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Do-Gooder
No good deed goes unpunished, and for seventeen-year-old Isaiah Martin, that’s certainly the case. The gun he was caught with wasn’t even his, for God’s sake. He only had it to keep a friend from doing something stupid. No one wants to hear it though, and Isaiah is banished—or so it seems to him—to live with his missionary father in politically conflicted Cameroon, Africa.
However, when he arrives, his father is so busy doing his good deeds that he sends Henry, the young, surprisingly hot do-gooder with a mysterious past, to pick up Isaiah and keep him out of trouble. Even while Isaiah is counting down the days until he can go home, he and Henry get caught in the political unrest of the region. Kidnapped by militant forces, the two have to work together to survive until they are rescued—unless they manage to find a way to save each other first.
However, when he arrives, his father is so busy doing his good deeds that he sends Henry, the young, surprisingly hot do-gooder with a mysterious past, to pick up Isaiah and keep him out of trouble. Even while Isaiah is counting down the days until he can go home, he and Henry get caught in the political unrest of the region. Kidnapped by militant forces, the two have to work together to survive until they are rescued—unless they manage to find a way to save each other first.
200 pages, Paperback
First published September 15, 2016
2 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
About the author
J. Leigh Bailey
24 books93 followersj. leigh bailey is an office drone by day and the author of Young Adult and New Adult LGBT Romance by night. She can usually be found with her nose in a book or pressed up against her computer monitor. A book-a-day reading habit sometimes gets in the way of... well, everything...but some habits aren't worth breaking. She's been reading romance novels since she was ten years old. The last twenty years or so have not changed her voracious appetite for stories of romance, relationships and achieving that vitally important Happy Ever After. She's a firm believer that everyone, no matter their gender, age, sexual orientation or paranormal affiliation deserves a happy ending.
She wrote her first story at seven, which was, unbeknownst to her at the time, a charming piece of fan-fiction in which Superman battled (and defeated, of course) the nefarious X Luther. She was quite put out to be told, years later, that the character's name was actually Lex. Her second masterpiece should have been a best-seller, but the action-packed tale of rescuing her little brother from an alligator attack in the marshes of Florida collected dust for years under the bed instead of gaining critical acclaim.
Now she writes Young Adult LGBT Romance novels about boys traversing the crazy world of love, relationships and acceptance.
Sign up for my newsletter--https://t.co/FfL9gFVJLQ --for sneak peeks, news, and upcoming appearances.
She wrote her first story at seven, which was, unbeknownst to her at the time, a charming piece of fan-fiction in which Superman battled (and defeated, of course) the nefarious X Luther. She was quite put out to be told, years later, that the character's name was actually Lex. Her second masterpiece should have been a best-seller, but the action-packed tale of rescuing her little brother from an alligator attack in the marshes of Florida collected dust for years under the bed instead of gaining critical acclaim.
Now she writes Young Adult LGBT Romance novels about boys traversing the crazy world of love, relationships and acceptance.
Sign up for my newsletter--https://t.co/FfL9gFVJLQ --for sneak peeks, news, and upcoming appearances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 16, 2016
Amazing is the only way I can describe this novel in one word. It’s a very intense, suspense- and action-filled coming-of-age story that is a character study as well as a thriller. It’s told in first person by seventeen-year-old Isaiah, and if you’re expecting a high school drama or similar, you’ll not find that between the pages of this book. Instead there is an incredible tale of a youthful error leading to kidnapping, cruelty, and international conflict. But it is also the story of Isaiah changing and growing from a somewhat sullen and stubborn teenager into a thoughtful young man who begins to realize that his actions have consequences and not all decisions made by his parents and other adults are as easy as they look.
Isaiah is in deep trouble after he decided to protect a friend by pretending the gun he was caught with belonged to him. Sure, he had his reasons, but in typical teenage fashion he did not think things through, and lack of life experience means he didn’t look at all the angles. As a consequence, and to avoid a prison sentence that could easily ruin the rest of his life, Isaiah’s mother argues the authorities into sending Isaiah to stay with his “do-gooder” father in Africa as a sort of severe version of community service. All Isaiah sees is the hardship of having to spend time with a man who seems to have forgotten him. A man he hasn’t spoken to or heard from in ten years, ever since Isaiah and his mother returned to the US.
Nothing is as expected when Isaiah arrives in Cameroon. His father doesn’t even bother to pick him up from the airport, sending one of his assistants, eighteen-year-old Henry, instead. Since Henry idolizes Isaiah’s father (for good reasons, as I found out later), Isaiah initially dislikes Henry on principle and they do not get off to a good start. But that changes when they are kidnapped by a group of armed men who demand they hand over “the canisters”. Isaiah and Henry have no idea what is going on and end up depending on each other for survival. And that is much harder than it sounds because Isaiah is diabetic and the mercenaries refuse to hand over his insulin.
What follows is a hair-raising story of hidden agendas, revelations, and a fight for survival that nobody should have to face – and especially not two teenagers. Isaiah goes through hell – physically, mentally, and emotionally - as he struggles to figure out what is going on and how to save himself. Henry becomes a lot more important to him as the story develops, but nothing comes easy to these two young men.
If you like emotionally intense stories with twists and turns that might shock you, if you prefer your romances to be slow-burn and well-meshed with action and adventure suspenseful enough for a Jason Bourne movie, and if you’re looking for a read that puts a struggling teenager through the wringer to have him come out the other side a young man, then you will probably like this novel as much as I do. It’s as wild as it is edgy and an excellent example of young adult fiction that tells it as it is.
NOTE: This book was provided by Harmony Ink Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Isaiah is in deep trouble after he decided to protect a friend by pretending the gun he was caught with belonged to him. Sure, he had his reasons, but in typical teenage fashion he did not think things through, and lack of life experience means he didn’t look at all the angles. As a consequence, and to avoid a prison sentence that could easily ruin the rest of his life, Isaiah’s mother argues the authorities into sending Isaiah to stay with his “do-gooder” father in Africa as a sort of severe version of community service. All Isaiah sees is the hardship of having to spend time with a man who seems to have forgotten him. A man he hasn’t spoken to or heard from in ten years, ever since Isaiah and his mother returned to the US.
Nothing is as expected when Isaiah arrives in Cameroon. His father doesn’t even bother to pick him up from the airport, sending one of his assistants, eighteen-year-old Henry, instead. Since Henry idolizes Isaiah’s father (for good reasons, as I found out later), Isaiah initially dislikes Henry on principle and they do not get off to a good start. But that changes when they are kidnapped by a group of armed men who demand they hand over “the canisters”. Isaiah and Henry have no idea what is going on and end up depending on each other for survival. And that is much harder than it sounds because Isaiah is diabetic and the mercenaries refuse to hand over his insulin.
What follows is a hair-raising story of hidden agendas, revelations, and a fight for survival that nobody should have to face – and especially not two teenagers. Isaiah goes through hell – physically, mentally, and emotionally - as he struggles to figure out what is going on and how to save himself. Henry becomes a lot more important to him as the story develops, but nothing comes easy to these two young men.
If you like emotionally intense stories with twists and turns that might shock you, if you prefer your romances to be slow-burn and well-meshed with action and adventure suspenseful enough for a Jason Bourne movie, and if you’re looking for a read that puts a struggling teenager through the wringer to have him come out the other side a young man, then you will probably like this novel as much as I do. It’s as wild as it is edgy and an excellent example of young adult fiction that tells it as it is.
NOTE: This book was provided by Harmony Ink Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 23, 2016
Ah. This you guys! #pageturneralert :)
What an exciting, action-packed and wonderfully brilliant story.
It’s written in first person and we sadly only get Isaiah’s POV — but I had so much fun with his voice :)
ALL THE ☆☆☆☆☆ !!
►
Isaiah was born in Africa and spent the following seven years with his missionary parents in a refugee camp in the Central African Republic. When he and his mom return to the States his dad stays behind. After not having heard from his father in ten years, it’s easy to imagine that Isaiah resents him for not being part of his life.
While he was happy growing up with his mom in Milwaukee, not having any contact with his dad has left a hole in his heart, one he didn't think could ever be fixed, so he covered up with a bit of teenage temper and a lot of bitterness and resentment.
So you can understand that Isaiah is in a bad mood and beyond frustrated when he arrives in Africa, and the promise of a long and boring summer. Most of all, he doesn’t want to spend it living with his father, who he thinks doesn’t give a damn about him. When said father doesn’t even bother to pick him up from the airport, well, that’s just the cherry on top.
Isaiah’s not very impressed by Henry, who was sent to get him on his father's behalf, when they first meet. He pretty much can’t stand Henry on principle; just another do-gooder, and he really doesn’t want to have to deal with him.
But Henry is so much more than that and Isaiah’s quickly intrigued by his 'new friend'.
Bad luck leads them into the clutches of scary assault riffle wearing mercenary soldiers, who believe the kids have something they want. So obviously their next move includes a kidnapping stunt followed by some heavy questioning and a week in the poorest conditions imaginable.
The boys were soon dirty, hungry and irritable, understandably so, and suffering from all kinds of pains.
Isaiah is also diabetic. Without his insulin and crappy food while being held hostage and at the mercy of really scary, international bad guys his chance of survival are minimal…
►
The core of the story is pretty intense and when the days went by, one after the other, Isaiah close to death and Henry barely sane, oh I was so caught up in the book there was no way I would’ve put it aside for anything. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen.
The setting (Africa; Rainforest) is one of the rarer ones seen in this genre, even more so when it comes to Young Adult, so is the whole being kidnapped and held for ransom part — something I greatly enjoy. There is just something about the fight of survival… throw in a love-interest, some tension and voila. One of my favorite plots. It also helped that both boys are absolutely lovable in their own way and I was cheering for them from the moment they met.
With how scary a place this world is I find it a frighteningly realistic scenario, although probably with not the highest chance of happening on a regular basis, thank God. It’s not pretty. I don’t know much about Africa and the politics down there, but there are refugees and war and so much hurt all over the world. It’s just easy to imagine…
▽
Fazit:
One of my favorite reads for sure.
I would love to see Isaiah and Henry again.
As with many Young Adult novels this one ends just too soon! :(
▽
Many, many thanks to the publisher who kindly provided a free copy for an honest and impartial review.
What an exciting, action-packed and wonderfully brilliant story.
It’s written in first person and we sadly only get Isaiah’s POV — but I had so much fun with his voice :)
ALL THE ☆☆☆☆☆ !!
►
Isaiah was born in Africa and spent the following seven years with his missionary parents in a refugee camp in the Central African Republic. When he and his mom return to the States his dad stays behind. After not having heard from his father in ten years, it’s easy to imagine that Isaiah resents him for not being part of his life.
While he was happy growing up with his mom in Milwaukee, not having any contact with his dad has left a hole in his heart, one he didn't think could ever be fixed, so he covered up with a bit of teenage temper and a lot of bitterness and resentment.
So you can understand that Isaiah is in a bad mood and beyond frustrated when he arrives in Africa, and the promise of a long and boring summer. Most of all, he doesn’t want to spend it living with his father, who he thinks doesn’t give a damn about him. When said father doesn’t even bother to pick him up from the airport, well, that’s just the cherry on top.
Isaiah’s not very impressed by Henry, who was sent to get him on his father's behalf, when they first meet. He pretty much can’t stand Henry on principle; just another do-gooder, and he really doesn’t want to have to deal with him.
But Henry is so much more than that and Isaiah’s quickly intrigued by his 'new friend'.
Bad luck leads them into the clutches of scary assault riffle wearing mercenary soldiers, who believe the kids have something they want. So obviously their next move includes a kidnapping stunt followed by some heavy questioning and a week in the poorest conditions imaginable.
The boys were soon dirty, hungry and irritable, understandably so, and suffering from all kinds of pains.
Isaiah is also diabetic. Without his insulin and crappy food while being held hostage and at the mercy of really scary, international bad guys his chance of survival are minimal…
►
The core of the story is pretty intense and when the days went by, one after the other, Isaiah close to death and Henry barely sane, oh I was so caught up in the book there was no way I would’ve put it aside for anything. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen.
The setting (Africa; Rainforest) is one of the rarer ones seen in this genre, even more so when it comes to Young Adult, so is the whole being kidnapped and held for ransom part — something I greatly enjoy. There is just something about the fight of survival… throw in a love-interest, some tension and voila. One of my favorite plots. It also helped that both boys are absolutely lovable in their own way and I was cheering for them from the moment they met.
With how scary a place this world is I find it a frighteningly realistic scenario, although probably with not the highest chance of happening on a regular basis, thank God. It’s not pretty. I don’t know much about Africa and the politics down there, but there are refugees and war and so much hurt all over the world. It’s just easy to imagine…
▽
Fazit:
One of my favorite reads for sure.
I would love to see Isaiah and Henry again.
As with many Young Adult novels this one ends just too soon! :(
▽
Many, many thanks to the publisher who kindly provided a free copy for an honest and impartial review.
October 7, 2016
Wow, talk about a wild ride that keeps you going until the very end! Do-Gooder is an entertaining, action-packed YA novel and a heartbreaking whirlwind of emotions. There was danger around every corner, and the plot moved swiftly, so there wasn't a moment of boredom. Each character had a distinct personality and felt real.
I admit that as a hardcore fan of romance novels, I was a bit disappointed there wasn't much more than a kiss in the course of the story. I get that it would've felt forced and out of place, but an epilogue would have been nice.
I think the author went a little overboard with the use of the word 'do-gooder'. It was mentioned 14 times, and I really got the point the first couple of times it was used.
Great stuff overall, though.
***ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
I admit that as a hardcore fan of romance novels, I was a bit disappointed there wasn't much more than a kiss in the course of the story. I get that it would've felt forced and out of place, but an epilogue would have been nice.
I think the author went a little overboard with the use of the word 'do-gooder'. It was mentioned 14 times, and I really got the point the first couple of times it was used.
Great stuff overall, though.
***ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
August 30, 2016
*Thank you Netgalley.com for the free, advanced copy*
THIS BOOK WAS SO, SO COOL.
Action packed, A complete page-turner... It was quite amazing.
It was also much more complex and deeper than the blurb made it sound. It caught me off-guard and I LOVED IT.
So many cool things going on, that ultimately contributed to the slow-burn in the precious relationship between Isaiah and Henry/Hank xD it was so, so well planned-out that, seriously, there's not ONE dull moment, you can't stop reading, there's always something (even in the strange moments of aparent calm) that keeps you at the edge of your seat. This book just keeps surprising you AND IT'S THE BEST FEELING EVER.
I mean, SERIOUSLY. Wow.
THIS BOOK WAS SO, SO COOL.
Action packed, A complete page-turner... It was quite amazing.
It was also much more complex and deeper than the blurb made it sound. It caught me off-guard and I LOVED IT.
So many cool things going on, that ultimately contributed to the slow-burn in the precious relationship between Isaiah and Henry/Hank xD it was so, so well planned-out that, seriously, there's not ONE dull moment, you can't stop reading, there's always something (even in the strange moments of aparent calm) that keeps you at the edge of your seat. This book just keeps surprising you AND IT'S THE BEST FEELING EVER.
I mean, SERIOUSLY. Wow.
September 29, 2016
For a young adult book that required some suspension of disbelief through the action part, I was surprised at the bit of adrenaline rush I had through the high action parts.
It was also a fresh thrill to read what seemed like a basic coming of age transition plot suddenly take a serious left turn. Meanwhile, the subplot of what happened at home is not forgotten and plays out meaningfully.
A YA story that plants itself into the thriller genre. Recommended.
Thank you to the publisher for the free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
It was also a fresh thrill to read what seemed like a basic coming of age transition plot suddenly take a serious left turn. Meanwhile, the subplot of what happened at home is not forgotten and plays out meaningfully.
A YA story that plants itself into the thriller genre. Recommended.
Thank you to the publisher for the free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 19, 2017
It's more of a close 2.5 Star Read.
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Isaiah was born in Africa, but soon moved with his mother to the United States. Now he is on his way back. He tried to stop a friend from making a big mistake and was caught with her gun in his hand. He should spend two months there, working at his father's hospital. Henry, who works for his father, picks him up at the airport. While they drive they are stopped by armed mercenaries and kidnapped. During their time as prisoners they have to face many terrible things and struggle for survival.
I enjoy the character growth we got to see and how Isaiah turned from a moody boy to a Hero, from somebody who thought that helping people only got yourself in trouble, to somebody who actively wanted to help people.
Their relationship starts with a hate-love relationship in which Isaiah calls Henry Hank to make him angry. He also resents all those do-gooders who are like his father, but slowly he starts to care more about Henry and soon develops a bit of a crush.
I liked that Isaiah was a Typ-1-Diabetic and that it w
as described realistically as where the problems that happened when he couldn't access his Insulin.
There where some scenes that just didn't make sense (like Isaiah forgetting that he had just been abducted and locked up in a dark damp cellar and instead swooning over how ~pretty~ Henry is.) Some of the paragraphs were choppy and it threw me out of the reading flow at times. Also Henry's mysterious past was the "gay homeless boy starting prostitution to survive" which I've read in so many stories already, that it is neither a mystery nor particularly interesting. And while i'm sure that it's the story of many homeless gay boys, it also doesn't help that most of the time that plot is written by women, and not ownvoices.
There was an (unnecessary) rape scene (and no exploration of what trauma that must have been, especially considering Henry's past), the death of the only black women of importance (the book was set in Africa and there's not a single important black character who survives/exists, which just feels... lazy) [the only other black character is an evil kidnapper] and some racist remarks from Isaiah (at least those where challenged in the book).
I think the setting was interesting, but that the story could have been better. I also never really felt connected to the characters, so the book just fell flat for me.
Why I read it: A m/m romance set in Africa? Yes, I'll check it out!
Do I recommend it: If you're looking for a fast-paced m/m romance with crime story aspects, this could be the book for you. Just look out for the trigger warnings.
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Isaiah was born in Africa, but soon moved with his mother to the United States. Now he is on his way back. He tried to stop a friend from making a big mistake and was caught with her gun in his hand. He should spend two months there, working at his father's hospital. Henry, who works for his father, picks him up at the airport. While they drive they are stopped by armed mercenaries and kidnapped. During their time as prisoners they have to face many terrible things and struggle for survival.
I enjoy the character growth we got to see and how Isaiah turned from a moody boy to a Hero, from somebody who thought that helping people only got yourself in trouble, to somebody who actively wanted to help people.
Their relationship starts with a hate-love relationship in which Isaiah calls Henry Hank to make him angry. He also resents all those do-gooders who are like his father, but slowly he starts to care more about Henry and soon develops a bit of a crush.
I liked that Isaiah was a Typ-1-Diabetic and that it w
as described realistically as where the problems that happened when he couldn't access his Insulin.
There where some scenes that just didn't make sense (like Isaiah forgetting that he had just been abducted and locked up in a dark damp cellar and instead swooning over how ~pretty~ Henry is.) Some of the paragraphs were choppy and it threw me out of the reading flow at times. Also Henry's mysterious past was the "gay homeless boy starting prostitution to survive" which I've read in so many stories already, that it is neither a mystery nor particularly interesting. And while i'm sure that it's the story of many homeless gay boys, it also doesn't help that most of the time that plot is written by women, and not ownvoices.
There was an (unnecessary) rape scene (and no exploration of what trauma that must have been, especially considering Henry's past), the death of the only black women of importance (the book was set in Africa and there's not a single important black character who survives/exists, which just feels... lazy) [the only other black character is an evil kidnapper] and some racist remarks from Isaiah (at least those where challenged in the book).
I think the setting was interesting, but that the story could have been better. I also never really felt connected to the characters, so the book just fell flat for me.
Why I read it: A m/m romance set in Africa? Yes, I'll check it out!
Do I recommend it: If you're looking for a fast-paced m/m romance with crime story aspects, this could be the book for you. Just look out for the trigger warnings.
October 2, 2016
*Thanks to NetGalley for the free advance copy*
Do-Gooder is a book about severely diabetic 17 year-old Isaiah Martin after he is caught with a gun (it wasn’t his, and the story behind becomes apparent in increments), and sent to stay with his father who runs a refugee camp in Cameroon for penance.
Isaiah hasn’t heard from his father in ten years. The way his father prioritises the camp over his own son has given Isaiah an aversion to “Do-Gooders”, and Isaiah isn’t looking forward to spending a whole summer surrounded by them.
When his father doesn’t even bother to pick Isaiah up from the airport, it isn’t the best start. Instead he’s picked up by Henry, an assistant at the camp, and the two boys start the two-day journey into the wilds of Cameroon. Things go very wrong very quickly, and they find themselves in the middle of a situation that will have wider repercussions than they can imagine.
Do-Gooder is an interesting book. Bailey clearly loves Africa, and this shows in her descriptions of Cameroon and its people. There is more presented than desert and scrubland large-eyed orphans: Yaoundé is shown as a thoroughly modern city, with a bustling University district. As Isaiah and Henry travel through the country towards the camp, the setting becomes more remote and deserted, and the heat and humidity of the rainforest they end up in is wonderfully evoked.
Both the main characters are gay, and talk about it quite early in the book, but there is thankfully no instant development of feelings. Isaiah is jetlagged and annoyed when they first meet, and the closest we get to instalove is him noticing that, yeah, Henry’s kind of hot. Instead, we get a wonderfully slow-building friendship growing from adversity. There’s never any doubt that their situation is the most important thing to think about, and everything but survival is stuck in the background. The book isn't about their sexuality, it's just who they are.
I loved the boys’ road-trip, and the way the rather dire situation they end up in is handled. Isaiah especially felt very real and relatable, as it’s from his perspective we see everything. Both boys acted how I think most people would in a hostage situation: there are no stupid acts of bravery or attempts at escape, and they worry that this makes them cowards. Their individual backstories are revealed slowly, as they talk on the road and when they’re being held.
When the international politics and the full extent of Isaiah’s father’s involvement in things starts to be unveiled, things get really interesting. The last third of the book escalates to international intrigue and almost feels like a political thriller.
The last couple of sections feel a little rushed and flat, though, and let the rest of the book down a little in my opinion.
This is a book with big themes and important subjects, but it doesn't feel like one. It's quite an easy read, and although there are some horrible scenes, it isn't harrowing.
Do-Gooder is a book about severely diabetic 17 year-old Isaiah Martin after he is caught with a gun (it wasn’t his, and the story behind becomes apparent in increments), and sent to stay with his father who runs a refugee camp in Cameroon for penance.
Isaiah hasn’t heard from his father in ten years. The way his father prioritises the camp over his own son has given Isaiah an aversion to “Do-Gooders”, and Isaiah isn’t looking forward to spending a whole summer surrounded by them.
When his father doesn’t even bother to pick Isaiah up from the airport, it isn’t the best start. Instead he’s picked up by Henry, an assistant at the camp, and the two boys start the two-day journey into the wilds of Cameroon. Things go very wrong very quickly, and they find themselves in the middle of a situation that will have wider repercussions than they can imagine.
Do-Gooder is an interesting book. Bailey clearly loves Africa, and this shows in her descriptions of Cameroon and its people. There is more presented than desert and scrubland large-eyed orphans: Yaoundé is shown as a thoroughly modern city, with a bustling University district. As Isaiah and Henry travel through the country towards the camp, the setting becomes more remote and deserted, and the heat and humidity of the rainforest they end up in is wonderfully evoked.
Both the main characters are gay, and talk about it quite early in the book, but there is thankfully no instant development of feelings. Isaiah is jetlagged and annoyed when they first meet, and the closest we get to instalove is him noticing that, yeah, Henry’s kind of hot. Instead, we get a wonderfully slow-building friendship growing from adversity. There’s never any doubt that their situation is the most important thing to think about, and everything but survival is stuck in the background. The book isn't about their sexuality, it's just who they are.
I loved the boys’ road-trip, and the way the rather dire situation they end up in is handled. Isaiah especially felt very real and relatable, as it’s from his perspective we see everything. Both boys acted how I think most people would in a hostage situation: there are no stupid acts of bravery or attempts at escape, and they worry that this makes them cowards. Their individual backstories are revealed slowly, as they talk on the road and when they’re being held.
When the international politics and the full extent of Isaiah’s father’s involvement in things starts to be unveiled, things get really interesting. The last third of the book escalates to international intrigue and almost feels like a political thriller.
The last couple of sections feel a little rushed and flat, though, and let the rest of the book down a little in my opinion.
This is a book with big themes and important subjects, but it doesn't feel like one. It's quite an easy read, and although there are some horrible scenes, it isn't harrowing.
September 16, 2016
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
“Do-Gooder” was an exciting, action-packed read. The romance mostly took a back seat, since the protagonists were a little busy trying to survive.
I mostly decided to read this book because of the setting. Not a lot of m/m books are set in Africa and I’ve always liked reading about exotic places. We don’t get to read much about the culture, though, since the story is mostly set in the middle of nowhere, with our two protagonists as prisoners of international mercenaries. I didn’t mind too much, since there were plenty of other things to keep me interested.
It’s interesting how the author managed to keep the story so suspenseful, even though it’s mostly set in a single hut and the MCs mostly just talk. Still, there’s the constant worry about Isaiah’s health, the mystery of Henry’s past and of course the mystery of why they were kidnapped and the worry about the next step of the kidnappers.
Even more amazing is the fact that she also managed to keep the feel of the story very realistic. All the explanations we get throughout made sense and the whole plot seemed like something that could totally happen under those circumstances.
The one part I didn’t really like was the romance. Not so much that it played only a minor role, but Isaiah’s feelings felt awfully rushed. It’s pretty much insta-love for him, which is a trope I despise. I didn’t quite buy into the intensity of the feelings. It read more like a crush to me and they just didn’t spend enough time with each other for me to believe that this was grounds for a serious relationship. Maybe Henry’s POV would have helped, because we only get to see Isaiah’s side. As it is, I didn’t really get the impression that Henry was returning Isaiah’s feelings for a long time.
The result was that I didn’t buy into the ending either. It felt like a forced HEA and pretty unrealistic. A HFN ending might have worked better, at least for me.
If you’re looking for a light, fun read, keep looking. This is not the book for you.
If, however, you’re looking for an action packed story full of intrigues and mystery, with a dash of romance, you’ll love this book.
The cover by Aaron Anderson represents the story perfectly: bullet holes and the all-important backpack with an African landscape on it. I’m not too fond of the background colour, but otherwise this is a great cover.
“Do-Gooder” was an exciting, action-packed read. The romance mostly took a back seat, since the protagonists were a little busy trying to survive.
I mostly decided to read this book because of the setting. Not a lot of m/m books are set in Africa and I’ve always liked reading about exotic places. We don’t get to read much about the culture, though, since the story is mostly set in the middle of nowhere, with our two protagonists as prisoners of international mercenaries. I didn’t mind too much, since there were plenty of other things to keep me interested.
It’s interesting how the author managed to keep the story so suspenseful, even though it’s mostly set in a single hut and the MCs mostly just talk. Still, there’s the constant worry about Isaiah’s health, the mystery of Henry’s past and of course the mystery of why they were kidnapped and the worry about the next step of the kidnappers.
Even more amazing is the fact that she also managed to keep the feel of the story very realistic. All the explanations we get throughout made sense and the whole plot seemed like something that could totally happen under those circumstances.
The one part I didn’t really like was the romance. Not so much that it played only a minor role, but Isaiah’s feelings felt awfully rushed. It’s pretty much insta-love for him, which is a trope I despise. I didn’t quite buy into the intensity of the feelings. It read more like a crush to me and they just didn’t spend enough time with each other for me to believe that this was grounds for a serious relationship. Maybe Henry’s POV would have helped, because we only get to see Isaiah’s side. As it is, I didn’t really get the impression that Henry was returning Isaiah’s feelings for a long time.
The result was that I didn’t buy into the ending either. It felt like a forced HEA and pretty unrealistic. A HFN ending might have worked better, at least for me.
If you’re looking for a light, fun read, keep looking. This is not the book for you.
If, however, you’re looking for an action packed story full of intrigues and mystery, with a dash of romance, you’ll love this book.
The cover by Aaron Anderson represents the story perfectly: bullet holes and the all-important backpack with an African landscape on it. I’m not too fond of the background colour, but otherwise this is a great cover.
September 21, 2016
3.5 of 5 stars – Good Gay YA, More Action Adventure, Some Romance.
[Thanks to the author for a free copy via Goodreads' YA LGBT group in exchange for an honest review]
I love various gay genres, including YA romance, and this was refreshingly in the form of an action adventure, as well as in Africa, and J. Leigh Bailey did justice to both.
Her style was straightforward, easy-to-read and descriptive enough to fit the faster paced action. While not a fully adult action adventure, the plot was credible, tense and fast-paced when it needed to be. Even though a bit predictable, I stayed in it to the end, which was realistically satisfying, . The story was fairly realistic, especially with some violent treatment by the captors, which goes with being an action thriller (more so than an m/m romance); so even though it wasn’t graphic it might upset some. And I liked being in Africa, aptly pictured. Yet I still wanted a little more to help me visualize and get an even better sense of the action, the place, and its people (maybe this came from it being mostly in the jungle?).
Bailey also did a good job with the characterization and development of the two teenaged MCs, treating them with respect without too much angst or childishness like I’ve seen in some YAs, but still having that touch of energy and impetuousness. I liked both MCs – the moody, frustrated Isaiah (17) and Henry (18) with admirable do-gooder qualities, putting others before himself, especially in protecting Isaiah, to make up for past “sins.” That said I was a bit surprised and disappointed in the lack of racial diversity in the characters, especially in the MCs and other good guys. With the setting and circumstances, it seemed to be an opportunity missed.
Written to good effect in the first-person POV of Isaiah, I appreciated how he grew from his finding out more about his absent Dad, his kidnapping, and his working with Henry to survive. I enjoyed seeing their friendship grow . And just fyi, this was a good YA in that there were no sex scenes (just some sexual thoughts and urges, even if mildly described compared to what a teenage boy would have).
Overall, a decent action adventure through the eyes of a regular gay kid from the states.
[Thanks to the author for a free copy via Goodreads' YA LGBT group in exchange for an honest review]
I love various gay genres, including YA romance, and this was refreshingly in the form of an action adventure, as well as in Africa, and J. Leigh Bailey did justice to both.
Her style was straightforward, easy-to-read and descriptive enough to fit the faster paced action. While not a fully adult action adventure, the plot was credible, tense and fast-paced when it needed to be. Even though a bit predictable, I stayed in it to the end, which was realistically satisfying, . The story was fairly realistic, especially with some violent treatment by the captors, which goes with being an action thriller (more so than an m/m romance); so even though it wasn’t graphic it might upset some. And I liked being in Africa, aptly pictured. Yet I still wanted a little more to help me visualize and get an even better sense of the action, the place, and its people (maybe this came from it being mostly in the jungle?).
Bailey also did a good job with the characterization and development of the two teenaged MCs, treating them with respect without too much angst or childishness like I’ve seen in some YAs, but still having that touch of energy and impetuousness. I liked both MCs – the moody, frustrated Isaiah (17) and Henry (18) with admirable do-gooder qualities, putting others before himself, especially in protecting Isaiah, to make up for past “sins.” That said I was a bit surprised and disappointed in the lack of racial diversity in the characters, especially in the MCs and other good guys. With the setting and circumstances, it seemed to be an opportunity missed.
Written to good effect in the first-person POV of Isaiah, I appreciated how he grew from his finding out more about his absent Dad, his kidnapping, and his working with Henry to survive. I enjoyed seeing their friendship grow . And just fyi, this was a good YA in that there were no sex scenes (just some sexual thoughts and urges, even if mildly described compared to what a teenage boy would have).
Overall, a decent action adventure through the eyes of a regular gay kid from the states.
November 27, 2016
A coming of age LGBT novel written by J. Leigh Bailey. Would you, or could you, do something that could get you sent to Africa for summer community service? Isaiah Martin sure did! Do you think you could fall in love while despising your being there? Isaiah did!
Isaiah helps a friend by taking the gun away, but then is found with it near school property. Because of this, he has to join his father in Cameroon, Africa as a missionary. Isaiah hasn't seen or heard from his father in a long time, and has some issues with it. When arriving in Africa, he is not met by his father, but one of the others at the mission, Henry. Just a short shot way from the mission camp, they are picked up by rogue soldiers. Will they make it out of the camp alive? Can they trust each other and their felling?
I think I would put this in YA Action/Adventure before I put it in YA romance. While there may be overtones of love/lust in the book, the main portion of it is the action/adventure for Isaiah and Henry. This is still an amazing book! I did not want to put it down!
Thank you Harmony Ink Press and NetGalley for the free digital copy of this book to give an honest review!
Isaiah helps a friend by taking the gun away, but then is found with it near school property. Because of this, he has to join his father in Cameroon, Africa as a missionary. Isaiah hasn't seen or heard from his father in a long time, and has some issues with it. When arriving in Africa, he is not met by his father, but one of the others at the mission, Henry. Just a short shot way from the mission camp, they are picked up by rogue soldiers. Will they make it out of the camp alive? Can they trust each other and their felling?
I think I would put this in YA Action/Adventure before I put it in YA romance. While there may be overtones of love/lust in the book, the main portion of it is the action/adventure for Isaiah and Henry. This is still an amazing book! I did not want to put it down!
Thank you Harmony Ink Press and NetGalley for the free digital copy of this book to give an honest review!
March 9, 2017
4.5 Stars.
Isaiah Martin is a high school senior at a private school in Wisconsin when he tries to help a friend in dire need. His best friend is having severe home troubles, and Isaiah finds her near school with a gun in her lap--Isaiah tries to remove it and gets arrested for possession. His mother, a high powered attorney, gets his arrest expunged for probation as long as Isaiah spends the summer volunteering with his missionary physician father in Cameroon, Africa.
Isaiah isn't thrilled with the idea, mostly because he hasn't even heard from his father in the nine years since he and his mother moved back to the States. And, he's really not happy when his dad can't even make it to the airport to pick him up. Instead, Isaiah is collected by Henry, and young and attractive man who's been working at the mission for a couple years. Isaiah is sullen and petulant, and the ride to the mission is two days long and arduous--including a stopover for fresh medical supplies.
There is some level of bonding as these two spend a day and night together, but it gets serious when Isaiah, a diabetic, struggles with his insulin pump--and Henry gets bitten by a venomous snake. Oh, and when the armed guerillas take them captive in an effort to locate components of a chemical weapon? Yeah, that really kicks this adventure into high gear.
DO GOODER was an engaging YA adventure, with openly gay characters caught in a high stakes plot. It felt very well-researched, and had elements of suspense that far surpassed the critical zone. Isaiah is literally slowly dying from DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) over the course of their imprisonment. Trusted friends are slaughtered, and it seems like only one--if either--of these boys will make it out alive. The anguish Isaiah feels because of his father's political ties is extreme, and Henry's self-sacrificing activity is more than a little harrowing. I really enjoyed how close these kids bonded, though the book is sexually-innocent, and ached for both of them when "rescue" comes to pass. It was a little hard to follow the timeline, because Isaiah is the narrator, and he's overcome by disorientation that accompanies DKA. That said, the confusion gave an authentic feel to the point-of-view and kept the tension high. I received a review copy via NetGalley.
Isaiah Martin is a high school senior at a private school in Wisconsin when he tries to help a friend in dire need. His best friend is having severe home troubles, and Isaiah finds her near school with a gun in her lap--Isaiah tries to remove it and gets arrested for possession. His mother, a high powered attorney, gets his arrest expunged for probation as long as Isaiah spends the summer volunteering with his missionary physician father in Cameroon, Africa.
Isaiah isn't thrilled with the idea, mostly because he hasn't even heard from his father in the nine years since he and his mother moved back to the States. And, he's really not happy when his dad can't even make it to the airport to pick him up. Instead, Isaiah is collected by Henry, and young and attractive man who's been working at the mission for a couple years. Isaiah is sullen and petulant, and the ride to the mission is two days long and arduous--including a stopover for fresh medical supplies.
There is some level of bonding as these two spend a day and night together, but it gets serious when Isaiah, a diabetic, struggles with his insulin pump--and Henry gets bitten by a venomous snake. Oh, and when the armed guerillas take them captive in an effort to locate components of a chemical weapon? Yeah, that really kicks this adventure into high gear.
DO GOODER was an engaging YA adventure, with openly gay characters caught in a high stakes plot. It felt very well-researched, and had elements of suspense that far surpassed the critical zone. Isaiah is literally slowly dying from DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) over the course of their imprisonment. Trusted friends are slaughtered, and it seems like only one--if either--of these boys will make it out alive. The anguish Isaiah feels because of his father's political ties is extreme, and Henry's self-sacrificing activity is more than a little harrowing. I really enjoyed how close these kids bonded, though the book is sexually-innocent, and ached for both of them when "rescue" comes to pass. It was a little hard to follow the timeline, because Isaiah is the narrator, and he's overcome by disorientation that accompanies DKA. That said, the confusion gave an authentic feel to the point-of-view and kept the tension high. I received a review copy via NetGalley.
September 16, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Having read a couple of Bailey’s M/M new adult romances, I was excited about the prospect of discovering how well she could write a young adult story. As it turns out, the author’s writing style lends itself well to the young adult genre as this and the other books I’ve read demonstrate a clear focus on the characters as the driving force behind the story. Because I don’t know where else to mention it in my review, I want to give a nod to the author about how Isaiah’s diabetes is dealt with in the book – it is presented as a part of who he is and not as a barrier to him living his life, yet the author makes it clear that Isaiah’s diligence to his health is paramount without making his diabetes a character of its own (if that makes sense).
No good deed goes unpunished. That’s the premise of Do-Gooder, or at least that’s how Isaiah sees it as his butt is on its way to Africa for part of the summer as a form of intensive community service. Yeah, getting caught with a gun within 200 yards of a school was no laughing matter, but his mother’s legal prowess kept him out of jail, even if the alternative isn’t much better in Isaiah’s opinion. Isaiah’s outlook on the situation gets a little brighter upon meeting Henry, but that feeling is short-lived when the young men are waylaid by mercenaries on their trip back to the medical center. At first glance, this may seem a bit fantastical of a storyline, yet it’s the kind of incident that triggers tourist warnings for Americans throughout the world – no one is truly safe. While the direction the story takes revs up the action and adventure that will hold many a teen’s attention, it is Isaiah and Henry’s time as hostages that allows the author’s talent to shine because it’s when we see the characters develop. I don’t want to say much about their time as hostages because I don’t want to ruin the book for potential readers, but it’s not pretty; it’s no worse than many action movies I’ve watched, except that when they are subjected to violence, it’s not overly graphic in my opinion.
I should point out that an adult reader, and an astute young adult reader, will easily see the set-up for the action and adventure portion of Do-Gooder. However, Bailey writes it in such a way that the reader is meant to see what Isaiah and Henry do not, and understand why they don’t see it. Yet even knowing that something was coming, I was still taken aback by events as they unfolded. So while there is a certain level of predictability for the adult reader, it didn’t keep me from getting sucked into the story because of how Bailey writes Isaiah and Henry – they are what matters, they are why I’m reading the story, and it is their responses to the situation and their behaviors that moved the story forward. The bond that forms between the young men as they are faced with a situation right out of a movie or novel (*wink, wink*) is palpable, not only because of the danger they face together, but because they anchor one another to reality. As this is a young adult novel, there is no sexual content, with only a kiss being exchanged – and considering that the storyline is heavy on the action and adventure, it made sense that there was no more than that. While I do not pretend to know what, if anything, teens are reading these days, I suspect that Do-Gooder will appeal more to males than females because of the action and adventure aspects, particularly gay teens who may find themselves identifying with Isaiah and/or Henry. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and hope that Bailey continues to contribute to the LGBT young adult genre.
Young Adult Recommendation: I’m going to say 14 and up as there is only a kiss shared between Isaiah and Henry, and the violence isn’t too graphic. Initially, I was going to say 12 and up, but there are a couple of discussions regarding Henry’s time as a rentboy and, while it happens off-page, it is clear that Henry trades his “services” for Isaiah’s insulin, hence the change in age recommendation.
Having read a couple of Bailey’s M/M new adult romances, I was excited about the prospect of discovering how well she could write a young adult story. As it turns out, the author’s writing style lends itself well to the young adult genre as this and the other books I’ve read demonstrate a clear focus on the characters as the driving force behind the story. Because I don’t know where else to mention it in my review, I want to give a nod to the author about how Isaiah’s diabetes is dealt with in the book – it is presented as a part of who he is and not as a barrier to him living his life, yet the author makes it clear that Isaiah’s diligence to his health is paramount without making his diabetes a character of its own (if that makes sense).
No good deed goes unpunished. That’s the premise of Do-Gooder, or at least that’s how Isaiah sees it as his butt is on its way to Africa for part of the summer as a form of intensive community service. Yeah, getting caught with a gun within 200 yards of a school was no laughing matter, but his mother’s legal prowess kept him out of jail, even if the alternative isn’t much better in Isaiah’s opinion. Isaiah’s outlook on the situation gets a little brighter upon meeting Henry, but that feeling is short-lived when the young men are waylaid by mercenaries on their trip back to the medical center. At first glance, this may seem a bit fantastical of a storyline, yet it’s the kind of incident that triggers tourist warnings for Americans throughout the world – no one is truly safe. While the direction the story takes revs up the action and adventure that will hold many a teen’s attention, it is Isaiah and Henry’s time as hostages that allows the author’s talent to shine because it’s when we see the characters develop. I don’t want to say much about their time as hostages because I don’t want to ruin the book for potential readers, but it’s not pretty; it’s no worse than many action movies I’ve watched, except that when they are subjected to violence, it’s not overly graphic in my opinion.
I should point out that an adult reader, and an astute young adult reader, will easily see the set-up for the action and adventure portion of Do-Gooder. However, Bailey writes it in such a way that the reader is meant to see what Isaiah and Henry do not, and understand why they don’t see it. Yet even knowing that something was coming, I was still taken aback by events as they unfolded. So while there is a certain level of predictability for the adult reader, it didn’t keep me from getting sucked into the story because of how Bailey writes Isaiah and Henry – they are what matters, they are why I’m reading the story, and it is their responses to the situation and their behaviors that moved the story forward. The bond that forms between the young men as they are faced with a situation right out of a movie or novel (*wink, wink*) is palpable, not only because of the danger they face together, but because they anchor one another to reality. As this is a young adult novel, there is no sexual content, with only a kiss being exchanged – and considering that the storyline is heavy on the action and adventure, it made sense that there was no more than that. While I do not pretend to know what, if anything, teens are reading these days, I suspect that Do-Gooder will appeal more to males than females because of the action and adventure aspects, particularly gay teens who may find themselves identifying with Isaiah and/or Henry. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and hope that Bailey continues to contribute to the LGBT young adult genre.
Young Adult Recommendation: I’m going to say 14 and up as there is only a kiss shared between Isaiah and Henry, and the violence isn’t too graphic. Initially, I was going to say 12 and up, but there are a couple of discussions regarding Henry’s time as a rentboy and, while it happens off-page, it is clear that Henry trades his “services” for Isaiah’s insulin, hence the change in age recommendation.
March 6, 2017
Cross-posted on Lou's
*book received from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review*
This is a book I went in with little fear: I don't usually read much stories of this kind but I was pleasantly surprised with it, so much that I read it in one sitting. I just could not stop reading, I had to know what was going to happen to both the young characters.
This is full of action, but not only that. There's acceptance, how to learn to accept the mistakes of the past and so many more. The story is much deeper than the blurb let it appeared and honestly this is one book I won't mind to come back to every once in a while. Even the moments of apparent calm give you something. You do not have time to get bored with this story.
You're looking for a good written, pageturner story? Go for this one.
*book received from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review*
This is a book I went in with little fear: I don't usually read much stories of this kind but I was pleasantly surprised with it, so much that I read it in one sitting. I just could not stop reading, I had to know what was going to happen to both the young characters.
This is full of action, but not only that. There's acceptance, how to learn to accept the mistakes of the past and so many more. The story is much deeper than the blurb let it appeared and honestly this is one book I won't mind to come back to every once in a while. Even the moments of apparent calm give you something. You do not have time to get bored with this story.
You're looking for a good written, pageturner story? Go for this one.
October 5, 2016
Reviewed for Just Love
4.5 stars rounded up
This book was not what I was expecting at all. I was immediately intrigued when I read that it’s set in Africa since that’s a location I don’t ever recall seeing in Romance before. I love learning about new places so I jumped at the chance to review this one. I went in thinking that these kids would have some fun adventures with a conflict at the end. You know, the typical romance format, but this…this story is so much more. It’s an incredibly intense telling of how Isaiah and Henry get through the challenges of a horrible situation all the while putting the past behind them and growing as individuals. There may not be much room for romance but love abounds, tenfold.
I thought it funny how Isaiah kept referring to his dad and Henry as do-gooders. He’s so wrapped up in his feelings about his absentee father, his BFF’s problems, how he feels about Henry and the trouble they find themselves in that he doesn’t realize he’s just like them. He’s got a good heart and I really enjoyed seeing him and Henry take turns looking after one another. Even still, being kidnapped gives him a lot of time to figure out all the emotions he’s feeling.
The story is told in Isaiah’s POV but he’s such a curious character that I think Bailey does a great job of letting us get a peek inside Henry’s head too.
Isaiah learns that Henry’s had a rough start in life but he’s found his place working with Isaiah’s dad. I thought his cool calm was a good counter balance to Isaiah’s anxiousness. His past has made him wise beyond his years but he needs to let those old demons go. I think Isaiah is the perfect person to make him see that he’s worthy of love, and even though he probably won’t listen, he can put his own wants and needs ahead of everyone else from time to time.
I worried that the story had the potential to go off the rails and become an eye rolling DNF but that moment never came. This enthralling tale flows at a pace that’ll have you turning the last page before you know it. There’s a ton of character growth and although it seems dire for the better part, the conclusion makes all the nail biting worth it. There were a couple inconsistencies that bugged me but they were so minor that I don’t feel it was enough to take away from the experience. Another thing I liked is that although it’s written about young adults I feel that people of any age will enjoy it.
So if you’re tired of the same old romance formula or you’re just looking to try something different I definitely think Do-Gooder is worth a look. I know I’ll be looking for more from Miss Bailey.
I received an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
4.5 stars rounded up
This book was not what I was expecting at all. I was immediately intrigued when I read that it’s set in Africa since that’s a location I don’t ever recall seeing in Romance before. I love learning about new places so I jumped at the chance to review this one. I went in thinking that these kids would have some fun adventures with a conflict at the end. You know, the typical romance format, but this…this story is so much more. It’s an incredibly intense telling of how Isaiah and Henry get through the challenges of a horrible situation all the while putting the past behind them and growing as individuals. There may not be much room for romance but love abounds, tenfold.
I thought it funny how Isaiah kept referring to his dad and Henry as do-gooders. He’s so wrapped up in his feelings about his absentee father, his BFF’s problems, how he feels about Henry and the trouble they find themselves in that he doesn’t realize he’s just like them. He’s got a good heart and I really enjoyed seeing him and Henry take turns looking after one another. Even still, being kidnapped gives him a lot of time to figure out all the emotions he’s feeling.
“Chuck had been more of a father to Henry than he’d been to me, but maybe Henry needed it more. I had Mom. He’d had no one. I didn’t like the crazy jumble of emotions my mind and body could barely contain. Anger, protectiveness, jealousy, pride, love, disgust. It was too much for any one person to hold in.”
The story is told in Isaiah’s POV but he’s such a curious character that I think Bailey does a great job of letting us get a peek inside Henry’s head too.
Isaiah learns that Henry’s had a rough start in life but he’s found his place working with Isaiah’s dad. I thought his cool calm was a good counter balance to Isaiah’s anxiousness. His past has made him wise beyond his years but he needs to let those old demons go. I think Isaiah is the perfect person to make him see that he’s worthy of love, and even though he probably won’t listen, he can put his own wants and needs ahead of everyone else from time to time.
I worried that the story had the potential to go off the rails and become an eye rolling DNF but that moment never came. This enthralling tale flows at a pace that’ll have you turning the last page before you know it. There’s a ton of character growth and although it seems dire for the better part, the conclusion makes all the nail biting worth it. There were a couple inconsistencies that bugged me but they were so minor that I don’t feel it was enough to take away from the experience. Another thing I liked is that although it’s written about young adults I feel that people of any age will enjoy it.
So if you’re tired of the same old romance formula or you’re just looking to try something different I definitely think Do-Gooder is worth a look. I know I’ll be looking for more from Miss Bailey.
I received an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 3, 2017
***4.75 stars***
If you want to read a book that has action, sarcasm and a slow building ‘eventual’ romance, then this is the book for you. Really, this was such an amazing read! I. could. not. put. it. down.
J. Leigh Bailey is a new author to me, and I am so happy I found you. IMO, the author really took her time with this book. You can tell with all the detail that she put into it. I can only assume she or someone she knows was a missionary of some sort in the Central African Republic (CAR). There is so much detail about the area and the inhabitants. Not to mention, being abducted by mercenaries. I pray that whatever the case is, they did not endure the hardship that Isaiah and Henry went through at the hands of the mercenaries.
The character development of Henry and Isaiah was beautifully done. Henry being a homeless teen at fifteen, then fate intervenes and gives him a second chance at life. Isaiah on the other hand, has a father that has been out of the picture for ten years; then fate intervenes and eventually gives him a second chance with him. Through their journey together, they help one another to find their peace. Leaning upon one another for their individual strengths, and through all of this, they find each other.
Just a few FYI’s:
1. The ending is more of a HFN; nevertheless, it does wrap everything up for you at the end.
2. This book has some triggers such as kidnapping and a suicide attempt (briefly mentioned).
I am one of many reviewers at Gay Book Reviews and can be found here: http://gaybook.reviews/author/steph/
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you want to read a book that has action, sarcasm and a slow building ‘eventual’ romance, then this is the book for you. Really, this was such an amazing read! I. could. not. put. it. down.
J. Leigh Bailey is a new author to me, and I am so happy I found you. IMO, the author really took her time with this book. You can tell with all the detail that she put into it. I can only assume she or someone she knows was a missionary of some sort in the Central African Republic (CAR). There is so much detail about the area and the inhabitants. Not to mention, being abducted by mercenaries. I pray that whatever the case is, they did not endure the hardship that Isaiah and Henry went through at the hands of the mercenaries.
The character development of Henry and Isaiah was beautifully done. Henry being a homeless teen at fifteen, then fate intervenes and gives him a second chance at life. Isaiah on the other hand, has a father that has been out of the picture for ten years; then fate intervenes and eventually gives him a second chance with him. Through their journey together, they help one another to find their peace. Leaning upon one another for their individual strengths, and through all of this, they find each other.
Just a few FYI’s:
1. The ending is more of a HFN; nevertheless, it does wrap everything up for you at the end.
2. This book has some triggers such as kidnapping and a suicide attempt (briefly mentioned).
I am one of many reviewers at Gay Book Reviews and can be found here: http://gaybook.reviews/author/steph/
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2016
This is an intense, suspenseful coming of age story of seventeen year old Isaiah. He does something to help a friend, not even thinking of the ramifications, it wasn’t his gun. His mother worked magic to get him to do intense community service for his father the “Do-Gooder” in Africa. He works as a doctor in a refugee camp in Cameroon. This book is action packed on the edge of your seat. It is also a slow burn in friendship. I don’t feel like this is a romance as it is coming of age and finding yourself.
When I opened the first page I didn't know what I was going to happen other than him being kidnapped. I didn't know there would be betrayal and lies and half truths. It was so good. I was only disappointed when I had to put it down. I wanted more.
Isaiah knows he has to spend the summer with his father as this is his punishment for the gun he had. His mother send him on this bonding mission. Isaiah isn’t happy since he hasn’t seen his father in 10 years. He is upset his father couldn’t even be bothered to pick him up. He sent Henry/Hank. They are on their way to Isaiah’s dad and when they get kidnapped. Hank just wanted to come first for one. Isaiah just wanted his dad to put him first for once. I loved how Hank and Isaiah learned about each other and how Isaiah learned some about his father from Hank. Not everything is what it seems or is it? This is told in Isaiah point of view I just wish there was more. It keeps you there in suspense until the very end.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by JoAnna from Alpha Book Club
When I opened the first page I didn't know what I was going to happen other than him being kidnapped. I didn't know there would be betrayal and lies and half truths. It was so good. I was only disappointed when I had to put it down. I wanted more.
Isaiah knows he has to spend the summer with his father as this is his punishment for the gun he had. His mother send him on this bonding mission. Isaiah isn’t happy since he hasn’t seen his father in 10 years. He is upset his father couldn’t even be bothered to pick him up. He sent Henry/Hank. They are on their way to Isaiah’s dad and when they get kidnapped. Hank just wanted to come first for one. Isaiah just wanted his dad to put him first for once. I loved how Hank and Isaiah learned about each other and how Isaiah learned some about his father from Hank. Not everything is what it seems or is it? This is told in Isaiah point of view I just wish there was more. It keeps you there in suspense until the very end.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by JoAnna from Alpha Book Club
September 1, 2016
I’m still contemplating my feelings towards this book so the things you’re about to read would be my ‘just-finished-reaction’ towards it. I so enjoyed Isaiah’s perspective – voice alive, thoughts so vibrant and just overall fun to read. When you say young adult – Isiah is the perfect embodiment of it.
Henry meanwhile is a very fascinating character. I loved that he represent a strong character – a character you’d root for once you get to know him.
The Do-Gooder theme between the men in this book is lovely and all but I find it extremely annoying in the case of Chuck / Dr. Martin because of that twist about his character. It’s so not acceptable for me If I were Isaiah – I am so gonna flip the way he did.
I’m probably going to be in the minority here and I feel that I will be getting a bit of a flock for writing this one because it would seem like I’m making a big deal out of the circumstances the boys have found themselves into but it’s seriously bothered me to no end since finishing the book the other day. I didn’t like what happened with Henry during their captivity. It maybe one of those inevitable things given their circumstances but it was too much for me. Hasn’t the boy endured enough? It was a bit disheartening and I don’t believe for one second that it was nothing to him, that he’s done it before and all that shit. It’s a cruel twist of fate and the story could’ve go on without that scene.
I find the writing extremely thoughtful overall though, I’ve some issues with the story, I still had fun reading it. I also wouldn’t mind reading more from the boys in the future!
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Henry meanwhile is a very fascinating character. I loved that he represent a strong character – a character you’d root for once you get to know him.
The Do-Gooder theme between the men in this book is lovely and all but I find it extremely annoying in the case of Chuck / Dr. Martin because of that twist about his character. It’s so not acceptable for me If I were Isaiah – I am so gonna flip the way he did.
I’m probably going to be in the minority here and I feel that I will be getting a bit of a flock for writing this one because it would seem like I’m making a big deal out of the circumstances the boys have found themselves into but it’s seriously bothered me to no end since finishing the book the other day. I didn’t like what happened with Henry during their captivity. It maybe one of those inevitable things given their circumstances but it was too much for me. Hasn’t the boy endured enough? It was a bit disheartening and I don’t believe for one second that it was nothing to him, that he’s done it before and all that shit. It’s a cruel twist of fate and the story could’ve go on without that scene.
I find the writing extremely thoughtful overall though, I’ve some issues with the story, I still had fun reading it. I also wouldn’t mind reading more from the boys in the future!
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
September 5, 2016
Don't let the title fool you. This is an incredible read.
I wanted something different. I've read so many urban fantasy and paranormal romance books lately, I needed something ... different. I wasn't expecting this.
Here's the basics ... There are two main characters, Israel and Henry. The story is told through Izzy's POV. He super resents his absentee father, who is like a Doctors Without Borders kinda guy, living in Africa for the last 20 years. Izzy and his mom live in the states. Something happened and he is forced to go spend the summer with his dad.
His dad doesn't show up at the airport to get him. Instead, he sends his assistant, Henry. Izzy and Henry have an instant love-hate relationship (though neither will admit it). There are complications when the pair is kidnapped by a gang of mercenaries, and the book becomes an action adventure with a warp speed fast space.
Izzy is type 1 diabetic. Horrific stuff happens to him because of his medical condition. It's the first time I've seen it accurately described in fiction. Either the author personally is diabetic, or they've done one hell of a job of research. Speaking of, it feels like the author has done a ton of research, from the dialect used in specific regions, to exact depictions of travel among the regions. At times, it feels like I'm peeking in on someone's journal.
I loved the story and the writing. It's an easy 10/10 from me. I was not familiar with this author going in, but based on this, I won't hesitate to buy more.
I wanted something different. I've read so many urban fantasy and paranormal romance books lately, I needed something ... different. I wasn't expecting this.
Here's the basics ... There are two main characters, Israel and Henry. The story is told through Izzy's POV. He super resents his absentee father, who is like a Doctors Without Borders kinda guy, living in Africa for the last 20 years. Izzy and his mom live in the states. Something happened and he is forced to go spend the summer with his dad.
His dad doesn't show up at the airport to get him. Instead, he sends his assistant, Henry. Izzy and Henry have an instant love-hate relationship (though neither will admit it). There are complications when the pair is kidnapped by a gang of mercenaries, and the book becomes an action adventure with a warp speed fast space.
Izzy is type 1 diabetic. Horrific stuff happens to him because of his medical condition. It's the first time I've seen it accurately described in fiction. Either the author personally is diabetic, or they've done one hell of a job of research. Speaking of, it feels like the author has done a ton of research, from the dialect used in specific regions, to exact depictions of travel among the regions. At times, it feels like I'm peeking in on someone's journal.
I loved the story and the writing. It's an easy 10/10 from me. I was not familiar with this author going in, but based on this, I won't hesitate to buy more.
August 22, 2016
Isiaiah tries to help a friend, and gets caught holding a gun that wasn't his. As a result he's forced to agree to doing community service in his Summer Break in Cameroon helping out his missionary father for three months. Problem? Well, he hasn't seen his Dad in years, pretty much resents him for that fact and isn't really that keen on spending his whole Summer in Africa. To add insult to injury, when he arrives, his Dad apparently can't even be bothered to pick him up, instead sending Henry to play taxi driver. Isiaiah isn't overly happy, especially when Henry seems to worship the ground his Dad walks on, although he does think Henry is pretty hot. An uncomfortable journey ensues with Isiaiah and Henry forming a tentative friendship. Until they are kidnapped by mercenaries operating in the area. At that point they have to depend on each other to try and survive the situation. This is a lovely story of coming of age for Isiaiah who has to overcome his own personal medical problems to try to both get through this situation personally, but also to help Henry for whom, he has a growing attraction.
This is a lovely, fast action story, which I read in once delicious sitting. Would definitely recommend as a short light read, heavy on the story and light on the angst.
ARC provided, with many thanks to the publisher and author via Netgalley.
This is a lovely, fast action story, which I read in once delicious sitting. Would definitely recommend as a short light read, heavy on the story and light on the angst.
ARC provided, with many thanks to the publisher and author via Netgalley.
October 23, 2016
I enjoyed this book up to point. The writing is good and the setting is certainly not one found in your typical YA novel. I liked the way that you learnt more and more about Isaiah’s background and the actions that got him into the situation he was in. It’s quite a shocking situation for a YA novel and I think it managed to convey the horror without being too shocking for a YA audience. It kept me gripped and I couldn’t put it down, as I needed to know what happened to Isaiah and Henry. But, I felt the ending let it down. Much of the book is very adult in tone, but when it came to the ending I felt it was rather rushed and implausible. I felt that if the author thought a YA audience could handle such a shocking story, then why tag on such a weak ending. I won’t spoil it for anyone wanting to read this book, but I just felt it didn’t fit in with the rest of the story
I’d still recommend this book, as it is well written and the characters are well fleshed out. If you’re looking for something a little different, in a setting far removed from the norm, then give it a go. I’ll still be checking out what this author comes out with next.
* I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for review.
I’d still recommend this book, as it is well written and the characters are well fleshed out. If you’re looking for something a little different, in a setting far removed from the norm, then give it a go. I’ll still be checking out what this author comes out with next.
* I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for review.
September 13, 2016
This is complicated and absorbing. I like learning things when I read fiction (because I read very little non-fiction). Finding out about Africa and parts of the turmoil going on gives me a glimpse into a life from which I am distanced.
Isaiah's life has been turned sideways by one reckless, fearless act. He is still burdened by what he sees as his father's disregard for him, and when he arrives in Cameroon, we can see he is hopeful of a happy reunion.
Getting kidnapped with do-gooder Henry doesn't figure into his plans. This large section of the story is written with high tension, and seems very authentic. The boys are really scared for their lives, and I was too. I liked how they comforted each other, and was willing to make sacrifices to keep the other safe.
The last third builds again, in suspense and resolution. There's not a lot of smexy, but this book didn't need that - It works on a level of sweetness and comfort.
A well written love story wrapped around a solid thriller. Aimed at young adults, but really could be ready by older readers.
Copy provided by publisher through Netgalley and read and enjoyed with much thanks. Title is released September 15.
Isaiah's life has been turned sideways by one reckless, fearless act. He is still burdened by what he sees as his father's disregard for him, and when he arrives in Cameroon, we can see he is hopeful of a happy reunion.
Getting kidnapped with do-gooder Henry doesn't figure into his plans. This large section of the story is written with high tension, and seems very authentic. The boys are really scared for their lives, and I was too. I liked how they comforted each other, and was willing to make sacrifices to keep the other safe.
The last third builds again, in suspense and resolution. There's not a lot of smexy, but this book didn't need that - It works on a level of sweetness and comfort.
A well written love story wrapped around a solid thriller. Aimed at young adults, but really could be ready by older readers.
Copy provided by publisher through Netgalley and read and enjoyed with much thanks. Title is released September 15.
September 3, 2016
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC.
Do-Gooder tells the story of Isaiah Martin who is sent to Africa by his mother to spend some time with his father. But his plans go awry and he ends up in the hands of militant forces.
I enjoyed the plot it was intriguing and it kept me guessing. So many things go wrong and the plot never drags. Isaiah is taken with an another person Henry who works for his father, who from the very beginning looks out for Isaiah.
Charlie Martin, his father, is a missionary in Africa and has lived there for many years helping people out at a medical camp. When he learns of his son and employee being kidnapped he has to make a decision of who to save.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes YA books with LGBT themes.
4/5 stars
Do-Gooder tells the story of Isaiah Martin who is sent to Africa by his mother to spend some time with his father. But his plans go awry and he ends up in the hands of militant forces.
I enjoyed the plot it was intriguing and it kept me guessing. So many things go wrong and the plot never drags. Isaiah is taken with an another person Henry who works for his father, who from the very beginning looks out for Isaiah.
Charlie Martin, his father, is a missionary in Africa and has lived there for many years helping people out at a medical camp. When he learns of his son and employee being kidnapped he has to make a decision of who to save.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes YA books with LGBT themes.
4/5 stars
September 30, 2016
2.5 stars
I had high hopes for this book but part of them were not met by the story. I liked the main characters and the way their feelings for each other developed, but the adventure part of the story lacked something. I expected more action and also some things really didn't feel realistic, but overall I kinda liked it. I just wish some things, especially towards the end, resolved in a more realistic way.
I had high hopes for this book but part of them were not met by the story. I liked the main characters and the way their feelings for each other developed, but the adventure part of the story lacked something. I expected more action and also some things really didn't feel realistic, but overall I kinda liked it. I just wish some things, especially towards the end, resolved in a more realistic way.
September 15, 2016
I read an early copy of this book when it was in edits. This story has tons of action and a heartfelt, realistic feeling romance. If you're looking for LGBTQ teen fiction that goes beyond a coming-out story, this is a great start. This author's books are addictably readable--the type where I mean to only read a chapter and I'm suddenly done with three.
September 20, 2016
I wish this author would write more books faster.
This was a very exciting adventure story. The guys were great. The character development and learning of the MC was lovely. I loved the relationship development.
This was a very satisfying read and left me cheering.
Oh yeah, and it's an adventure story in Africa. Most enjoyable.
This was a very exciting adventure story. The guys were great. The character development and learning of the MC was lovely. I loved the relationship development.
This was a very satisfying read and left me cheering.
Oh yeah, and it's an adventure story in Africa. Most enjoyable.
October 10, 2016
This story was solid enough, but personally way to extreme. What kind of a mom sends his seventeen year old son to Africa on its own, alone? I don't think good one. All bad happened to Isaiah while Henry drove them to Isaiah father. Isaiah life was at risk on three or more occasions, but hey, his mom send him to Africa on its own, yeah right!!!
This story isn't believable!
This story isn't believable!
September 19, 2016
Please see my full review at www.coffeeandtrainspotting.wordpress.com
I received a copy of this book free from the author via netgalley in exchange for honest review.
I received a copy of this book free from the author via netgalley in exchange for honest review.
October 12, 2016
Love adventure books where you're on the edge of your seat wondering how it's all going to play out. This was one of my client manuscripts whose words, world and characters I just fell in love with.
January 3, 2017
A wonderful story!
August 27, 2016
Review to come
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews