Debt

Love, Unexpected #1

by K.C. Wells

Two months after Mitch Jenkins had the rug pulled out from under him when his two-year relationship came to an abrupt end, he is still hurting. A colleague’s attempt to cheer him up brings Mitch to a secret “club.” Mitch isn’t remotely interested in the twinks parading like peacocks, until he spies the young man at the back of the room, nose firmly in a book and oblivious to his surroundings. Now Mitch is interested.

Nikko Kurokawa wants to pay his debt and get the hell out of the Black Lounge—where he is forced to not only have sex, but sometimes suffer abuse to please clients. Earning his freedom isn’t proving easy, especially when he starts attracting interest. Life becomes that little bit easier to bear when he meets Mitch, who is nothing like the other men who frequent the club. And when Mitch crawls under his skin and into his heart, Nikko figures he can put up with anything. Before long he’ll be out of there, and he and Mitch can figure out if they have a future together.

Neither of them counted on those who don’t want Nikko to leave….

Genres: M M Romance, Contemporary, Romance, Abuse, BDSM, Gay, LGBT

254 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 27, 2016

About the author

K.C. Wells lives on an island off the south coast of the UK, surrounded by natural beauty. She writes about men who love men, and can’t even contemplate a life that doesn’t include writing.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.

If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT

You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:

E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...


And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.

Reviews

[~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semicolons~✡~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Nikko offers to pay off a family debt, he doesn't anticipate being trapped in a high-end brothel where there are no restrictions on the fantasies of wealthy men. Nikko is Japanese-American, slender, and quiet with long, braided hair and pale skin.



Mitch notices Nikko immediately, not because Nikko stands out but because he tries so hard not to. Two months after his boyfriend of two years dumped him for not being "adventurous" enough, Mitch allows his friend Aaron to drag him to a dance club that hides a dangerous, illicit undercurrent.

On a high school teacher's salary, Mitch can hardly afford to pay for sex. He's not that kind of guy anyway. But he can't stay away from Nikko. There's something about the young man that calls to Mitch, and he just wants to hold Nikko and never let him go.



Thanks to a moment of sheer foolishness, Nikko's brother finds himself a pawn in an unscrupulous, high-stakes game. I really appreciate that the plot didn't go off the deep end with shoot-em-up-action and crime-drama. The romance between Nikko and Mitch never wavers, never dims.

Mitch is steady and kind. He just wants to find Mr. Right, and if he finds him in a brothel, so be it. Mitch is twice Nikko's age (45 to Nikko's 22), but the age difference isn't an issue at all.

Nikko trusts Mitch implicitly and gives himself over willingly. Mitch is a selfless, passionate lover, but he never pushes and is more than willing to cede control to Nikko (toppy Nikko is so damn hot).

The chemistry between the men is intense, but their connection is about much more than sex.

Even though K.C. Wells is one of my favorite authors in the genre, I was a little hesitant to read Debt because of the mention of abuse in the blurb. I don’t like dark books, and on-page sexual abuse is completely off limits for me, but K.C. doesn't do gratuitous angst; she approaches serious issues with care and sensitivity.

The focus in this story isn’t on the pain but the healing. The scenes of rough sex are off-page, and once Mitch finds Nikko, he does everything in his power to free him. Don't let the "abuse" tag stop you from reading this beautifully written, fast-paced, and ultimately tender story about two men who find everything that's right during a time when everything feels wrong.



One of the best things about this book is Mitch's loving family. Mitch's parents, his brother, and sisters are AMAZING. Families like this do exist in America; not every parent is homophobe. Some parents DO love their children unconditionally. It's so nice to see that in a book for a change.

Debt is sexy & dangerous; it has it all: age gap, hurt-comfort, suspense, sweetness, serious steam, a happy ending, and two men who refuse to give up on each other.

My only complaint: this book is a standalone, and I want MORE.

[Tanu Gill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book. I was so intrigued from the first page that I kept on reading without any break. I was captured by it. Yes, captured, not captivated, because I read it and ignored my domestic chores (like, taking a bath, for goodness's sakes!!!).

I loved Mitch, his morals, his ethics, his gentleness and kindness, his open-minded family, his lovely character. Whenever his narrative started, I got a mellow feeling in my heart, a smile on my face, a lightness in my tummy because of his determination, a melting sensation in my chest over his loving actions and thoughts toward Nikko. He has even gotten onto my list of book boyfriends. He was so strong in his love for Nikko, so brave when he related his story to so many people, it was amazing to read about.

I fell head over heels for Nikko. My heart broke for his heartrending situation, his pain after every time he got done with a client, the one-sided affection he thought he felt, his brother's sad circumstances that led to their current hostage situation. It was so painful to read his narrative. So many things were happening to him, and he couldn't see any respite or way out of the situation he was in. I was on the edge of my seat waiting for a ray of sunshine to give me a break.

I loved the plot, the romance we found in the brothel, as the characters called it. Mitchell felt a pull towards Nikko, and as it was in the very beginning, there was no doubt as to who the object of his affection was. Even though there was one full story to be read after that, I never once felt that the story was dragging. Rather, I was shocked when the end approached.

Randy was a good supporting character. I didn't feel any hate towards him even though the whole 'club' rubbed me the wrong way.

Mitch's family was a great set of characters. Every character was so well-defined, so nice. Even though it felt unreal, it was a family that everyone would want, so it was beautiful to read about them.

My only issue was this: Despite Mitch and Nikko having a 23-years age difference, there was absolutely NO mention of it. At all. The single mention comes at the end, by Mitch's mom, and that also is just a cursory one. I wouldn't have felt it as a huge issue in my mind if there had been just ONE discussion about it. But because there wasn't, it kept running in the background, waiting for it to be addressed once.

The editing was good in the beginning, but the punctuation worsened near the end.

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars!

Insta love either works for me or it doesn't. In this case is just didn't work for me.

Maybe it was the unconventional way Nikko and Mitch met?

Maybe it was the seriousness of the situation Nikko found himself in?

I just didn't think Nikko and Mitch got to that point in the short amount of time that they met and spent time together. I didn't feel that connection between them. I didn't get the build up of that connection.

On page they were only together....and I don't mean sex together...a handful of times.

And then the rest was just tied up a bit too nicely.

Yeah, Mitch's family was great....maybe a little too great.

This was a 3.5 star read for me but ultimately I skimmed some of the last half so I had to round down.

[Ele · Rating 4 out of 5]

~4.5 stars~

I loved this book for everything that it wasn't.

Not an angstfest, despite the fact that this trope provides plenty of potential for drama.

Not on-page abuse. I find that abuse and rape themes are way overused in romance, and, as a reader, it gets harder and harder for me to tolerate it on page. Not the case here.

Not a big, fat cliche , where the hot-shot, filthy-rich john, falls for his rent-boy and tries to save him. Mitch is on a teacher's salary. He's humble and kind-hearted. He's scared, but determined to help Nikko. And Nikko....I loved him hard. He has no way out, but he's not weak. I was floored by his strength and courage.

It did't turn into a suspense/action story. I loved this! After all these books I 've read lately, where the MCs tried to play Avengers, it was so refreshing and realistic that Mitch and Nikko followed the voice of reason and didn't try to infiltrate an underground prostitution ring on their own!

I'm not used to action scenes by K.C but there is one here, the police raid(if I can call it that), and it's so beautifully done. Very detailed, descriptive and fast-paced; I felt I was part of it.

I also loved that the characters had a lot of page time to connect and get to know each other better, after Nikko was freed. It made the "I love you's" much more believable, and the HEA more solid.

Extra points for Mitch's AMAZING family. I loved the dynamics between its members, and their realistic interactions.

Overall, another winner by the author. Recommended!

*Review cross-posted on Gay Book Reviews*.

[Debra ~~ seriously slacking on her reviews ~~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review originally posted at Sinfully.

This isn’t your typical rent-boy and john falling in love story. It’s also not your typical K.C. Wells story, but it is a love story between two characters with big hearts and a lot of chemistry with some heartbreaking moments and a bit of suspense that will have you wondering how on earth they’ll ever get to that happy ending.

When Mitch, a 45 year old high school English teacher whose lover recently ended their relationship, is brought to an upscale club by a co-worker, the last place he expected to find himself in was a brothel. Feeling insecure and a bit lost since Jerry left him with a few pointed remarks about their sex life, Mitch takes a risk against his better judgment. It should be no surprise that in the offering of nude and nearly nude men, he is attracted to the man in the back, fully clothed and curled up in a chair reading a book. While Mitch is unsure and hesitant about where he is and what he’s doing, he is drawn to Nikko. After that first visit Mitch can’t get Nikko out of his head and nearly bankrupts himself joining the club and continuing to visit. There is something about Nikko and no matter what he says about it being his choice to work there, Mitch has a feeling there is more to it and vows to find out what it is and do what he can to help Nikko.

Nikko is 22 and would do anything to help and protect the grandmother and brother who raised him since he lost his parents at 14. When he finds out his brother Ichy is in a hospital in New York City, he jumps on the first plane out of Oregon. Little does he know that doing so will place him under the thumb of Mr. Richards and working as a prostitute to pay off a vague debt his brother owes. While he looks forward to the times when Mitch is his client, the other times he is, at best, feeling used, but there are also times when he is abused and those are suddenly becoming more frequent. Nikko knows he just has to ride it out for a while, but when he finds out what, in his naïveté and desire to help his brother, he has really gotten himself into, the despair is almost too much to handle and he fears he may soon break. In all of this, his feelings for Mitch are growing and he thinks Mitch feels it too, but knows it’s unlikely that he can get out of his situation and then maintain a relationship that started when he was made to be a whore.

First off, Nikko is in a bad situation and while you hear about what he is going through and see the physical and emotional after effects, any abuse he suffers happens off page and it is not the focus of the story. The story really is focused on the growing feelings between Mitch and Nikko and them trying to figure out how to move forward once Nikko is freed of his situation.

Mitch is a shining light in Nikko’s day-to-day existence. He is gentle and caring and nothing like the other men who frequent the club. They enjoy their short times together whether it’s having sex, talking or just being held and comforted. They quickly realize that lines are being blurred and feelings are involved. From almost the moment they meet Mitch is wracking his brain to find a way to keep seeing Nikko and eventually get him out of that place. Mitch wants to be a hero, but he’s not one of those characters that really thinks he can just swoop in and save the day.

I loved Nikko from the start for his vulnerability, his loyalty and his determination to make the best of things and just get through it so he can get back to his real life. As things got worse for him and the threats from Mr. Richards became more sinister, I was truly concerned for Nikko’s well-being. His fear and despair radiated off the pages, as did his love and concern for his brother. Any time Richards was on page he just made me cringe.

Although there is a 20 year age gap, Mitch never treats Nikko as if he is inexperienced or too young and while they should be embarking on two different stages in life, they are both really starting over. Although when Mitch and Nikko meet their circumstances couldn’t be more different, deep down they are very similar. They both have inner strength, a love of family and an undeniable physical connection. That doesn’t make it smooth sailing, however once they are able to start considering a future together there are a few stumbling blocks they hadn’t had time to consider.

From the start there is real chemistry between the characters. The best part for me, however, was seeing a different, surprising and sexy side of Nikko once he is out of harm’s way and allowed to be himself, along with Mitch’s absolute appreciation of it.

Mitch’s big, outspoken family plays a large part in the story. While their support of Mitch is never in question, they do raise realistic concerns when Mitch confesses his situation and ultimately introduces them to Nikko. Mitch’s mother is a standout and I loved her down to earth wisdom, willingness to speak her mind and her acceptance of Nikko.

As I said earlier, this is a departure from the usual K.C. Wells book, but don’t be scared off. The tone is grittier, but it is not a dark book and there is a good balance between the drama of the first part and the comfort/healing aspects of the second. There is some suspense, and a nail biter moment or two, but it’s not overwhelmed by angst and there is romance throughout. There is also a happy and hopeful ending that signifies a new start for Mitch and Nikko. While not everything is magically wrapped up in a tidy bow and you know there will be some rough times ahead, it is very clear how much love the men share and that it will see them through those times.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 HEARTS

“… You’re addictive, Mr. Jenkins. And any time you want me?” He leaned in closer and whispered into Mitch’s ear. “You can have me.”

Rent boy! Dub-con! An all round sweet love story! Yep I thoroughly enjoyed this!

I thought the rent-boy theme was done really well here. It was not glorified, and not at all pretty, but it wasn’t a story about abuse. It was a love story between two people who needed each other.

Nikko is working as a whore at ‘The Black Lounge’, an exclusive whorehouse, to pay off a debt his brother accidentally accumulated.



Luckily for Nikko, Mitch is his first client.



Mitch is a high school teacher who was convinced to attend the Black Lounge for a night by a colleague. Mitch had just gotten out of a two year relationship and was feeling the need to try something new, hence him being easily persuaded.

Nikko and Mitch have an immediate connection and some super hot but gentle love-making, which makes their first encounter hard to forget. Also, Nikko’s subtle reluctance (despite claims that he’s working for the Black Lounge willingly) sets off protective instincts in Mitch.

Poor Nikko went through a lot in this book. There was no on-page abuse, but Nikko has his fair share of BDSM gone bad, rough fucking and child role-playing. My heart hurt as Nikko was starting to loose hope that he would ever get out of that place in one piece, but his moments with Mitch were a balm to the soul. Despite Nikko’s situation, this was a very sweet story. Quite insta-love, but it worked for me here.

I’m also a sucker for a large age-gap! I love it when the age-gap is noticeable, but not because the younger guy is immature. It's hard to find that mix, I’ve only read a few books that have done it perfectly. In this book, I completely forgot about the age-gap, which was good, but not what I personally like about big age-gaps.

The sex was yummy! Mitch has a pretty dirty mouth on him!

“You like that?”He repeated the action, slamming into Nikko, hard, deep thrusts that hit his gland every time. “Want to see you come from this,”he panted. “You’re gonna come without touching your dick.”He snapped his hips forward. “Fuck, I feel you. Your ass is rippling around my cock.”

There was also some switching up of the roles, with Nikko topping a few times, which I wasn’t expecting but really enjoyed.

There were a couple of reasons this lost a heart from me, one of them was the amount of scenes with Mitch's family. Whilst they were good characters, I would’ve preferred some of that time to be used on Mitch and Nikko being together. I also found myself struggling to finish the story, which brings me to my second reason. Once Nikko was freed, everything became very light and fluffy and I was ready for the HEA 20% before the end. It's dragged a bit too much to really enjoy.

This was a cute story and I really enjoyed the way the rent-boy theme was approached here. Mitch and Nikko had a lot of chemistry, but the prolonged ending fizzled what was otherwise a really excellent read for me.

[Andi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read January 30, 2024

A sweet and sexy story that only KC can write. 💜💜

[Gerbera_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story. Both MCs were well-written, it was equal parts steamy, angsty and sweet. This is May/December romance. I loved the Jenkins family especially Valerie. She was so welcoming and supportive. While I worried that the connection between Mitch and Nikko might not be genuine due to them meeting in a high class house of ill repute, I am happy to say that the last part of the book focused on them getting to know each other which proved that they really cared for one another.

I was a bit miffed at the end because it was so abrupt and matter-of-fact. They decided about their future in such a manner as if discussing weather. It was kind of unromantic. But for the first time I read the teaser chapter of the next book which got me interested in reading the next one about Jesse and Randy who, by the way, I really liked as a side character in this one.

All in all, this was a well-written romance happening in the heart of New York and beaches of Maine. I recommend it.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great hurt/comfort story! It ticked a lot of my boxes.
- 23 year old age gap
- Shy young guy being severely mistreated
- Lots of hurt, and lots of comfort.

Mitch is a 45 year old English teacher whose last relationship ended two months ago. A colleague of his thinks it is time Mitch does something for fun so he takes Mitch to a club. It turns out this club is a very exclusive brothel. Mitch doesn’t quite know what he is doing there until he spots a young man reading a book.

Mitch feels drawn to this young man so he requests to see him. The young man, Nikko, is new to a life in prostitution and when Mitch finds out he is Nikko’s first costumer, he is extra gentle with him.

Nikko is being forced into prostitution by the man running the club. Nikko’s brother owes the owner a debt and Nikko said he will pay it for him.

Mitch cannot get Nikko out of his head, so he keeps visiting him. But he feels something is wrong and that Nikko might not be there of his own free will. Especially after Mitch sees the welts and wounds on Nikko’s back from a masochistic customer…

I loved this story. I loved how the details from Nikko’s life as a prostitute were not all glossed over (even though there was no on page abuse or rape). He was in that life for over half of this book, so I really felt I was there. I loved it, because after the hurt came the comfort!! Mitch was there to take care of Nikko. To love him. And of course to try to get him out of there.

Why not 5 stars, but 4? That is because one thing bothered me and that was Mitch. I never really warmed up to him. He was just so…. nothing… There aren’t any character traits I would use to describe him. He felt a bit empty.

Still, this is a great hurt/comfort story with some intense heartbreaking moments.

[Tjarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

[Mia Phillips (currently in a book slump) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debt is a beautiful book that deals with serious issues and circumstances but handles it in a sensitive way.
Despite how Mitch and Nikko first meet they have a truly beautiful connection you can tell they were meant to be and really love it each other, it was lovely seeing them grow.
I have hope we will get a further book about Nikko’s brother.

[Caroline Brand · Rating 5 out of 5]

REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE

4.5 Stars

The blurb does a really good job of outlining this story but what is doesn’t give you are the intricacies. It doesn’t tell you how Nikko ends up working in a secret club submitting to all demands made of him regardless of his safety or health. It doesn’t tell you who Nikko was before or who he could be after. It doesn’t tell you just what a douche Mitch’s friend is who introduces him to the club or prepare you for the danger that that decision involves.

I really enjoyed Debt. It’s a slow story to begin with and although you can’t immediately put your finger on what’s wrong you instinctively know that something is. As the facts creep in there is a sense of despair as you are made to realise just how bad the situation is for Nikko but also how little positive affect Mitch seems able to provide.

Mitch is Nikko’s first customer and the gentleness and compassion he shows the young man becomes like a beacon for Nikko to hold onto when things get really bad. Both remember the other for different reasons initially, Mitch is enchanted with Nikko and although the club is something he is certain he has no wish to become involved with the draw is too big, the money is inconsequential when he needs to see Nikko again as much as he needs to breathe. Ironically Mitch finds it’s not the sex that draws him back to what is essentially a sex club but the need to touch Nikko, to hold him and to just be in the same space.

When Nikko’s future becomes crystal clear to him there is a sense of urgency that confronts both men. The too good to be true deal that Nikko has struck up is just that – too good to be true. It now remains to be seen just what Mitch can and will do to save the man he has fallen for and clear him of his debt. There are a great cast of characters in this book both good and bad who both add a lot to the story and have more to offer – I am curious as to whether we will see another book, it certainly feels like we should 

[Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

K.C. is such an exceptional storyteller that it is no surprise that she has released another amazing book. Nikko and Mitch are wonderful characters and their journey, with all its tragic twists, is a beautiful thing. There are quite a few tear jerk moments but also enough laughter, thanks to a wonderful cast of supporting characters, that your heart won't feel completely ripped open.
There is enough going on all the way through the book that I hope there will be a follow up in the near future.
As I said, crazy talent K.C. :)

[Isabella ~Mikku-chan~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*

German review
Lange lag die englische Version des Buchs auf meinem Lesestapel (aus dem einfachend Grund: ich wollte es mir aufsparen ;)) aber die deutsche Veröffentlichung ließ es mich so schnell wie möglich lesen. :)

K.C. Wells ist nicht scheu, neue Themen auszuprobieren und dieses ist eines ihrer “düsteren” Bücher. Ich sage düster, weil es sich mit Prostutution, Menschenhandel und Drogenmissbrauch beschäftigt. Die einzige explizite Sache, die man in Detail beschrieben bekommt ist die Prostitution, doch es ist womöglich für den ein oder anderen Leser schwer zu verkraften und könnte Emotionen auslösen und triggern. Daher spreche ich die Warnung aus, sich genau zu überlegen, ob es etwas ist, worüber man etwas lesen will. Man sollte zuvor in sich gehen.

Nikko ist in meinen Augen ein sehr interessanter und Art “neuer” Charakter. Nicht, nur dass er Asiate, Japaner ist, was nicht unbedingt üblich als Hauptfigur ist, zumindest habe ich selbst wenig Bücher mit asiatischen Hauptfiguren gelesen. Nikko ist anders als K.C. Wells Figuren, die man sonst kennt.

Sie zeigt Nikkos Loyalität zu seiner Familie, zu seinem Bruder, der der Grund für Nikkos Prostitution ist. Es ist extrem traurig und es bricht einem das Herz, wenn die Details darüber im Buch ausgedeckt werden und ich musste desöfteren eine Pause einlegen, weil ich so bewegt war.

Mitch ist sogleich von Nikko fasziniert, als er ihn sieht. Er ist nicht wirklich erpircht darauf, Sex mit einem Typen zu haben, dem er Geld dafür gibt und ist sich der legalen Situation gewahr (in dem US Bundesstaat, in dem das Buch spielt, ist Prostitution illegal). Nur durch einen Lehrerkollegen geht Mitch überhaupt erst in den geheimen, exklusiven Club. Schnell ist sich Mitch der Gefahr gewahr, die Nikko ausgesetzt ist und er versucht alles, um seinen “Liebsten” zu retten. Schell werden die Gefühle für einander klar, was in meinen Augen plausible dargestellt wurde.

Die Familie von Mitch trägt einen großen Teil zur Story bei, sie gibt nicht nur Mitch eine Basis, einen Rückhalt, ist seine Oase, seine Famile hilft auch Nikko. Wie und in welcher Weise, verrate ich an der Stelle nicht. :)

Der Sex ist angesicht der Prositution Nikkos zunächst ein wenig erzwungen, Mitch hat Zweifel und schnell leben Nikko und er in ihrer eigenen Blase der Glückseligkeit, wann immer er Nikko besuchen kommt. Die Anziehung ist von Anfang an da und es wird in dem Buch etwas kinky, angesichts des Fakts, dass Nikko mit 21 wesentlich jünger als der 40 Jährige Mitch ist.

5 von 5 Sterne vergebe ich diesem Buch. K.C. Wells behandelt ein sehr trauriges und herzzereißendes Thema und weiß, wie sie Figuren zum Leben erweckt, mit denen man mitfühlt.

English review
This book was a long time on my TBR pile (simple reason for it: I wanted to “save” it ;)) but the German release of it let me read it asap. :)

K.C. Wells isn’t shy to try out new topics, and this book is one of her “darker” ones. I say dark because we deal with prostution, human traffic, drug abuse. The only thing of it which is displayed is the prostitution but it might be heavy for some reader and trigger them. So be aware of it and ask yourself if you want to read about it.

Nikko is in my eyes a really interesting and kind of “new” character. Not only that he is Asian, Japanese, which isn’t really common, at least I read only a few books with Asian main character, he is also very different than other character you know from K.C. Wells.

She shows Nikko’s loyalty to his family, to his brother, who is the reason, Nikko is selling himself. It is a really sad and heartbreaking reveal of the story and I really had to take a break because I was so moved.

Mitch is captured as soon as he sees Nikko. He isn’t really tempted to buy a guy to have sex with him, is aware of the legal situation (in the US state the book takes place, prostitution is against the law) but a colleague persuades him to visit the secret club. Soon Mitch is aware of the danger, Nikko is confronted with and he does everything to save his “love”. Soon the emotions are there but truly understable imo.

The family of Mitch is a huge part in the book, gives not only Mitch the foundation, his power, the family helps also Nikko. How and in which way I won’t say. :)

The sex is due the prostitution of Nikko first a bit forced, Mitch has doubts, but soon he and Nikko live in their bubble while he visits Nikko.The chemistry is there and it’s getting a bit kinky due to the fact, that Nikko is younger than Mitch, who is a fourty old teacher where Nikko is just 21.

5 out of 5 stars for this, K.C. Wells dealt with a really saddening and heartbreaking topic and knows how to create character you can have sympathy with.


Review originally posted bilingual (English/German) on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words

[Risa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Der Klappentext ließ mich neugierig werden auf die neueste Übersetzung von K.C. Wells.

Zur Handlung. Mitch Jenkins ist Lehrer und nach dem unschönen Ende seiner letzten Beziehung Single und einsam. Flüchtige Affären und One-Night-Stands passen nicht zu ihm. Trotzdem lässt er sich von seinem Kollegen zu einem Besuch im Bordell überreden. Wider Erwarten begegnet ihm dort ein junger Mann, der längst vergessene Gefühle in ihm weckt.
Nikko Kurokawa ist eigentlich Musikstudent. Doch weil sein Bruder sich auf kriminelle Drogengeschäfte eingelassen und mehr Schulden hat, als er zurückzahlen kann, arbeitet er gezwungenermaßen als Prostituierter im Black Lounge, einem illegalen Bordell für schwule Männer. Sein erster Freier ist ausgerechnet Mitch. Rücksichtsvoll, zärtlich und aufmerksam. Doch nicht alle Kunden sind so wie Mitch.
Normalerweise wird er wie ein Stück Fleisch behandelt und oft auch misshandelt. Seinem Bruder zuliebe erträgt er die Demütigungen und verkauft seinen Körper, um das geschuldete Geld beim Clubbesitzer abzuzahlen. Einziger Lichtblick ist für ihn Mitch, der immer wieder für eine Stunde mit Nikko bezahlt. Entgegen aller Vernunft verliebt er sich in ihn. Doch obwohl diese Liebe erwidert wird, erscheint sie auswegslos, denn Nikkos Bruder wird als Druckmittel gefangen gehalten, um ihn gefügig zu machen.
Verzweifelt suchen die beiden Männer nach einem Ausweg und erhalten dabei Hilfe, mit der sie niemals gerechnet hätten.

Obwohl das Thema eigentlich ein typisches Klischee enthält, ist es der Autorin gelungen, eine emotionale Liebesgeschichte zu erzählen. Dabei kommen auch Dramatik und Spannung nicht zu kurz. Mir hat das ungleiche Paar gefallen und ich habe mitgelitten, als Nikko einem brutalen Freier dienlich sein musste.

Die Story erhält von mir 5 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.

Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.

[justanya · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings about this one which sucks cuz all the cool kids like it. What am I missing? I feel so out of the loupe. But hey, can’t change how this book made me feel right? The bulk of the story is good, meaning I like the Niko and Mitch, I like their chemistry and I like how their relationship slowly develops, However; I take issue with how outright naive and gullible Niko is. I also felt frustrated with Mitch’s actions from time to time considering his age. Both of them have absolutely no street smarts what so ever. When that little voice yells: “Danger Will Robinson!” One should heed it. There were multiple signs and warning flashes that Mitch ignored. I wanted to reach through the pages and smack him. Hard. For his sheer stupidity. If you haven’t guessed by now, I’m peeved by how easily both Mitch and Niko were lured then trapped into their circumstances prior to them meeting. Sheer stupidity pushed all the wrong buttons for me and would have soured the whole story for me but thankfully:

Mitch's family saved this story for me
The addition of these supporting characters gave me life! I absolutely adore Mitch's family. I love how close knit they are. I like how they interact with one another. I like how forthcoming they are about their feelings regarding multiple family issues. I absolutely adore the gem of a moment that took place between Niko and Cal (Mitch’s nephew), both needed a friend and both found one in each other. My absolute favorite family moment is the family's reaction when Cal comes out. That moment gave me all the feelz. Drenched my iPad screen w/ tears.

Do I like these characters? Yes. Do I like their story? Yes. Do I intend to read the definitly possible sequel? Absolutely! I’m hoping Niko’s brother and a certain undercover agent find love despite the circumstances that brought them together.

*ARC provided for review*

[Diverse · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Well…. That was a recreational ride for my heart. I’m not sure where to begin here. I’ll start with the characters. Mitch… I call him the hero of the story. His weapon of choice? His heart. The target of his affections? Nikko. Nikko is NO damsel in distress. He’s the brave, strong Knight willing to fight beside Mitch to make a better life.

These two together are unstoppable. There was elements of this story that were hard to read. Not unbearable and not bad like it was the writing. KC managed to take us into the belly of the beast with this story. Though Nikko was living this nightmare to save someone he loves, what he endures is very rough. Only because of Mitch and a few friends does he get through it.

There’s serious suspense throughout the story. Whether it’s “Oh god please don’t die.” Suspense or “Oh dear don’t leave him.” Suspense, it was there and it was nail biting.

This is a love story. One that doesn’t play easy on your heart. KC Wells makes her characters work for it and she makes us readers suffer lol.

This is not a story that you will EVER be bored reading. It’s wonderful. I did find myself wondering some things at the end that weren’t addressed but it ended with me realizing it will all be okay. I can live with that.

This is a story you should totally read because you’ll fall in love with Mitch’s family just like Nikko did.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

3.75 stars

Debt is a book that started a little rough for me, but then settled in nicely as the story continued. We know based on the blurb that Nikko is working at the club to pay off a debt, so even though he tells Mitch is wants to be there, as readers we know it is because something worse awaits if he doesn’t. So when he and Mitch get together for the first time, and Nikko is clearly anxious and uncertain (something that Mitch notices), I had a hard time feeling the sexy and romantic connection I think I was supposed to feel, versus the idea of a guy being forced to do sex work. I also never quite got just what it was about Nikko that made Mitch decide to buy a prostitute when he had been so against it, beyond pure physical attraction. There was just a little bit of an uncomfortable dynamic here for me, especially given the 20+ year age difference. And after one night with Nikko, Mitch is willing to make a huge financial investment to join the club so he can see him again, one that he can not afford. So I kind of felt like things were a bit rocky at first.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh what I wouldn't give to be on a Maine beach right now, curled up in a soft wool blanket, cup of coffee in hand, my reader at my side, watching the sunset.

I just finished reading Debt and that's the feeling I'm left with.

Not bad I would say, not bad at all.

Mitch being a teacher? Perfect. An "average Jo" who is exceptional. (With a hairy chest no less!) Nikko is younger but he is without a doubt a very old soul. Lovely. (Oh, and Nikko has beautiful, flowing, long black hair.)

Their love story is simple yet endearing. I loved it.

My only complaint is I wish I could have seen the bad men get roasted over an open pit then shared as a feast by some rabid dogs. Yikes! I'm killing my beach vibe! Sorry. Just saying...

Love is never easy. Just look at the rolling waves. Oh but when the seas are calm. Wow, just wow.

[Lisazj1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Despite the dangerous beginning, this is just a sweet, sweet romance. Mitch and Nikko have a strong connection from the moment they meet. When Mitch finds out Nikko's real situation, everything for him at that point is about finding a way to free Nikko.

Mitch is such an every-day regular guy, but he's wonderful. This is no surprise after you meet his family, and these guys and the family are a treat to read. The level of love and support for not just Mitch, but Nikko as well, is amazing and makes me all melty and soft inside. This is the way it ought to be, every time.

Loved it!!!

[Chris · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 for this one - I just couldn't connect. For me this lacked chemistry but I'm glad others have really enjoyed it

[Mathilda Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Manchmal sollte man auch bei besten Freunden genauer hinsehen, bzw. einfach mal die Augen aufmachen, denn dass Aaron nicht ganz sauber ist, war mir schon nach den ersten Seiten der Geschichte klar. Dennoch läuft Mitch wie ein unschuldiges Lamm zur Schlachtbank und steckt ruckzuck in einer Geschichte um Zwangsprostitution, Drogen und seinen Gefühlen für einen Stricher, der keiner ist, und zudem altersmäßig auch noch sein Sohn sein könnte.

Es hat eine Weile gedauert, bis ich mit Nikko warm wurde, weil er so dermaßen naiv daherkommt und teils auch einfach nur dumm handelt, da habe ich mir beim Lesen an den Kopf gefasst. Gut, er ist, soweit man das mitbekommen hat, ziemlich behütet aufgewachsen, aber mal ehrlich … Sich als Stricher zu verdingen und dann tatsächlich glauben, dass man nach ein paar Monaten einfach wieder aus der Sache rauskommt? Ohne Worte.

Da war mir Mitch von Anfang an lieber. Er ist zwar gefrustet und einsam, aber man merkt ihm an, dass er mit beiden Beinen mitten im Leben steht, auch wenn selbiges seit der Trennung von seinem Ex nicht rund läuft. Dafür hat er eine Familie, die einfach nur toll ist und ich habe die Szenen, wo er mit seinen Geschwistern und Eltern zusammen ist, vom ersten bis zum letzten Wort geliebt. Und natürlich merken die auch bald, dass irgendetwas mit ihrem Junior nicht stimmt, und sein Bruder ist schließlich der erste, der erfährt, was Mitch umtreibt und der ihm später auch zur Seite steht, als er zu seiner Familie fährt, weil er einfach nicht mehr weiter weiß und Nikko unbedingt aus diesem Bordell rausholen will.

Am Ende überzeugt ihn seine Familie, zur Polizei zu gehen, um dort eine Aussage zu machen, in der Hoffnung, dass der Club dann schnellstens dicht gemacht wird. Natürlich geht das nicht von jetzt auf gleich, und Mitch ist verständlicherweise frustriert. Doch schließlich handelt die Polizei und ich nicht sonderlich überrascht, als sich dann herausstellte, wer Mitch und Nikko in gewisser Weise heimlich geholfen hat, ohne dass sie davon wussten.

Die Szenen mit der Polizei kamen Schlag auf Schlag, wobei mir die Erklärung mit dem Zeugenschutz für Nikkos Bruder recht wage daherkam. Normalerweise wird eine Familie komplett umgesiedelt, wenn Gefahr im Verzug ist. Es sei denn, man spricht sich explizit dagegen aus. Dass sie Nikko nicht einmal gefragt haben, fand ich doch etwas verwunderlich. Ein, zwei Sätze dazu hätten meiner Meinung nach ruhig sein dürfen. So wären mir die nächsten Kapitel und das verdiente Happy End mit Mitch im Ganzen runder erschienen.

Alles in allem ist »Schuld« aber eine sehr schöne Geschichte. Sofern man sich das Cover nicht genauer anguckt, das Model darauf passt nun wirklich überhaupt nicht zu Nikko.

Ich vergebe zufriedene 4* und eine Leseempfehlung.
Außerdem geht ein dickes Dankeschön an den Dreamspinner Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

K.C. Wells is a very favorite author of mine so I jump at the opportunity to read her new releases. The description for 'Debt' really intrigued me and I was eager to see what the author would bring me in terms of characters and storyline. I was not disappointed in Mitch or Nikko as they are both strong, complex men. The storyline was hot, sexy, heartbreaking, hopeful, and full of enough drama to keep me riveted to each page.

A secret brothel in New York City? Tell me it's not so. I'm betting there's more than one. Unfortunately for Nikko, the Black Lounge is where he works as part of the merchandise. He's new, and his first client is Mitch. Mitch is introduced to the club by a friend who is a member, and initially Mitch doesn't see anyone who attracts him until he spots Nikko in the back, fully dressed, reading a book. Their encounter is sweet, gentle, and hot, until Mitch kind of ruins it by asking a personal question about why Nikko is there. That's Nikko's secret, and he isn't about to share it. Not when the owners have cameras on him 24/7.

"He kept recalling Nikko’s manner, his quiet way of speaking, the way he held himself, his gentleness. Mitch couldn’t for the life of him imagine what Nikko was doing working in a brothel, and yet Nikko had insisted he was there of his own volition. Something wasn’t right. Between what Nikko said and how Nikko behaved, something just didn’t… mesh."

Mitch can't keep from coming back to see Nikko, again and again. Sometimes they just cuddle and talk, and Mitch forgets that he's paying for time with, basically, a hooker. Mitch is a serial monogamist, but at forty-five he's almost given up hope since his last boyfriend dumped him for being boring. Nikko can't stop the relief he feels every time he sees Mitch. The Black Lounge allows its members to do anything they want, and quite a bit of it is out of Nikko's comfort zone. But he has no choice but to comply, even as he reminds himself it's only for a few more months and he'll have paid off his debt. That is, until he realizes the debt he's accruing every day that they never told him about. And the owner making it very plain that since Nikko's looks attract a certain type of client, he isn't about to let him go. At least, not until he's of no more use.

I think one of the things I loved the most about this book is that the author didn't use the standard tropes. This wasn't a wealthy john who saved his rent boy. Mitch is a high school English teacher, and believe me they aren't making big bucks. He's kind, gentle, sweet, has a conscience, morals, a loving family, and he truly cares about other people. Ms. Wells didn't use on-page descriptions of abuse or noncon sex, instead I knew it was occurring, and there were references, but it wasn't being thrown in my face.

The other thing I loved is the way the whole story played out. I didn't see any of it happening so that just made it ten times better. I have to admit that this is probably one of the sweetest and gentlest love stories I have read in quite a while. A wonderful, beautiful story with truly good, decent people. Something I don't get to see every day. Thank you, K.C.

NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews

[Helena Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m writing this review from memory. I was fortunate enough to be one of the beta readers for Debt and my thoughts below will be based on everything I thought and, more importantly felt, when I read the story. It’s not that I don’t want to re-read the book, or even that I doubt I will re-read it (and that’s saying something since I rarely revisit books, no matter how much I loved them the first time). No, this is a case of me wanting to share the love without having to wait until I have time to fit that second read in.

Under almost all other circumstances writing a review for a book I’ve read months ago would be an impossible ask. I read too much, I write my own stories and as a result details about characters and story-lines tend to fade into the background after a few weeks. The same cannot be said for Debt. That story and those characters are etched on my memory, still as vivid as they were the moment I finished reading the last chapter.

You know (at least I hope you do) how sometimes a character shows up on the pages of a book, starts telling you his story, and in the process works his way into your heart and takes up residence there? That is exactly what Nikko did in Debt. He’s as strong as he’s vulnerable and as honest as he’s loyal. I defy anybody to read/meet him and not fall hard and fast, just as Mitch did.

To say Nikko went to hell and back in this story would be an understatement. Most of the horrors he endures are off page, but just knowing about them was enough to shred my heart. But Nikko is resilient; he has a rare sense of self for one so young and clings to it with all his might. Of course, Mitch’s frequent visits mean Nikko has something to look forward to while he endures the horrors bestowed on him. Mitch is his light in the darkness, his focus when the nightmare threatens to get too much to bear.

Mitch was an interesting character in that while he is a good bit older than Nikko he at times almost appears more juvenile and insecure. I loved this. Debt could so easily have been a predictable tale of an older, more experienced man rescuing the younger, more innocent victim. That however is not the story this book tells. This is a story of two men facing a nightmare together, overcoming the obstacles in their way and finding a way to make the seemingly impossible work.

As always K.C. Wells brings us wonderful secondary characters as well as memorable protagonists. Mitch’s family and the way they interacted with each other was wonderful. I especially liked that the author kept the family’s reaction to Nikko’s tale realistic without turning it into a major drama.

Well written, at times heartbreaking, often touching, very sexy, and with an unforgettable storyline and characters, Debt is without a doubt one of my favourites among K.C. Well’s amazing books.

[Kiki Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Originally Posted on Kiki's Kinky Picks**
4.5 Stars
Reviewed by Brandy

I am a HUGE fangirl of anything K.C. Wells, and Debt was a fantastic new addition to my “why I adore K.C. Wells” list. The world build up is phenomenal, the characters are so well written and the storyline was compelling and believable.

I love older characters now in books. Mitch was a fantastic example of that. High school teacher, out and proud gay man who had his head on straight, and an all around well liked dude. I liked how even though everyone had their own opinion on how he should “move on” after his breakup with his ex, he still stayed true to himself and didn’t let other people influence him.

Then there was sweet, determined Nikko. OMG did I love Nikko. So brave, loyal and incredibly adorable. I ached so much for him throughout the story. Such an amazing man. Giving up everything to help his brother. I’m a hardcore believer in family.

When Mitch first meets Nikko, the attraction was palpable. They clicked right away, and of course there were the usual doubts floating around, luckily they were fairly short lived. Mitch was an amazing confidant for Nikko in the little time he could afford (literally) to spend with Nikko. There was a few very intense moments for Nikko, considering he worked for a brothel, where with enough money spent, anything goes. These moments were fairly vague, which I appreciate, but they are in there so fair warning.

I gave this book a 4.5 star rating, it was an amazing book from K.C. Wells and the only qualm I had was how close the MC’s became, but STILL couldn’t talk openly about the future. It just felt like, after all they had been through this shouldn’t have been an issue and just seemed to stretch the story a little too far. Otherwise, it was still a fantastic book that I will definitely recommend to anyone and everyone I can!

Copy provided in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Tee loves Kyle Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

K.C. never disappoints me. I mean every book I read from her has me on edge of my seat. She has these serious issues that she approaches delicately but with such reality your heart just beats like crazy with anticipation as to how things are going to turn out.

Mitch Jenkins is a high school teacher and has been in a relationship for over two years. He loves his lover and thinks things are going good when one day his lover dumps him because he is not fun enough. This is where his friend Aaron comes in and saves the day. Knowing his friend is sad he tells them they must go to this club.

Once they get to the club Mitch realizes that the club is not an ordinary club but a club where they can buy sex. Mitch is intrigued by the club but he also spots a guy in a corner reading and he is intrigued by him. He wants to get to know him better. So he approaches the guy and asks him his name. Nikko tells him his name and things start to change from there.

I will not ruin it for the reader because I love love love this story but I will say two broken souls try and come together but what happens when there is someone who wants to keep them apart?

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a re-read, although I think the previous review, from several years ago, must be for a different (wrong) edition. That review was five stars, but I have progressed as a reader, writer, and human since then. I liked that the police work was reasonably accurate, and no one got to play hero. I liked the plot well enough although it was bogged down a bit in the middle. I liked that there was no forgiveness for Aaron. I liked the family dynamics, that was the best part.

I subtracted one star for all the extraneous words, and for sex scenes that mostly were pedestrian and were also overly-wordy.

The other subtracted star is for the casual, bigoted dismissal of sex workers in general, and misinterpreting Nikko's role specifically at least once. *soapbox* If you work for money, you use your body for money. Teachers, elected officials, dog walkers, dock workers, cashiers, everyone. Sex work is work. People who enjoy it are doing a job they're well suited for, that's all. *end soapbox*

I read this before trying the sequel. I hope it's a bit better.

[Patricia Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever come across a book that grabs you by the heart, shakes you up, drags you through a myriad of emotions, then spits you out the other side happy and hopeful, yet wondering what happened and how you got there? Well, Debt by K.c. Wells is one of those stories. There's no actual abuse or non con sex on page, but it isn't hard to figure out what happened. The thing I love most about this gripping tale is watching the sweet, loving relationship that grows between Nikko and Mitch. All I can really say about this book is.....RUN! don't walk to preorder this marvellous read for yourself.

[Reflection · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how family is hugely important to both men. Nikko places himself in danger to rescue his brother, whilst Mitch finds his brother and sisters both a source of frustration and support. The Jenkins family have a great regard for each other, and their parents are vibrant and strong characters who take joy in their family and in each other.

[Janeylou · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars