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The Glass House
At 17 Sasha is a little lost and a lot lonely. He craves friendship but his self-destructive tendencies cause problems and he pushes people away.
Every day he collects glass for the sculptures he makes and every day he dies a little more inside. Until he meets Thomas.
Thomas is shy but sure of himself in a way Sasha doesn’t understand. He makes it his mission to prove to Sasha that everyone deserves to be loved, and doesn't give up even when Sasha hurts him.
Their friendship becomes more than Sasha ever thought possible. And when Sasha is forced to confront his past he realizes that accepting he is worthy of the love Thomas gives him is the only way to obliterate the darkness.
Every day he collects glass for the sculptures he makes and every day he dies a little more inside. Until he meets Thomas.
Thomas is shy but sure of himself in a way Sasha doesn’t understand. He makes it his mission to prove to Sasha that everyone deserves to be loved, and doesn't give up even when Sasha hurts him.
Their friendship becomes more than Sasha ever thought possible. And when Sasha is forced to confront his past he realizes that accepting he is worthy of the love Thomas gives him is the only way to obliterate the darkness.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 16, 2015
40 people are currently reading
1680 people want to read
About the author
Suki Fleet
33 books681 followersAbout the author:
Suki Fleet is an award winning author, a prolific Reader (though less prolific than they'd like), and a lover of angst, romance and unexpected love stories.
They write lyrical stories about memorable characters and believe everyone should have a chance at a happy ending.
Their first novel This is Not a Love Story won Best Gay Debut in the 2014 Rainbow Awards, and was a finalist in the 2015 Lambda Awards. Their novel Foxes won Best Gay Young Adult in the 2016 Rainbow Awards.
If you’d like to offer your support and buy Suki Fleet a coffee you can do that here: https://ko-fi.com/sukifleet
If you would like info on upcoming releases and the occasional free story, please sign up to Suki’s newsletter: https://sukifleet.wordpress.com/newsl...
If you’re interested in reading first drafts of Suki’s new stories, or reading stories that are no longer available or cuts that can’t be published on Amazon, and other extras, please consider signing up to Suki’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/sukifleet
Suki Fleet is an award winning author, a prolific Reader (though less prolific than they'd like), and a lover of angst, romance and unexpected love stories.
They write lyrical stories about memorable characters and believe everyone should have a chance at a happy ending.
Their first novel This is Not a Love Story won Best Gay Debut in the 2014 Rainbow Awards, and was a finalist in the 2015 Lambda Awards. Their novel Foxes won Best Gay Young Adult in the 2016 Rainbow Awards.
If you’d like to offer your support and buy Suki Fleet a coffee you can do that here: https://ko-fi.com/sukifleet
If you would like info on upcoming releases and the occasional free story, please sign up to Suki’s newsletter: https://sukifleet.wordpress.com/newsl...
If you’re interested in reading first drafts of Suki’s new stories, or reading stories that are no longer available or cuts that can’t be published on Amazon, and other extras, please consider signing up to Suki’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/sukifleet
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
November 10, 2021
4 Stars
Despite my aversion to too much angst and despite Fleet pretty much always being angsty, I still end up appreciating the tough feels and situations that she puts her MC’s through. Fleet never shies away from awful situations, and I’d say that this was my first that truly had some trauma and abuse to it.
Sasha has gone through a lot in his short 17 years, not to say the least the abandonment by his own mother. As he struggles to get through each day and stay in school, he can’t seem to dodge fellow art student Thomas, who always makes an effort to engage with him. As Thomas slowly worms his way under Sasha’s skin, Sasha also slowly realizes that maybe there’s more to life than avoidance and shutting down.
Despite the harsh topics (sexual abuse, harmful exhibitionism, piss poor parents) this was still a super sweet YA that shows the burgeoning friendship between Sasha and Thomas and then the slowly burgeoning sexual and romantic feels they develop along the way. I always hesitate when starting a Fleet book but despite the pain, I’m always left satisfied.
Despite my aversion to too much angst and despite Fleet pretty much always being angsty, I still end up appreciating the tough feels and situations that she puts her MC’s through. Fleet never shies away from awful situations, and I’d say that this was my first that truly had some trauma and abuse to it.
Sasha has gone through a lot in his short 17 years, not to say the least the abandonment by his own mother. As he struggles to get through each day and stay in school, he can’t seem to dodge fellow art student Thomas, who always makes an effort to engage with him. As Thomas slowly worms his way under Sasha’s skin, Sasha also slowly realizes that maybe there’s more to life than avoidance and shutting down.
Despite the harsh topics (sexual abuse, harmful exhibitionism, piss poor parents) this was still a super sweet YA that shows the burgeoning friendship between Sasha and Thomas and then the slowly burgeoning sexual and romantic feels they develop along the way. I always hesitate when starting a Fleet book but despite the pain, I’m always left satisfied.
September 27, 2015
Breaking an obsession leaves you feeling as though there is a yawning hole inside yourself. It leaves you thinking that you need something to fill the void
Sasha was such a great character. I love how this author is able to create such special and touching characters in a world where most authors only know how to create rich broken CEOs who suddenly and completely out of the blue fall in love with some blushing virgin.
Thanks God for authors like Suki who break the rules to create special stories that will stay in my heart forever.
Recommended book and even more recommended author.
October 19, 2021
I wanted to write a good review, but uni is killing me and well, fuck it.
These guys melted my heart.
For Sasha the days suck, they don't matter much, and they are boring. Until Thomas, his classmate. It's cute and cuddly how these two guys start spending more time together, holding hands and being more than just friends. Sasha is not the kindest and friendliest person, at first he is a jerk and all his insecurity and fear of his past makes him back off a lot. Despite the angst, it was a nice story.
My problem was how things were handled with the mother and her boyfriend.
In short, where there is depth and development with Thomas (the most beautiful love interest in the world), there is not in relation to his relatives and I feel like there should have been, since it is one of the main factors that affects Sasha.
But overall, i liked it. ❤️
"Love was the fire that burned inside me, and like truth, it burned brighter and hotter than anything. And while some fractures would always remain, they could become places the light shone out through instead of spaces to let the darkness in."
"And without saying another word, we kissed at the back of the workshop as though that was all that mattered.
And it was.
And is.
Because we are not brittle like glass, but more like the light that shines through it, bright and unending, without hierarchy or reason.
We are not sculptures, still and unyielding—we are alive and unfinished.
We are in love.
And it is enough."
These guys melted my heart.
For Sasha the days suck, they don't matter much, and they are boring. Until Thomas, his classmate. It's cute and cuddly how these two guys start spending more time together, holding hands and being more than just friends. Sasha is not the kindest and friendliest person, at first he is a jerk and all his insecurity and fear of his past makes him back off a lot. Despite the angst, it was a nice story.
My problem was how things were handled with the mother and her boyfriend.
In short, where there is depth and development with Thomas (the most beautiful love interest in the world), there is not in relation to his relatives and I feel like there should have been, since it is one of the main factors that affects Sasha.
But overall, i liked it. ❤️
"Love was the fire that burned inside me, and like truth, it burned brighter and hotter than anything. And while some fractures would always remain, they could become places the light shone out through instead of spaces to let the darkness in."
"And without saying another word, we kissed at the back of the workshop as though that was all that mattered.
And it was.
And is.
Because we are not brittle like glass, but more like the light that shines through it, bright and unending, without hierarchy or reason.
We are not sculptures, still and unyielding—we are alive and unfinished.
We are in love.
And it is enough."
Read
July 22, 2020Update 22/07/2020
The Glass House is 0.99 on Amazon for the next few days. The most cathartic story I've ever written. Giving Sasha his happy ending was everything^^
*******
Update 12/07/2018
The Glass House is now available again on Amazon and it’s up on KU. There will be paperbacks soon too 🙂
I’ve probably mentioned this before but I’m not much of one for labels. Mostly because labels aren’t a one size fits all and sometimes people assume they are, so I personally don’t tend to use them when I write. But I know they can be helpful. Re editing The Glass House it became clearer to me that Sasha is demisexual, so I’ve made that aspect of the story more obvious and I’ll tag it. But apart from very small changes, the storyline is very much the same.
Also, this cover by Natasha Snow is wonderful <3
*******
This story means a lot to me. I never planned to write it, it just sort of happened. It’s one of my favourite things I’ve written, and Sasha is one of my favourite characters to write.
It releases in just over two weeks now (16th April) and I'm doing a giveaway on my blog to win an ebook copy on release day. You just need to comment over there to be in with a chance to win :) Here's the link:
https://sukifleet.wordpress.com/2015/...
The Glass House is 0.99 on Amazon for the next few days. The most cathartic story I've ever written. Giving Sasha his happy ending was everything^^
*******
Update 12/07/2018
The Glass House is now available again on Amazon and it’s up on KU. There will be paperbacks soon too 🙂
I’ve probably mentioned this before but I’m not much of one for labels. Mostly because labels aren’t a one size fits all and sometimes people assume they are, so I personally don’t tend to use them when I write. But I know they can be helpful. Re editing The Glass House it became clearer to me that Sasha is demisexual, so I’ve made that aspect of the story more obvious and I’ll tag it. But apart from very small changes, the storyline is very much the same.
Also, this cover by Natasha Snow is wonderful <3
*******
This story means a lot to me. I never planned to write it, it just sort of happened. It’s one of my favourite things I’ve written, and Sasha is one of my favourite characters to write.
It releases in just over two weeks now (16th April) and I'm doing a giveaway on my blog to win an ebook copy on release day. You just need to comment over there to be in with a chance to win :) Here's the link:
https://sukifleet.wordpress.com/2015/...
July 27, 2016
Wowed.
If you haven't read anything of this author, you better fix that. You never know when the next comet will cross the sky. Chances to make wishes are not infinite.
I've already learnt every single one of her main characters (so far) is young, alienated and abandoned by his mother. It can be tricky and some could say that unoriginal. The strangest thing is, I don't get tired of said formula, because, in spite of the heart being the same, the shape never rings the same. Whatever the plot is (contemporary, YA, sci-fi, BDSM, fantasy, historical...) I focus on one single thought: does it convince me? And even more: does it move me? I know I'm not saying anything out of the ordinary, but I've abandoned more than one author I liked just for the simple fact they were using the same story with different names and different hair color. I'm a person who gets tired of similarities easily... except when they tickle my fancy.
It's a short book, not even reaches 200 pages, but they are enough for the atmosphere to draw you in, until you are under its skin. At this point, nothing new under the sun. I already took for granted Suki was going to make it. And it's very dangerous to play that way because disappointments hit harder afterwards but I have never been a way too prudent.
The beginning is abrupt and shocks you by how unexpected it is. Maybe it's just my own perception of things, as starting books is a hard issue for me, I'm slow at picking up the rhythm. But that only lasted one single page, and since then it was as if I had been reading the book for ages. Every sentence was smooth, every paragraph guided you to the next one, and when you want to realize about it, you are deep into the story.
I loved the contrast of the main characters. Sasha is broken inside but acts otherwise, pushing people away in a mostly obnoxious way. Thomas has an inner peace that is detected since the very beginning, but he has to gather up courage to talk to Sasha. He's brave in a quiet kind of way, whereas Sasha tends to self-destruction. That doesn't change the fact Thomas has insecurities and fears when Sasha is around, but his integrity and honesty are the best weapons to conquer Sasha's heart.
Sasha lets go little more of himself every time. And in the end, he awakes and breaks free, in a critic moment when he pushes the self destruction away to destroy the source of his loss. I loved how the glass is impregnated everywhere. It's the origin of the suffering, but also a way of mourning and winning a heart and having his innocence back. Glass is everywhere: colored glass, melting glass, breaking glass, connecting glass, fragile as glass, sharp as glass, beautiful as glass, transparent as glass.
One of the facets I like the most is the slow-motion feeling. Every second is multiplied by. And although I know that it's a given characters in a book have more time to think about their words and actions than a person in real life, here it's even more evident. I felt I was diving into a sea of honey. Or falling like a snowflake in a crystal ball. If I had to summarize the story in a few words I admit that nothing really happens. It's an intimist tale, the emotions surrounds you and the beauty fills you whole like warm water. The rest is just secondary.
The common thread has an abstract sense due to the absence of defined limits. Everything broke the mold because emotions moved around, and real events are just a reminder for your feet to remain on the ground. Because, seriously, this book makes you levitate above the floor. As a Mary Poppins's kid laughing without the laughing part. The form doesn't come early and in the end that amorphous (but fascinating) story flows like a poem. It almost follows poetic rules.
The writing is attentive to every detail, but it's treated almost in a nonchalant way, it doesn't feel precise and perfectionist. But that kind of style doesn't come easy. There is only a way to achieve it: talent and talent to take advantage of said talent. I liked how the author never looses a chance to use her talent. It shouldn't be hidden in a closet. She took her talent and crystalized it into a captivating ballad I surely recommend.
"With fire, broken glass could be heated and remade into something whole. Something still pure despite its initial shattered state.
Love was the fire that burned inside me, and like truth, it burned brighter and hotter than anything. And while some fractures would always remain, they could become places the light shone out through instead of spaces to let the darkness in."
If you haven't read anything of this author, you better fix that. You never know when the next comet will cross the sky. Chances to make wishes are not infinite.
I've already learnt every single one of her main characters (so far) is young, alienated and abandoned by his mother. It can be tricky and some could say that unoriginal. The strangest thing is, I don't get tired of said formula, because, in spite of the heart being the same, the shape never rings the same. Whatever the plot is (contemporary, YA, sci-fi, BDSM, fantasy, historical...) I focus on one single thought: does it convince me? And even more: does it move me? I know I'm not saying anything out of the ordinary, but I've abandoned more than one author I liked just for the simple fact they were using the same story with different names and different hair color. I'm a person who gets tired of similarities easily... except when they tickle my fancy.
It's a short book, not even reaches 200 pages, but they are enough for the atmosphere to draw you in, until you are under its skin. At this point, nothing new under the sun. I already took for granted Suki was going to make it. And it's very dangerous to play that way because disappointments hit harder afterwards but I have never been a way too prudent.
The beginning is abrupt and shocks you by how unexpected it is. Maybe it's just my own perception of things, as starting books is a hard issue for me, I'm slow at picking up the rhythm. But that only lasted one single page, and since then it was as if I had been reading the book for ages. Every sentence was smooth, every paragraph guided you to the next one, and when you want to realize about it, you are deep into the story.
I loved the contrast of the main characters. Sasha is broken inside but acts otherwise, pushing people away in a mostly obnoxious way. Thomas has an inner peace that is detected since the very beginning, but he has to gather up courage to talk to Sasha. He's brave in a quiet kind of way, whereas Sasha tends to self-destruction. That doesn't change the fact Thomas has insecurities and fears when Sasha is around, but his integrity and honesty are the best weapons to conquer Sasha's heart.
Sasha lets go little more of himself every time. And in the end, he awakes and breaks free, in a critic moment when he pushes the self destruction away to destroy the source of his loss. I loved how the glass is impregnated everywhere. It's the origin of the suffering, but also a way of mourning and winning a heart and having his innocence back. Glass is everywhere: colored glass, melting glass, breaking glass, connecting glass, fragile as glass, sharp as glass, beautiful as glass, transparent as glass.
One of the facets I like the most is the slow-motion feeling. Every second is multiplied by. And although I know that it's a given characters in a book have more time to think about their words and actions than a person in real life, here it's even more evident. I felt I was diving into a sea of honey. Or falling like a snowflake in a crystal ball. If I had to summarize the story in a few words I admit that nothing really happens. It's an intimist tale, the emotions surrounds you and the beauty fills you whole like warm water. The rest is just secondary.
The common thread has an abstract sense due to the absence of defined limits. Everything broke the mold because emotions moved around, and real events are just a reminder for your feet to remain on the ground. Because, seriously, this book makes you levitate above the floor. As a Mary Poppins's kid laughing without the laughing part. The form doesn't come early and in the end that amorphous (but fascinating) story flows like a poem. It almost follows poetic rules.
The writing is attentive to every detail, but it's treated almost in a nonchalant way, it doesn't feel precise and perfectionist. But that kind of style doesn't come easy. There is only a way to achieve it: talent and talent to take advantage of said talent. I liked how the author never looses a chance to use her talent. It shouldn't be hidden in a closet. She took her talent and crystalized it into a captivating ballad I surely recommend.
August 8, 2016
So Beautiful. Es maravilloso cómo Suki Fleet lo envuelve todo en una atmósfera de tristeza para luego enseñarnos a tener esperanza. Muy bien escrito.
February 1, 2022
3.5 Stars
Told in single POV, 1st person, it can be read as a standalone. This story wasn’t bad at all but there was something missing here. Maybe it was because of the subject matter I expected it to be an emotional read but I couldn’t feel it the way I should! Maybe if the author would have given more about their past, gone deeper in their past, I could feel something more. All in all, it was an OK read, and hope you enjoy it more than me!
Told in single POV, 1st person, it can be read as a standalone. This story wasn’t bad at all but there was something missing here. Maybe it was because of the subject matter I expected it to be an emotional read but I couldn’t feel it the way I should! Maybe if the author would have given more about their past, gone deeper in their past, I could feel something more. All in all, it was an OK read, and hope you enjoy it more than me!
August 2, 2015
Sasha is a young man struggling to make it through his days. A history of abandonment and betrayal by the adults who should have cared for him have left him very guarded. He's built up walls around himself to the point where he doesn't connect with anyone, not even the sister who took him in when his mother ran off. He's going through the motions in life, skipping classes, forgetting to eat, losing track of time just existing. His only real spark of connection to the world around him is in the found-glass sculptures he makes.
Thomas is another student in his art class, a guy with a good heart and enough courage to try to get through Sasha's defenses and be a friend, even when at first he doesn't get much encouragement. Thomas, despite his warmth, is also palpably lonely, and in a good position to understand Sasha's abandonment, since his own parents leave him behind with his nan as they spend months working abroad. Sasha isn't sure what to make of Thomas's interest. He's not used to being valued, or treated as important, and he's definitely not used to being central to someone else's life. But as their friendship slowly grows and develops, Sasha begins to emerge from his isolation and to believe in his own worth. They each fill a void in the other's life, but there will be more challenges to be met.
This was a well-written and engaging story. Sasha was a fascinating, realistic character, and his particular unique quirks were believable in the context of his back-story. My sympathy was engaged for both these boys. I also appreciated that the relationship developed slowly between them, and that friendship was the heart of it. The ending is dramatic, and lets the reader feel the difference that having Thomas has made in Sasha's life. A recommended YA book. (Trigger warning for abandonment and abuse.)
Thomas is another student in his art class, a guy with a good heart and enough courage to try to get through Sasha's defenses and be a friend, even when at first he doesn't get much encouragement. Thomas, despite his warmth, is also palpably lonely, and in a good position to understand Sasha's abandonment, since his own parents leave him behind with his nan as they spend months working abroad. Sasha isn't sure what to make of Thomas's interest. He's not used to being valued, or treated as important, and he's definitely not used to being central to someone else's life. But as their friendship slowly grows and develops, Sasha begins to emerge from his isolation and to believe in his own worth. They each fill a void in the other's life, but there will be more challenges to be met.
This was a well-written and engaging story. Sasha was a fascinating, realistic character, and his particular unique quirks were believable in the context of his back-story. My sympathy was engaged for both these boys. I also appreciated that the relationship developed slowly between them, and that friendship was the heart of it. The ending is dramatic, and lets the reader feel the difference that having Thomas has made in Sasha's life. A recommended YA book. (Trigger warning for abandonment and abuse.)
July 26, 2019
I don’t read much YA or NA these days but I will never be able to resist one of Suki Fleet’s stories. I’ve had this one patiently waiting, stored in my Kindle for an embarrassing length of time. I just wasn’t ready. And that’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, sometimes you’re not ready for a book and should wait until it calls you. If you’ve never experienced a Suki story before you might not understand this. Their stories are not easy “beach books” or lighthearted “happy-go-lucky” stories. They are profound and reach deep into your core. Navigating the intricate web of intense feels of Suki stories is unlike any other authors work I’ve ever read. I throw all my expectations out the window and in all honesty, care very little about where the plot goes. Which is always strangely fascinating to me; I don’t care where the story takes me, I’m just grateful to tag along with the spectacular characters. The Glass House was no different…I held on and let the story take me away.
What's to like: As always with Suki’s stories, the journey is difficult. It’s as if you’re trekking up harsh terrain, struggling to reach the top of the mountain and when you do, the clouds clear and the beauty takes your breath away. It’s always worth it. Suki’s stories are always worth it. Having the chance to spend time with Sasha and Thomas was worth it. The beginning of their story is rather quiet. Pieces of the puzzle are slowly clicking into place. Some are jagged and hurt to hold. Others are smooth and pleasant to click together. The relevance of the glass is the epitome of why I adore Fleet’s writing. I honestly didn’t care where I went with them, as long as I had the chance to join them on their path. Which leads me to what I love the most...
What's to love: Sasha and Thomas are the heart and soul of this story. I was slightly nervous at first (silly me) because I didn’t connect straightaway with Sasha. Which, actually, is his intention. He doesn’t allow anyone to connect…until Thomas. Suddenly his biting words are laced with regret. He has never wanted anyone inside his carefully constructed walls before and it’s unsettling how much he craves Thomas. The warmth of their friendship blossomed into a gentle romance that left me with butterflies in my stomach. A brush of fingers, an impromptu picnic, and a priceless birthday gift are just a few of my favorites. I loved how they came together, grew together, and have no doubt they will grow old together. In the end, my heart was flying and I am so grateful that they found each other.
Beware of: Notable triggers would include abuse, both domestic and sexual. Although rape did not occur on page, the pain from the festering wounds is palpable. A shattering moment of paramount importance will bring tears to your eyes. A virgin of the heart and virgin of the body enlighten one another with ultimate tenderness. And a nan that you can’t help but adore.
This book is for: If you’re looking for a powerful and moving tale about two young men, I urge you to give Sasha and Thomas a chance. I promise you won’t ever forget them.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: As always with Suki’s stories, the journey is difficult. It’s as if you’re trekking up harsh terrain, struggling to reach the top of the mountain and when you do, the clouds clear and the beauty takes your breath away. It’s always worth it. Suki’s stories are always worth it. Having the chance to spend time with Sasha and Thomas was worth it. The beginning of their story is rather quiet. Pieces of the puzzle are slowly clicking into place. Some are jagged and hurt to hold. Others are smooth and pleasant to click together. The relevance of the glass is the epitome of why I adore Fleet’s writing. I honestly didn’t care where I went with them, as long as I had the chance to join them on their path. Which leads me to what I love the most...
What's to love: Sasha and Thomas are the heart and soul of this story. I was slightly nervous at first (silly me) because I didn’t connect straightaway with Sasha. Which, actually, is his intention. He doesn’t allow anyone to connect…until Thomas. Suddenly his biting words are laced with regret. He has never wanted anyone inside his carefully constructed walls before and it’s unsettling how much he craves Thomas. The warmth of their friendship blossomed into a gentle romance that left me with butterflies in my stomach. A brush of fingers, an impromptu picnic, and a priceless birthday gift are just a few of my favorites. I loved how they came together, grew together, and have no doubt they will grow old together. In the end, my heart was flying and I am so grateful that they found each other.
Beware of: Notable triggers would include abuse, both domestic and sexual. Although rape did not occur on page, the pain from the festering wounds is palpable. A shattering moment of paramount importance will bring tears to your eyes. A virgin of the heart and virgin of the body enlighten one another with ultimate tenderness. And a nan that you can’t help but adore.
This book is for: If you’re looking for a powerful and moving tale about two young men, I urge you to give Sasha and Thomas a chance. I promise you won’t ever forget them.
Book UNfunk
April 15, 2015
The Glass House is the *must-read* new release from Suki Fleet about two almost-men: Sasha and Thomas. They’re the perfect study in contrast, how opposites work so well together to form something better, something greater, something meaningful.
In my mind, Fleet has always been about giving her characters top billing, and here they shine. Sasha has issues. He’s that damaged kid in us all, the one who wants to push everyone and everything, just to see how far it’ll all go before the breaking point. As different as he is from me, I understood Sasha. I got the pain and anguish he felt at being...abandoned by life. I related to his need for love, but also to his desire to sabotage the affection he receives. Sasha resonates because a little of him is in all of us.
Even in the midst of his self-inflicted (and sometimes not) screw-ups, Sasha never crumbles, not really. He’s driven and tenacious, and I admired that about him so much. I also love that there’s a strong female role model in Sasha’s life, his sister, who desperately wants him to succeed. I further love the other strong, positive supporting women Fleet includes in the story. It’s subtle, the way Fleet does that, but it’s clear and it’s powerful: women matter.
Thomas is strong, quiet...persistent in his approach. He might step back when he’s pushed, but he’s no shrinking violet. For all the ways I connected with Sasha, I loved Thomas’ strength and development and gentleness. I want to be Thomas, to be that person that never gives in and never gives up.
Light, dark
Sharp, smooth
Balance, counter balance...
These were just a few of the words rolling around in my head while I was reading, and I feel they best describe what this story is all about. Getting to know Sasha and Thomas, individually and together, well, how could they NOT be meant for each other? I can’t help but look at those words above about and think, yeah, that’s how they fit. They’re simply meant to be.
I guess I’m spending a lot of time talking about Sasha and Thomas (and not the plot) because they were the book for me. Obviously there are reasons they connect. Their common denominator is school, but especially art: glass, paper, drawing. The story, the what-happens-to-them, is special and powerful, in the most unassuming ways, so that you never forget the tension and push/pull of them and their everyday lives. Beauty, depth, anxiety, happiness: it’s all there, in the story.
I can’t sing any louder about the simple wonder that is this book. I love it so much.
If you’ve read my reviews of two other books by this author, I guess you know by now: I’m in love with Fleet as a writer. She has a gift, and everyone should read her stories. That’s right: All The Humans should read All Her Words. The Glass House is gorgeous. Please grab it just as soon as you can.
In my mind, Fleet has always been about giving her characters top billing, and here they shine. Sasha has issues. He’s that damaged kid in us all, the one who wants to push everyone and everything, just to see how far it’ll all go before the breaking point. As different as he is from me, I understood Sasha. I got the pain and anguish he felt at being...abandoned by life. I related to his need for love, but also to his desire to sabotage the affection he receives. Sasha resonates because a little of him is in all of us.
Even in the midst of his self-inflicted (and sometimes not) screw-ups, Sasha never crumbles, not really. He’s driven and tenacious, and I admired that about him so much. I also love that there’s a strong female role model in Sasha’s life, his sister, who desperately wants him to succeed. I further love the other strong, positive supporting women Fleet includes in the story. It’s subtle, the way Fleet does that, but it’s clear and it’s powerful: women matter.
Thomas is strong, quiet...persistent in his approach. He might step back when he’s pushed, but he’s no shrinking violet. For all the ways I connected with Sasha, I loved Thomas’ strength and development and gentleness. I want to be Thomas, to be that person that never gives in and never gives up.
Light, dark
Sharp, smooth
Balance, counter balance...
These were just a few of the words rolling around in my head while I was reading, and I feel they best describe what this story is all about. Getting to know Sasha and Thomas, individually and together, well, how could they NOT be meant for each other? I can’t help but look at those words above about and think, yeah, that’s how they fit. They’re simply meant to be.
I guess I’m spending a lot of time talking about Sasha and Thomas (and not the plot) because they were the book for me. Obviously there are reasons they connect. Their common denominator is school, but especially art: glass, paper, drawing. The story, the what-happens-to-them, is special and powerful, in the most unassuming ways, so that you never forget the tension and push/pull of them and their everyday lives. Beauty, depth, anxiety, happiness: it’s all there, in the story.
I can’t sing any louder about the simple wonder that is this book. I love it so much.
If you’ve read my reviews of two other books by this author, I guess you know by now: I’m in love with Fleet as a writer. She has a gift, and everyone should read her stories. That’s right: All The Humans should read All Her Words. The Glass House is gorgeous. Please grab it just as soon as you can.
April 16, 2015
Love this cover. Waiting impatiently for this!
Suki Fleet does it again. Reviewed in April at BMBR.
This book is basically Suki Fleet doing what Suki Fleet does best. That is taking broken characters and helping them mend. Making us, the readers, love them enough that they heal. I swear I am the WORST unicorn friend sometimes, because I barely give the others a look-in when a Suki Fleet novel comes in for review. The Glass House is another example of this author at her finest. So, sorry uni's, I think I gave you like five seconds to claim this one for review but...as Ann says, better ask forgiveness than permission and so please forgive me (I feel no guilt so guilty at claiming this fab read).
By the end of the first sentence I knew I was going to love Sasha hard. The wall he has surrounding himself is so thick and cold, like the glass he sculpts with, it's pretty much impenetrable. Sasha is the kind of person you know has so much depth if you can just get under his layers and I love how Suki manages to do this. It's not easy insta-reveal, but a slow, natural uncovering of this hurting being.
We can tell his past is complex and hard and this has helped form the attitude he faces the world with. It would be so easy to make a character like Sasha a stereotype, but Suki Fleet manages not to do that. She makes him real. Every aspect of him...this is a trait she manages for all her characters. Whether I as a reader like them or not, they are all very real.
Again Thomas is a wonderful MC. He has warmth and light, and I love that he fought his natural shyness to get to know Sasha. I love that he wanted to see more than the superficial outer layer of Sasha, but instead needed to see through to the real him. As their friendship developed and slowly became more I relished how protective they became of each other. For neither of them was this an easy relationship - as friends or lovers - but they were invested in it and I loved that.
In his own way Thomas experienced loss of love as much as Sasha. The shiny, homely house and warm loving nan couldn't quite hide the fact that he was alone too in many ways. We look at Sasha and his circumstances and judge him as poor Sasha, look at the crap hand he's been dealt - and it really is. Thomas on the other hand, you see the good and not the pain of loneliness and parental absence. It feels like neglect to me, just in a different guise to usual.
I always like the setting of Suki's books and this was no exception. I find the cold, damp flat Sasha and his sister occupy so easy to imagine. The cold concrete and ugly seventies exterior. Soulless. Desolate. It fit so perfectly the character of Sasha and I could virtually smell the dampness and see the mould. This applied to to the warm little estate house Thomas and his nan occupy. Cosy, homely and full of love. In both cases the setting matched the character beautifully.
Talking of Thomas' nan - I ADORED her. With her paper-cutting and love. It's more than I can say for the parents' of the piece. Thomas', their important jobs (and they were important but still, they chose to have a child) and Sasha's sorry-excuse for a mother. I had no pity for her. Some people generate their own bad luck, and the healthy dose of self pity with every sentence she uttered made me hate her all the more.
It all fitted together so well - the characters, the setting, the storyline. Suki Fleet writes books with heart, with characters to love and to root for. The kind of book that stays with you long after you've read the last page. Recommended to everyone.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Suki Fleet does it again. Reviewed in April at BMBR.
This book is basically Suki Fleet doing what Suki Fleet does best. That is taking broken characters and helping them mend. Making us, the readers, love them enough that they heal. I swear I am the WORST unicorn friend sometimes, because I barely give the others a look-in when a Suki Fleet novel comes in for review. The Glass House is another example of this author at her finest. So, sorry uni's, I think I gave you like five seconds to claim this one for review but...as Ann says, better ask forgiveness than permission and so please forgive me (I feel no guilt so guilty at claiming this fab read).
By the end of the first sentence I knew I was going to love Sasha hard. The wall he has surrounding himself is so thick and cold, like the glass he sculpts with, it's pretty much impenetrable. Sasha is the kind of person you know has so much depth if you can just get under his layers and I love how Suki manages to do this. It's not easy insta-reveal, but a slow, natural uncovering of this hurting being.
We can tell his past is complex and hard and this has helped form the attitude he faces the world with. It would be so easy to make a character like Sasha a stereotype, but Suki Fleet manages not to do that. She makes him real. Every aspect of him...this is a trait she manages for all her characters. Whether I as a reader like them or not, they are all very real.
Again Thomas is a wonderful MC. He has warmth and light, and I love that he fought his natural shyness to get to know Sasha. I love that he wanted to see more than the superficial outer layer of Sasha, but instead needed to see through to the real him. As their friendship developed and slowly became more I relished how protective they became of each other. For neither of them was this an easy relationship - as friends or lovers - but they were invested in it and I loved that.
In his own way Thomas experienced loss of love as much as Sasha. The shiny, homely house and warm loving nan couldn't quite hide the fact that he was alone too in many ways. We look at Sasha and his circumstances and judge him as poor Sasha, look at the crap hand he's been dealt - and it really is. Thomas on the other hand, you see the good and not the pain of loneliness and parental absence. It feels like neglect to me, just in a different guise to usual.
I always like the setting of Suki's books and this was no exception. I find the cold, damp flat Sasha and his sister occupy so easy to imagine. The cold concrete and ugly seventies exterior. Soulless. Desolate. It fit so perfectly the character of Sasha and I could virtually smell the dampness and see the mould. This applied to to the warm little estate house Thomas and his nan occupy. Cosy, homely and full of love. In both cases the setting matched the character beautifully.
Talking of Thomas' nan - I ADORED her. With her paper-cutting and love. It's more than I can say for the parents' of the piece. Thomas', their important jobs (and they were important but still, they chose to have a child) and Sasha's sorry-excuse for a mother. I had no pity for her. Some people generate their own bad luck, and the healthy dose of self pity with every sentence she uttered made me hate her all the more.
It all fitted together so well - the characters, the setting, the storyline. Suki Fleet writes books with heart, with characters to love and to root for. The kind of book that stays with you long after you've read the last page. Recommended to everyone.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2016
“Don’t you ever need to feel like someone wants you?”I am strung out. Wrung out and utterly sated by this book. I don't normally fly through books this fast but I couldn't stop reading. It was tough. It was emotional and heavy and it was fucking beautiful.
“I was strangely touched, but it sort of hurt too that someone had thought about me, making it hard to speak. He must have heard it in my voice or sensed it somehow through the phone signal translating itself around us.
I find myself at a loss with how to review this, I just want to curl up with my Nook and start over from page one and hug my Nook as if it were Sasha and Thomas as I read each chapter title. These boys were amazing. Suki Fleet writes gorgeous damaged boys who find their best friend and lover wrapped into one. How she does it, how she makes these boys perfect for one another is magical. It’s amazing and it makes me want more… but with space between to build my heart up to read what she writes as it tears my heart out.
“My body didn’t just call to his. It fucking yelled at the top of its voice. And my fantasies were becoming by turn more playful, adventurous, desperate.
I honestly have no words to adequately review this so I’ll just leave these few lines that hit so close to home they have pierced my memory and my heart.
“But I didn’t want to collect glass today. I was desperately trying to be someone different today. Someone without obsessions and worries and doubts, and the glass collecting would bring the reality of my existence crashing back. I knew I couldn’t escape it, though—the reality of life was like the endless churning of the sea. It was impossible to stop.
October 20, 2016
¿Qué puedo decir? Los chicos de Suki no pueden ser más adorables y más monos y más tiernos y más de todo. Quieres cuidarlos y abrazarlos y que sean felices por siempre jamás.
Precioso. <3
Precioso. <3
February 1, 2024
4.25 stars ...
Suki Fleet is one of my Top 5 authors in this genre. This was another excellent tale. However, it was not their best work ... at least for me. It read more like a one-dimensional novella than a layered novel. I recommend this ... but not as a first Suki Fleet novel. I'd be worried you may not read others. I enjoyed it very much ... but it's Suki Fleet Lite. 😁
Without saying another word, we kissed at the back of the workshop as though that was all that mattered.
And it was.
And is.
Because we are not brittle like glass, but more like the light that shines through it, bright and unending, without hierarchy or reason.
We are not sculptures, still and unyielding—we are alive and unfinished.
We are in love.
And it is enough.
❤️💞🥰💞❤️
Suki Fleet is one of my Top 5 authors in this genre. This was another excellent tale. However, it was not their best work ... at least for me. It read more like a one-dimensional novella than a layered novel. I recommend this ... but not as a first Suki Fleet novel. I'd be worried you may not read others. I enjoyed it very much ... but it's Suki Fleet Lite. 😁
Without saying another word, we kissed at the back of the workshop as though that was all that mattered.
And it was.
And is.
Because we are not brittle like glass, but more like the light that shines through it, bright and unending, without hierarchy or reason.
We are not sculptures, still and unyielding—we are alive and unfinished.
We are in love.
And it is enough.
❤️💞🥰💞❤️
September 26, 2018
I have read this 3-4 times, and it never ceases to make me feel.
This is Suki doing what Suki does best, gently and tenderly developing characters who have been through awful situations young, find hope and acceptance.
Reading Suki's books is like seeing sunshine break through clouds.
This is Suki doing what Suki does best, gently and tenderly developing characters who have been through awful situations young, find hope and acceptance.
Reading Suki's books is like seeing sunshine break through clouds.
March 11, 2016
Beautifully written story that truly makes me believe in the healing power of love. I know that sounds sappy, but I don't give a crap. This story was one of those rare gems that lingers in your heart and mind long after the final words have been read. Suki Fleet is one of the most exciting new authors in the mm genre and I can't wait to see what she does next.
Read
August 17, 2025DNF at 54%
This is just not for me. I can appreciate that it’s well written, and I normally really like seeing the slow development of first love.
But for some reason the book makes me really uncomfortable and I just don’t enjoy the feeling. I can’t even understand why. Is it the sex scenes? I think it’s the sex scenes. But why, is it their age or their awkwardness? Is it that I’m dreading something bad happening if they get caught?
I don’t know. But I don’t like it.
This is just not for me. I can appreciate that it’s well written, and I normally really like seeing the slow development of first love.
But for some reason the book makes me really uncomfortable and I just don’t enjoy the feeling. I can’t even understand why. Is it the sex scenes? I think it’s the sex scenes. But why, is it their age or their awkwardness? Is it that I’m dreading something bad happening if they get caught?
I don’t know. But I don’t like it.
January 5, 2016
4 stars! Full review to come.
November 6, 2016
Because we are not brittle like glass, but more like the light that shines through it, bright and unending, without hierarchy or reason.
We are not sculptures, still and unyielding --we are alive and unfinished.
Simplemente hermoso.
July 7, 2016
A sensitive m/m romance set in the south east of england. Sasha is a damaged seventeen year old with no friends until Thomas from his art class makes an approach. The pair find out about each others' lives and explore their new love.
Want to read
July 23, 20207/23/20 Currently on sale for 99c via Amazon: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
June 14, 2016
As it is my second Suki Fleet read and I had adored my first by her, I was pretty expectant towards this book. It didn't disappoint me at all.
For Sasha making sculptures out of the broken glass he collects is a way of coping with the intricacies of his cravings and how his past is troubling him. Despite going through abandonment and abuse, which made him shut himself up, he lets Thomas be a part of his life.
I knew from the very begging that Sasha was so much more than he let people see. He deemed himself unworthy of love but Thomas proved him wrong. Thomas being shy and sort of insecure of many things, still tried to reach out to Sasha, not at all giving up on him. They both push certain boundaries of theirs to make it to each other and their friendship develops little by little into something more delicate and it's just stunning.
This book made me feel so sad and hopeful at the same time. Always after those few perfectly beautiful pages there was a heartbreak, I loved this book to bits.
For Sasha making sculptures out of the broken glass he collects is a way of coping with the intricacies of his cravings and how his past is troubling him. Despite going through abandonment and abuse, which made him shut himself up, he lets Thomas be a part of his life.
I knew from the very begging that Sasha was so much more than he let people see. He deemed himself unworthy of love but Thomas proved him wrong. Thomas being shy and sort of insecure of many things, still tried to reach out to Sasha, not at all giving up on him. They both push certain boundaries of theirs to make it to each other and their friendship develops little by little into something more delicate and it's just stunning.
This book made me feel so sad and hopeful at the same time. Always after those few perfectly beautiful pages there was a heartbreak, I loved this book to bits.
January 9, 2016
I was very pleasantly surprised by the story. Abuse and abandonment are common tropes in YA stories sadly. And I have read probably more than I wish I had.
But I liked how it is done here. The way Sasha's pain is written and how he slowly overcomes it, it's magnificently done by Suki Fleet.
But I liked how it is done here. The way Sasha's pain is written and how he slowly overcomes it, it's magnificently done by Suki Fleet.
February 20, 2016
This is my second Suki Fleet read...it is time for a Suki Fleet bookshelf methinks, and she will also be going onto my brilliant writing shelf.
Yes, The Glass House is angsty, it's intense, it's so emotional...it is also a spot on depiction of how [I imagine] an abused teen would feel, emotionally and physically, after coming face to face again with his abuser (who happens to be his slutty mother's boyfriend)...like he'd been kicked in the face and had his heart ripped out.
I was SO angry for Sasha, for the life he'd had thanks to his mother. The fact that the only people he could rely on were his sister and Thomas, a boy who had finally made friends with Sasha at school. Sasha had a reputation unsurprisingly as a difficult teen, and wouldn't let anyone get close to him until Thomas...and they bonded over a love of Art, Sasha loved working with glass and Thomas (who had his own problems) loved working with old vinyl records.
This was a beautiful love story, a coming out of sorts....Sasha coming out of his broken shell (his Glass House) thanks to Thomas, and it definitely deserves 5 stars. I can only hope we get an update on the two of them down the line, I feel certain working together in Glass Street in London is in their future.
December 19, 2016
I can only read Suki Fleet when I’m emotionally upbeat in real life. Even though for the most part the romantic aspects of the stories are exactly what you need them to be everything else for the MC’s is usually hard. I like the realness of the lives these people live. Sometimes as hard as life can be one person can make it endurable.
November 6, 2023
I’ve never read this author before. I’m not sure if they meant to write like a juvenile since the kids were 16 and 17 but it felt off.
Sasha has a seriously sad past and lashes out with everyone until a schoolmate tries to be his friend. Thomas takes some verbal abuse to break through to Sasha. It was sweet and also dark in spots.
The end was a bit abrupt and didn’t really answer many plot points. I might give this author another try. This book was just not finished imo.
Sasha has a seriously sad past and lashes out with everyone until a schoolmate tries to be his friend. Thomas takes some verbal abuse to break through to Sasha. It was sweet and also dark in spots.
The end was a bit abrupt and didn’t really answer many plot points. I might give this author another try. This book was just not finished imo.
March 16, 2018
piękna.
July 15, 2015
4.25 stars. Another lovely read from Ms. Fleet.
Sasha is a very troubled, lonely young man who feels he is unworthy of love. He's had a pretty awful home life, with some abuse. He is described as "stunning" but his looks have been used against him through his early teen years. He is completely solitary at the beginning of the story. The only time he feels anything is when he is collecting glass or making art out of glass.
Thomas is the shy, asthmatic boy from his art class who sees behind Sasha's walls. Despite Sasha pushing him away and being almost cruel to Thomas at the beginning, Thomas relentlessly tries to get closer to Sasha and be his friend. The love that grows between them is so gentle and sweet. In the dark place that Sasha lives, this gentle sweetness is exactly what he needs. Finally, he starts to see himself in a better way and realize a way out of the darkness.
This has the same, unique "feel" as Suki Fleet's other books. If you like her other work, you will most likely enjoy this too.
Sasha is a very troubled, lonely young man who feels he is unworthy of love. He's had a pretty awful home life, with some abuse. He is described as "stunning" but his looks have been used against him through his early teen years. He is completely solitary at the beginning of the story. The only time he feels anything is when he is collecting glass or making art out of glass.
Thomas is the shy, asthmatic boy from his art class who sees behind Sasha's walls. Despite Sasha pushing him away and being almost cruel to Thomas at the beginning, Thomas relentlessly tries to get closer to Sasha and be his friend. The love that grows between them is so gentle and sweet. In the dark place that Sasha lives, this gentle sweetness is exactly what he needs. Finally, he starts to see himself in a better way and realize a way out of the darkness.
This has the same, unique "feel" as Suki Fleet's other books. If you like her other work, you will most likely enjoy this too.
August 14, 2015
Just WOW.
January 21, 2022
This is the third time I’ve read The Glass House. I’ve never written a review but only because I’m shit at writing reviews for books that are written as beautifully as Suki Fleet writes and which speak to and comfort my soul in such profound ways. I picked this one up again because I was feeling crummy and needed something I KNEW would comfort my heart and soothe my soul. It was a good choice and did indeed make me feel better.
As is typical of Suki Fleet’s stories, this isn’t a fluffy or easy read. The characters are struggling with their own hardships and heartbreaks and Fleet does a wonderful job bringing their wounded souls to life realistically and sensitively.
This story, and Fleet’s writing in general, inspires hope and renews faith in humanity for me. 5 contented and peacefully happy stars.
As is typical of Suki Fleet’s stories, this isn’t a fluffy or easy read. The characters are struggling with their own hardships and heartbreaks and Fleet does a wonderful job bringing their wounded souls to life realistically and sensitively.
This story, and Fleet’s writing in general, inspires hope and renews faith in humanity for me. 5 contented and peacefully happy stars.
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