר לשאר הבעיות שיש להם בחיים. והמראה החיצוני שלהם נועד לפתור את בעיית המהפך והמשיכה בין הדמויות הגבריות הראשיות.
שנית, בשלב מסויים בספר הגשתי כאילו הסופרת כתבה לקוראים מניפסט שכולל את הדעות שלה על דת ועל הומוסקסואליות. הכל נראה כל כך פלאקטי ושטחי שהוא התמצה ברמת סיסמאות נבובות.
שלישית, הפיתולים בעלילה בחלק של המבצע בלבנון וההורים שהגיעו מחו"ל היו מיותרים ומלאכותיים. השימוש הציני במבצע בלבנון, מניפולציה עלובה כדי לשרבב שם את החלק על החרדים. האבסורד המגוחך בחלק הזה הוא מדליית העוז שהיא חילקה לגיבור שלה על עוז רוחו בקרב בלבנון וכנראה גם בקרב נגד הוריו החרדים.
ובכנות כל הלאבי דאבי הזה בחלק האחרון של הספר זה כבר היה יותר מידי עבורי. מגבר אנטיפת מדוכא, דן פתאום הופך את עורו ולא רק במובן אחד: הוא רוצה ילדים, ונישואים וחיים משותפים והמהפך המושלם.
מעבר לכל אל העריכה הלשונית בספר נעלמה עד לא קיימת : היו לי צמרמורות מהחריקות של העיברית בספר הזה:
"ההערה המינית לא ברחה מדן," - להערות אין רגלים לכן הן לא בורחות.
"זה לא מרגיש לי נוח" - האנגלוז של השפה מגיע לרמות חדשות. מה קרה למשפט העברי הפשוט, אני לא מרגיש נח עם זה?
"דן הסתכל עליו והרגיש את הלב מותח לו את בית החזה." - אני מניחה שהכוונה היא, דן הרגיש את בית החזה שלו מתמלא. כי עם כל הכבוד לסופרת, הלב פועם, הלב מתרחב, הלב לא מותח לכל הרוחות והשדים את בית החזה, גם לא כמטאפורה.
בנוסף הספר לוקה ביותר בתחביר, דוגמא אחת מיני רבות שבהן המיקום של התואר שגוי -"מעביר אצבעות בשיער המדי ארוך שלו" - הארוך מדי.
יחד עם זאת כנאה שהעלילה והתחביר חשובים פחות לקוראים מסקס בין גברים. הניקוד שהספר הזה קיבל באמזון וכאן לא משקף את הספר והאיכויות שלו. הכתיבה ראויה לפרסום בבלוג, לא לפרסום כספר. כספר העלילה לא מפותחת מספיק, היא פלאקטית והדמויות הן סטראוטיפ של גברים לבנים עשירים הומואיים.
אשתו השניה של אביו שנפטר, מציעה לו להתנדב. אבל מאחר ודן לא מעוניין בהתנדבות בקבוצות, וכסף זו לא התנדבות, הוא בוחר לאמץ חייל בודד שהגיע לצבא מטקסס שבארהב.
תום, חייל ביחידה קרבית הגיע לארץ בעקבות משבר משפחתי שברוב הספר לא מובהר. הוא הומו גאה ומבוסס בתפיסה העצמית שלו והמפגש שלו עם דן מצמיח ידידות גברית עמוקה.
הרעיון בבסיס הספר טוב ומלא פוטנציאל אבל היישום. אוי היישום.
ראשית, מיקום העלילה בהרצליה פיתוח, במחוז העשירים והיפים: דן בחור נאה עד מאוד, עשיר ומבוסס. רק בכדי להתפטר מאשתו לנה הוא משלם 8 מליון שקלים כי הוא מרגיש אשם. טיעון די מטומטם אבל שיהיה. אני מניחה שהעושר נועד להוציא מהמשוואה בעיות של זוג גברים הומואים שגם מתמודדים עם בעיות כלכליות מעבר לשאר הבעיות שיש להם בחיים. והמראה החיצוני שלהם נועד לפתור את בעיית המהפך והמשיכה בין הדמויות הגבריות הראשיות.
שנית, בשלב מסויים בספר הגשתי כאילו הסופרת כתבה לקוראים מניפסט שכולל את הדעות שלה על דת ועל הומוסקסואליות. הכל נראה כל כך פלאקטי ושטחי שהוא התמצה ברמת סיסמאות נבובות.
שלישית, הפיתולים בעלילה בחלק של המבצע בלבנון וההורים שהגיעו מחו"ל היו מיותרים ומלאכותיים. השימוש הציני במבצע בלבנון, מניפולציה עלובה כדי לשרבב שם את החלק על החרדים. האבסורד המגוחך בחלק הזה הוא מדליית העוז שהיא חילקה לגיבור שלה על עוז רוחו בקרב בלבנון וכנראה גם בקרב נגד הוריו החרדים.
ובכנות כל הלאבי דאבי הזה בחלק האחרון של הספר זה כבר היה יותר מידי עבורי. מגבר אנטיפת מדוכא, דן פתאום הופך את עורו ולא רק במובן אחד: הוא רוצה ילדים, ונישואים וחיים משותפים והמהפך המושלם.
מעבר לכל אל העריכה הלשונית בספר נעלמה עד לא קיימת : היו לי צמרמורות מהחריקות של העיברית בספר הזה:
"ההערה המינית לא ברחה מדן," - להערות אין רגלים לכן הן לא בורחות.
"זה לא מרגיש לי נוח" - האנגלוז של השפה מגיע לרמות חדשות. מה קרה למשפט העברי הפשוט, אני לא מרגיש נח עם זה?
"דן הסתכל עליו והרגיש את הלב מותח לו את בית החזה." - אני מניחה שהכוונה היא, דן הרגיש את בית החזה שלו מתמלא. כי עם כל הכבוד לסופרת, הלב פועם, הלב מתרחב, הלב לא מותח לכל הרוחות והשדים את בית החזה, גם לא כמטאפורה.
בנוסף הספר לוקה ביותר בתחביר, דוגמא אחת מיני רבות שבהן המיקום של התואר שגוי -"מעביר אצבעות בשיער המדי ארוך שלו" - הארוך מדי.
יחד עם זאת כנאה שהעלילה והתחביר חשובים פחות לקוראים מסקס בין גברים. הניקוד שהספר הזה קיבל באמזון וכאן לא משקף את הספר והאיכויות שלו. הכתיבה ראויה לפרסום בבלוג, לא לפרסום כספר. כספר העלילה לא מפותחת מספיק, היא פלאקטית והדמויות הן סטראוטיפ של גברים לבנים עשירים הומואיים.
April 14, 2015
So when I first started it I was a little apprehensive because even as a dedicated and obsessive reader I never had the attraction towards homosexual affairs...But I was told it was mild and will not shock me. Only it did! it has shocked me in the most beautiful way! I couldn't put the book down, I was in love with the charachters, I felt their fear and pain and hope in such a strong way. I am not ashamed to say I was even hot and bothered by their sexual encounters!!! The book is well written and the author dealt with their feeling with such care it's obvious she lived them!! If this is a debut book for this author I can't wait to read more of her future work. And one more very important issue in this book, the soundtrack of it is simply beautiful. If you can synchronize reading it with the track list (which is very explicit in the book) it will greatly enhance your emotional experience. I highly recommend!!!!
May 5, 2015
Lovely book, deep and emotional. the Israeli setting is very authentic and accurate.
June 17, 2015
What a truly amazing and beautiful story. It grabbed me from the first page and would not let go. I laughed, I cried and I...well, you know.
I was totally hooked and felt like a passenger in the journey Dan is going through to find the happiness he deserved. Yes, it was emotionally draining, but it's more than worth it.
This was different from what I was expecting. Actually, it's my first M/M and to be honest I wasn’t sure it's for me. It's definitely different from my regular boy meets girl, boy ***** girl, boy falls in love, and they lives happily ever after kind of story. Little did I know that this story will touch my heart so deeply and will open my appetite for more of that kind. An absolutely great read.
I was totally hooked and felt like a passenger in the journey Dan is going through to find the happiness he deserved. Yes, it was emotionally draining, but it's more than worth it.
This was different from what I was expecting. Actually, it's my first M/M and to be honest I wasn’t sure it's for me. It's definitely different from my regular boy meets girl, boy ***** girl, boy falls in love, and they lives happily ever after kind of story. Little did I know that this story will touch my heart so deeply and will open my appetite for more of that kind. An absolutely great read.
April 14, 2015
greate story!!
after so many books I read, this one shook my world and thats not going without saying!
love this one!!
after so many books I read, this one shook my world and thats not going without saying!
love this one!!
May 14, 2015
What an emotional ride! I have never read a M M story before and had no idea what to expect, but I didn't expect to fall in love with both guys! This is a story that reaches in and grabs your heart. Both characters are so fully fleshed out I found I began thinking of them as my friends. Tom and Dan are strong men for different reasons. They enhance each other and make a perfect unit. I loved the friendship that began and then grew. I loved watching Dan discover himself, and I was enraptured with the detail Ms. Moyal put into every chapter.
This is a book worth reading, taking your time and really getting involved.
From religion, to family to war and secrets this book really packs a lot into its pages!
I am happy to give this five stars. The writing was expertly done, drawing in the reader, keeping the flow.
I appreciated too that the sex was not smutty, it was done with taste and passion. I was surprised to find my heart melting in. Few scenes.
Really fantastic job, I will be following this new author!
This is a book worth reading, taking your time and really getting involved.
From religion, to family to war and secrets this book really packs a lot into its pages!
I am happy to give this five stars. The writing was expertly done, drawing in the reader, keeping the flow.
I appreciated too that the sex was not smutty, it was done with taste and passion. I was surprised to find my heart melting in. Few scenes.
Really fantastic job, I will be following this new author!
April 29, 2015
What a fantastic book. Wasn't too sure when I started to read this book, but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Beautifully written and I fell in love with Tom & Dan. Could not put this one down. Will definitely be one I will re-read. Do yourself a favour and start reading!! ❤️
April 26, 2015
Nice and pleasant read. The Israeli setting was very interesting.
stalled
December 30, 2015BR with Mark 23rd April
April 24, 2015
I read Dan and Tom's touching story with breath taking passion,
they told a human, emotional, stirring and magnetizing story.
I can't remember ever reading a book which got my attention at the very first page.
The talented author built detailed characters so they had a very tangible life in my imagination, and I immediately fell in love with them.
I really liked the idea of putting well known songs names in the story,
which enabled me to connect to the scene and hum along with the 'music'.
I felt as if I hopped inside the book.
I think it's very important that a large audience will be made known to "Chariots on The Highway"
so to understand the love story between two men in a closer look
to understand and accept this choice even more.
Thank you very much for creating a piece so human and moving.
I hope it will make its way to many reader's hearts across the world.
I can't wait to see a movie based on the book.
they told a human, emotional, stirring and magnetizing story.
I can't remember ever reading a book which got my attention at the very first page.
The talented author built detailed characters so they had a very tangible life in my imagination, and I immediately fell in love with them.
I really liked the idea of putting well known songs names in the story,
which enabled me to connect to the scene and hum along with the 'music'.
I felt as if I hopped inside the book.
I think it's very important that a large audience will be made known to "Chariots on The Highway"
so to understand the love story between two men in a closer look
to understand and accept this choice even more.
Thank you very much for creating a piece so human and moving.
I hope it will make its way to many reader's hearts across the world.
I can't wait to see a movie based on the book.
April 21, 2015
I read a lot of books and I have the habit of getting caught up in them to the point of sleep deprivation. This book was even worse for my sleep pattern! I literally finished it in 24 hours. I couldn't put it down. Step into the lives of an Israeli Lone Soldier and his friend. The dedication that was put into these characters will make you swear you knew them personally. The detail into the setting and sequence creates a world around you as you dive deeper into the lives of normal people going through normal, yet extraordinary, life. While this is fiction, the events that transpire are someone's reality. The emotions are real: love, hope, despair, worry, indifference, confusion, anger, fear, grief, excitement... They all weave together so seamlessly that you'll soon be saying 'just one more chapter'. I'm eagerly awaiting Moyal's next novel!
September 26, 2015
ספר מדהים, פוקח עיניים, כזה שנתן לי הצצה לעולם חדש לגמרי ובהחלט ממכר.
אחרי ששפכתי את ליבי מול לימור בהודעה פרטית, אני אצמצם פה במילים ואומר שזה בהחלט אחד הספרים הנפלאים שקראתי מצד סופרות ישראליות חדשות ואני ממליצה עליו בחום.
הספר הזה יזמן לכם/ן חוויה שונה, מרעננת, כזאת שתגרום לכם/ן לחשוב שוב (ואז עוד קצת) על כל מיני דברים שהייתם/ן בטוחים/ות שאתם/ן כבר יודעים/ות.
בניגוד לחשש הראשוני, העובדה שמדבור בשני גברים לא פוגמת בכ-לל בחוויה ולמעשה היא אפילו... מעשירה אותה באופן מסוים, אופן שנגע בי עמוק יותר ממה שחשבתי שיכול בכלל לקרות.
רוצו לקרוא - כל מילה נוספת מיותרת!
אחרי ששפכתי את ליבי מול לימור בהודעה פרטית, אני אצמצם פה במילים ואומר שזה בהחלט אחד הספרים הנפלאים שקראתי מצד סופרות ישראליות חדשות ואני ממליצה עליו בחום.
הספר הזה יזמן לכם/ן חוויה שונה, מרעננת, כזאת שתגרום לכם/ן לחשוב שוב (ואז עוד קצת) על כל מיני דברים שהייתם/ן בטוחים/ות שאתם/ן כבר יודעים/ות.
בניגוד לחשש הראשוני, העובדה שמדבור בשני גברים לא פוגמת בכ-לל בחוויה ולמעשה היא אפילו... מעשירה אותה באופן מסוים, אופן שנגע בי עמוק יותר ממה שחשבתי שיכול בכלל לקרות.
רוצו לקרוא - כל מילה נוספת מיותרת!
May 11, 2015
BRILLIANT LOVE STORY!!!!
A SLOW BURN... AND FINALLY BEING HAPPY IN YOUR OWN SKIN AND FINDING YOUR WAY TO THAT SOMEONE...
BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN...
A SLOW BURN... AND FINALLY BEING HAPPY IN YOUR OWN SKIN AND FINDING YOUR WAY TO THAT SOMEONE...
BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN...
December 22, 2015
Solid 5 Stars!!
I love novels that are complete in a sense that they will make me cry, laugh, feel sad, feel happy, break my heart and then make me feel hopeful again. That's what this one did for me!
What shocked me the most though, was the way the MCs' attraction and relationship developed. In a way that felt nothing but natural.
Up until today, for some reason, I'd never intended to read a book a second time, perhaps because I always thought it wouldn't be special what with the lack of the element of surprise. But this novel made me rethink that and come to the decision that YES, I will in a near future re-read this!
Whilst reading this book I recomment you do two things:
1- Every chapter has a name, briefly reflect on them before you start each chapter. I know, sounds stupid, but I found myself giggling when I realised what they meant.
2- There's an extensive and varied playlist throughout the book, you should listen to the songs as they are mentioned. I promise you, it will be a much better experience! :)
I love novels that are complete in a sense that they will make me cry, laugh, feel sad, feel happy, break my heart and then make me feel hopeful again. That's what this one did for me!
What shocked me the most though, was the way the MCs' attraction and relationship developed. In a way that felt nothing but natural.
Up until today, for some reason, I'd never intended to read a book a second time, perhaps because I always thought it wouldn't be special what with the lack of the element of surprise. But this novel made me rethink that and come to the decision that YES, I will in a near future re-read this!
Whilst reading this book I recomment you do two things:
1- Every chapter has a name, briefly reflect on them before you start each chapter. I know, sounds stupid, but I found myself giggling when I realised what they meant.
2- There's an extensive and varied playlist throughout the book, you should listen to the songs as they are mentioned. I promise you, it will be a much better experience! :)
May 1, 2015
This was bad...really bad - 300 pages of total trainwreck.
And I honestly don't know where all the good reviews are coming from...excluding Baba's of course.
First of all,the writing...what it lacked the most was subtlety. There was no smooth flow to it and it was downright awkward to read sometimes. To say that it needs to be improved implies some kind of basis to begin with,and,honestly,I don't think there is nothing to begin with here. What's worst is that I don't know if this is the result of absolutely horrible editing or translation. Maybe the writing was better in Hebrew,I really don't know,I can't judge there,but as for editing...commas were in all the wrong places and in 2 out of 3 sentences there was an exlamation mark in the end. It seemed like everyone was shouting all the time. And what's worse,in a few places it was followed by "he whispered" o.O
Now...In general,while I read a book,I read about characters like they are real people,not product of fiction,regardless of my opinion about them,or whether they are shallow or developed. That's nessesary to feel their emotions and to become invested in some book,right? But,these characters...they were so unnatural and not for one moment did they manage to evoke some emotion in me. They didn't act or talk like a real person would...Author shared with us a lot of her personal opinions through them,which is OK,but not if during casual conversation they start talking in form of well-rehearsed speach,like they are on some kind of convention. And they were one of the girliest characters that I've read in a long time...and that's saying something considering what genre is this book.
And one of my biggest problems with this book was that,knowing that author studied psychology,I read this (one example of the many similar ones):
"The truth was that Dan had always known how to swim,but avoided it,just because he feared drowning and losing control. He had trouble explaining the anxiety's origin. He was amazed to find out that now,in Tom's presence,it was as if his anxiety never existed."
And now you want to tell me that a man,who feared swimming all his life due to his anxiety,miraculously got cured because of Tom's presence only?
I'm sick of authors selling a line "love cures everything" all the time.But I can let it pass with authors that have no academic knowledge in psychology,but with professional? To me,the example above is absolutely unacceptable for one psychologist.
And I honestly don't know where all the good reviews are coming from...excluding Baba's of course.
First of all,the writing...what it lacked the most was subtlety. There was no smooth flow to it and it was downright awkward to read sometimes. To say that it needs to be improved implies some kind of basis to begin with,and,honestly,I don't think there is nothing to begin with here. What's worst is that I don't know if this is the result of absolutely horrible editing or translation. Maybe the writing was better in Hebrew,I really don't know,I can't judge there,but as for editing...commas were in all the wrong places and in 2 out of 3 sentences there was an exlamation mark in the end. It seemed like everyone was shouting all the time. And what's worse,in a few places it was followed by "he whispered" o.O
Now...In general,while I read a book,I read about characters like they are real people,not product of fiction,regardless of my opinion about them,or whether they are shallow or developed. That's nessesary to feel their emotions and to become invested in some book,right? But,these characters...they were so unnatural and not for one moment did they manage to evoke some emotion in me. They didn't act or talk like a real person would...Author shared with us a lot of her personal opinions through them,which is OK,but not if during casual conversation they start talking in form of well-rehearsed speach,like they are on some kind of convention. And they were one of the girliest characters that I've read in a long time...and that's saying something considering what genre is this book.
And one of my biggest problems with this book was that,knowing that author studied psychology,I read this (one example of the many similar ones):
"The truth was that Dan had always known how to swim,but avoided it,just because he feared drowning and losing control. He had trouble explaining the anxiety's origin. He was amazed to find out that now,in Tom's presence,it was as if his anxiety never existed."
And now you want to tell me that a man,who feared swimming all his life due to his anxiety,miraculously got cured because of Tom's presence only?
I'm sick of authors selling a line "love cures everything" all the time.But I can let it pass with authors that have no academic knowledge in psychology,but with professional? To me,the example above is absolutely unacceptable for one psychologist.
May 4, 2015
When I started reading this book I was nervous about the gay romance, having never read M/M before. I was pleasantly surprised! Before I knew it I was captivated by Dan and Tom's relationship. Tom complimented Dan's personality perfectly. The optimist to the pessimist.
The sex scenes were more about the emotion for me than the sex which I appreciated.
The author's descriptions are what really hooked me. This one is my favourite and gives you an indication of what I am talking about.
"Mike always told him that happiness is like soap bubbles, it comes in small fragile doses, transparent and gentle, that you can’t catch and hold forever. You have to learn to recognize the moment, to embrace it and, when the bubble pops and the moment is over, choose whether to remember it or not."
This story robbed me of sleep. I read it in two days and would have read it sooner if I didn't have to work.
All in all I found this story to be very interesting, the cultural difference as well as the gay love story was new to me and fascinating. I will most definitely read more of this author's work given the opportunity.
The sex scenes were more about the emotion for me than the sex which I appreciated.
The author's descriptions are what really hooked me. This one is my favourite and gives you an indication of what I am talking about.
"Mike always told him that happiness is like soap bubbles, it comes in small fragile doses, transparent and gentle, that you can’t catch and hold forever. You have to learn to recognize the moment, to embrace it and, when the bubble pops and the moment is over, choose whether to remember it or not."
This story robbed me of sleep. I read it in two days and would have read it sooner if I didn't have to work.
All in all I found this story to be very interesting, the cultural difference as well as the gay love story was new to me and fascinating. I will most definitely read more of this author's work given the opportunity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews