What do you think?
Rate this book
Without a Compass
Riley Anderson has always been smitten with his older brother’s best friend, Kai Brandt. But Kai is straight and he and Riley have nothing in common. Riley’s a desk jockey and hunky Kai is obsessed with the great outdoors, just like the rest of Riley’s family. It’s bad enough that Riley is forced to go camping for his dad’s 50th birthday. Even worse when gorgeous Kai shows up too and Riley isn’t sure how long his crush will remain secret.
Kai always liked his best friend’s cute but shy little brother. When they reunite after a few years apart, Kai is surprised to find that Riley has grown up…and Kai can’t get him out of his head. Maybe now that Riley is an adult they can be friends?
When their camping trip takes an unexpected turn, Kai and Riley find themselves stranded together out in the wild. The chemistry between them is undeniable. But Riley is too afraid to believe this could be real, even though Kai knows this is no longer just about friendship for him.
They don’t have long before they will have to rejoin civilisation. Can they face the truth in front of them before their lives pull them apart once more?
Without a Compass is a steamy, standalone MM romance novel with campfire kisses, a dog with a mind of her own and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
This second re-edited edition does not contain new content.
Kai always liked his best friend’s cute but shy little brother. When they reunite after a few years apart, Kai is surprised to find that Riley has grown up…and Kai can’t get him out of his head. Maybe now that Riley is an adult they can be friends?
When their camping trip takes an unexpected turn, Kai and Riley find themselves stranded together out in the wild. The chemistry between them is undeniable. But Riley is too afraid to believe this could be real, even though Kai knows this is no longer just about friendship for him.
They don’t have long before they will have to rejoin civilisation. Can they face the truth in front of them before their lives pull them apart once more?
Without a Compass is a steamy, standalone MM romance novel with campfire kisses, a dog with a mind of her own and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
This second re-edited edition does not contain new content.
312 pages, Paperback
First published August 22, 2017
62 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Helen Juliet
50 books199 followersHelen Juliet is a British author of contemporary MM fairy tale adaptations, including the international bestselling Beauty and the Beast retelling, Thorn in His Side. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary American small town MM series as HJ Welch, including Pine Cove, Homecoming Hearts, and Paddle Creek College.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary American small town MM series as HJ Welch, including Pine Cove, Homecoming Hearts, and Paddle Creek College.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 14, 2017
~3.5~
This was slow-going at first, but once Kai and Riley set off on a scavenger hunt alone around the 50 percent mark, the story picked up.
The plot consists of Riley and Kai mingling with Riley's family (and other families staying at the camp ground) and enjoying the great outdoors (Kai more than Riley, who's more into "glamping").
There's no angst, little conflict (save a pair of twins trying to stir up trouble), and some nice steamy bits (I really liked the way Kai and Riley's first time played out).
I loved Riley's brothers (Jake especially was a total sweetheart) and really appreciate the author showing the MCs take care of Bia, Riley's dog. Bia was precious and present like a real dog would be: she needed food, water, attention, and love. So often dogs in books serve as mere props.
The guys go from something casual (Kai's best friend is Riley's older brother) to boyfriends in the span of two days, so this is very much an insta LIKE kind of story (there is attraction and a sense of connection, but the love doesn't come until the epilogue).
Rounding up because British boys really do it for me!
This was slow-going at first, but once Kai and Riley set off on a scavenger hunt alone around the 50 percent mark, the story picked up.
The plot consists of Riley and Kai mingling with Riley's family (and other families staying at the camp ground) and enjoying the great outdoors (Kai more than Riley, who's more into "glamping").
There's no angst, little conflict (save a pair of twins trying to stir up trouble), and some nice steamy bits (I really liked the way Kai and Riley's first time played out).
I loved Riley's brothers (Jake especially was a total sweetheart) and really appreciate the author showing the MCs take care of Bia, Riley's dog. Bia was precious and present like a real dog would be: she needed food, water, attention, and love. So often dogs in books serve as mere props.
The guys go from something casual (Kai's best friend is Riley's older brother) to boyfriends in the span of two days, so this is very much an insta LIKE kind of story (there is attraction and a sense of connection, but the love doesn't come until the epilogue).
Rounding up because British boys really do it for me!
January 30, 2018
While I liked the story itself, this book had some really weird phrases about being gay. I’m surprised no one is commenting on this in their review. It constantly pulled me out of the story.
When he stood, he’d place his hands on his hips as he looked around at whatever he was doing, which, okay, was pretty gay.
Of course Kai could mess around with his best friend and pretend they were together; there was no real harm in implying there was something romantic between them after all. He and Brendon had known each other since they were eleven.
It was just… it was easy for straight people to forget sometimes that they could joke like that and have everyone think it was funny. If Riley were to attempt something like that in real life…
It meant he ‘knew’ other things though – like that gay men were weak and effeminate. He fell into that category quite naturally, but then he’d come to know that there were other kinds of gay, better kinds. He now knew if you could pass as straight, that made you the best kind of gay.
Kai liked him. Maybe just as a friend. Maybe he was intrigued by the whole gay thing.
He should have known something like this would happen, it didn’t take long for straight people to start analysing the only gay.
“I guess it’s the gay thing, isn’t it?” Kai mused as he set off walking.
“I bet most of you are pretty good at creative stuff. It’s in your genes.”
I mean, how weird are some of these phrases? It was constantly emphasized how being gay is like being from another planet.
But besides this, it was a nice low-angst book. Riley and Kai were cute together and once I got past the 50% mark, things were starting to get more interesting.
I do have to admit that I’m never a fan of a formerly ‘straight’ man immediately bottoming as his first gay experience. I would think once you’ve come to the conclusion you are attracted to a guy, you’d start with a heavy make out session instead of the whole nine yards...
When he stood, he’d place his hands on his hips as he looked around at whatever he was doing, which, okay, was pretty gay.
Of course Kai could mess around with his best friend and pretend they were together; there was no real harm in implying there was something romantic between them after all. He and Brendon had known each other since they were eleven.
It was just… it was easy for straight people to forget sometimes that they could joke like that and have everyone think it was funny. If Riley were to attempt something like that in real life…
It meant he ‘knew’ other things though – like that gay men were weak and effeminate. He fell into that category quite naturally, but then he’d come to know that there were other kinds of gay, better kinds. He now knew if you could pass as straight, that made you the best kind of gay.
Kai liked him. Maybe just as a friend. Maybe he was intrigued by the whole gay thing.
He should have known something like this would happen, it didn’t take long for straight people to start analysing the only gay.
“I guess it’s the gay thing, isn’t it?” Kai mused as he set off walking.
“I bet most of you are pretty good at creative stuff. It’s in your genes.”
I mean, how weird are some of these phrases? It was constantly emphasized how being gay is like being from another planet.
But besides this, it was a nice low-angst book. Riley and Kai were cute together and once I got past the 50% mark, things were starting to get more interesting.
I do have to admit that I’m never a fan of a formerly ‘straight’ man immediately bottoming as his first gay experience. I would think once you’ve come to the conclusion you are attracted to a guy, you’d start with a heavy make out session instead of the whole nine yards...
September 5, 2017
Sweet and low-angst, but with some satisfying, slow-building yet inexorable romantic tension.
MCs were both very sexual and very emotive and affectionate, a combination that does it for me. It's a tough balance to strike, but I like my M/M leads to be masculine, sexual, AND emotional.
There's a GFY vibe here, but it's not completely implausible and is more correctly identified as something closer to BFY/OFY. There's a heavy dose of wish fulfillment in that Riley had been nursing a crush on Kai forever, but what's the use of fiction if we can't use it to enjoy a scenario like this?
I'm interested enough to try reading more from this author.
MCs were both very sexual and very emotive and affectionate, a combination that does it for me. It's a tough balance to strike, but I like my M/M leads to be masculine, sexual, AND emotional.
There's a GFY vibe here, but it's not completely implausible and is more correctly identified as something closer to BFY/OFY. There's a heavy dose of wish fulfillment in that Riley had been nursing a crush on Kai forever, but what's the use of fiction if we can't use it to enjoy a scenario like this?
I'm interested enough to try reading more from this author.
January 29, 2018
4 Stars
Reading Without a Compass proved to be one of those refreshing and wholly enjoyable reading experiences, wherein I found myself completely immersed by the light-hearted, angst-free, and happily heart-warming nature of this romance story. Picking up a book by an unknown author can be a worrisome endeavour at times, but thankfully I came away from this one both impressed and eager to read more from Juliet’s backlog.
In this story, MCs Riley Anderson and Kai Brandt have grown up together, with Kai being the life-long best friend of Riley’s oldest brother. They’ve always gotten along but time and distance meant that as they grew older they saw less of one another, with Riley moving away after completing school, while Kai stayed closer to home to be near his mother and sister.
When an annual Anderson family camping trip rolls around, Riley and Kai find themselves reconnecting in a big way after years apart (as Riley hadn’t attended in years). With both men now in their twenties, they find themselves getting along famously, which leads out and proud Riley to begin questioning whether his presumably straight long-time crush is perhaps a little less straight than either of them had always assumed.
Fortuitously, the two young men get paired together on a scavenger hunt and soon find themselves stranded out in the wilderness together, alone, overnight, where their dynamics begin to change and sparks definitely begin to fly.
This was such a stress-free read and I loved how effortlessly Kai accepted and embraced his growing feelings towards Riley, throwing himself into the experience whole-heartedly. They made a really cute pair, getting along fabulously and complimenting each others personalities perfectly. They just meshed really well together and I completely bought into their whirlwind romance.
I must say I loved the campsite setting, as it provided plenty of opportunities for fun and frivolity throughout the story.
I also adored Riley’s family members, all of whom showed their love and acceptance of Riley and Kai, time and again, without fail, which is exactly what I want to see more often in my M/M romance reads.
The antagonists of the story were perfectly annoying too, eliciting a good amount of growl-y feelings within me. I even cheered when they got their due, which was only right.
Did I mention there was a dog!? Obviously immediate points granted for that cuteness.
Overall, this was a lovely read by an author I very much look forward to exploring further.
Reading Without a Compass proved to be one of those refreshing and wholly enjoyable reading experiences, wherein I found myself completely immersed by the light-hearted, angst-free, and happily heart-warming nature of this romance story. Picking up a book by an unknown author can be a worrisome endeavour at times, but thankfully I came away from this one both impressed and eager to read more from Juliet’s backlog.
In this story, MCs Riley Anderson and Kai Brandt have grown up together, with Kai being the life-long best friend of Riley’s oldest brother. They’ve always gotten along but time and distance meant that as they grew older they saw less of one another, with Riley moving away after completing school, while Kai stayed closer to home to be near his mother and sister.
When an annual Anderson family camping trip rolls around, Riley and Kai find themselves reconnecting in a big way after years apart (as Riley hadn’t attended in years). With both men now in their twenties, they find themselves getting along famously, which leads out and proud Riley to begin questioning whether his presumably straight long-time crush is perhaps a little less straight than either of them had always assumed.
Fortuitously, the two young men get paired together on a scavenger hunt and soon find themselves stranded out in the wilderness together, alone, overnight, where their dynamics begin to change and sparks definitely begin to fly.
This was such a stress-free read and I loved how effortlessly Kai accepted and embraced his growing feelings towards Riley, throwing himself into the experience whole-heartedly. They made a really cute pair, getting along fabulously and complimenting each others personalities perfectly. They just meshed really well together and I completely bought into their whirlwind romance.
I must say I loved the campsite setting, as it provided plenty of opportunities for fun and frivolity throughout the story.
I also adored Riley’s family members, all of whom showed their love and acceptance of Riley and Kai, time and again, without fail, which is exactly what I want to see more often in my M/M romance reads.
The antagonists of the story were perfectly annoying too, eliciting a good amount of growl-y feelings within me. I even cheered when they got their due, which was only right.
Did I mention there was a dog!? Obviously immediate points granted for that cuteness.
Overall, this was a lovely read by an author I very much look forward to exploring further.
September 6, 2017
While I liked this one, it was just very slow paced (or the timing was WAY off). First 50% of this book was getting to the campsite and setting up and relaxing until dinner. Sure that's great and all, but then the next 50% was so rushed. We really only got like 2 days before it was all said and done. I needed more! If the pacing of this was faster or the book was longer, I could have really enjoyed this.
September 6, 2017
Ok. Everything developed too fast, too easy. It was sweet though.
August 24, 2017
I was gifted my copy of this book direct from the author, that I write a review was not required.
Riley goes with his family camping. Riley HATES camping, but it's his father's 50th birthday and he hasn't been for a few years. He just packs everything but the kitchen sink to take along with him. Kai is Riley's older brother's best friend, and had been Riley's crush many years ago. But Kai is straight, and totally out of Riley's reach, right??
Warm and fuzzies, too stinking cute and a delicious book if ever there was one!
Kai has, up to now, only been with girls. But Riley is all grown up now, and Kai begins to have feelings, thoughts, that maybe he isn't as straight as he thought. A game of truth or dare clears Kai's head and he just runs with it. What will be, will be.
I am ETERNALLY thankful that Ms Juliet wrote this book from both guys point of view! I was a little concerned that it might not, and I would have wrote some scathing comment but it is SOOOOOOOOOOO not needed! With Kai going much against his nature, he needed his say. Because we needed to know what was going through his head, and we get it! We get his reaction to that kiss, his feelings about what some of the others did to Riley years ago, his feelings of overwhelming protectiveness to Riley when he realises Riley is hurt. We get it all!!
Its not overly explicit, but this book didn't need to be. There is no real breakup, no major drama to deal with, bar a pair of twins who really just need to grow the hell up. Its full of emotion though! Riley's trying to keep his distance from Kai, and failing miserably. Kai's ever growing attraction to Riley and his fight to stop, then run with, it.
This is the second book of Ms Juliet's I've read, that too, was a five star read. Keep them coming, please!!
5 stars.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Riley goes with his family camping. Riley HATES camping, but it's his father's 50th birthday and he hasn't been for a few years. He just packs everything but the kitchen sink to take along with him. Kai is Riley's older brother's best friend, and had been Riley's crush many years ago. But Kai is straight, and totally out of Riley's reach, right??
Warm and fuzzies, too stinking cute and a delicious book if ever there was one!
Kai has, up to now, only been with girls. But Riley is all grown up now, and Kai begins to have feelings, thoughts, that maybe he isn't as straight as he thought. A game of truth or dare clears Kai's head and he just runs with it. What will be, will be.
I am ETERNALLY thankful that Ms Juliet wrote this book from both guys point of view! I was a little concerned that it might not, and I would have wrote some scathing comment but it is SOOOOOOOOOOO not needed! With Kai going much against his nature, he needed his say. Because we needed to know what was going through his head, and we get it! We get his reaction to that kiss, his feelings about what some of the others did to Riley years ago, his feelings of overwhelming protectiveness to Riley when he realises Riley is hurt. We get it all!!
Its not overly explicit, but this book didn't need to be. There is no real breakup, no major drama to deal with, bar a pair of twins who really just need to grow the hell up. Its full of emotion though! Riley's trying to keep his distance from Kai, and failing miserably. Kai's ever growing attraction to Riley and his fight to stop, then run with, it.
This is the second book of Ms Juliet's I've read, that too, was a five star read. Keep them coming, please!!
5 stars.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
August 19, 2017
I received an advance copy to read an review, and what a delight this was.
Riley doesn't do camping, or the great outdoors in general. But it's his father's birthday so he agrees to join the rest of them for a camping holiday. To his surprise, the attendees also include Kai, his older brother's best friend and Riley's crush since forever.
Kai is happy to see his bestie's little brother again after a long absence and is determined to show Riley a good time, knowing that camping isn't Riley's favourite thing in the world.
Riley is convinced Kai only thinks of him as Brendon's little brother, and Kai has never considered another guy attractive *that way* but when the two end up stranded for the night far away from the others, maybe everything isn't quite as they'd thought...
This is easily the sweetest, most adorable little book I've read in a long while. Riley and Kai's feelings for each other grow so gently, Riley's insecurities slowly melting in the face of Kai's determination to please him. And it felt natural, Kai's realisations about himself and Riley's growing confidence. And all framed by the beautiful English countryside, which is a supporting character all on its own.
What a beauty, such a joy to read.
August 20, 2017
Riley Anderson is joining his family on a camping trip to the Lake District to celebrate his Father's fiftieth birthday. Not his idea of a good holiday but anything for his dad. And if he has to do this he is going to be as comfortable as possible. Kai Brandt on the other hand is the outdoors kind of guy. As Brendan's best friend (Riley's older brother) he has been an honorary member of the Anderson family for years and wouldn't miss celebrating with them. When Riley arrives at the campsite he sees Kai, his teenage crush, only problem is Kai is straight. Not to mention his teenage enemies are also camping nearby. This could be a long week.
Helen Juliet has become one of my go to authors when I need a gentle tender love story.
Slow building of tension, Riley not really wanting to be on the camping holiday and seeing Kai for the first time in a few years. His teenage crush reawakening but with a bit more fervour now he was older but maybe not wiser. Kai's slow realisation that he felt an attraction to Riley but not quite understanding what it means. I really loved this slow dance between them where they got to know each other. My word their first time together was beautifully written and what a setting! I really like the flow of the story. There is always a little surprise twist or turn that keeps the momentum up. And I was encouraging both Riley and Kai to get over their doubts and make a move.
Riley is a sensitive soul. Years of being tormented for who he was left him feeling like he had to be on guard around people. So he is quick to judge and jump to conclusions which doesn't make it easy on Kai who has a clumsy way of expressing himself. There are a few misunderstandings and hurt feelings to overcome before they can find their happy ever after.
Perfect summer reading and I wholeheartedly recommend it if you are looking for a lovely romance.
*I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review.*
Helen Juliet has become one of my go to authors when I need a gentle tender love story.
Slow building of tension, Riley not really wanting to be on the camping holiday and seeing Kai for the first time in a few years. His teenage crush reawakening but with a bit more fervour now he was older but maybe not wiser. Kai's slow realisation that he felt an attraction to Riley but not quite understanding what it means. I really loved this slow dance between them where they got to know each other. My word their first time together was beautifully written and what a setting! I really like the flow of the story. There is always a little surprise twist or turn that keeps the momentum up. And I was encouraging both Riley and Kai to get over their doubts and make a move.
Riley is a sensitive soul. Years of being tormented for who he was left him feeling like he had to be on guard around people. So he is quick to judge and jump to conclusions which doesn't make it easy on Kai who has a clumsy way of expressing himself. There are a few misunderstandings and hurt feelings to overcome before they can find their happy ever after.
Perfect summer reading and I wholeheartedly recommend it if you are looking for a lovely romance.
*I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review.*
January 5, 2018
3.5 Stars
This is one of those cases where I really need a half star, because this book isn't necessarily a 3 star book for me but it isn't a 4 star read either. I liked many things about this story, but here were just too many other things that got under my skin. I think the most important being, even with as much as I really liked Kai and Riley together, it seemed to go from zero to a thousand in a hot second, so it didn't feel very genuine. I'm not going to nit pick, but over all I decided to go with three stars. This was a new to me author and I think I will read her again.
This is one of those cases where I really need a half star, because this book isn't necessarily a 3 star book for me but it isn't a 4 star read either. I liked many things about this story, but here were just too many other things that got under my skin. I think the most important being, even with as much as I really liked Kai and Riley together, it seemed to go from zero to a thousand in a hot second, so it didn't feel very genuine. I'm not going to nit pick, but over all I decided to go with three stars. This was a new to me author and I think I will read her again.
August 26, 2017
Sweet!!
This was a sweet, enjoyable read. I like Riley's character. He was quirky, adorable and funny in a charming way. Kai seemed at first like a stereotypical macho man but he turned out to not be quite so stereotypical.
I felt the last portion of the book was a bit rushed though... but I enjoyed it nevertheless.
This was a sweet, enjoyable read. I like Riley's character. He was quirky, adorable and funny in a charming way. Kai seemed at first like a stereotypical macho man but he turned out to not be quite so stereotypical.
I felt the last portion of the book was a bit rushed though... but I enjoyed it nevertheless.
August 23, 2017
4 Stars
Riley is none too happy to be spending his holiday roughing it, camping with his family, but it's his dad's wish to spend his 50th birthday out in the wilderness surrounded by his family and friends, so how can Riley refuse? Riley brings as much of the comforts of home as he can on his trip, and although he's happy to spend time with his family, he isn't expecting to find his brother's best-friend, Kai, there and that he will be joining them for the week. Riley's always had a crush on Kai, but Kai is straight or so Riley assumes. But during a drunken game of truth or dare under the stars, a malicious dare from one of the fellow campers puts Riley and Kai in an awkward position, and Kai, who has always assumed he's straight discovers maybe he's not so straight.
This was such cute, sweet and funny story. I absolutely adored Riley. He's sweet and awkward and definitely not one with nature! Haha I loved Kai as well, and I thought they were perfect together. I liked the slow realization of Kai discovering that he's not completely straight. I loved that he accepted it and his newfound sexuality wasn't a huge deal for him. He was accepting of his feelings for Riley and he worked hard to prove to Riley that his feelings were real and valid.
This was a well-written story, filled with family, acceptance, laughter and love. The chemistry between Riley and Kai was off the charts and the sexy times were passionate and hot as hell!! All in all, this was a really enjoyable read that I'd definitely recommend!!
*copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
Riley is none too happy to be spending his holiday roughing it, camping with his family, but it's his dad's wish to spend his 50th birthday out in the wilderness surrounded by his family and friends, so how can Riley refuse? Riley brings as much of the comforts of home as he can on his trip, and although he's happy to spend time with his family, he isn't expecting to find his brother's best-friend, Kai, there and that he will be joining them for the week. Riley's always had a crush on Kai, but Kai is straight or so Riley assumes. But during a drunken game of truth or dare under the stars, a malicious dare from one of the fellow campers puts Riley and Kai in an awkward position, and Kai, who has always assumed he's straight discovers maybe he's not so straight.
This was such cute, sweet and funny story. I absolutely adored Riley. He's sweet and awkward and definitely not one with nature! Haha I loved Kai as well, and I thought they were perfect together. I liked the slow realization of Kai discovering that he's not completely straight. I loved that he accepted it and his newfound sexuality wasn't a huge deal for him. He was accepting of his feelings for Riley and he worked hard to prove to Riley that his feelings were real and valid.
This was a well-written story, filled with family, acceptance, laughter and love. The chemistry between Riley and Kai was off the charts and the sexy times were passionate and hot as hell!! All in all, this was a really enjoyable read that I'd definitely recommend!!
*copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
October 15, 2017
not quite making it - 2 stars
This is a fairly simple story about a camping trip. Riley's father chooses a group camping trip to celebrate his 50th birthday. He gets together his family and a few other families who used to do scouting trips together. The problem is Riley hates camping and stopped going to the outings several years prior. But he loves his dad and so he goes and is determined to have a good time. Of course when he shows up his brother's best friend Kai is already there. Riley had a huge crush on Kai and was always awkward around him as a teen but now that he is an adult he figures he can enjoy a few nice friendly moments together. Kai is delighted to see Riley again and the two spend quite a bit of time together until of course they are having sexy times out in the open.
There was a lot of time spent on them getting to the camp site and getting set up. Getting to know each other and then their getting to the point of deciding to be a couple. It was fairly slow but I didn't mind the pace, but oddly the time after they get together was super rushed. Like once they got their rocks off there was no point in talking about anything any more.
I did like the conversation that Kai and the brother have. I liked the dog. I even liked the camping scenes and I loath camping. The epilogue was not too overdone so that was nice.
However what I really hated was all the judgement. Kai spends some time thinking that people are judging him for being big and tattooed. Riley spends an inordinate amount of time assuming people are judging him negatively for a variety of reasons. It never stopped. And he also made assumptions about why the straight people did certain things with it rarely being brought up again. I actually found it pretty insulting to straight people. I have done some of the things that Riley got himself in a tizzy about but never not once with the motivations he ascribed to it. I can't tell if the author was doing this as part of Riley character or if she feels that straight people think this way. If the latter then she knows some really shitty people. I might try another book by her but I think I will wait.
This is a fairly simple story about a camping trip. Riley's father chooses a group camping trip to celebrate his 50th birthday. He gets together his family and a few other families who used to do scouting trips together. The problem is Riley hates camping and stopped going to the outings several years prior. But he loves his dad and so he goes and is determined to have a good time. Of course when he shows up his brother's best friend Kai is already there. Riley had a huge crush on Kai and was always awkward around him as a teen but now that he is an adult he figures he can enjoy a few nice friendly moments together. Kai is delighted to see Riley again and the two spend quite a bit of time together until of course they are having sexy times out in the open.
There was a lot of time spent on them getting to the camp site and getting set up. Getting to know each other and then their getting to the point of deciding to be a couple. It was fairly slow but I didn't mind the pace, but oddly the time after they get together was super rushed. Like once they got their rocks off there was no point in talking about anything any more.
I did like the conversation that Kai and the brother have. I liked the dog. I even liked the camping scenes and I loath camping. The epilogue was not too overdone so that was nice.
However what I really hated was all the judgement. Kai spends some time thinking that people are judging him for being big and tattooed. Riley spends an inordinate amount of time assuming people are judging him negatively for a variety of reasons. It never stopped. And he also made assumptions about why the straight people did certain things with it rarely being brought up again. I actually found it pretty insulting to straight people. I have done some of the things that Riley got himself in a tizzy about but never not once with the motivations he ascribed to it. I can't tell if the author was doing this as part of Riley character or if she feels that straight people think this way. If the latter then she knows some really shitty people. I might try another book by her but I think I will wait.
August 21, 2017
5 stars - This story was absolutely precious! Without a Compass was a sweet, wonderful romance - it builds slowly, with wonderfully cute main characters, and in a gorgeous setting.
Riley doesn't like camping, and feels out of place there, but he goes for his family since they are celebrating his dad's birthday, and he really tries to make the most of it, and tries so hard to fit in with the group. My heart melted into a great big puddle when he was setting up his tent and getting out all his bits and bobs. He is an absolute SWEETHEART and I loved him dearly. Kai was wonderful too. He was HOT (gorgeous and with lots of tattoos, phwoar! Haha!), but he was also really easygoing and a very friendly and caring guy. Riley's been crushing on him for years, which is understandable, but Kai is his brother's best friend and someone Riley has always seen as unattainable...
Without a Compass is exactly what I had hoped for, and had everything I look for in a good romance novel. The romance was incredibly sweet, the story relatively low in drama and angst, and Riley and Kai's connection and their budding relationship was just so beautiful to read. I liked the gentle pace of the story; the romance didn't feel rushed despite the majority of the story taking part over just a few days, and everything flowed so nicely. Helen Juliet's writing style is wonderful and there is a nice blend of sweet tender moments, funny moments, and more serious ones. One particular scene between Riley and Kai (no spoilers, I promise!) was a beautiful mix of wonderful and heartwrenching, and I absolutely love moments and scenes like that <3
Something else I love is a story with good secondary characters, and we have an array of them here. Riley's parents, both of his brothers, his brother's girlfriend Slady, etc. That was nice, and I loved seeing Riley interacting with his youngest brother Jake. Jake was great, as was the rest of the family, and I loved seeing their banter and all the love between them.
Also, as anyone who has ever read one of my reviews will know, I am a total epilogue addict. Without a Compass has one, and it's THE BEST EPILOGUE EVER <3 It was wonderful! Squeeee! I honestly read it with my hand on my heart, saying "awww" over and over, and it was totally perfect.
I absolutely recommend this to anyone looking for a wonderfully sweet, low angst and low drama love story. Beautiful, and a well deserved 5 stars. Helen Juliet might be a relatively new author to me, but she is definitely one who is becoming an instant favourite, and will definitely be keeping an eye out for future releases.
***I received an ARC of Without a Compass from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Riley doesn't like camping, and feels out of place there, but he goes for his family since they are celebrating his dad's birthday, and he really tries to make the most of it, and tries so hard to fit in with the group. My heart melted into a great big puddle when he was setting up his tent and getting out all his bits and bobs. He is an absolute SWEETHEART and I loved him dearly. Kai was wonderful too. He was HOT (gorgeous and with lots of tattoos, phwoar! Haha!), but he was also really easygoing and a very friendly and caring guy. Riley's been crushing on him for years, which is understandable, but Kai is his brother's best friend and someone Riley has always seen as unattainable...
Without a Compass is exactly what I had hoped for, and had everything I look for in a good romance novel. The romance was incredibly sweet, the story relatively low in drama and angst, and Riley and Kai's connection and their budding relationship was just so beautiful to read. I liked the gentle pace of the story; the romance didn't feel rushed despite the majority of the story taking part over just a few days, and everything flowed so nicely. Helen Juliet's writing style is wonderful and there is a nice blend of sweet tender moments, funny moments, and more serious ones. One particular scene between Riley and Kai (no spoilers, I promise!) was a beautiful mix of wonderful and heartwrenching, and I absolutely love moments and scenes like that <3
Something else I love is a story with good secondary characters, and we have an array of them here. Riley's parents, both of his brothers, his brother's girlfriend Slady, etc. That was nice, and I loved seeing Riley interacting with his youngest brother Jake. Jake was great, as was the rest of the family, and I loved seeing their banter and all the love between them.
Also, as anyone who has ever read one of my reviews will know, I am a total epilogue addict. Without a Compass has one, and it's THE BEST EPILOGUE EVER <3 It was wonderful! Squeeee! I honestly read it with my hand on my heart, saying "awww" over and over, and it was totally perfect.
I absolutely recommend this to anyone looking for a wonderfully sweet, low angst and low drama love story. Beautiful, and a well deserved 5 stars. Helen Juliet might be a relatively new author to me, but she is definitely one who is becoming an instant favourite, and will definitely be keeping an eye out for future releases.
***I received an ARC of Without a Compass from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2017
Love In Time
If someone tells you they had a crush on you in high school, they usually still have it. Riley has not seen Kai in years and when they attend the Anderson's family camping trip Kai joins them and the crush Riley had on Kai reignites and takes off like a rocket.
The plot is what drew me into this book. High school boy has a crush on another of his older brother's friends and they meet years later at a family event and surprisingly get together.
Kai and Riley are perfect together. Kai with his big hunky body but gentle heart and Riley with his fashion sense and style and sensitivity. They go together like strawberries and chocolate. Add Riley's dog Bia and their situation is too cute for words.
The background scenery was painted so well by the author I could smell the pine trees and feel the dirt under my feet.
Riley's family is great. Their love and support of Riley was really inspirational. The other members of The Supporting Cast was also developed wonderfully by the author that they came to life with writing expertise.
I do highly recommend this book. If you love straight to gay stories and high school crush stories and if you enjoy camping you will love this book.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Promotions.
If someone tells you they had a crush on you in high school, they usually still have it. Riley has not seen Kai in years and when they attend the Anderson's family camping trip Kai joins them and the crush Riley had on Kai reignites and takes off like a rocket.
The plot is what drew me into this book. High school boy has a crush on another of his older brother's friends and they meet years later at a family event and surprisingly get together.
Kai and Riley are perfect together. Kai with his big hunky body but gentle heart and Riley with his fashion sense and style and sensitivity. They go together like strawberries and chocolate. Add Riley's dog Bia and their situation is too cute for words.
The background scenery was painted so well by the author I could smell the pine trees and feel the dirt under my feet.
Riley's family is great. Their love and support of Riley was really inspirational. The other members of The Supporting Cast was also developed wonderfully by the author that they came to life with writing expertise.
I do highly recommend this book. If you love straight to gay stories and high school crush stories and if you enjoy camping you will love this book.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Promotions.
August 28, 2017
Un roman que j'ai beaucoup aimé et que je recommande chaudement ! C'est la première fois que je lis des romans de cette auteure mais clairement pas la dernière, d'autant que j'en ai déjà deux en ma possession. Affaire à suivre donc...
Riley a 21 ans et retourne passer une semaine de vacances auprès de sa famille dans leur camping de prédilection. Chose qu'il n'a pas faite depuis longtemps. Riley est plutôt introverti et, s'il adore sa famille, il s'est toujours senti différent d'eux, et pas seulement parce qu'il est gay.
A peine arrivé, il tombe sur Kai Brandt, le meilleur ami de son grand frère, l'objet de ses fantasmes depuis qu'il est jeune adolescent. Timide et rougissant facilement, Riley décide de l'éviter un maximum. Sauf que Kai est bien trop heureux de renouer avec lui et qu'il se plait beaucoup trop en sa compagnie. La semaine s'annonce donc très longue pour Riley...
Tout le roman (de 230 pages environ) se déroule sur 3 jours. 3 jours denses et intenses. A travers les points de vue des deux hommes (à la 3e personne), on suit toute la vie du camping, cette famille et leurs amis, trop heureux de se retrouver le temps d'une semaine. On assiste à leurs activités, défis en tous genres, un time's up (que j'ai adoré suivre, je suis méga fan de ce jeu), un action-vérité (au cours duquel Kai se retrouve à devoir embrasser Riley ce qui va bouleverser sa perception du jeune homme) et des défis-randonnées-nature (ce qui va permettre aux deux hommes d'être isolés).
J'avoue avoir trouvé le début très long. Je me suis même un peu ennuyée les 50 premières pages, attendant désespérément que l'histoire débute. Mais passée ce moment, j'ai adoré, je me suis régalée et je n'ai plus quitté le roman. J'ai complètement craqué pour les deux héros et tout leur entourage et le contexte général autour du camping était particulièrement réussi et original. Bref, vous pouvez foncer sans danger. Vous allez aimer...
Riley a 21 ans et retourne passer une semaine de vacances auprès de sa famille dans leur camping de prédilection. Chose qu'il n'a pas faite depuis longtemps. Riley est plutôt introverti et, s'il adore sa famille, il s'est toujours senti différent d'eux, et pas seulement parce qu'il est gay.
A peine arrivé, il tombe sur Kai Brandt, le meilleur ami de son grand frère, l'objet de ses fantasmes depuis qu'il est jeune adolescent. Timide et rougissant facilement, Riley décide de l'éviter un maximum. Sauf que Kai est bien trop heureux de renouer avec lui et qu'il se plait beaucoup trop en sa compagnie. La semaine s'annonce donc très longue pour Riley...
Tout le roman (de 230 pages environ) se déroule sur 3 jours. 3 jours denses et intenses. A travers les points de vue des deux hommes (à la 3e personne), on suit toute la vie du camping, cette famille et leurs amis, trop heureux de se retrouver le temps d'une semaine. On assiste à leurs activités, défis en tous genres, un time's up (que j'ai adoré suivre, je suis méga fan de ce jeu), un action-vérité (au cours duquel Kai se retrouve à devoir embrasser Riley ce qui va bouleverser sa perception du jeune homme) et des défis-randonnées-nature (ce qui va permettre aux deux hommes d'être isolés).
J'avoue avoir trouvé le début très long. Je me suis même un peu ennuyée les 50 premières pages, attendant désespérément que l'histoire débute. Mais passée ce moment, j'ai adoré, je me suis régalée et je n'ai plus quitté le roman. J'ai complètement craqué pour les deux héros et tout leur entourage et le contexte général autour du camping était particulièrement réussi et original. Bref, vous pouvez foncer sans danger. Vous allez aimer...
August 26, 2017
(Riley) coming into his own and having his dreams come true and the other (Kai) discovering a side to himself he never knew existed. And their journeys of discovery take place against a backdrop of loving families, nasty acquaintances, and good friends.
First and foremost this is a feel good story. Yes, there is some angst and quite a bit of soul searching, but nothing to heart wrenching. Riley is a wonderful dork who’s overly aware that he doesn’t quite fit in and is teetering on a line between not wanting to stand out and needing to be himself. Kai on the other hand is a big cuddly sweetheart of a man. Big strong and somewhat intimidating, he has the biggest heart and the softest, occasionally surprising, nature.
I thoroughly enjoyed the slow journey these two men undertook on their way towards each other. It was pretty much a case of one step forward two steps back, especially because Riley can’t make himself belief that Kai could possibly be interested in him.
I loved the realism in this story. Kai made mistakes, used potentially painful words and stereotypes, totally unaware of doing so. Not because there was anything bad about him but just because he didn’t know any better. And I’m so glad the author resolved this potential drama not through a huge fight but during a friendly conversation.
I like Helen Juliet’s writing voice. It’s almost as if she’s chatting to me. The language is smooth and easy (in the best possible sense of the word), allowing me to float through the story.
If I had an issue it is that it was difficult to accept that Riley would be quite as inept at camping and hiking as he was. No matter how much he disliked it, he couldn’t possibly have spent all his younger years with two Scout leader parents and not pick a thing or two up along the way, no matter how reluctantly.
Other than that Without a Compass was a wonderful and cute feel good story! Perfect for those moments when you need a book to lift your spirits and make you smile.
First and foremost this is a feel good story. Yes, there is some angst and quite a bit of soul searching, but nothing to heart wrenching. Riley is a wonderful dork who’s overly aware that he doesn’t quite fit in and is teetering on a line between not wanting to stand out and needing to be himself. Kai on the other hand is a big cuddly sweetheart of a man. Big strong and somewhat intimidating, he has the biggest heart and the softest, occasionally surprising, nature.
I thoroughly enjoyed the slow journey these two men undertook on their way towards each other. It was pretty much a case of one step forward two steps back, especially because Riley can’t make himself belief that Kai could possibly be interested in him.
I loved the realism in this story. Kai made mistakes, used potentially painful words and stereotypes, totally unaware of doing so. Not because there was anything bad about him but just because he didn’t know any better. And I’m so glad the author resolved this potential drama not through a huge fight but during a friendly conversation.
I like Helen Juliet’s writing voice. It’s almost as if she’s chatting to me. The language is smooth and easy (in the best possible sense of the word), allowing me to float through the story.
If I had an issue it is that it was difficult to accept that Riley would be quite as inept at camping and hiking as he was. No matter how much he disliked it, he couldn’t possibly have spent all his younger years with two Scout leader parents and not pick a thing or two up along the way, no matter how reluctantly.
Other than that Without a Compass was a wonderful and cute feel good story! Perfect for those moments when you need a book to lift your spirits and make you smile.
May 10, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. One of many things I particularly enjoyed was the alternating points of view. It worked well for this story and helped give more insight into each of the characters. Another thing I enjoyed is the slow burn of the story. Riley has had a crush on Kai, his older brother’s best friend for years. It was enjoyable watching the blossoming relationship develop. The author drew me in to the story so I felt as though I were a part of the story. An enjoyable way to spend the evening.
I received a copy of this book from the author, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
I received a copy of this book from the author, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
March 30, 2022
Tags: bi-awakening, family camping vacation, scouting, brother’s best friend, hiking, only one sleeping bag, size difference
This was a really sweet story. Felt like a slow burn to start, but once it got going was also pretty steamy. I loved how pragmatic Kai was about the whole sexual awakening / being attracted to Riley thing. He was so sweet and protective, but also not just a stereotypical big alpha male. I could have used more lost in the woods time but this worked for the plot. Would recommend!
This was a really sweet story. Felt like a slow burn to start, but once it got going was also pretty steamy. I loved how pragmatic Kai was about the whole sexual awakening / being attracted to Riley thing. He was so sweet and protective, but also not just a stereotypical big alpha male. I could have used more lost in the woods time but this worked for the plot. Would recommend!
August 28, 2017
Great story
This is the first book I've read by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Since this takes place in England, some of the "name in the hat" references weren't familiar but that certainly didn't detract from the obvious enjoyment of the description of what sounds like a fun game!
I liked the honesty Kai showed both internally and outwardly in discovering his newly realized feelings for Riley. It shows a person strong of character and in touch with himself. Someone not afraid to be true to himself.
Riley was a sweet young man. He also was true to himself but with some leftover feelings of not quite fitting in with his familys' love of the outdoors and camping lifestyle. There were some feelings of inadequacy in his part in this regard but his family lived him unconditionally and without reservation.
Riley and Kai fit together very well. They reconnected at the perfect time in their lives and found their HEA.
I enjoyed this story so much that as soon as I leave this review I'm heading over to Amazon and buying the other books Helen Juliet has written. Well done!
This is the first book I've read by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Since this takes place in England, some of the "name in the hat" references weren't familiar but that certainly didn't detract from the obvious enjoyment of the description of what sounds like a fun game!
I liked the honesty Kai showed both internally and outwardly in discovering his newly realized feelings for Riley. It shows a person strong of character and in touch with himself. Someone not afraid to be true to himself.
Riley was a sweet young man. He also was true to himself but with some leftover feelings of not quite fitting in with his familys' love of the outdoors and camping lifestyle. There were some feelings of inadequacy in his part in this regard but his family lived him unconditionally and without reservation.
Riley and Kai fit together very well. They reconnected at the perfect time in their lives and found their HEA.
I enjoyed this story so much that as soon as I leave this review I'm heading over to Amazon and buying the other books Helen Juliet has written. Well done!
dnf
February 25, 2023DNF at 50%. This is not working for me at all
August 26, 2017
If you are looking for a sweet MM love story, then this is the one for you! Without a Compass by Helen Juliet is about finding love and what's important in life, and was written in a beautiful way.
Riley is not an outdoors person, but he sucks it up and goes because it's his father's 50th birthday and the family is going camping. But not only does he have to worry about the great outdoors, he also finds out that Kai, his brother's friend and his crush, is coming too.
Kai thought he was straight, but Riley is making him question everything. Plus, he wants to do what he can to protect his friend's little brother...who isn't so little any longer.
There isn't a huge amount of steam, but there is some. I think the story can stand on it's own the way it is. I loved this story and give it 4.5 stars. The book has a way of pulling you in. You want to know what will happen next. You feel the pain and love the characters experience, but it's more than that. The story feels real and it isn't rushed, which I think is something that could have easily happen with a story like this. Wonderfully executed. One click today!
Riley is not an outdoors person, but he sucks it up and goes because it's his father's 50th birthday and the family is going camping. But not only does he have to worry about the great outdoors, he also finds out that Kai, his brother's friend and his crush, is coming too.
Kai thought he was straight, but Riley is making him question everything. Plus, he wants to do what he can to protect his friend's little brother...who isn't so little any longer.
There isn't a huge amount of steam, but there is some. I think the story can stand on it's own the way it is. I loved this story and give it 4.5 stars. The book has a way of pulling you in. You want to know what will happen next. You feel the pain and love the characters experience, but it's more than that. The story feels real and it isn't rushed, which I think is something that could have easily happen with a story like this. Wonderfully executed. One click today!
September 5, 2017
Fantastic
Absolutely loved this book. Such a sweet and sexy GFY with awesome characters and happy feelings. Can't wait to check out more by this author.
Absolutely loved this book. Such a sweet and sexy GFY with awesome characters and happy feelings. Can't wait to check out more by this author.
August 20, 2017
I was hooked the moment I started this book and I read it completely in one sitting!
Riley, while confident in who he was and his choices in life, dreaded spending an entire week with his family doing his least favorite thing, camping. Although he knew what was to come for the week, he hadn't expected was his brother's best friend, Kai, to be there.
I loved the interactions between Kai and Riley. Although Riley would like to spend his week hiding away and staring at Kai while spinning fantasies about the man who he'd always crushed on, Kai wasn't having it.
I loved how all of Kai's protective instincts kicked in, especially after seeing how uncomfortable some people made Riley, and that led Kai to spend more and more time focusing on Riley and learned what he could about him. While it might have started with a swell of protectiveness, Kai found that he liked Riley more than he realized.
Throughout the story, both men are also judged on how they look, not who they are. Because of this, Kai understands Riley and why he's so standoffish he is with certain people. And I loved how Riley saw the world and realized that being himself was all he and Kai needed.
I don't want to give too much away because this is a great read and the ending was perfect. I loved the promise of their future together. A great must-read!!
Riley, while confident in who he was and his choices in life, dreaded spending an entire week with his family doing his least favorite thing, camping. Although he knew what was to come for the week, he hadn't expected was his brother's best friend, Kai, to be there.
I loved the interactions between Kai and Riley. Although Riley would like to spend his week hiding away and staring at Kai while spinning fantasies about the man who he'd always crushed on, Kai wasn't having it.
I loved how all of Kai's protective instincts kicked in, especially after seeing how uncomfortable some people made Riley, and that led Kai to spend more and more time focusing on Riley and learned what he could about him. While it might have started with a swell of protectiveness, Kai found that he liked Riley more than he realized.
Throughout the story, both men are also judged on how they look, not who they are. Because of this, Kai understands Riley and why he's so standoffish he is with certain people. And I loved how Riley saw the world and realized that being himself was all he and Kai needed.
I don't want to give too much away because this is a great read and the ending was perfect. I loved the promise of their future together. A great must-read!!
August 23, 2017
At first I wasn't sure about this one because it was slow, so slow and so angst ridden that it bordered on annoying but then it redeemed itself. Once Kai and Riley had their overnight adventure this book really turned around and was beautiful. After that you were treated to things like:
It was as different as it could possibly be to the drunken kiss they'd shared under the unforgiving gaze of Charlotte and Daryl Grinter. This was soft and full of warmth and patience. It held fragile promises<|i>
Sweet promising romance. What's better than that?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy.
It was as different as it could possibly be to the drunken kiss they'd shared under the unforgiving gaze of Charlotte and Daryl Grinter. This was soft and full of warmth and patience. It held fragile promises<|i>
Sweet promising romance. What's better than that?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy.
August 28, 2017
Entertaining.
A really cute story of the older brother's friend. Lovely setting, interesting supporting characters and a refreshing lack of indecision and nerves. An enjoyable read.
A really cute story of the older brother's friend. Lovely setting, interesting supporting characters and a refreshing lack of indecision and nerves. An enjoyable read.
August 25, 2017
Who knew that blisters can lead to true love being discovered? Well that's what happened to Riley in Without a Compass.
Riley is spending a week on a camping trip in the Lake District with his family and other Scout families. He's been avoiding it for a few years but it's his Dad's birthday so not going isn't an option. He pulls up his big boy pants and accepts that he'll have to face a week without his creature comforts and more importantly that he;ll be seeing his big brother's best friend Kai. Riley has had a crush on Kai for years. But Kai is straight...
Kai is a great character such a lovely guy. Straightaway he senses that Riley is uncomfortable being on the trip so goes out of his way to be a friend to Riley. Kai begins to question his feelings for Riley after he is dared to kiss Riley during a late night game of dare around the bonfire. The next day Riley and Kai are paired up to do a scavenger hunt. I loved seeing their friendship develop as they got to know each other during their hike. Riley who isn't used to hiking soon gets awful blisters - his feet are ripped to shreds. They decide to camp under the stars to give Riley's feet chance to heal. I really like how Helen dealt with the build up to how things developed between Riley and Kai, as Kai embraces his Pan sexuality.
This is the first book by Helen Juliet that I've read. I have another sitting on my kindle which is going to get bumped up the TBR list after enjoying this one so much.
If you like sweet summer stories about a boy who finally gets his chance at love with his crush then I can highly recommend Without a Compass.
Riley is spending a week on a camping trip in the Lake District with his family and other Scout families. He's been avoiding it for a few years but it's his Dad's birthday so not going isn't an option. He pulls up his big boy pants and accepts that he'll have to face a week without his creature comforts and more importantly that he;ll be seeing his big brother's best friend Kai. Riley has had a crush on Kai for years. But Kai is straight...
Kai is a great character such a lovely guy. Straightaway he senses that Riley is uncomfortable being on the trip so goes out of his way to be a friend to Riley. Kai begins to question his feelings for Riley after he is dared to kiss Riley during a late night game of dare around the bonfire. The next day Riley and Kai are paired up to do a scavenger hunt. I loved seeing their friendship develop as they got to know each other during their hike. Riley who isn't used to hiking soon gets awful blisters - his feet are ripped to shreds. They decide to camp under the stars to give Riley's feet chance to heal. I really like how Helen dealt with the build up to how things developed between Riley and Kai, as Kai embraces his Pan sexuality.
This is the first book by Helen Juliet that I've read. I have another sitting on my kindle which is going to get bumped up the TBR list after enjoying this one so much.
If you like sweet summer stories about a boy who finally gets his chance at love with his crush then I can highly recommend Without a Compass.
October 16, 2017
For ten years Riley hide his crush on his older brother bestfriend, Kai.
For years Riley had seen Kai gone from one girlfriend to another girl.
For years Riley avoiding meetings Kai to protect his already fragile heart, but fate then bring him meet his crush again when he MUST attend his father 50th Birthday which held in the campsite.
More handsome, more gorgeous....
Will Riley survive spending a week with Kai walking around before his eyes?
🍀
For years Kai used to see his bestfriend little brother, Riley around him. Riley's family has been like the second family to him.
For years, Kai only see Riley as his bestfriend little brother who following him and Brandon everywhere.
Years has passed and he never seen him again until he saw him on the campsite.
The young little boy now has changed into a beautiful young man. And for the first time Kai cannot describe the feels he felt inside...
First, it just a comfortable feeling to knowing that there's someone he know to start the conversation on his early arrived to the campsite. Then Riley stir the sense of protectiveness inside Kai and makes him want to punch every single person who hurts him on the first place!
Confused?
Kai then start to 'questioning' himself for what he'd felt to Riley. Or maybe all this time he'd been digging on the wrong 'field'?
🍁
For the insta-love that happened in just three or four days count, surprisingly I didn't feel everything had happen between Riley and Kai feels that 'instant'. Instead, everything that happened feels so smooth and 'slow'. The growing feeling and connection feels so 'natural' , right on the place and perfect.
Recommended!
September 4, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
The premise of this book interested me with the brother’s best friend scenario, as well as the friend having never been with a man before. That was there, but the style and overall storyline for this one never really took off for me.
Riley was interesting as we first meet him as he’s driving to the camp site. He has brought along many comfort items to make his stay bearable, even if he knows he will get teased by his family. He wasn’t expecting Kai to be there and his old crush comes roaring back to life.
Kai has known Riley since he was a kid. He wasn’t that close to him since Riley was a shy kid that kept to himself, but Kai’s protective instincts kick in once he sees Riley again. He also starts noticing things about Riley that he begins to question as he has never noticed any of these things on a man before.
There is a lot of detail in the book, but much of it was not exactly the type of detail that held my attention and compelled me to read on. The beginning is slow. In the first quarter of the book, not much happens. We get Riley and Kai’s backgrounds, which was helpful, but then the family arrives at the camp site. There is lots of detail of them setting up and then there is a rival family that was described in a stereotypical manner. They have history with Riley, but what exactly happened isn’t explored upfront and it wasn’t the type of storyline that intrigued me. Then they are playing a game and almost an entire chapter is devoted to this with detail of each character’s turn. It didn’t make for the most compelling read for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
The premise of this book interested me with the brother’s best friend scenario, as well as the friend having never been with a man before. That was there, but the style and overall storyline for this one never really took off for me.
Riley was interesting as we first meet him as he’s driving to the camp site. He has brought along many comfort items to make his stay bearable, even if he knows he will get teased by his family. He wasn’t expecting Kai to be there and his old crush comes roaring back to life.
Kai has known Riley since he was a kid. He wasn’t that close to him since Riley was a shy kid that kept to himself, but Kai’s protective instincts kick in once he sees Riley again. He also starts noticing things about Riley that he begins to question as he has never noticed any of these things on a man before.
There is a lot of detail in the book, but much of it was not exactly the type of detail that held my attention and compelled me to read on. The beginning is slow. In the first quarter of the book, not much happens. We get Riley and Kai’s backgrounds, which was helpful, but then the family arrives at the camp site. There is lots of detail of them setting up and then there is a rival family that was described in a stereotypical manner. They have history with Riley, but what exactly happened isn’t explored upfront and it wasn’t the type of storyline that intrigued me. Then they are playing a game and almost an entire chapter is devoted to this with detail of each character’s turn. It didn’t make for the most compelling read for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 27, 2017
Riley is on his way to his dad’s fiftieth birthday that is taken place at a camp site in the Lake District. He is not really a camper but for his dad and to see his family again he will do it, in his own way. Several old friends of his dad’s scouting days are there including Kai, his brother Brendon’s best friend. Riley has a crush on Kai for years. However, Kai is straight and only sees Riley as the little brother, until he sees that Riley has grown up rather nicely.
Although the romance is happening in just a few short days it is a slow-burn love story. The author describes in detail the surroundings, sceneries, camp site and characters. She does it in such a vivid and animating way that it kept me reading on and on. I could see the hills and valleys, all the flowers and trails before me. It brought me back to the days I went camping with my parents.
In this beautiful landscape, Kai’s growing attraction towards Riley is shown in little moments and gestures. I loved how Kai didn’t really question his changing view on his sexuality that he embraced it, and just gave Riley what he needed. Riley has been hurt before, badly, and he is hesitant to believe what Kai is telling him. The journey is slow but steady and I was anxious to see when they finally would come together. The built-up tension was well written. And when they came together, boy, it was dynamite. The sparks were flying.
The interactions between the family and friends were engaging with a certain dry English humor. Riley’s brothers, Brendon and Jake, were great characters who embraced Kai as Riley’s boyfriend. The little white terrier, Bia, was nicely written into the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews