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Something Like #8
Something Like Hail
When life closes every door, and the world has taken away all opportunities, sometimes it's up to us to make our own luck—and to give ourselves a second chance.
Noah Westwood is tired of life on the streets, so he turns to Marcello Maltese, a man who owns a small media empire… and a few covert businesses, such as an escort service. Noah volunteers for this, but he’s playing a dangerous game. A secret from his past could turn his new friends into enemies, and he isn’t sure he can perform the duties he signed up for, especially when he’s more interested in falling in love than hopping into the beds of his clients. This is complicated further when his hunky co-worker, Harold Franklin, seems to be interested. Or is he? Noah is off the streets, but he’ll have to travel down many roads on his quest to find his happily-ever-after.
Something Like Hail introduces a new character to the Something Like… series, one whose life is intertwined with previous books in unexpected ways.
Noah Westwood is tired of life on the streets, so he turns to Marcello Maltese, a man who owns a small media empire… and a few covert businesses, such as an escort service. Noah volunteers for this, but he’s playing a dangerous game. A secret from his past could turn his new friends into enemies, and he isn’t sure he can perform the duties he signed up for, especially when he’s more interested in falling in love than hopping into the beds of his clients. This is complicated further when his hunky co-worker, Harold Franklin, seems to be interested. Or is he? Noah is off the streets, but he’ll have to travel down many roads on his quest to find his happily-ever-after.
Something Like Hail introduces a new character to the Something Like… series, one whose life is intertwined with previous books in unexpected ways.
388 pages, ebook
First published September 18, 2017
90 people are currently reading
1171 people want to read
About the author
Jay Bell
47 books2,214 followersJay Bell is a proud gay man and the award-winning author behind dozens of emotional and yet hopelessly optimistic stories. His best-selling book, Something Like Summer, spawned a series of heart-wrenching novels, a musically driven movie, and a lovingly drawn comic. When not crafting imaginary worlds, he occupies his free time with animals, art, action figures, and—most ardently—his husband Andreas. Jay is always dreaming up new stories about boys in love. If that sounds like your cup of tea, you can get the kettle boiling by visiting www.jaybellbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
February 20, 2020
I’m not sure how I skipped this book in the series. As usual Jay Bell draws you into his characters’ lives until you are truly invested. I love how minor characters from other stories are focused on and cross paths with other characters I have already come to know & love.
October 11, 2017
This book is awesome. It only received 4 stars from me because (insert name here) didn't get a happy ending, and I loved him!! I knew Noah would choose the other guy, and I thought they really looked cute together, but still.
I've read Summer, Winter, and Spring maybe a couple of years ago, and I've forgotten how I adore Jay Bell books. I haven't bought the other books because I didn't really connect with the main characters, like Kelly.
I also love how Felix is a Filipino. It's great to read about characters from my country. =) I'd say Jay got the Filipino characters right.
That said, I'm looking forward to the last book in this series.
I've read Summer, Winter, and Spring maybe a couple of years ago, and I've forgotten how I adore Jay Bell books. I haven't bought the other books because I didn't really connect with the main characters, like Kelly.
I also love how Felix is a Filipino. It's great to read about characters from my country. =) I'd say Jay got the Filipino characters right.
That said, I'm looking forward to the last book in this series.
January 6, 2021
This seems almost like Bell's most ambitious story yet. He not only introduced a totally new character for the first time (while still connecting them in intriguing ways), but he also chose tackle the issue of sex work. I think the ambition worked out for the most part, while still having a few flaws.
Firstly, I really enjoyed Noah as a protagonist. He seemed a different sort then many of the previous ones we've had. I loved that despite his circumstances he had a good heart and a determination. He seemed quick to love, which to me was no surprise given how little love hed experienced. Coming off the last book of Nathaniel, I was grateful to have a protagonist I liked and was rooting for again.
His connection to the storyline and other characters was also an interesting choice that I enjoyed. Being connected to someone that wasn't a hero, and who wasn't part of the main cast gave a more in depth look at that person, and added more weight and intrigue. I really liked that we stepped out of the main cast of characters, as it felt really new and fresh!
Where it fell somewhat apart for me was in the sex work part. I think that Bell tried his hardest to give many sides of the debate and never really settled on whether he was for or against that type of work. That was good in my opinion. He offered multiple points of view. What wasn't good was Noah's ultimate ideas about it. He went back and forth and back and forth on why, how, and what it meant to him. In one chapter he was proud, in the next ashamed. It never painted a clear picture on whether what he was doing was acceptable to him, and I think making a clear statement would have been stronger. Still, Bell tackled this subject, and I think just in doing that, he earns points.
Marcello continues to be such an amazing character, and I continue to wish we got a solo book on him, though I am actually starting to think its better having the mystery. I adore him and love the role he continues to play in each person's story.
I personally didn't like the choice Noah made at the end in terms of love. It felt like the wrong person to me...but thats storytelling for you! We don't always get what we want from our characters. I actually didn't really care for the end at all. It felt quite rushed, and a little un realistic. A 24 year old would not be ready for what he is given, and its starting to become to easy to guess. Marcello tends to give away a lot to people who might not be ready. I keep reminding myself however, this is fiction. Roll with it!
It was a solid entry into the series and for me sort of pulled me back in. Though, ill be honest, I could use less Tim Wyman. He seems to pop up the most and I would love it if others popped up more. Just a personal opinion.
Onward to the next where I anxiously await reading about my second favorite character in the entire series...William!! Will he be able to make me love him more then Jace?
Firstly, I really enjoyed Noah as a protagonist. He seemed a different sort then many of the previous ones we've had. I loved that despite his circumstances he had a good heart and a determination. He seemed quick to love, which to me was no surprise given how little love hed experienced. Coming off the last book of Nathaniel, I was grateful to have a protagonist I liked and was rooting for again.
His connection to the storyline and other characters was also an interesting choice that I enjoyed. Being connected to someone that wasn't a hero, and who wasn't part of the main cast gave a more in depth look at that person, and added more weight and intrigue. I really liked that we stepped out of the main cast of characters, as it felt really new and fresh!
Where it fell somewhat apart for me was in the sex work part. I think that Bell tried his hardest to give many sides of the debate and never really settled on whether he was for or against that type of work. That was good in my opinion. He offered multiple points of view. What wasn't good was Noah's ultimate ideas about it. He went back and forth and back and forth on why, how, and what it meant to him. In one chapter he was proud, in the next ashamed. It never painted a clear picture on whether what he was doing was acceptable to him, and I think making a clear statement would have been stronger. Still, Bell tackled this subject, and I think just in doing that, he earns points.
Marcello continues to be such an amazing character, and I continue to wish we got a solo book on him, though I am actually starting to think its better having the mystery. I adore him and love the role he continues to play in each person's story.
I personally didn't like the choice Noah made at the end in terms of love. It felt like the wrong person to me...but thats storytelling for you! We don't always get what we want from our characters. I actually didn't really care for the end at all. It felt quite rushed, and a little un realistic. A 24 year old would not be ready for what he is given, and its starting to become to easy to guess. Marcello tends to give away a lot to people who might not be ready. I keep reminding myself however, this is fiction. Roll with it!
It was a solid entry into the series and for me sort of pulled me back in. Though, ill be honest, I could use less Tim Wyman. He seems to pop up the most and I would love it if others popped up more. Just a personal opinion.
Onward to the next where I anxiously await reading about my second favorite character in the entire series...William!! Will he be able to make me love him more then Jace?
October 27, 2020
Love is one complicated emotion, especially if you have to figure it out all on your own. Noah had to learn the hard way and mentally mature a lot faster than anyone else. Marcello is also like the godfather to everyone in this series.
March 26, 2020
Volume 8 in the "Something like..." series. Meet 22-year-old Noah who, at sixteen, got kicked out of the house for coming out, and is now living in a homeless shelter. The only way he can think of to get a better life is to become a rent boy... And so he turns to Marcello Maltese, a character we know from previous books.
A book filled with broken homes, broken hearts and broken promises, but with joy as well, and some silver linings...
A book filled with broken homes, broken hearts and broken promises, but with joy as well, and some silver linings...
November 25, 2017
Noah Westwood has spent a few years living hand-to-mouth on the streets. When he was first kicked out by his parents, he slept in his car in front of friends’ houses, using their showers, finding food at shelters—in short, whatever he needed to survive independently. Naturally, he had dropped out of school so no one would give him a job. What he did find, however, was a boyfriend—a young man named Ryan. Yes—the same Ryan who was once Tim Wyman’s boyfriend and who ultimately attempted to murder Tim and his family. Noah was with Ryan during the time after Tim broke up with him, and he loved Ryan so much he did anything and everything Ryan wanted him to do to keep Ryan in drugs—including selling himself. And when Ryan flipped out and attempted murder, Noah sold his car to pay for Ryan’s lawyer. Now over a year later, Noah is at the end of his rope, unable to even afford to eat, so he uses Tim’s name to gain entry to a place where he’s sure he can land a job—with Tim’s friend Marcello who runs the Gentleman’s Agreement Club, an escort service.
And though Marcello doesn’t trust the recommendation to hire Noah came from Tim, he sees something good in Noah so gives him a chance. The person who first works with Noah to train him and becomes his good friend is Harold, a character we met in the Something Like Stories, Volume Two. I remember noting that I loved this character and hoped we’d see him again, but although he and Noah maintain a friendship throughout the book, Harold’s life takes a different turn and we never get to see his own HEA.
Noah actually ends up with a young man named Felix. If I’m not mistaken, Felix may have been one of the characters who was present at the youth center Jason attended when he first moved in with Ben and Tim. One of the things I love most about this series is that Jay Bell continually weaves his characters in and out of the whole series. As an aside here, I will also mention that Nathaniel and Kelly make an appearance in this story, as well as Ben and Tim, and of course, Tim’s dog, Chinchilla. There’s lots of feel-goods here, for sure.
The story primarily follows Noah as he moves through the stages of desperation and poverty to becoming an escort, meeting Felix, falling in love with him, and coming to terms with how to tell the man he loves that he’s an escort. When all his plans fall apart—because Jay Bell never makes it easy for his characters—I was rooting for Noah and Felix but at the same time, watching the secondary story occurring in Harold’s life, I was rooting for him as well. All I can say is that this story has a satisfactory ending, but as we know from other “Something Like” stories, this is simply a vignette in the characters’ lives. Anything can happen in the future and most definitely each of the characters is sure to find their way into another story. If not, we are in control of our imaginations and can give them whatever ending we see fit. I personally can’t wait for the next book, which I understand will definitely be the last, but I am thrilled I had this little goodie to enjoy along the way.
I highly recommend this series, and most definitely this book, to fall fans of MM romance. There’s a lot to love here.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
And though Marcello doesn’t trust the recommendation to hire Noah came from Tim, he sees something good in Noah so gives him a chance. The person who first works with Noah to train him and becomes his good friend is Harold, a character we met in the Something Like Stories, Volume Two. I remember noting that I loved this character and hoped we’d see him again, but although he and Noah maintain a friendship throughout the book, Harold’s life takes a different turn and we never get to see his own HEA.
Noah actually ends up with a young man named Felix. If I’m not mistaken, Felix may have been one of the characters who was present at the youth center Jason attended when he first moved in with Ben and Tim. One of the things I love most about this series is that Jay Bell continually weaves his characters in and out of the whole series. As an aside here, I will also mention that Nathaniel and Kelly make an appearance in this story, as well as Ben and Tim, and of course, Tim’s dog, Chinchilla. There’s lots of feel-goods here, for sure.
The story primarily follows Noah as he moves through the stages of desperation and poverty to becoming an escort, meeting Felix, falling in love with him, and coming to terms with how to tell the man he loves that he’s an escort. When all his plans fall apart—because Jay Bell never makes it easy for his characters—I was rooting for Noah and Felix but at the same time, watching the secondary story occurring in Harold’s life, I was rooting for him as well. All I can say is that this story has a satisfactory ending, but as we know from other “Something Like” stories, this is simply a vignette in the characters’ lives. Anything can happen in the future and most definitely each of the characters is sure to find their way into another story. If not, we are in control of our imaginations and can give them whatever ending we see fit. I personally can’t wait for the next book, which I understand will definitely be the last, but I am thrilled I had this little goodie to enjoy along the way.
I highly recommend this series, and most definitely this book, to fall fans of MM romance. There’s a lot to love here.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
October 25, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Noah’s story is well into the Something Like series and is placed right before the final book of the entire series. Noah is a new character to the series and Harold was only briefly seen in an earlier book. I would not recommend reading this book as a standalone as there are specific tie-ins that would lose impact without having the previous background.
Noah was out of options and was desperate to find a job and especially one that would make him some money. Without an address or a phone, he was finding it impossible to find any kind of job. He sets off to see Marcello without an appointment and we learn quickly of the connection there. We also see a different side to Marcello as we become immersed in the escort division of his business. Marcello has always remained rather elusive in the series, and while we don’t learn that much more about his past, we see his claws come out to protect those that matter to him.
This book had a distinctly different feel to it than the other books in the series. I learned that this book was written with the author’s patrons on Patreon, and supporters were given choices of where the story would go. One of my favorite elements of this series is the tight cohesiveness that Bell exhibited in each and every book, but that was lacking for me a bit here as I felt some scenes ended abruptly while others wandered somewhat and that may have been due to the book being written in a different style.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Noah’s story is well into the Something Like series and is placed right before the final book of the entire series. Noah is a new character to the series and Harold was only briefly seen in an earlier book. I would not recommend reading this book as a standalone as there are specific tie-ins that would lose impact without having the previous background.
Noah was out of options and was desperate to find a job and especially one that would make him some money. Without an address or a phone, he was finding it impossible to find any kind of job. He sets off to see Marcello without an appointment and we learn quickly of the connection there. We also see a different side to Marcello as we become immersed in the escort division of his business. Marcello has always remained rather elusive in the series, and while we don’t learn that much more about his past, we see his claws come out to protect those that matter to him.
This book had a distinctly different feel to it than the other books in the series. I learned that this book was written with the author’s patrons on Patreon, and supporters were given choices of where the story would go. One of my favorite elements of this series is the tight cohesiveness that Bell exhibited in each and every book, but that was lacking for me a bit here as I felt some scenes ended abruptly while others wandered somewhat and that may have been due to the book being written in a different style.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
March 18, 2024
Noah Westwood was kicked out of his house at 16 by his conservative parents. He's been homeless ever since. Now, six years later, he's desperate. Desperate enough to rush into Marcello Maltese's office and ask for a job as an escort while trying to hide his past. Marcello gives him a chance and instructs him to meet with Harold Franklin, another escort to learn the ropes. Noah is constantly worried that his past will cause trouble while he tries to build a future.
Despite the empathy I have for Noah I found him sort of unlikeable. He is very naïve, exhaustingly so, for the first 50% of the book. Particularly in his interactions with Harold. Then there's the Felix stuff. And I liked Felix (and I even like Harold!) but eh. This 388 page book felt like it wasn't long enough and yet I couldn't wait for it to be done. Each series needs a "worst book" and, for me, this is the one that hit the least hard for sure. Hail is worth reading but it's nothing close to Summer. I never once had a warm fuzzy during this book. There is a note at the start that this was written vaguely collaboratively with the author's fans and you can sort of tell. The pacing and the decisions some of the characters make don't feel super genuine? I dunno. I was disappointed. I'm eager to get another story about the potential trio in one of the stories collections because the ending honestly feels up-in-the-air and barely satisfying.
Hail feels like a novel-length propaganda poster supporting ethical sex work (which I agree with but didn't need to read a nearly 400 page book about?).
Despite the empathy I have for Noah I found him sort of unlikeable. He is very naïve, exhaustingly so, for the first 50% of the book. Particularly in his interactions with Harold. Then there's the Felix stuff. And I liked Felix (and I even like Harold!) but eh. This 388 page book felt like it wasn't long enough and yet I couldn't wait for it to be done. Each series needs a "worst book" and, for me, this is the one that hit the least hard for sure. Hail is worth reading but it's nothing close to Summer. I never once had a warm fuzzy during this book. There is a note at the start that this was written vaguely collaboratively with the author's fans and you can sort of tell. The pacing and the decisions some of the characters make don't feel super genuine? I dunno. I was disappointed. I'm eager to get another story about the potential trio in one of the stories collections because the ending honestly feels up-in-the-air and barely satisfying.
Hail feels like a novel-length propaganda poster supporting ethical sex work (which I agree with but didn't need to read a nearly 400 page book about?).
October 18, 2017
What a lovely surprise!
Besides Tim & Ben's story, this might just be my new favorite journey, one I hope will continue.
I've had the pleasure to read the first few chapters of Noah's story back when it started out as a Patreon project! I was thrilled to find out Jay turned it into a full length novel! I was smitten with Noah from the start. He's easily a favorite now!
#Hail has so many awesome bits, angles... Man, I just love Noah!
Harold had me wrapped around his finger with the first few sentences!
Then there was Ryan, Tim –TIM TIM TIM !! <3
Mostly, I just really enjoyed Noah and Harold being escorts. I might have a certain weakness or fondness for this kind of work. It just worked so good with Jay's wonderful story telling.
Like all other books in the series #Hail had me at the verge of tears many times and I did shed some on more than one occasion. Especially the ending.
While I adore Felix, I'm just not satisfied with how the book ended.
I wonder if Jay is aware of the things he does to us? I couldn't truly accept Felix, no matter how sweet and lovely he was. Not with Harold still in the picture. It. Just. Hurts.
I can appreciate the good writing and plotting but man, my heart aches!
And like all the other books in the series #Hail is
NOT JUST A BOOK it's a JOURNEY and one that hasn't ended yet!!! :)
It's about finding and losing first love, growing up and finding yourself and new love.
Thank you, JAY.
xxx
Besides Tim & Ben's story, this might just be my new favorite journey, one I hope will continue.
I've had the pleasure to read the first few chapters of Noah's story back when it started out as a Patreon project! I was thrilled to find out Jay turned it into a full length novel! I was smitten with Noah from the start. He's easily a favorite now!
#Hail has so many awesome bits, angles... Man, I just love Noah!
Harold had me wrapped around his finger with the first few sentences!
Then there was Ryan, Tim –TIM TIM TIM !! <3
Mostly, I just really enjoyed Noah and Harold being escorts. I might have a certain weakness or fondness for this kind of work. It just worked so good with Jay's wonderful story telling.
Like all other books in the series #Hail had me at the verge of tears many times and I did shed some on more than one occasion. Especially the ending.
While I adore Felix, I'm just not satisfied with how the book ended.
I wonder if Jay is aware of the things he does to us? I couldn't truly accept Felix, no matter how sweet and lovely he was. Not with Harold still in the picture. It. Just. Hurts.
I can appreciate the good writing and plotting but man, my heart aches!
And like all the other books in the series #Hail is
NOT JUST A BOOK it's a JOURNEY and one that hasn't ended yet!!! :)
It's about finding and losing first love, growing up and finding yourself and new love.
Thank you, JAY.
xxx
December 5, 2017
Noah is an exceedingly unlikable main character. This book is just barely saved from complete uselessness by an adorable supporting cast of familiar faces.
November 16, 2020
NÃO ACREDITO QUE SHIPPEI CERTO MEU DEUS MEU CU TAVA TÃO NA MÃO JAY BELL QUE DESGRAÇAAAAA
October 29, 2017
Love this series more than any other and even though this one does not revolve around the famous trio of Summer, Winter & Autumn, it still stayed in their universe and for that I'm very grateful.
September 24, 2017
It doesn't matter what I'm doing, or what I'm reading. When Jay comes out with a new book, all bets are off. I FLEW through this book. I don't know what it is, but Jay Bell's way of storytelling has always been addicting for me.
Something Like Hail introduces a new Character, Noah, as well as brings in a few of well loved characters. I probably shouldn't say since it might spoil a few things, but I couldn't help smiling through a lot of the book. Even when things got weird for Noah, it was like there was always a bit of humor thrown in. I laughed out loud, as I tend to do whenever I read a book by Jay.
A few things that I probably can say about Noah, he's homeless and has been, give or take 6 years. He been trying to get his life back on track, and now he couldn't have been in better hands. Despite what other people might say. You really come to care about his well-being, as you come to do with pretty much every other character Jay Bell whips up (Semi Spoiler: Just not Ryan, but that's just my opinion for what he did in Spring).
Granted there was a little worry that this might have gone down the same pathway as a previous installment, but it didn't. And what else can I say? I'm a bit overly charmed by the characters.
I give this book 5 stars, partly out of being biased over the series, and have nothing but praise for character development. May everyone get the Happily Ever After they're all looking for! Or at least as close to one as One could get.
Something Like Hail introduces a new Character, Noah, as well as brings in a few of well loved characters. I probably shouldn't say since it might spoil a few things, but I couldn't help smiling through a lot of the book. Even when things got weird for Noah, it was like there was always a bit of humor thrown in. I laughed out loud, as I tend to do whenever I read a book by Jay.
A few things that I probably can say about Noah, he's homeless and has been, give or take 6 years. He been trying to get his life back on track, and now he couldn't have been in better hands. Despite what other people might say. You really come to care about his well-being, as you come to do with pretty much every other character Jay Bell whips up (Semi Spoiler: Just not Ryan, but that's just my opinion for what he did in Spring).
Granted there was a little worry that this might have gone down the same pathway as a previous installment, but it didn't. And what else can I say? I'm a bit overly charmed by the characters.
I give this book 5 stars, partly out of being biased over the series, and have nothing but praise for character development. May everyone get the Happily Ever After they're all looking for! Or at least as close to one as One could get.
October 17, 2017
“I believe that we are solely responsible for our choices, and we have to accept the consequences of every deed, word, and thought throughout our lifetime.” ~ Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
Noah Westwood, of 'Something Like Hail' by Jay Bell, has reached a turning point in his life. Noah has not had it easy. He was thrown out of his home at sixteen for being gay, after conversion therapy didn’t work. Noah never finished high school and has no job skills which basically means he is not qualified for a job that will give him a decent life. Then his ex-boyfriend, who is currently in prison, directs him to a businessman, Maurice Maltese. Desperate, Noah finds Maurice and explains that he wants to work for one of Maurice's sub-rosa businesses, a male escort service. This decision will change his life, but not always for the better.
Maurice hires Noah, but isn't sure he is up to the job. Maurice also doesn't trust him because he believes that Noah is hiding something. Maurice would rather Noah be honest with him from the start, but when convinced he's not, Maurice employs other methods to discover the truth. Maurice sends Noah to Harold for training. Since Noah has never done this kind of work before, Harold has his work cut out for him. Harold is sexy and charming; he and Noah hit it off well. One thing Harold tries to explain to Noah is how complicated relationships can be in their profession. Not many guys are going to understand that it's “just sex” when their boyfriend sleeps with men for money, but Noah doesn't listen. He thinks he can have both and becomes physically and emotionally involved with Harold. This turns out to be one of Noah's biggest mistakes and hardest lesson he has to learn.
After his breakup with Harold, Noah puts his nose to the grindstone. He puts aside his dream of having someone to love him; Noah becomes all business, taking on more clients, but being more professional, rather than spontaneous. The clients notice and complain to Maurice who takes Noah out to lunch and has a talk with him, asking why he changed. He wants to be sure that being an escort is what Noah still wants to do or if he needs to move on to something else. Noah assures Maurice that he's fine; he is just trying to be what the clients want. Noah doesn't realize that his sincerity and empathy is what they appreciate about him. Maurice tells Noah that he needs a life outside of work, but Noah just scoffs at him. When Maurice starts flirting with their waiter, Felix, and Felix shyly writes his phone number on their tab, Noah considers it a sign.
Jay's writing is as brilliant as ever; his grasp of human nature gives the story realistic, flawed characters anyone can relate to. Unfortunately, this story didn't resonate with me the way most of his stories have. I understood Noah's motives, but didn't feel that he was able to process things the way he should have. Often, he missed blatant signals, only to end up hurting himself and others around him. Felix was truly adorable, honest, and sweet. His reaction to Noah's 'full disclosure' shattered me.
The story is a great addition to the 'Something Like...' series. I gained a better understanding of the characters and their places in the series. The purpose of good literature is not to like or dislike a book; the writing is to make the reader think and feel. In this sense, I think that Jay is a genius. There's no way for me to read one of Jay's books without having an emotional and intellectual response. Thank you, Jay.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Noah Westwood, of 'Something Like Hail' by Jay Bell, has reached a turning point in his life. Noah has not had it easy. He was thrown out of his home at sixteen for being gay, after conversion therapy didn’t work. Noah never finished high school and has no job skills which basically means he is not qualified for a job that will give him a decent life. Then his ex-boyfriend, who is currently in prison, directs him to a businessman, Maurice Maltese. Desperate, Noah finds Maurice and explains that he wants to work for one of Maurice's sub-rosa businesses, a male escort service. This decision will change his life, but not always for the better.
Maurice hires Noah, but isn't sure he is up to the job. Maurice also doesn't trust him because he believes that Noah is hiding something. Maurice would rather Noah be honest with him from the start, but when convinced he's not, Maurice employs other methods to discover the truth. Maurice sends Noah to Harold for training. Since Noah has never done this kind of work before, Harold has his work cut out for him. Harold is sexy and charming; he and Noah hit it off well. One thing Harold tries to explain to Noah is how complicated relationships can be in their profession. Not many guys are going to understand that it's “just sex” when their boyfriend sleeps with men for money, but Noah doesn't listen. He thinks he can have both and becomes physically and emotionally involved with Harold. This turns out to be one of Noah's biggest mistakes and hardest lesson he has to learn.
After his breakup with Harold, Noah puts his nose to the grindstone. He puts aside his dream of having someone to love him; Noah becomes all business, taking on more clients, but being more professional, rather than spontaneous. The clients notice and complain to Maurice who takes Noah out to lunch and has a talk with him, asking why he changed. He wants to be sure that being an escort is what Noah still wants to do or if he needs to move on to something else. Noah assures Maurice that he's fine; he is just trying to be what the clients want. Noah doesn't realize that his sincerity and empathy is what they appreciate about him. Maurice tells Noah that he needs a life outside of work, but Noah just scoffs at him. When Maurice starts flirting with their waiter, Felix, and Felix shyly writes his phone number on their tab, Noah considers it a sign.
Jay's writing is as brilliant as ever; his grasp of human nature gives the story realistic, flawed characters anyone can relate to. Unfortunately, this story didn't resonate with me the way most of his stories have. I understood Noah's motives, but didn't feel that he was able to process things the way he should have. Often, he missed blatant signals, only to end up hurting himself and others around him. Felix was truly adorable, honest, and sweet. His reaction to Noah's 'full disclosure' shattered me.
The story is a great addition to the 'Something Like...' series. I gained a better understanding of the characters and their places in the series. The purpose of good literature is not to like or dislike a book; the writing is to make the reader think and feel. In this sense, I think that Jay is a genius. There's no way for me to read one of Jay's books without having an emotional and intellectual response. Thank you, Jay.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
April 15, 2020
Meeting two new characters this deep into the series, I felt for sure I would feel disconnected and not really into it, but as always, I was wrong. Noah was definitely a character we haven't seen in the Jay Bell world of Something Like... and it was really a breath of fresh air. Heartbreaking all the same, and such wonderfully descriptiveness transports you to their world and you feel like you are living their lives, this was another great addition. I was a bit confused as to the title, I wasn't sure what the 'hail' responded to, I could relate the other titles to their titles, but I just wasn't feeling the 'hail'. I suppose 'Something Like Redwood' just wouldn't have fitted into the pattern.
I think Jay Bell did a good job at respecting and shining a light on homelessness and how to be thankful for what you have in your life. You could really feel the desperation and felt sorry for Noah and how he was brought up. I was mostly angry reading the background about his parents and the religion issue - well played at getting a reaction out of me, Jay. I think it also added to the fact that Noah was so proud to have his own 'home' and the ideal of having someone there to love and to look after being so important to him, it all just came together really nicely and made a more wholesome experience.
I thought Felix was such a sweet character and could absolutely have his own 'Something Like' series. I suppose after 8 books, you begin to wonder whose POV the next book will be from. Or I could even imagine a 'Something Like Story' with Chester involved. Maybe I'm just getting close to the ending of my Something Like journey and am sad to let it go.
Funnily enough, Marcello gets more of a character development in this book and I am beginning to think the series is literally more about him than Ben and Tim at this stage (this isn't a bad thing). He provides a lot of wistful quotes and definitely makes me laugh out loud when reading his dialogue, I always seem to put an English accent on, maybe because I picture him very fancy.
Overall, another really enjoyable Something Like book and tackling some other issues in the queer community that are very real and have a lot of stigma attached to them, so I liked that it was all brought out in the open in this book.
I think Jay Bell did a good job at respecting and shining a light on homelessness and how to be thankful for what you have in your life. You could really feel the desperation and felt sorry for Noah and how he was brought up. I was mostly angry reading the background about his parents and the religion issue - well played at getting a reaction out of me, Jay. I think it also added to the fact that Noah was so proud to have his own 'home' and the ideal of having someone there to love and to look after being so important to him, it all just came together really nicely and made a more wholesome experience.
I thought Felix was such a sweet character and could absolutely have his own 'Something Like' series. I suppose after 8 books, you begin to wonder whose POV the next book will be from. Or I could even imagine a 'Something Like Story' with Chester involved. Maybe I'm just getting close to the ending of my Something Like journey and am sad to let it go.
Funnily enough, Marcello gets more of a character development in this book and I am beginning to think the series is literally more about him than Ben and Tim at this stage (this isn't a bad thing). He provides a lot of wistful quotes and definitely makes me laugh out loud when reading his dialogue, I always seem to put an English accent on, maybe because I picture him very fancy.
Overall, another really enjoyable Something Like book and tackling some other issues in the queer community that are very real and have a lot of stigma attached to them, so I liked that it was all brought out in the open in this book.
June 27, 2025
I have to admit after reading the forward in this book on how it was interactivity written, I was a bit apprehensive. Having read the series in order from the beginning, I could see the parts that Jay Bell had let his fans have a say… it wasn’t terrible, it’s was actually good… but it just wasn’t up to the Jay Bell standard I’ve grown to love. I just hope there’s a continuing story in one of the remaining ‘Something Like Stories’ books, then that four star rating may become a five.
October 4, 2017
I was somewhat skeptical of Jay Bell introducing more new characters into the Something Like... series, but I'm glad he did. Noah is flawed but endearing, and Felix is simply delightful. And who can resist a book with plenty of Marcello's antics?
All in all, Something Like Hail is another excellent novel from Bell.
All in all, Something Like Hail is another excellent novel from Bell.
October 28, 2017
Not as big a fan of this story as I have been for the majority of the series. i can't really put my finger on why but sometimes I really enjoyed the characters, sometimes I didn't. The first 50% was a bit of an uphill struggle but the last 50% flowed smoothly and was by far my favourite part of the book.
December 4, 2020
I'm the biggest proponent of reading series out of order, especially companion series like this one is. So, I'm reading this one having read every book published in this series after this one and having read 8 of the 9 books published before this one.
This book always intrigued me because despite having read almost the entire series I hadn't encountered Noah in any of the previous books so I was always curious how he tied into the pre-existing host of characters and man, was I in for a surprise.
In the very first chapter of this book, we have Noah encountering Marcello and he tells him something along the lines of that if you knew how I know about this particular enterprise of yours you will hate me. Now, I didn't think about this much but when that part of Noah's past is revealed my first thought was oh shit, Marcello would have truly hated you and that was really refreshing because generally with these types of sweeping statements you always wonder if the hype will live up to the reveal but in this particular case, boy it really lived up to the hype.
We meet Marcello and Nathaniel from the previous books and I loved that. Also, I feel like we are mercilessly baited with Tim until he makes his glorious entrance in chapter 14. In case, there is anyone who is a big Tim Wyman fan, like me, I honest to god squealed and if you know the context you will know it wasn't really a squeal-worthy moment but god, I love Tim Wyman and Noah has been name-dropping him shamelessly throughout the book.
So, having read this after having read Something Like Us from the Something Like Stories, Volume 3, I know where this story truly ends and I love that the author wrote that ending because I'm in love with all the characters in this book. So, I was really happy to read this book to figure out where their story started and there are a lot of events mentioned in Something Like Us which were greatly expounded upon in this book.
Noah is a very intriguing character because he isn't immediately likeable, I feel like his character traits are more along the lines of stubborn and persistent when we get introduced to him and that was such a novel sensation, to be introduced to a character in such a way. You grow to like Noah as you follow his story and he falls and fails in love and as he grows to become rather jaded. One of the biggest things that I loved about this book is how that latter characteristic that becomes a part of Noah's personality is tackled.
I just realised talking more about the other characters in this book would take this review into spoiler territory so I'm going to refrain. Even though, anyone who has read even one book in this series knows the pattern these books ascribe to, though there is a noteworthy distinction in this particular book from that pattern which again made it a really interesting read.
But, I think I have to warn people, that this book truly hurts at times like there were moments when I was suffering right along with Noah but the only thing I want to say to anyone put through the wringer in this book, is that you have to read Something Like Us because just knowing that I get to re-read that story at the end of this book made me infinitely happy.
This book always intrigued me because despite having read almost the entire series I hadn't encountered Noah in any of the previous books so I was always curious how he tied into the pre-existing host of characters and man, was I in for a surprise.
In the very first chapter of this book, we have Noah encountering Marcello and he tells him something along the lines of that if you knew how I know about this particular enterprise of yours you will hate me. Now, I didn't think about this much but when that part of Noah's past is revealed my first thought was oh shit, Marcello would have truly hated you and that was really refreshing because generally with these types of sweeping statements you always wonder if the hype will live up to the reveal but in this particular case, boy it really lived up to the hype.
We meet Marcello and Nathaniel from the previous books and I loved that. Also, I feel like we are mercilessly baited with Tim until he makes his glorious entrance in chapter 14. In case, there is anyone who is a big Tim Wyman fan, like me, I honest to god squealed and if you know the context you will know it wasn't really a squeal-worthy moment but god, I love Tim Wyman and Noah has been name-dropping him shamelessly throughout the book.
So, having read this after having read Something Like Us from the Something Like Stories, Volume 3, I know where this story truly ends and I love that the author wrote that ending because I'm in love with all the characters in this book. So, I was really happy to read this book to figure out where their story started and there are a lot of events mentioned in Something Like Us which were greatly expounded upon in this book.
Noah is a very intriguing character because he isn't immediately likeable, I feel like his character traits are more along the lines of stubborn and persistent when we get introduced to him and that was such a novel sensation, to be introduced to a character in such a way. You grow to like Noah as you follow his story and he falls and fails in love and as he grows to become rather jaded. One of the biggest things that I loved about this book is how that latter characteristic that becomes a part of Noah's personality is tackled.
I just realised talking more about the other characters in this book would take this review into spoiler territory so I'm going to refrain. Even though, anyone who has read even one book in this series knows the pattern these books ascribe to, though there is a noteworthy distinction in this particular book from that pattern which again made it a really interesting read.
But, I think I have to warn people, that this book truly hurts at times like there were moments when I was suffering right along with Noah but the only thing I want to say to anyone put through the wringer in this book, is that you have to read Something Like Us because just knowing that I get to re-read that story at the end of this book made me infinitely happy.
January 9, 2024
Everything changes. People grow together and others fall apart. Age causes some to slow while youth is bestowed on a new generation. Buildings are torn down and new bricks are laid in their place, all while the globe keeps spinning, unwinding some plans and tightening others. That nothing remains the same can be of comfort to those who are struggling. For the people who are content with their lives, change can manifest as sorrow and fear, because how does anyone say goodbye to what or who they love without losing a crucial part of themselves?
"This little cube could have remained in the freezer for years, and no matter how hopeless the situation might have seemed, it was never too late. This heatless condition isn't permanent. If given the right opportunity -if circumstances are generous enough — the ice can return to water again, free to flow and change shape or perhaps even evaporate into the air. I've always felt that water was the most passionate of the elements. Some may equate desire with flames, but it's liquid that courses through our hearts with each beat, not fire. Water cleanses. It sustains! And it constitutes the majority of our being.
Rather like certain emotions, wouldn't you agree?"
"Maybe it's like that with everyone," Noah said. "We meet someone, make a bunch of assumptions, then feel hurt when it turns out we got it wrong."
"We always hurt the ones we love," Marcello said. "I'm afraid that comes with the territory. To be capable of love, a heart must be open, and that leaves it exposed. There is no other way."
"This little cube could have remained in the freezer for years, and no matter how hopeless the situation might have seemed, it was never too late. This heatless condition isn't permanent. If given the right opportunity -if circumstances are generous enough — the ice can return to water again, free to flow and change shape or perhaps even evaporate into the air. I've always felt that water was the most passionate of the elements. Some may equate desire with flames, but it's liquid that courses through our hearts with each beat, not fire. Water cleanses. It sustains! And it constitutes the majority of our being.
Rather like certain emotions, wouldn't you agree?"
"Maybe it's like that with everyone," Noah said. "We meet someone, make a bunch of assumptions, then feel hurt when it turns out we got it wrong."
"We always hurt the ones we love," Marcello said. "I'm afraid that comes with the territory. To be capable of love, a heart must be open, and that leaves it exposed. There is no other way."
May 13, 2021
I couldn't make myself like this story... I like how the story approached new topics and it really had me hooked there, but the plot blandness and character construction made me feel like this.
First of all, all or most of the conflicts presented seemed to be easily solvable, had the characters just used half of their brain to think. I don't usually sympathize with "easy" conflicts; being an arduous problem solver myself, I saw myself constantly thinking: "Then tell him! / Then move on! / Then stop seeing each other! / Then do what you are supposed to do!" and one can guess that this is not the best way to feel during any reading.
Regarding character development, the way they were portrayed only made me feel pity for Felix and, surprisingly, the only times I cried during this story were when Felix was shown giving himself to the their story more and more, making it clear that his hurt would be greater when it happened, all because of Noah's narrow-mindedness... I constantly felt that Felix was being "used" to satisfy Noah's emotional needs, not that they had a romance. I even hoped that they wouldn't end up together, but at least Harold ended up getting what he "deserved". I hate people who take others for granted, and Harold is one of them (Like many others in this series), so showing that losing the people you take for granted is something that may happen was at least satisfying.
First of all, all or most of the conflicts presented seemed to be easily solvable, had the characters just used half of their brain to think. I don't usually sympathize with "easy" conflicts; being an arduous problem solver myself, I saw myself constantly thinking: "Then tell him! / Then move on! / Then stop seeing each other! / Then do what you are supposed to do!" and one can guess that this is not the best way to feel during any reading.
Regarding character development, the way they were portrayed only made me feel pity for Felix and, surprisingly, the only times I cried during this story were when Felix was shown giving himself to the their story more and more, making it clear that his hurt would be greater when it happened, all because of Noah's narrow-mindedness... I constantly felt that Felix was being "used" to satisfy Noah's emotional needs, not that they had a romance. I even hoped that they wouldn't end up together, but at least Harold ended up getting what he "deserved". I hate people who take others for granted, and Harold is one of them (Like many others in this series), so showing that losing the people you take for granted is something that may happen was at least satisfying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2023
Jay Bell continues to display his prowess of writing engaging and relatable queer characters while tackling hard-hitting topics faced in the LGBTQ+ community. This installment lives up to the standard Bell has established chronicling the many lives in Austin and how paths are shared, crossed, and diverted away from one another. Noah Westwood has had a bout of bad luck, uber-religious parents, on the streets at 16, he's learned to survive any way he can. His story is unique in as he is a new character to the series, but we still get the usual crossover from regulars like Tim, Marcello, and Nathaniel, as well as some smaller mentions of Ben, Jason, Kelly, and others. We follow Noah on his journey from the streets through Studio Maltese, getting further background on Ryan, as well as introductions to Harold, Edith, Felix, and a whole gaggle of gentlemen from the GAC. I always enjoy learning more about Marcello, even if it's indirectly through someone else's tale. Noah, overall, is not the strongest character and often finds himself jumping into relationships and being ruled by his emotions, or lack of, depending on the situation. I appreciated Bell's depiction on the struggles people have with their family when it comes to being gay and the light representation of housing insecurity that many gay youth can experience. In the end, this is a good addition to the series, with great writing and world building, but not the best story in this universe.
January 29, 2021
Can we describe this novel as a version of the 90's movie Pretty Woman ?
Yes and not. It is true that the main character is poor and becomes an escort to survive. Also, his profession is going to change his whole life. Nevertheless, his love story is not the same of Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward.
Once again, Jay Bell have written an amazing story with enjoyable connections to the previous books of the serie Something like which I definitely loved. As all great novels have, Something Like Hail has painful moments, which will make you wish the character were real just to hug and consolate them, and moments of true happines that are going to cheer you up.
To conclude, I encourage you to read this novel since you will be able to live another life and enjoy every single moment of the adventure.
Yes and not. It is true that the main character is poor and becomes an escort to survive. Also, his profession is going to change his whole life. Nevertheless, his love story is not the same of Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward.
Once again, Jay Bell have written an amazing story with enjoyable connections to the previous books of the serie Something like which I definitely loved. As all great novels have, Something Like Hail has painful moments, which will make you wish the character were real just to hug and consolate them, and moments of true happines that are going to cheer you up.
To conclude, I encourage you to read this novel since you will be able to live another life and enjoy every single moment of the adventure.
July 3, 2019
This book is a tease! No one— I swear to God, would have guessed what kind of love adventures Noah would have in the book. It’s like fate, or you may say, the author, was toying at him since his coming out age until his romantic endeavours. But oh well, as fate would have it, he ended up being happy and with the one he deserves. That ending was lit! Too heartwarming to close the book right after the last word. That feeling when you want more but you’re also extremely satisfied at the same time, that’s the blissful feeling you’ll have after reading this book.
Oh, there’s a Filipino character! I loved it even more. My kababayan has a share of his life in the Something Like... series. Lol.
Jay Bell, u the best
Oh, there’s a Filipino character! I loved it even more. My kababayan has a share of his life in the Something Like... series. Lol.
Jay Bell, u the best
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2021
It’s hard to tell what the main focus of this book is. Is it about the relationship between the main character and his love interest, or is it about a series of random events that happened in the main character’s life?
One of those options is less interesting than the other.
Every scene in the book is written to the same level of detail as if they all have equal importance. This makes the book way longer than it should be, and it confuses the reader as to what the real point of the novel is.
The book ends in an unclear way. It ends with no payoff to what it seems is the main story line.
The book seems as if it is trying to put two people together in a relationship, which the reader would expect would result in a happy ending. Then the book puts the main character with someone else, and LEAVES him there for a VERY LONG TIME.
Does the length of time of the second relationship imply that is as important as the first? Most readers would assume the second relationship is just a rebound relationship included in the book to separate the lovers before the final happy ending.
This book attempts to go against that basic, obvious thinking and leaves the reader unhappy. But, it doesn’t even leave the main character happy. It doesn’t seem the main character really has satisfaction in the second relationship, and book spends a lot of time teasing us with thoughts of the first relationship, and even does so at the end.
(Final thought, am I a bad reader if I don’t know why the book was called something like hail? I know it’s a series, but why hail? I skipped over a lot of this book and maybe that was a sentence I missed.)
----------------------------------
While reading, I took notes to focus my attention:
1% - A man is making a new start.
2% - He wants a job as an escort.
3% - He is hired and paid with a check instead of cash by the man who runs the escort business.
6% - He meets with a more experienced escort and gets his penis measured.
14% - He may be developing a friendship with the more experienced escort.
19% - He thinks about some events from the life he needed a fresh start from.
30% - Backstory unfolds between the man and the owner of the escort business.
32% - The escort business owner asks the man to turn away from people in his past, which is what I thought the man was trying to do in the first place!
35% - The man wants to be more than friends with the more experienced escort.
41% - The man and the more experienced escort decide to visit the man’s parents who rejected him years ago for being gay.
46% - The parent visit doesn’t go smoothly.
50% - The possibilities of a relationship between the man and the more experienced escort turn an unexpected corner.
?% - Other relationship options enter the lives of the man and the more experienced escort.
?% - The book is ending but the man and the more experienced escort haven’t worked out their relationship issues yet.
One of those options is less interesting than the other.
Every scene in the book is written to the same level of detail as if they all have equal importance. This makes the book way longer than it should be, and it confuses the reader as to what the real point of the novel is.
The book ends in an unclear way. It ends with no payoff to what it seems is the main story line.
The book seems as if it is trying to put two people together in a relationship, which the reader would expect would result in a happy ending. Then the book puts the main character with someone else, and LEAVES him there for a VERY LONG TIME.
Does the length of time of the second relationship imply that is as important as the first? Most readers would assume the second relationship is just a rebound relationship included in the book to separate the lovers before the final happy ending.
This book attempts to go against that basic, obvious thinking and leaves the reader unhappy. But, it doesn’t even leave the main character happy. It doesn’t seem the main character really has satisfaction in the second relationship, and book spends a lot of time teasing us with thoughts of the first relationship, and even does so at the end.
(Final thought, am I a bad reader if I don’t know why the book was called something like hail? I know it’s a series, but why hail? I skipped over a lot of this book and maybe that was a sentence I missed.)
----------------------------------
While reading, I took notes to focus my attention:
1% - A man is making a new start.
2% - He wants a job as an escort.
3% - He is hired and paid with a check instead of cash by the man who runs the escort business.
6% - He meets with a more experienced escort and gets his penis measured.
14% - He may be developing a friendship with the more experienced escort.
19% - He thinks about some events from the life he needed a fresh start from.
30% - Backstory unfolds between the man and the owner of the escort business.
32% - The escort business owner asks the man to turn away from people in his past, which is what I thought the man was trying to do in the first place!
35% - The man wants to be more than friends with the more experienced escort.
41% - The man and the more experienced escort decide to visit the man’s parents who rejected him years ago for being gay.
46% - The parent visit doesn’t go smoothly.
50% - The possibilities of a relationship between the man and the more experienced escort turn an unexpected corner.
?% - Other relationship options enter the lives of the man and the more experienced escort.
?% - The book is ending but the man and the more experienced escort haven’t worked out their relationship issues yet.
April 5, 2023
A Different Volume in the "Something Like Series" - Grim, Hopeful, Sad, Provocative, and Innocence!
This book introduces Noah, A homeless teenager who becomes an Escort. We have some unseemly episodes where the author Teeters on dealing with the ethics of sex workers. I was actually surprised! Jay Bell gives Marcello (A modern Zeus like character) some of the best lines. We find out more about Ryan, who tried to kill Tim and then we are introduced to the most charming young man, Felix Ramos, who Jay Bell describes as a cute guy with ears like Mickey Mouse! Mr. Bell works magic with this character and soon a wonderful romance blossoms. Jay Bell is a master story teller!
This book introduces Noah, A homeless teenager who becomes an Escort. We have some unseemly episodes where the author Teeters on dealing with the ethics of sex workers. I was actually surprised! Jay Bell gives Marcello (A modern Zeus like character) some of the best lines. We find out more about Ryan, who tried to kill Tim and then we are introduced to the most charming young man, Felix Ramos, who Jay Bell describes as a cute guy with ears like Mickey Mouse! Mr. Bell works magic with this character and soon a wonderful romance blossoms. Jay Bell is a master story teller!
October 19, 2017
While many other Something Like... books have taken taken someone and grown them within the existing universe, here we have a new iteration with someone with previous ties building a new relationship with the established world. Noah is in many ways very different from previous protagonists and this book definitely challenges the normal flow. It is hard to follow Will who i find to be one of the most likable and in this case I didnt always like Noah. It is also hard knowing this is so close to the end because there are definitely characters like Ruben who I would have loved to be the sprouting of their own story
June 2, 2018
While exploring some of the emotional crisis and angsts of gay love and life for young(er) men, much of Jay Bell's other work in this otherwise long "Something Like..." series has been following a romantic novel formula and skirting around some of the less savoury realities that pop into peoples minds when considering some of the characters.
In "Something Like Hail", Jay Bell addresses some of these head on. While still full of his works usual love and angst, he does explore homelessness and prostitution for survival and business as well as the concept of escorts as a form of self existential medication for many a wounded soul.
In "Something Like Hail", Jay Bell addresses some of these head on. While still full of his works usual love and angst, he does explore homelessness and prostitution for survival and business as well as the concept of escorts as a form of self existential medication for many a wounded soul.
June 23, 2020
I really enjoyed the series and I'm ok with a sex scene in a book as long as it's not the main team of a book, but I was really disgusted with the "Golden shower" sex scene in the beginning of the story. I read it just before going to sleep and waking up in the morning I still had a bad aftertaste.
Even though I liked all the previous books and the author, it stops here.
Until now, any book in the series you could give to your 15-16 year old nephew, with good conscience.
But a detailed golden shower scene is nothing more than dirty trash. Certainly nothing for a 15-16 year old, but also something I as an adult don't want to be confronted with without warning.
Even though I liked all the previous books and the author, it stops here.
Until now, any book in the series you could give to your 15-16 year old nephew, with good conscience.
But a detailed golden shower scene is nothing more than dirty trash. Certainly nothing for a 15-16 year old, but also something I as an adult don't want to be confronted with without warning.
November 27, 2022
This story didn't really seem to connect to the other ones as much, but I really liked Noah's character. He went through a lot and I think the issues he went through were depicted well in the book. It was interesting to see the perspectives about sex work. I liked seeing a bit more Tim and how he called Jason his son. I enjoyed seeing more of Marcello too. I don't think I needed to see how Ryan was doing though. Noah's relationship with Felix felt a bit random in the beginning, but it was cute. Bonus points for ATLA and LOK references!
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