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Le Cœur en balance
Levi Binder, barman à Miami, a deux passions : le surf et le sexe. Rejeté par sa famille mormone en raison de son homosexualité, Levi est bien décidé à vivre sa vie comme il l’entend. Tout change quand il rencontre Jaime Marshall, un kinésithérapeute.
Jaime est un grand solitaire, hanté par les horreurs de son passé et avec pour seul ami Dolly, sa fidèle chienne. Levi est son parfait opposé, intense, plein de vie. Jaime ne sait pas comment s’y prendre avec lui.
Malgré leurs différences, ils désirent tous deux quelque chose qu’ils ne peuvent atteindre qu’ensemble. Avec le massage comme thérapie et grâce à leur amour, ils pourront se guérir l’un l’autre et apprendre à concilier leur mode de vie avec leur famille religieuse.
Jaime est un grand solitaire, hanté par les horreurs de son passé et avec pour seul ami Dolly, sa fidèle chienne. Levi est son parfait opposé, intense, plein de vie. Jaime ne sait pas comment s’y prendre avec lui.
Malgré leurs différences, ils désirent tous deux quelque chose qu’ils ne peuvent atteindre qu’ensemble. Avec le massage comme thérapie et grâce à leur amour, ils pourront se guérir l’un l’autre et apprendre à concilier leur mode de vie avec leur famille religieuse.
505 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2011
133 people are currently reading
3160 people want to read
About the author
Marie Sexton
71 books2,227 followersMarie Sexton lives in Colorado. She’s a fan of just about anything that involves muscular young men piling on top of each other. In particular, she loves the Denver Broncos and enjoys going to the games with her husband. Her imaginary friends often tag along. Marie has one daughter, two cats, and one dog, all of whom seem bent on destroying what remains of her sanity. She loves them anyway.
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 628 reviews
February 23, 2020
Audiobook - 5+++++ stars
Story - 4 stars
Marie Sexton and John Solo combo works every time. The story was amazing and the narration was perfect.
First of all screw Levi's family, and double screw Jamie's family.
MC 1 - Levi
MC 2 - Jamie
Levi, a happy go lucky out and proud guy with a very religious family. A little bit lost trying to find his way. I wanted Levi to tell those fuckers to screw it, but then again i understand the route the author took, at the end of the day they loved him and he loved them, it's just that their beliefs were different. I liked Levi from the moment he was introduced. His personality is so vibrant that you can't help but fall in love.
Jamie - Oh my heart, this sweet guy went through a lot. He deserves the world. He is a lonely lost soul, haunted by his dark past, trying to survive day by day. I loved Jamie, he has a unique sense of humor, i found myself laughing hard when he was on page and he also broke my little heart. I wanted to wrap him in a warm blanket. Thank the book gods for Dolly. Jamie's dog, she is a darling.
Levi and Jamie fit so well, and their relationship development was fun to follow. Something in the lines of strangers to friends to best friends to lovers. It developed so effortlessly and their chemistry was off the charts and believable. The slow burn is so well done and had me all squishy inside.
This book is heavy on religion, i wanted to smack the self righteous, all knowing servants of the good Lord hard. Honestly, religion is the worst thing that ever happened to human kind.
The writing is good without being preachy and in your face, this is what happens in real life. The author was able to provide a good balance and i did not feel suffocated by everything that was going on. That is a huge plus.
Overall, it was a wonderful, heartbreaking sweet story.
Story - 4 stars
Marie Sexton and John Solo combo works every time. The story was amazing and the narration was perfect.
First of all screw Levi's family, and double screw Jamie's family.
MC 1 - Levi
MC 2 - Jamie
Levi, a happy go lucky out and proud guy with a very religious family. A little bit lost trying to find his way. I wanted Levi to tell those fuckers to screw it, but then again i understand the route the author took, at the end of the day they loved him and he loved them, it's just that their beliefs were different. I liked Levi from the moment he was introduced. His personality is so vibrant that you can't help but fall in love.
Jamie - Oh my heart, this sweet guy went through a lot. He deserves the world. He is a lonely lost soul, haunted by his dark past, trying to survive day by day. I loved Jamie, he has a unique sense of humor, i found myself laughing hard when he was on page and he also broke my little heart. I wanted to wrap him in a warm blanket. Thank the book gods for Dolly. Jamie's dog, she is a darling.
Levi and Jamie fit so well, and their relationship development was fun to follow. Something in the lines of strangers to friends to best friends to lovers. It developed so effortlessly and their chemistry was off the charts and believable. The slow burn is so well done and had me all squishy inside.
This book is heavy on religion, i wanted to smack the self righteous, all knowing servants of the good Lord hard. Honestly, religion is the worst thing that ever happened to human kind.
The writing is good without being preachy and in your face, this is what happens in real life. The author was able to provide a good balance and i did not feel suffocated by everything that was going on. That is a huge plus.
Overall, it was a wonderful, heartbreaking sweet story.
July 12, 2016
not one, but two examples of unhelpful stereotypes of sexually abused persons used for facile romance-trope angsting.
PEACE-OUT, HOMIE
*returns, 5 minutes later, filled with righteous fury*
let's just call it my trigger.
abused, raped, dub-conned-to-hell gay dudes who may or may not seek healing in the form of being whipped, chained, gang-banged, or choked the fuck out.
that's my trigger.
because while this world is enormous, and there are all kinds of people out there, and definitely people who fit any of those descriptors—the fact remains that you don't have to make a homo miserable to make him interesting to read about.
so when a chintzy romance novel does that—define being gay in terms of suffering—a motherfucker gets really. pissed. off.
because being gay has enough angsty fucking problems attendant to it without someone should posit, over and over, that one of them is being raped up the ass.
all to spice-up a stupid story that would have been perfectly compelling without it.
it's gratuitous. and it hurts to read.
gay men are not Rape Barbies.
they are not canvasses for the wildly irresponsible speculations of lazy writers who are unable to characterize human beings without appalling mortifications of the spirit, and of the flesh.
it's ugly. and destructive.
no matter how many shelter dogs they adopt in the epilogue.
PEACE-OUT, HOMIE
*returns, 5 minutes later, filled with righteous fury*
let's just call it my trigger.
abused, raped, dub-conned-to-hell gay dudes who may or may not seek healing in the form of being whipped, chained, gang-banged, or choked the fuck out.
that's my trigger.
because while this world is enormous, and there are all kinds of people out there, and definitely people who fit any of those descriptors—the fact remains that you don't have to make a homo miserable to make him interesting to read about.
so when a chintzy romance novel does that—define being gay in terms of suffering—a motherfucker gets really. pissed. off.
because being gay has enough angsty fucking problems attendant to it without someone should posit, over and over, that one of them is being raped up the ass.
all to spice-up a stupid story that would have been perfectly compelling without it.
it's gratuitous. and it hurts to read.
gay men are not Rape Barbies.
they are not canvasses for the wildly irresponsible speculations of lazy writers who are unable to characterize human beings without appalling mortifications of the spirit, and of the flesh.
it's ugly. and destructive.
no matter how many shelter dogs they adopt in the epilogue.
June 2, 2011
I grew up in a Mormon town and watched painfully as one of my best friends dealt with both the wonderful support and the painful doctrine after her parents divorced. Her struggle to choose the interpretation of her faith that felt right in her heart always struck me as poignant and real--and when reading this book, I saw Levi go through the exact same struggle. I loved that Marie Sexton didn't treat this lightly--I loved that she found both the good and painful in Levi's family dynamic. I loved that Jaime was not instantly healed and he might never be, and I loved that when he took his leap of faith it was complete and real in the same way Levi took his. Watching Levi go from heartless bad-boy to tender caretaker was a painful struggle, and the ending was nothing less than satisfying. Loved this book.
September 22, 2018
Audio 5 stars
Story 5 stars
Religion is not my thing at all so when Levi's family start in about their views and the "gay life style" I had to shelf this book in my "piss me off" shelf.
The story is 5 stars for me because Levi and Jaime's love story is so freaking amazing and deserves all the stars. Their love cancelled out all the negatives of the ignorant religious views.
Story 5 stars
Religion is not my thing at all so when Levi's family start in about their views and the "gay life style" I had to shelf this book in my "piss me off" shelf.
The story is 5 stars for me because Levi and Jaime's love story is so freaking amazing and deserves all the stars. Their love cancelled out all the negatives of the ignorant religious views.
January 5, 2012
I have a Thing about books revolving around abuse. In theory I like to read them, but they're so often poorly done, and a poorly done abuse book is a terrible, terrible thing. The balance is as delicate as a spider's web. It can't be too angsty, but it can't be too glib. Most authors think the way to deal with abuse is for the character to wallow directly, which I have to tell you, I've never seen a real abuse victim do in real life. The stories are also often so heavy you can't stand to read them without antidepressants.
Not so Between Sinners and Saints. The story has humor, to start. Sexton manages the balance of an abusive past by showing us not only Jamie's weaknesses but also his strengths. It's also not primarily a story about abuse. It's a story about past and pain, and most important of all, it's about family. Between Sinners and Saints is a story of what it means to be broken, what it means to be saved, and how no matter what has happened to you and no matter who you are, everything can be healed by love.
And Marie wrote it. She's always good. Go buy it today.
Not so Between Sinners and Saints. The story has humor, to start. Sexton manages the balance of an abusive past by showing us not only Jamie's weaknesses but also his strengths. It's also not primarily a story about abuse. It's a story about past and pain, and most important of all, it's about family. Between Sinners and Saints is a story of what it means to be broken, what it means to be saved, and how no matter what has happened to you and no matter who you are, everything can be healed by love.
And Marie wrote it. She's always good. Go buy it today.
August 12, 2016
4.5 Stars!
This one was good. Really good.
A bit on the heavier side. And a bit religious-y.
Definitely a slow build, but I thought it was completely appropriate.
Not a lot of steam, but enough.
A tad on the long side, but I was never bored.
There you have it in a nutshell.
Recommended read for sure!
This one was good. Really good.
A bit on the heavier side. And a bit religious-y.
Definitely a slow build, but I thought it was completely appropriate.
Not a lot of steam, but enough.
A tad on the long side, but I was never bored.
There you have it in a nutshell.
Recommended read for sure!
Want to read
December 4, 2020Kindle FREEBIE 12/4/20!
August 3, 2020
**** 4 solid stars!! ****
This was such a great read!
Loved both characters, so well developed. 🥰
Super chemistry.
Delicious slow burn.
Great plot, "the struggle was real" kind of angst.
Just wished the religious aspect was toned down a bit because Levi's family did my head in! 🤦🏼♀️
Thank you, Maria! ❤❤
This was such a great read!
Loved both characters, so well developed. 🥰
Super chemistry.
Delicious slow burn.
Great plot, "the struggle was real" kind of angst.
Just wished the religious aspect was toned down a bit because Levi's family did my head in! 🤦🏼♀️
Thank you, Maria! ❤❤
March 26, 2021
Sometimes I decide to read a book that I’ve a feeling won’t be for me and I end up pleasantly surprised, and sometimes I get a confirmation that I should’ve trusted my instincts. You can easily see from my rating which was the case here.
The worst thing is that for the first half or so I was really, really liking this book. I liked the characters, their different circumstances and challenges, and their dynamic. I loved that, while Levi had his faith, he also had the backbone to stand up to his family when they treated him like shit for being gay and not living his life like they wanted him to.
Somewhere around the halfway mark, between , the book lost me. At first it was subtle,
By the time it just went downhill. I really don’t know what the author was trying to do here. I’ve tried thinking about it objectively and gave up when I realized I was only making myself angry. What I have to offer is how I saw things and it boils down to this: It makes sense, right? By that point I was ready to start banging my head on the wall, but fortunately the book had also finished. And not a second too soon.
I could say a lot more about this aspect of the book (A LOT!), but it would probably turn in a full-blown rant and I would’ve to revisit in detail every little thing that upset me and I don’t see the point in that.
Religious aspect aside, I also lost any interest in the romance, that was otherwise handled pretty well both before and after this turning (for me) point, after Jaime It didn’t feel consistent with the way Jaime’s character had been presented until then and it inevitably soured the romance for me, so much that I couldn’t care less about what came next for them, even though it was all well done and I would’ve liked it under different circumstances.
The second star is for the first part and for Levi, he was a great character.
The worst thing is that for the first half or so I was really, really liking this book. I liked the characters, their different circumstances and challenges, and their dynamic. I loved that, while Levi had his faith, he also had the backbone to stand up to his family when they treated him like shit for being gay and not living his life like they wanted him to.
Somewhere around the halfway mark, between , the book lost me. At first it was subtle,
By the time it just went downhill. I really don’t know what the author was trying to do here. I’ve tried thinking about it objectively and gave up when I realized I was only making myself angry. What I have to offer is how I saw things and it boils down to this: It makes sense, right? By that point I was ready to start banging my head on the wall, but fortunately the book had also finished. And not a second too soon.
I could say a lot more about this aspect of the book (A LOT!), but it would probably turn in a full-blown rant and I would’ve to revisit in detail every little thing that upset me and I don’t see the point in that.
Religious aspect aside, I also lost any interest in the romance, that was otherwise handled pretty well both before and after this turning (for me) point, after Jaime It didn’t feel consistent with the way Jaime’s character had been presented until then and it inevitably soured the romance for me, so much that I couldn’t care less about what came next for them, even though it was all well done and I would’ve liked it under different circumstances.
The second star is for the first part and for Levi, he was a great character.
September 8, 2020
I avoided this book for a very long time. Mostly, the religious theme deterred me.
Color me surprised when this ended up being a 5 Star read.
So many wonderful things about this story.
The most memorable aspect ended up being the religious theme. I loved the way Marie Sexton approached Levi's Mormon families point of view. The conflict between familial love and religious doctrine. Blind rigid radical faith is a very scary thing. Levi's family is torn and conflicted with their view point of the "gay lifestyle" as they call it. Their struggle with it was very real but it didn't negate their love for Levi. Their misguided attempt to help definitely caused more harm than good. But gosh, it was nice to see them work hard to understand. It was nice to see them re-adjust their viewpoint. Weigh what they consider a sin against other sin's. To reach for a different perspective within the boundaries of their religious believes. To work at it, as a family.
Levi, oh Levi. What a lovable character. Holding strong family values even when it hurt. Even when he felt betrayed by those he loves more than anything. But still he kept going back, kept answering their calls, kept hurting. He might have lost his way in the haze of betrayal and rebellion but Jaime gives him back pieces of himself he didn't know he was missing.
His compassion. His patience.
He learns unconditional love.
He learns to put another before himself, emotionally and physically.
Jaime's scars were harder for me to handle. It hurt to see the destruction his family left. A past he still couldn't escape even as an adult. His fear. His trauma. Watching him heal, seek comfort, gain a family was beautiful.
There is a lot of pain in this story. Things that are too real. Too believable. Too painful. But there is also hope, understanding, acceptance, comfort, healing.
This story is incredibly moving and beautiful. I understand all the raving reviews now.
Highly recommend to those left who still haven't read this.
Color me surprised when this ended up being a 5 Star read.
So many wonderful things about this story.
The most memorable aspect ended up being the religious theme. I loved the way Marie Sexton approached Levi's Mormon families point of view. The conflict between familial love and religious doctrine. Blind rigid radical faith is a very scary thing. Levi's family is torn and conflicted with their view point of the "gay lifestyle" as they call it. Their struggle with it was very real but it didn't negate their love for Levi. Their misguided attempt to help definitely caused more harm than good. But gosh, it was nice to see them work hard to understand. It was nice to see them re-adjust their viewpoint. Weigh what they consider a sin against other sin's. To reach for a different perspective within the boundaries of their religious believes. To work at it, as a family.
Levi, oh Levi. What a lovable character. Holding strong family values even when it hurt. Even when he felt betrayed by those he loves more than anything. But still he kept going back, kept answering their calls, kept hurting. He might have lost his way in the haze of betrayal and rebellion but Jaime gives him back pieces of himself he didn't know he was missing.
His compassion. His patience.
He learns unconditional love.
He learns to put another before himself, emotionally and physically.
Jaime's scars were harder for me to handle. It hurt to see the destruction his family left. A past he still couldn't escape even as an adult. His fear. His trauma. Watching him heal, seek comfort, gain a family was beautiful.
There is a lot of pain in this story. Things that are too real. Too believable. Too painful. But there is also hope, understanding, acceptance, comfort, healing.
This story is incredibly moving and beautiful. I understand all the raving reviews now.
Highly recommend to those left who still haven't read this.
October 6, 2018
I struggled with the sanctimonious bigotry that Levi's family levelled at him throughout the entire book, and that's why I try to steer clear of books with a religious theme running through. That said, Levi saved the book for me, his character growth was brilliant in spite of his awful family.
The book would've benefited greatly from an epilogue instead of the abrupt ending that I was left with. It's a longish book and after all that to just cut me off with a HFN .... just no!
3.5 stars
The book would've benefited greatly from an epilogue instead of the abrupt ending that I was left with. It's a longish book and after all that to just cut me off with a HFN .... just no!
3.5 stars
September 22, 2017
*4,5 stars*
Wow. That was really intriguing.
At the centre of the book is an in-depth look at how Mormons might look upon homosexuality and 'its lifestyle'. And no, some of these views are not what I expected (while others were)
There are church doctrines, but then there are deep family values and a lot of love, too. But also blissful ignorance of some people in Levi's family that someone gay will remain gay, whatever. Despite yearlong efforts to 'change' him.
The final discussion was exceedingly thought-provoking and took me by surprise. I have no idea how real this is or can be, but it was brilliantly argued.
Please do not get the impression this was a theological 'discussion' first and foremost. Not all all. This is essentially a love story, full of amazing UST, heart-breaks and feelings. Fabulous writing! But the religious element is very strong.
Levi is a lovely man and a beautiful lover. Making Jaime happy is the only thing on his mind, and if that means being patient about sex (and I am talking about months and months here...) so be it. And Jaime is such a broken soul. I strongly felt that he should have had more therapy after what had happened to him. It might have made his life more liveable.
I loved the gradual unfolding of their romance, Jamie's total oblivion when it comes to Levi's feelings and Levi's never-ending tenderness.
Fab book!
Wow. That was really intriguing.
At the centre of the book is an in-depth look at how Mormons might look upon homosexuality and 'its lifestyle'. And no, some of these views are not what I expected (while others were)
There are church doctrines, but then there are deep family values and a lot of love, too. But also blissful ignorance of some people in Levi's family that someone gay will remain gay, whatever. Despite yearlong efforts to 'change' him.
The final discussion was exceedingly thought-provoking and took me by surprise. I have no idea how real this is or can be, but it was brilliantly argued.
Please do not get the impression this was a theological 'discussion' first and foremost. Not all all. This is essentially a love story, full of amazing UST, heart-breaks and feelings. Fabulous writing! But the religious element is very strong.
Levi is a lovely man and a beautiful lover. Making Jaime happy is the only thing on his mind, and if that means being patient about sex (and I am talking about months and months here...) so be it. And Jaime is such a broken soul. I strongly felt that he should have had more therapy after what had happened to him. It might have made his life more liveable.
I loved the gradual unfolding of their romance, Jamie's total oblivion when it comes to Levi's feelings and Levi's never-ending tenderness.
Fab book!
October 20, 2015
This was my second read and I LOVED it all over again. I never wrote a review the first time, so here is a quick review for the second read:
Seriously? If there is anyone out there that hasn't read this, STOP EVERYTHING RIGHT NOW.
Just stop. Pick up this hurt/healing/comfort gem and start it RIGHT. The. Fuck. Now.
I don't know what else to say that hasn't been said. One damaged "broken" character, another recently redeemed, strong, emotionally supportive character.
Perfection.
Seriously? If there is anyone out there that hasn't read this, STOP EVERYTHING RIGHT NOW.
Just stop. Pick up this hurt/healing/comfort gem and start it RIGHT. The. Fuck. Now.
I don't know what else to say that hasn't been said. One damaged "broken" character, another recently redeemed, strong, emotionally supportive character.
Perfection.
January 30, 2016
4 Stars for a very nice and tender story about life, family, acceptance, fear, attraction, the wounds of abuse and to love unconditionally
This was another very fine and sweet story from Ms. Sexton ~ she is becoming a new favorite. I really like her a bit more diverse and somewhat damaged characters, they are so much more than just two MC in a love story. They make my heart sore and I almost hit a knot in myself in my desire for their happiness and HEA.
Levi's and Jamie's story is wonderfully beautiful, but also so difficult. I knew immediately that this would be an enjoyable and entertaining read. A promiscuous surfing bartender and a shy and single masseur is a promising start. What I probably didn't understand was that this would be so much more than another hot M/M romance. Daring to go with a seducer to the beach to surf, or to say no to willing sexy men, or to touch and be touched is a challenge and sometimes requires courage. Unexpected twists and heartbreaking to follow, yes my tears flowed actually a few times.
The relationship with Levi's family who live in the Mormon Church's spirit and their inability to accept homosexuality - at least that their son/brother etc live it out - probably made this novel a little bit more interesting for me. It's a community whose values are basically unknown to me. And if I had a little hesitant and negative attitude earlier gave the author me a more positive picture with their family cohesion and willingness to try to slowly change, here in this story. As I grew up and live in a very non religiously and far come secular country and society, I always have a little difficulty understanding how the influence of the church, God and the Bible can influence people's perceptions of what is right and wrong so much. It's not that I don't believe in God, I'm like most Swedes member of the Protestant Church. But it's a very symbolic membership which basically hardly affect my life at all.
Levi's tough fight to get his huge (Yes huge; it's parents, five siblings with wifes/husbands and 19 nephews - I just say; Wow!!) Mormon family to accept his sexuality and life choices were so engaging to follow. Not to be believed, listened to and not being accepted for who you are and the way you choose to live on, is terrible. Here in this story there is, in any case, the whole time a family's wholehearted love, even if it's tough and hard sometimes.
Even Jamie has a heavy luggage, a terribly heavy...
I don't want to reveal too much, but the spirit of the story is, after all, that with love, patience and confidence may you heal wounds, make life changes and also create and get great happiness.
I really cared for these two guys, the family circumstances and its solution. Perhaps sometimes was it a little too slow paced, but the more credible it was after all. I'm often a bit restless - so slow can be good. Their longing and slow pace closer together physically was so nice to follow. I was as nervous and anxious as the boys - sigh, they are so nice and cute! There was not a page in the book I didn't read with my heart and great interest.
In my opinion, this is a wonderfully nice, tender and romantic, but maybe slightly sentimental, novel. There were new emotions, both in terms of relationships and sex, it was beautifully told and I just love when damaged and lonely souls will get another chance to heal and find peace. I'm very pleased!!
I LIKE - a very nice and touching story
~~~~~~
...and so it was, that good idea they have, to take a course to become altered and non-gay ~ really?!?
This was another very fine and sweet story from Ms. Sexton ~ she is becoming a new favorite. I really like her a bit more diverse and somewhat damaged characters, they are so much more than just two MC in a love story. They make my heart sore and I almost hit a knot in myself in my desire for their happiness and HEA.
Levi's and Jamie's story is wonderfully beautiful, but also so difficult. I knew immediately that this would be an enjoyable and entertaining read. A promiscuous surfing bartender and a shy and single masseur is a promising start. What I probably didn't understand was that this would be so much more than another hot M/M romance. Daring to go with a seducer to the beach to surf, or to say no to willing sexy men, or to touch and be touched is a challenge and sometimes requires courage. Unexpected twists and heartbreaking to follow, yes my tears flowed actually a few times.
‘He also wasn't sure where to go to avoid running into some type of surfer gang. He'd seen Point Break and while he suspected it was nothing but Hollywood bullshit, he didn't exactly want to find out the hard way he was wrong.’
The relationship with Levi's family who live in the Mormon Church's spirit and their inability to accept homosexuality - at least that their son/brother etc live it out - probably made this novel a little bit more interesting for me. It's a community whose values are basically unknown to me. And if I had a little hesitant and negative attitude earlier gave the author me a more positive picture with their family cohesion and willingness to try to slowly change, here in this story. As I grew up and live in a very non religiously and far come secular country and society, I always have a little difficulty understanding how the influence of the church, God and the Bible can influence people's perceptions of what is right and wrong so much. It's not that I don't believe in God, I'm like most Swedes member of the Protestant Church. But it's a very symbolic membership which basically hardly affect my life at all.
Levi's tough fight to get his huge (Yes huge; it's parents, five siblings with wifes/husbands and 19 nephews - I just say; Wow!!) Mormon family to accept his sexuality and life choices were so engaging to follow. Not to be believed, listened to and not being accepted for who you are and the way you choose to live on, is terrible. Here in this story there is, in any case, the whole time a family's wholehearted love, even if it's tough and hard sometimes.
“I think you want very much to make this black and white--to make us all out to be sinners or saints. But it's just not that simple. I think what you need to accept is that, just maybe, we're all something else. Maybe we're all something in between.”
Even Jamie has a heavy luggage, a terribly heavy...
I don't want to reveal too much, but the spirit of the story is, after all, that with love, patience and confidence may you heal wounds, make life changes and also create and get great happiness.
I really cared for these two guys, the family circumstances and its solution. Perhaps sometimes was it a little too slow paced, but the more credible it was after all. I'm often a bit restless - so slow can be good. Their longing and slow pace closer together physically was so nice to follow. I was as nervous and anxious as the boys - sigh, they are so nice and cute! There was not a page in the book I didn't read with my heart and great interest.
‘He loved Jaime. He loved him so much sometimes he thought he must certainly be losing his mind. It was hard to believe his heart could go on beating minute after minute, day after day, when it felt so distorted and huge and fragile.’
In my opinion, this is a wonderfully nice, tender and romantic, but maybe slightly sentimental, novel. There were new emotions, both in terms of relationships and sex, it was beautifully told and I just love when damaged and lonely souls will get another chance to heal and find peace. I'm very pleased!!
I LIKE - a very nice and touching story
~~~~~~
...and so it was, that good idea they have, to take a course to become altered and non-gay ~ really?!?
June 1, 2011
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I like reading slow and sweet love stories, and this definitely fit the bill, due to Jaime's history. Even more (though they often infuriated me), I enjoyed Levi's family. I think it was very smart of Marie Sexton to let this story run the course it did. Now that I think back on it, there isn't one book I remember reading right now in this genre that doesn't offer a complete resolution for coming out (even though Levi is already out) that isn't either complete and ultimate acceptance or estrangement. It is so often black and white, or the climax of the novel is the point in which the family accepts the MCs completely and without reservation. This is so often not the case in real life, especially in situations like this. Yet, I never doubted the love the whole family had for Levi, and I believe that they truly loved him. And not only did I find Levi much more mature than the family gave him credit for, but I thought it was incredibly mature of him to persist having to bear their disapproval instead of writing his family off and cutting himself off from them, even before he realizes that Jaime needs them as much as he needs Levi.
The only other thing I can say is that they should have chosen Coda!
I really enjoyed this book. I like reading slow and sweet love stories, and this definitely fit the bill, due to Jaime's history. Even more (though they often infuriated me), I enjoyed Levi's family. I think it was very smart of Marie Sexton to let this story run the course it did. Now that I think back on it, there isn't one book I remember reading right now in this genre that doesn't offer a complete resolution for coming out (even though Levi is already out) that isn't either complete and ultimate acceptance or estrangement. It is so often black and white, or the climax of the novel is the point in which the family accepts the MCs completely and without reservation. This is so often not the case in real life, especially in situations like this. Yet, I never doubted the love the whole family had for Levi, and I believe that they truly loved him. And not only did I find Levi much more mature than the family gave him credit for, but I thought it was incredibly mature of him to persist having to bear their disapproval instead of writing his family off and cutting himself off from them, even before he realizes that Jaime needs them as much as he needs Levi.
The only other thing I can say is that they should have chosen Coda!
September 1, 2013
Between Sinner’s and Saints is warm and tender; often light and fluffy with the added intensity of an age old argument. A token of sinful sex and just enough of the saintly kind to get the heart rate going, all mixed together to create a surprisingly enjoyable read.
After reading a rather noxious and amateurish m/f romance, this book was a balm for my temper head, heart and soul. The writing flows, there are no dubious characterisations, everything adds up, it’s believable and void of insta - anything; just such easy reading – Thank you Marie Sexton!
Endearing characters with selfless motivations face off against the pious views of Levi’s saintly Mormon family; fighting for the acceptance of his/their sexuality. Together Levi and Jaime find strength and courage in each other to overcome a past that has plagued Jaime with nightmares - is the general premise of the story.
I have to admit that this story is packed full of personal nostalgia for me. The surfing, the beach, the sunshine, yummy surfer boys and good times, the BEST of times; once again I could smell the coconut in the sunscreen and feel the warmth, recalling the exhilaration my surfing days now long gone is a bittersweet reflection, but one I revelled in none the less.
This is a plot I haven’t quite read before. The author tackles the religion vs homosexuality argument without adding offense to either and offers a heart breaking look at both sides of the story. I felt that there are three lots of protagonists here: Levi and Jaime as well as Levi’s moron family. All have suffered their own torment in rejection and lack of understanding. Will the slow building relationship between Jaime and Levi become the catalyst for all to meet a resolution and finally accept what is? Or are they to be cast out as sinners?
The story is very much focused on Levi, who lives a life of 'sin' working in a gay bar and sleeping with a different man most nights. He is gorgeous, cocky and lonely; living for surfing and sex until he gets a chance and a reason to change. I loved Levi with all his 'flaws' because his heart is just golden.
I will leave the secretive and damaged Jaime for you to discover, but needless to say, I loved him too.
If it wasn't for the church vs gay disparity and the personal nostalgia which garnered an extra star from me, this might have been a bit too shmootsy in places, but still a solid 3 star likable read. As it is, it was just what I needed right now and I have to say I really did like it. It was perfect for me at this time.
After reading a rather noxious and amateurish m/f romance, this book was a balm for my
Endearing characters with selfless motivations face off against the pious views of Levi’s saintly Mormon family; fighting for the acceptance of his/their sexuality. Together Levi and Jaime find strength and courage in each other to overcome a past that has plagued Jaime with nightmares - is the general premise of the story.
I have to admit that this story is packed full of personal nostalgia for me. The surfing, the beach, the sunshine, yummy surfer boys and good times, the BEST of times; once again I could smell the coconut in the sunscreen and feel the warmth, recalling the exhilaration my surfing days now long gone is a bittersweet reflection, but one I revelled in none the less.
This is a plot I haven’t quite read before. The author tackles the religion vs homosexuality argument without adding offense to either and offers a heart breaking look at both sides of the story. I felt that there are three lots of protagonists here: Levi and Jaime as well as Levi’s moron family. All have suffered their own torment in rejection and lack of understanding. Will the slow building relationship between Jaime and Levi become the catalyst for all to meet a resolution and finally accept what is? Or are they to be cast out as sinners?
The story is very much focused on Levi, who lives a life of 'sin' working in a gay bar and sleeping with a different man most nights. He is gorgeous, cocky and lonely; living for surfing and sex until he gets a chance and a reason to change. I loved Levi with all his 'flaws' because his heart is just golden.
I will leave the secretive and damaged Jaime for you to discover, but needless to say, I loved him too.
If it wasn't for the church vs gay disparity and the personal nostalgia which garnered an extra star from me, this might have been a bit too shmootsy in places, but still a solid 3 star likable read. As it is, it was just what I needed right now and I have to say I really did like it. It was perfect for me at this time.
July 6, 2019
Marie Sexton is slowly climbing to my Favorite Authors List. I can never get accustomed to the fact that whenever I begin one of her books, I'm not going to just get an angsty romance, but so much more.
Levi is a lost soul, drowning himself in a life of meaningless sex with a new partner every night. He stays away from a family that considers his life a sin, and enjoys surfing in his free days.
Some muscle pain makes him find a massage therapist. That's how he meets Jamie.
If Levi is a lost soul, Jamie probably has lost his soul altogether. Levi falls for him and turns his life upside down, trying to be a better person for Jamie, trying to help him heal his fears and past trauma, transforming from a perpetual fuckboy to a real pillar in Jamie's life.
I found this book profoundly educational and solemn. It had a very satisfying ending, with very satisfying character development arcs.
I also enjoyed reading about the Mormon religious philosophy. Beware if this bores you, because there is a LOT of it.
Fully recommend. :)
Levi is a lost soul, drowning himself in a life of meaningless sex with a new partner every night. He stays away from a family that considers his life a sin, and enjoys surfing in his free days.
Some muscle pain makes him find a massage therapist. That's how he meets Jamie.
If Levi is a lost soul, Jamie probably has lost his soul altogether. Levi falls for him and turns his life upside down, trying to be a better person for Jamie, trying to help him heal his fears and past trauma, transforming from a perpetual fuckboy to a real pillar in Jamie's life.
I found this book profoundly educational and solemn. It had a very satisfying ending, with very satisfying character development arcs.
I also enjoyed reading about the Mormon religious philosophy. Beware if this bores you, because there is a LOT of it.
Fully recommend. :)
August 23, 2015
I truly LOVED this book. Once Levi was able to keep his d*ck in his pants, he really was exactly what Jamie needed to cope with and heal from his childhood sexual abuse.
For some reason lately, I keep unintentionally picking books where one of the main characters is battling to overcome their parent's hardcore religion. That usually tends to completely squick me out, but not so much in this book. Which is shocking to me considering we're talking about Mormons. (Romney flashback. *double-cringe*)
What I especially loved was that, in spite of the rampant (rabid) Mormonism, Levi's family very quickly provided a real sense of true family and belonging that Jamie had never felt before. Even with all of the gay vs. God bullshit, Jamie felt the love there and a sense of peace. And he wanted in. Like, uh, now. It was very cool.
I really love stories where both main characters truly help their partner through life's major bullshit, which was definitely the case here. Levi gave Jamie family and a safe haven, while Jamie gave Levi a purpose and his own family back. A very good read all around.
For some reason lately, I keep unintentionally picking books where one of the main characters is battling to overcome their parent's hardcore religion. That usually tends to completely squick me out, but not so much in this book. Which is shocking to me considering we're talking about Mormons. (Romney flashback. *double-cringe*)
What I especially loved was that, in spite of the rampant (rabid) Mormonism, Levi's family very quickly provided a real sense of true family and belonging that Jamie had never felt before. Even with all of the gay vs. God bullshit, Jamie felt the love there and a sense of peace. And he wanted in. Like, uh, now. It was very cool.
I really love stories where both main characters truly help their partner through life's major bullshit, which was definitely the case here. Levi gave Jamie family and a safe haven, while Jamie gave Levi a purpose and his own family back. A very good read all around.
April 23, 2012
This book did a wonderful job of bringing together Levi, the guy who had a hundred meaningless encounters and Jaime, the guy who was traumatized and trying hard to make a life he could handle. Their relationship built in a totally believable way. I loved the MC's, loved the pace of the relationship, and Levi's family dynamics. Jaime's background and issues were given such a realistic depth and pace, and Levi's realizations of how he felt about Jaime were sweet. There were a few misunderstandings between the men but they were well done, not the kind I find irritating. The religious content was very well handled, seldom veering into either caricature or soapbox. What a lovely story and one I will no doubt reread.
May 28, 2011
I didn’t think that Marie Sexton could top One More Soldier, a book I love and have re-read many times, but Between Sinners and Saints showed me a different side of her writing and proved once again what an incredible writer she is. The plot and characters moved me so much that I couldn’t put this novel down.
The protagonists will grab on to your heart especially Jaime who was vulnerable and scarred from his past experience. He was a complex character who was so fragile it seemed as if he would break at any moment, but he was by no means weak and he proved to be the catalyst throughout the story. Levi’s family fell for him despite his being gay which went against everything they believed in, and he showed them at last what a wonderful person Levi was and how he had changed his life for the better. Levi’s love for Jaime was unselfish, and he was so tender with him you will fall for him too. Both characters grew exponentially throughout the course of the book and the development of the plot to its conclusion was well crafted. This plot could have become a quagmire because of the themes of faith, homosexuality, rape, and a family in crisis, but the author wove them into a tapestry for a wonderful and moving story that will make you admire the way it unfolded and how the family conflicts were resolved without taking the easy way out.
The characters were all flawed, including Levi’s parents who wore blinders and initially could not see any viewpoint but their own, but Jaime opened their eyes and hearts to another path and showed them that if you truly loved someone you would accept them unconditionally. This story is by no means a quick fix for religious prejudices and hate, and at times it was hard for me to understand why for 10 years Levi was treated like a pariah even though his family did acknowledge reluctantly that homosexuality was not a choice.
The author integrated a lot of information about the Mormon religion into the plot without making me feel that it was an info dump. The doubts each member of Levi’s family experienced about the path they had chosen, and the impact their decision had on Levi seemed realistic as they tried to balance their love for him against their faith. To her credit Marie Sexton didn’t demonize the Mormons or make Levi’s family into selfish unfeeling people, instead they were portrayed as sincere believers whose lives were governed by strict religious principles. But faith can be a two edged sword and this was a thread that was woven throughout the story in a non-judgmental way.
Between Sinners and Saints could have been a downer because of the emphasis on religion and how people’s faith and beliefs affect their lives, but it was actually fun. Jaime’s dark sense of humour emerged and some of the supporting characters rationalized their own departure from the strict teachings of their faith while still hoping to enjoy the benefits of a heavenly afterlife. The characters were all fully fleshed out and the family dynamics were complicated as expected, but there was also a lot of love and friendship.
The protagonists will grab on to your heart especially Jaime who was vulnerable and scarred from his past experience. He was a complex character who was so fragile it seemed as if he would break at any moment, but he was by no means weak and he proved to be the catalyst throughout the story. Levi’s family fell for him despite his being gay which went against everything they believed in, and he showed them at last what a wonderful person Levi was and how he had changed his life for the better. Levi’s love for Jaime was unselfish, and he was so tender with him you will fall for him too. Both characters grew exponentially throughout the course of the book and the development of the plot to its conclusion was well crafted. This plot could have become a quagmire because of the themes of faith, homosexuality, rape, and a family in crisis, but the author wove them into a tapestry for a wonderful and moving story that will make you admire the way it unfolded and how the family conflicts were resolved without taking the easy way out.
The characters were all flawed, including Levi’s parents who wore blinders and initially could not see any viewpoint but their own, but Jaime opened their eyes and hearts to another path and showed them that if you truly loved someone you would accept them unconditionally. This story is by no means a quick fix for religious prejudices and hate, and at times it was hard for me to understand why for 10 years Levi was treated like a pariah even though his family did acknowledge reluctantly that homosexuality was not a choice.
The author integrated a lot of information about the Mormon religion into the plot without making me feel that it was an info dump. The doubts each member of Levi’s family experienced about the path they had chosen, and the impact their decision had on Levi seemed realistic as they tried to balance their love for him against their faith. To her credit Marie Sexton didn’t demonize the Mormons or make Levi’s family into selfish unfeeling people, instead they were portrayed as sincere believers whose lives were governed by strict religious principles. But faith can be a two edged sword and this was a thread that was woven throughout the story in a non-judgmental way.
Between Sinners and Saints could have been a downer because of the emphasis on religion and how people’s faith and beliefs affect their lives, but it was actually fun. Jaime’s dark sense of humour emerged and some of the supporting characters rationalized their own departure from the strict teachings of their faith while still hoping to enjoy the benefits of a heavenly afterlife. The characters were all fully fleshed out and the family dynamics were complicated as expected, but there was also a lot of love and friendship.
January 27, 2022
AUDIO REVIEW 1/26/22
The narrator wasn't bad but he wasn't great either. I found it odd that he used different accents within Levi's family and the voice for Levi just didn't fit him. The voice he chose for Levi made him sound older.
As to the story, I think this audio either made me like it less or I was being generous with my previous rating 🤔🤷🏽♀️
ORIGINAL REVIEW 10/3/18
3.75 stars
The second half of this book is by far better than the first. When Levi stops being such a manwh*re creep and puts Jamie's needs before his own, the book really shined.
The narrator wasn't bad but he wasn't great either. I found it odd that he used different accents within Levi's family and the voice for Levi just didn't fit him. The voice he chose for Levi made him sound older.
As to the story, I think this audio either made me like it less or I was being generous with my previous rating 🤔🤷🏽♀️
ORIGINAL REVIEW 10/3/18
3.75 stars
The second half of this book is by far better than the first. When Levi stops being such a manwh*re creep and puts Jamie's needs before his own, the book really shined.
January 12, 2021
Jaime is a victim of abuse who is terrified of people, and lives a very lonely life. He has never been in a relationship, not even a friendship one, not since his teens. Levi is a Mormon who rejected the church (or was rejected by it), works in a gay bar and fucks a different guy every night. Sometimes more than one.
When Levi needs a massage therapist, he meets Jaime. After a rough start, they become friends and eventually fall in love. They were amazing for each other. I loved them together. It was very sweet.
Now the BAD parts (SPOILERS)
- that scene when Jaime kicked Levi out of his massage for coming on to him super strongly and actually showing his dick. WTF happened there. Imagine a guy actually doing that during a massage? I am still angry. To me, it painted Levi in a disgusting light and I had a hard time liking him after. But I came around as he changed dramatically over the course of the book. And I get that this was written 10 years ago...
- Levi’s family. I hate them. I hate that even after Levi and Jaime fell in love, his mother was disappointed that it meant he’d never turn straight. I hate that his father only accepted them because of Jaime. I hate the whole love the sinner hate the sin mentality. I was angry every time they went to visit them.
- the religious aspect was A LOT. Lots of praying. Lots of talking about God.
When Levi needs a massage therapist, he meets Jaime. After a rough start, they become friends and eventually fall in love. They were amazing for each other. I loved them together. It was very sweet.
Now the BAD parts (SPOILERS)
- that scene when Jaime kicked Levi out of his massage for coming on to him super strongly and actually showing his dick. WTF happened there. Imagine a guy actually doing that during a massage? I am still angry. To me, it painted Levi in a disgusting light and I had a hard time liking him after. But I came around as he changed dramatically over the course of the book. And I get that this was written 10 years ago...
- Levi’s family. I hate them. I hate that even after Levi and Jaime fell in love, his mother was disappointed that it meant he’d never turn straight. I hate that his father only accepted them because of Jaime. I hate the whole love the sinner hate the sin mentality. I was angry every time they went to visit them.
- the religious aspect was A LOT. Lots of praying. Lots of talking about God.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2020
This is a great book that I have read many times but never reviewed. It's about two separate issues - a party boy at odds with his religious family but also how the same man meets a very damaged shy massage therapist and ends up falling in love. I'm surprised one reviewer felt Levi' s family where abusive to him as I didn't get that impression at all. I'm not religious and hate religious stories but here the book is cleverly written. The family do nag Levi and drive him mad but you can see its because they love him and want what's best for him. It's a classic stalemate as he will never be able to do what they want and they love him so feel they cannot give up on trying to get him to live a better life. It's not that I agree with them but you really get to understand how difficult the situation is for both sides. All the characters are likeable and value the family so the story is gripping. How they all get to a HEA is so well written.
February 25, 2020
I've re-read this recently and I found the religion parts just awful this time around. Going with 4 stars now instead of 5.
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I loved the hurt/comfort parts in this. I loved how Levi went from a manwhore to the sort of man that was super sweet and patient with the formerly abused Jaime.
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I loved the hurt/comfort parts in this. I loved how Levi went from a manwhore to the sort of man that was super sweet and patient with the formerly abused Jaime.
February 7, 2015
4.5 stars
This story proves once again that Marie Sexton is a wonderful author. She tackles some heavy subjects: rape/pedophilia, depression, faith/religion, and penance, woven with the concept of love and family (and one of the "oldest" argument about homosexuality: is it a sin when it's also love?), into one well-written and thoughtful novel.
It's a story of opposites attract: Levi Binder, the playboy bartender with Mormon family, and Jaime Marshall, the innocent therapist with painful past. It's also a story of finding love with one that you might never think will be yours to keep and story of penance.
I love how both characters grow in their own way because they find one another. Levi, who used to be the sinner, having sex with different guys every night, just to spite his family and to live his life as a gay person. Jaime, who suffers from depression, OCD, panic attack, and cannot be touched by others (he is such a messed up man), whose only friend is his dog, Dolly. But after they find each other, Levi is willing to leave that life behind and Jaime is willing to embrace the outside world.
The story is character driven. There first kiss doesn't happen until about 3/4 of the book. When it comes to sex, there's no actual penetration (Jaime needs to take things slowly due to his horrific past), though I'm sure they tackle that off screen, after the HEA :). But it feels more romantic somehow, because it becomes more than just sex. It's what love is all about, in sickness and in health. There are some tender moments that I adore, most notably the idea that Jaime can only sleep peacefully, lack of nightmares, when he sleeps in Levi's bed.
The only reason why I cannot give it a perfect 5-star rating is because of the religion/faith issue. It's not an easy re-read for me. The confab that Levi must endure from his family makes me uncomfortable, and unfortunately this scene doesn't happen just once. I know that the road that Ms. Sexton takes as "the answer" is a good one (life is not just black and white but there's something in between), but I'm not sure I'm ready to experience those arguments over and over again.
This story proves once again that Marie Sexton is a wonderful author. She tackles some heavy subjects: rape/pedophilia, depression, faith/religion, and penance, woven with the concept of love and family (and one of the "oldest" argument about homosexuality: is it a sin when it's also love?), into one well-written and thoughtful novel.
It's a story of opposites attract: Levi Binder, the playboy bartender with Mormon family, and Jaime Marshall, the innocent therapist with painful past. It's also a story of finding love with one that you might never think will be yours to keep and story of penance.
I love how both characters grow in their own way because they find one another. Levi, who used to be the sinner, having sex with different guys every night, just to spite his family and to live his life as a gay person. Jaime, who suffers from depression, OCD, panic attack, and cannot be touched by others (he is such a messed up man), whose only friend is his dog, Dolly. But after they find each other, Levi is willing to leave that life behind and Jaime is willing to embrace the outside world.
The story is character driven. There first kiss doesn't happen until about 3/4 of the book. When it comes to sex, there's no actual penetration (Jaime needs to take things slowly due to his horrific past), though I'm sure they tackle that off screen, after the HEA :). But it feels more romantic somehow, because it becomes more than just sex. It's what love is all about, in sickness and in health. There are some tender moments that I adore, most notably the idea that Jaime can only sleep peacefully, lack of nightmares, when he sleeps in Levi's bed.
The only reason why I cannot give it a perfect 5-star rating is because of the religion/faith issue. It's not an easy re-read for me. The confab that Levi must endure from his family makes me uncomfortable, and unfortunately this scene doesn't happen just once. I know that the road that Ms. Sexton takes as "the answer" is a good one (life is not just black and white but there's something in between), but I'm not sure I'm ready to experience those arguments over and over again.
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November 1, 2023
Deliciously full of angsty themes, and a long slow-burn start to the romance. Loved it, especially the parts were we got to see the friendship building as well. It gave the story depth that many romances lacks. In the second half of the book I found myself skimming past a few holiday with fam scenes. I was glad to see the ending scene mending the family rift was so well done.
August 16, 2011
Such a sad, heartbreaking story with a HEA
I've been putting this off since the release because I was freaked out by the religion, abused MC, and the slutty MC. So yesterday I finally started it because I wanted to read something where I could really connect with and feel for the characters. And this was exactly what I was looking for.
First, there is Jamie, who spends his days healing people with his touch and his nights locking himself away and hiding from his inner monsters. He was abused as a child and suffers from severe PTSD. Then there is Levi. He spends is life fucking "no-names" in the back storage room of the club he bartends. Their relationship starts off as only friends and continues as friends for the majority of the book. Jamie is so "scarred" he is unable to trust anyone and soon Levi wants to be the person to take care of Jamie. But Levi has his own demons mostly stemming from being rejected for his homosexuality by his own family and their Mormon faith. He spends the first 50% of the book having sex with other people. I think these were the hardest scenes of the book for me to read. Even harder than Jamie's abuse flashbacks. I was going to post a spoiler and go into detail of what all Levi did, but right now I really don't want to think about it agian. I'm just going to say that some of Levi's activities pushed the boundries of my "accepting" zone and I would have to stop, take a few deep breaths and a few sips of water to recover. Most people may not see it as that bad, but it was hard for me. Once Levi finally reached his breaking point, I was a lot more comfortable with the story.
There is also a lot of religion in this book. Usually I hate that in my books and it made me uncomfortable in the beginning, but its such a huge part of the story I just had to accept it. I hated Levi's family in the beginning, but by the end I was able to understand them somewhat. They really only wanted Levi safe and happy.
I really loved this story especially,I think, because I was in the mood for it. This is really not something I would usually prefer to read. Also, one of the things I love about Marie's writing is that the romance is never rushed. It takes the entire book to see Jamie and Levi's love for each other develop and grow. I'm so happy for their HEA!!
I've been putting this off since the release because I was freaked out by the religion, abused MC, and the slutty MC. So yesterday I finally started it because I wanted to read something where I could really connect with and feel for the characters. And this was exactly what I was looking for.
First, there is Jamie, who spends his days healing people with his touch and his nights locking himself away and hiding from his inner monsters. He was abused as a child and suffers from severe PTSD. Then there is Levi. He spends is life fucking "no-names" in the back storage room of the club he bartends. Their relationship starts off as only friends and continues as friends for the majority of the book. Jamie is so "scarred" he is unable to trust anyone and soon Levi wants to be the person to take care of Jamie. But Levi has his own demons mostly stemming from being rejected for his homosexuality by his own family and their Mormon faith. He spends the first 50% of the book having sex with other people. I think these were the hardest scenes of the book for me to read. Even harder than Jamie's abuse flashbacks. I was going to post a spoiler and go into detail of what all Levi did, but right now I really don't want to think about it agian. I'm just going to say that some of Levi's activities pushed the boundries of my "accepting" zone and I would have to stop, take a few deep breaths and a few sips of water to recover. Most people may not see it as that bad, but it was hard for me. Once Levi finally reached his breaking point, I was a lot more comfortable with the story.
"Dear Heavenly Father, I know you may not approve of me or of the way I've lived these past several years. And I'm not asking you to forgive me for that because I'm not sure I'm sorry. But I am sorry for what happened on Saturday. I think you led me to Jaime for a reason, and I've screwed it up. I don't like what I've let myself become. I don't mean being gay, and if that's something you don't like, I can't change it. But there are other things I can change. And I think maybe I should. So I'm going to do what I can, and if you really did send me to Jaime for a reason, then I'm asking you please to let me try it again. Because I know I've failed at a lot of things, but I don't want to fail with him. Amen." ~ Levi
There is also a lot of religion in this book. Usually I hate that in my books and it made me uncomfortable in the beginning, but its such a huge part of the story I just had to accept it. I hated Levi's family in the beginning, but by the end I was able to understand them somewhat. They really only wanted Levi safe and happy.
I really loved this story especially,I think, because I was in the mood for it. This is really not something I would usually prefer to read. Also, one of the things I love about Marie's writing is that the romance is never rushed. It takes the entire book to see Jamie and Levi's love for each other develop and grow. I'm so happy for their HEA!!
September 1, 2016
This was a solid 4.5 stars pushing 5, up until the very last couple of chapters. Grrr....
Even so, I still really enjoyed this book.
I connected to the characters instantly. I think the author did a very good job in dealing with Jaime's past. I felt every bit of his turmoil without it being OTT. On the other hand, the religious aspects of the story got a bit preachy and heavy-handed. Plus, most of Levi's family were sanctimonious and I always felt like Levi was getting attacked. Their disapproval was disheartening. I understand and see how these issues would bother a lot of people. However, Levi's family didn't turn me off to the story. I had a difficult time dealing with how they treated Levi but I accepted the fact that this is how many families are. It's sad but true.
Here's my major complaint:
This will definitely go in my re-read pile, skipping the little visit at the end :)
Even so, I still really enjoyed this book.
I connected to the characters instantly. I think the author did a very good job in dealing with Jaime's past. I felt every bit of his turmoil without it being OTT. On the other hand, the religious aspects of the story got a bit preachy and heavy-handed. Plus, most of Levi's family were sanctimonious and I always felt like Levi was getting attacked. Their disapproval was disheartening. I understand and see how these issues would bother a lot of people. However, Levi's family didn't turn me off to the story. I had a difficult time dealing with how they treated Levi but I accepted the fact that this is how many families are. It's sad but true.
Here's my major complaint:
This will definitely go in my re-read pile, skipping the little visit at the end :)
February 6, 2012
My first Marie Sexton Book.
Holy amazeballs. If the rest of her work is of this caliber, I may need to download everything she has ever written ever. Gorgeous, gorgeous work.
Holy amazeballs. If the rest of her work is of this caliber, I may need to download everything she has ever written ever. Gorgeous, gorgeous work.
February 23, 2017
I'm still a little in shock at how much I disliked this book. Most/all of my GR friends who read it rated it 5 stars. So it's obviously my own hangups that didn't allow me to enjoy the story. I had a few major issues with it and lots of little issues with it. I'm going to keep this review short by only listing the major issues I had reading it.
MI#1
Narrow-minded, holier-than-thou bigots make my blood boil. Couch them in religious fervor that aims to "change you" to "save you" because we "love you" and you might as well light a match under my ass because I'll react less violently.
MI#2
Slut-shaming. Yes, you read that right. The entire book consists of unapologetic slut-shaming. There is an underlying pervasive idea that any sexually active person not legally and religiously bound in matrimony is a sinner of the worst sort. *snort* It might have been funny if the undercurrent of hostility wasn't so pervasive.
MI#3
The editing was crap. I'm not only referring to the endless typos, I'm more angry at the major continuity errors in the plot. There was such a disconnect at every plot shift that I read and re-read entire paragraphs. I'm talking about missing background information, assumptions the reader is expected to make, conclusions that lack evidence, resolutions that stretch credibility to the utmost, and the list goes on.
I'm going to stop there because if I start on all the 'little' issues I had with this story then we'll be here for a very long time.
Sorry friends, I know you guys loved it, but it pretty much hit all of my hot buttons.
MI#1
Narrow-minded, holier-than-thou bigots make my blood boil. Couch them in religious fervor that aims to "change you" to "save you" because we "love you" and you might as well light a match under my ass because I'll react less violently.
MI#2
Slut-shaming. Yes, you read that right. The entire book consists of unapologetic slut-shaming. There is an underlying pervasive idea that any sexually active person not legally and religiously bound in matrimony is a sinner of the worst sort. *snort* It might have been funny if the undercurrent of hostility wasn't so pervasive.
MI#3
The editing was crap. I'm not only referring to the endless typos, I'm more angry at the major continuity errors in the plot. There was such a disconnect at every plot shift that I read and re-read entire paragraphs. I'm talking about missing background information, assumptions the reader is expected to make, conclusions that lack evidence, resolutions that stretch credibility to the utmost, and the list goes on.
I'm going to stop there because if I start on all the 'little' issues I had with this story then we'll be here for a very long time.
Sorry friends, I know you guys loved it, but it pretty much hit all of my hot buttons.
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