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Cid
Ask 26-year-old artist Cid Walker how he's feeling and you'll likely get a snarl, or a glare, but not a real answer. Cid's soul is so damaged from a brutal and savage ex-fiancé that trusting anyone is out of the question.
Two classmates try to get his attention; Barry and Kellen. Barry is only 18 and a very naïve, sweet boy-next-door type who is young, needy, and anxious to get involved with the mysterious artist. He wants to be with Cid more than anything, but his efforts fail.
Kellen, all of 22, is as snarky as Cid is at first, but soon manages to get across to him. Kellen understands why Cid is acting out because Kellen is also keeping his soul and psyche intact with mere Band-Aids after being attacked a few years ago.
Add in a stalker that won’t take ‘no’ for an answer and you have Cid’s life at the moment. Who can get through his broken heart?
***trigger alert*** mention of past sexual assault
Two classmates try to get his attention; Barry and Kellen. Barry is only 18 and a very naïve, sweet boy-next-door type who is young, needy, and anxious to get involved with the mysterious artist. He wants to be with Cid more than anything, but his efforts fail.
Kellen, all of 22, is as snarky as Cid is at first, but soon manages to get across to him. Kellen understands why Cid is acting out because Kellen is also keeping his soul and psyche intact with mere Band-Aids after being attacked a few years ago.
Add in a stalker that won’t take ‘no’ for an answer and you have Cid’s life at the moment. Who can get through his broken heart?
***trigger alert*** mention of past sexual assault
- GenresM M Romance
163 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2018
1 person is currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
S.L. Danielson
28 books85 followersaka Stephanie L. Danielson. I've been an avid reader since a small child. My first loves were science fiction as well as general fiction books.
Later, I began writing my own stories with a romantic flavor to them.
With influences running the gamut from romance,sci-fi, and drama, my muse was found.
In 2007 I was first published with Love Resurrected, and have since released over a dozen other books, mostly in the contemporary gay romance genre. I am particularly fond of young adult/college age boys to write about.
When not working on a new book, I can be found shooting pool and darts, hanging out with my husband, parents, and cat, cycling, skating, or spending way too much time playing computer games.
Later, I began writing my own stories with a romantic flavor to them.
With influences running the gamut from romance,sci-fi, and drama, my muse was found.
In 2007 I was first published with Love Resurrected, and have since released over a dozen other books, mostly in the contemporary gay romance genre. I am particularly fond of young adult/college age boys to write about.
When not working on a new book, I can be found shooting pool and darts, hanging out with my husband, parents, and cat, cycling, skating, or spending way too much time playing computer games.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 1, 2018
In this story we meet, beside Cid, several other persons close by and I loved that! The title says Cid and yes it’s about him but still, the others have earned their very own place in this story.
We get to know Cid from his angle but also through other ones eyes and this worked very well. I loved it how they took care of him!!
Cid is at college especially for the art. Cid is traumatized and has gone through every thinkable hurt, he always wears his hoodie and head down, no one will contact him in this position. When he meets adorable innocent Barry at college, and even Cid likes him, he just can’t get into a friendship. After he meets the Scottish redhead Kellen they call each other names. And then there is also an ugly stalker... that’s the moment Cid needs protection and this comes from an unexpected corner. Trust and feeling safe are issues and they are almost insurmountable.
There is a lot of hurt/comfort and thank goodness there is a power so strong it gives him strength to live.
I loved Cid throughout the whole story... I loved his strong and beautiful protector....I raise my glass for their strength and wonderful personalities.
It stayed very realistic throughout the whole story, I couldn’t put it down. Bit by bit we get to know Cid and his ‘almost’ friends. It was a harsh and hurtful story, there are moments I just wanted to hug and cry with him. Thank goodness there was light at the end of the tunnel.
Everyone (except a few shit heads) who was involved in this story were put down as friends and safe places, I loved that particular side of this story.
The story is very well written and in an engaging and captivating way.
It pulled me in and kept me in until I was finished.
I adored the Scottish traditions at the end, they were wonderful it gave me goosebumps.
Kindly received an arc from the author
We get to know Cid from his angle but also through other ones eyes and this worked very well. I loved it how they took care of him!!
Cid is at college especially for the art. Cid is traumatized and has gone through every thinkable hurt, he always wears his hoodie and head down, no one will contact him in this position. When he meets adorable innocent Barry at college, and even Cid likes him, he just can’t get into a friendship. After he meets the Scottish redhead Kellen they call each other names. And then there is also an ugly stalker... that’s the moment Cid needs protection and this comes from an unexpected corner. Trust and feeling safe are issues and they are almost insurmountable.
There is a lot of hurt/comfort and thank goodness there is a power so strong it gives him strength to live.
I loved Cid throughout the whole story... I loved his strong and beautiful protector....I raise my glass for their strength and wonderful personalities.
It stayed very realistic throughout the whole story, I couldn’t put it down. Bit by bit we get to know Cid and his ‘almost’ friends. It was a harsh and hurtful story, there are moments I just wanted to hug and cry with him. Thank goodness there was light at the end of the tunnel.
Everyone (except a few shit heads) who was involved in this story were put down as friends and safe places, I loved that particular side of this story.
The story is very well written and in an engaging and captivating way.
It pulled me in and kept me in until I was finished.
I adored the Scottish traditions at the end, they were wonderful it gave me goosebumps.
Kindly received an arc from the author
July 31, 2018
Wow! Going into Cid I had no idea what to expect, but SL Danielson has blown me away with this amazing story.
Cid is broken, just doing his best to survive after a trauma with his savage ex. He is back in school, a loner by preference/necessity, won't let anyone touch him, and continues to hide under his hoodie. He is also being stalked, and needs protecting.
Then he meets Barry and Kellen and things start to slowly change.
Barry is interested in Cid from the beginning and pursues him, trying to burrow his way into Cid's life. In his heart, Barry believes that he and Cid will end up together, despite Cid never giving him an such indication. Cid continues to hold off Barry, despite Barry pushing for more.
This is a story of recovery at it's best. Cid is not just unable to allow romance into his life, he can't even accept friendship. Of course, just as he starts making some headway in his ability to allow friendship into his life, he has a major setback. After a life of failure, violence and pain, he becomes suicidal.
This book is full of heartache, guilt, strong connections, and some great secondary characters. It contains brutal attacks, rape, and survival coming with the help of a wonderful friend.
My heart will not forget this story anytime soon.
In the end, two beautiful broken souls can help one another go from anger, depression and emotional-less to find love and emotional stability.
The road to recovery is not an easy one, but this one is absolutely precious and beautiful. It made me cry, cringe, smile and swoon. It is well written, adding perspectives from other people, thus allowing us to really know Cid.
Thank you SL Danielson for this fantastic, heartwarming story.
Cid is broken, just doing his best to survive after a trauma with his savage ex. He is back in school, a loner by preference/necessity, won't let anyone touch him, and continues to hide under his hoodie. He is also being stalked, and needs protecting.
Then he meets Barry and Kellen and things start to slowly change.
Barry is interested in Cid from the beginning and pursues him, trying to burrow his way into Cid's life. In his heart, Barry believes that he and Cid will end up together, despite Cid never giving him an such indication. Cid continues to hold off Barry, despite Barry pushing for more.
This is a story of recovery at it's best. Cid is not just unable to allow romance into his life, he can't even accept friendship. Of course, just as he starts making some headway in his ability to allow friendship into his life, he has a major setback. After a life of failure, violence and pain, he becomes suicidal.
This book is full of heartache, guilt, strong connections, and some great secondary characters. It contains brutal attacks, rape, and survival coming with the help of a wonderful friend.
My heart will not forget this story anytime soon.
In the end, two beautiful broken souls can help one another go from anger, depression and emotional-less to find love and emotional stability.
The road to recovery is not an easy one, but this one is absolutely precious and beautiful. It made me cry, cringe, smile and swoon. It is well written, adding perspectives from other people, thus allowing us to really know Cid.
Thank you SL Danielson for this fantastic, heartwarming story.
December 19, 2018
Cid is just trying to get through school, without attracting too many people. His past has broken him and he isn't ready to move on fully , even though it's been years since his ex abused him so badly. Fellow classmate Barry tries to become his friend and boyfriend, but Cid knows he isn't the right one for the sweet boy. And leading him on eventually ends miserably, leaving Cod alone again. But another classmate Kellan is also trying to forge a friendship, and this time Cod isn't so sure he wants to lose a shot. But with a stalker creep on campus freaking him out and a past that still haunts him, can Cod find a way to move on?
Great story and characters. I received an advanced reader's copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Great story and characters. I received an advanced reader's copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
July 30, 2019
3.5 stars - I love a good story about damaged characters overcoming their issues, getting second chances and finding love. So this one sounded right up my alley. Cid is definitely damaged – he had been a victim more than once – the most damaging, I think, from his ex-fiancé. This has caused him to be stand-offish, gruff and unapproachable. He just wants to keep his head down, mind his own and get his art degree. Unfortunately, others don’t seem to get that message.
The first half of this book is about nerdy classmate Barry, who just can’t seem to leave Cid alone, although he just wants to be friends with the hopes of it turning into more. This became pretty frustrating for me, because Cid was always up front with Barry about not wanting a relationship and even reluctant about being friends. Seemed a bit overkill to me, but hey, that was his prerogative and how he dealt with his issues. So a good portion of this was about Barry’s pursuit of something with Cid until finally Cid pushes enough that Barry finally gets the message.
In the meantime, there is Kellen, another classmate who attempts to befriend Cid. His approach is a bit different than Barry. He doesn’t come across as nearly as needy as Barry, and he ends up being Cid’s protector. They have somewhat shared past experiences, so they can relate better, or at least, Kellen is much more understanding of Cid’s current issues of not wanting to be touched, etc. Their relationship builds slowly. Cid doesn’t feel threatened by Kellen (thinking he is straight), especially when Kellen makes him feel safe.
Cid, however, continues to be a bit of a victim. He has another stalker whom he just can’t seem to escape, and when opportunity presents itself, almost gets away with more. But, Kellen seems to know just when to push, when to listen, and when to share his own experiences that make Cid comfortable enough to open up. Cid does explain a little about his past, but I don’t feel we ever really got the bulk of that story making it difficult to fully understand his current issues. I also had trouble relating to Barry’s obsession. The relationships all felt more high school age than college. However, this was a nice story about guys who were hurt in various ways and, through friendship, found they had common experiences to bond over, with a deeper relationship blossoming on the other side.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
June 21, 2018
This is the story of a sensitive soul who needs to regain his ability to love-- himself and others. His first try in his new college setting is a big disaster because he simply can't make himself do what he thinks he should for a very naive but pushy younger lover.
Then comes the downward spiral of self-judgment and somehow attracting the very worst instead.
But real help comes from discovering that he is not alone in the struggle. The ultimate healing force is love, if he is willing to accept that it's real. Reaching out to comfort someone else turns out to be the first step on a journey toward the end of the rainbow, even when Cid's world has gone black.
My heart grew three sizes from reading this.
Then comes the downward spiral of self-judgment and somehow attracting the very worst instead.
But real help comes from discovering that he is not alone in the struggle. The ultimate healing force is love, if he is willing to accept that it's real. Reaching out to comfort someone else turns out to be the first step on a journey toward the end of the rainbow, even when Cid's world has gone black.
My heart grew three sizes from reading this.
August 1, 2018
Amazing story of love! Wow this was so much more than i expected! I laughed, cried, felt my heart break and i fell in love with these MC's and this story.
Cid and Kellen are really amazing characters that will find a spot in your heart and live there long after you have read the last of this incredible story.
Learning to trust, care, open your heart to being taken care of and to giving love. All these actions are really amazing and this story takes on a journey of beauty and discovery as two very broken men, find the best of themselves and each other.
Love is powerful and incredible journey and i was so glad that i was along for the ride. i loved watching these two broken men become able to love and becoming loving partners.
Highly recommend!
Cid and Kellen are really amazing characters that will find a spot in your heart and live there long after you have read the last of this incredible story.
Learning to trust, care, open your heart to being taken care of and to giving love. All these actions are really amazing and this story takes on a journey of beauty and discovery as two very broken men, find the best of themselves and each other.
Love is powerful and incredible journey and i was so glad that i was along for the ride. i loved watching these two broken men become able to love and becoming loving partners.
Highly recommend!
August 3, 2018
A great story that is well written and flows smoothly. Wonderful characters, especially Cid who hasn't been able to get past the abuse he suffered by his ex-boyfriend. It's an emotional and sometimes heartbreaking journey as Cid tries to get over his past and find his happiness.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
July 22, 2019
Meet Cid. From the outside, you see a 26 years old art student, with lilac hair and eyes, standoffish and snarky. What nobody sees, though, is how broken his mind and soul really are. Or how afraid he is of being touched, of crouds or of any kind of social interaction.
Cid's life ,revealed throughout the book, is heartbreaking. It's also disheartening to watch his reactions to sweet Barry. Cid is lonely and having a new friend is good for him,but when Barry stars pushing for more it ends in tears for both of them,because Cid can't give him more than friendship (good thing for Barry that he later finds love with Frank- I'm really glad for that).
You'd think that poor Cid has suffered enough...but no,because he also gets sexually assaulted. This part right here brought me to tears, seeing him loose the will to live. Really,how can one survive so much pain without wanting to just give it all up?
Now is Kellan's moment to come to the rescue. Fierce,loyal, caring,protective Kellan,who's the only one to see right behind Cid's snappy attitude...only because he's lived and survived the same pain. Talking about their experiences is what strengthens their connection,Kellan's support bringing hope to Cid's battered heart...and love blossoms. It was about time,if you ask me,because never two men needed some light and happiness in their lives as much as them.
CID by S.L. Danielson is a rough,emotional wringer. Saddening and overwhelming, yes,but such a beautiful story to read.
Cid's life ,revealed throughout the book, is heartbreaking. It's also disheartening to watch his reactions to sweet Barry. Cid is lonely and having a new friend is good for him,but when Barry stars pushing for more it ends in tears for both of them,because Cid can't give him more than friendship (good thing for Barry that he later finds love with Frank- I'm really glad for that).
You'd think that poor Cid has suffered enough...but no,because he also gets sexually assaulted. This part right here brought me to tears, seeing him loose the will to live. Really,how can one survive so much pain without wanting to just give it all up?
Now is Kellan's moment to come to the rescue. Fierce,loyal, caring,protective Kellan,who's the only one to see right behind Cid's snappy attitude...only because he's lived and survived the same pain. Talking about their experiences is what strengthens their connection,Kellan's support bringing hope to Cid's battered heart...and love blossoms. It was about time,if you ask me,because never two men needed some light and happiness in their lives as much as them.
CID by S.L. Danielson is a rough,emotional wringer. Saddening and overwhelming, yes,but such a beautiful story to read.
August 1, 2018
this was amazing.. and sexy.. and oh so so yummy.. and heartbreaking at times as well.. it was all around an amazing story and i really enjoyed these characters and their issues and their love and what they needed to do to become who they are and needed to be lol. it was perfect
July 23, 2019
Both Cid and Kell have been horribly scarred emotionally, but together, eventually, they repair each other. This is the premise of the story, but boy, it takes them an angsty while to get there.
Kellen is so well written. He's not too perfect, but totally understands our hero, Cid, and slowly but surely finds a way to help him. I also loved Kell's family, they're also very well written, and their Scottishness is outstanding. There are other major protagonists who play a huge part in the story, but I'm not going to go into detail, because I don't want to give too much away.
Cid's character is heart breaking. He is step by step laid bare here. He knows his weaknesses, but struggles to find his strengths, this is where Kellen comes in.
I have to say that the topic of domestic violence and abuse are handled well by the author. There is real understanding and sensitivity in her writing of both topics. I was very impressed.
Take heed of the author's warnings, it's not an easy read, but is handled well, to eventually become a story of hope, and a testament to what love and patience can achieve. Nice conclusion.
Kellen is so well written. He's not too perfect, but totally understands our hero, Cid, and slowly but surely finds a way to help him. I also loved Kell's family, they're also very well written, and their Scottishness is outstanding. There are other major protagonists who play a huge part in the story, but I'm not going to go into detail, because I don't want to give too much away.
Cid's character is heart breaking. He is step by step laid bare here. He knows his weaknesses, but struggles to find his strengths, this is where Kellen comes in.
I have to say that the topic of domestic violence and abuse are handled well by the author. There is real understanding and sensitivity in her writing of both topics. I was very impressed.
Take heed of the author's warnings, it's not an easy read, but is handled well, to eventually become a story of hope, and a testament to what love and patience can achieve. Nice conclusion.
August 29, 2018
Cid is an artist with purple hair, a cute gootee and crippling social anxiety arising from an intolerable situation from the past. Struggling with the social aspects of going to college, he’s a mess, living on adrenaline and constantly on high alert.
He meets three boys, Barry, Kellan and Kurt. One of them hurts him, one heals him, and one almost kills him. It’s a heck of a year and the author sure packs a lot into it.
If you like an easy ride with fluffy bunnies and sweet kisses, then this is probably not the book for you. It has its fair share of sweetness but it’s at a cost. Watching Cid fall apart is not an easy process, but it’s only when he hits rock bottom that the healing can begin. We take every step with him and it’s all the better when he climbs out of the box, although don’t expect everything to be “fixed” and tied neatly with a bow because that’s not how these things work.
Right off the bat I loved the character of Cid who’s a seething mass of contradiction, anxiety and pain. He does the best he can to get through the day but he’s a mess. Every step of his journey is a triumph and a trial, and I travelled every one alongside him. He begs you to invest and you have little choice but to comply.
The other characters are equally well drawn and three dimensional and they have their highs and lows, none of them being perfect.
I don’t want to give away too much - although the blurb pretty much goes there anyway - but I have to be honest and admit I didn’t like Barry at all. He’s very sugar-and-spice and at eighteen, from a stable family in a nice home, it’s not surprising he’s also clueless. Cid seems happy to shoulder much of the blame for their very one-sided relationship, and the author seems to want the story to go that way, but to me it was clear right from the start that the relationship wasn’t going to work. Cid said so himself on more than one occasions. That Barry kept pushing it, almost forcing Cid into situations then whining when they backfired, is all on him. I found myself wishing he’d just give it a rest already and let Cid get on with his life.
That being said, I think Barry was probably necessary as he was a perfect foil to showcase Cid’s personality and many issues. If he’d found the right person at the start, we would never have seen so many layers and so much of the struggle he faced.
Cid is not an easy story to read, especially if you’re triggered by abuse and/or sexual violence, but it’s an important one. Yes, there are rough patches. Yes, Barry can be incredibly annoying, but this is Cid’s journey with all its triumphs and pitfalls. His heart it open, raw and bleeding and watching him taken apart and put back together again is one of the most rewarding reads I’ve had in a while. Well worth a read.
He meets three boys, Barry, Kellan and Kurt. One of them hurts him, one heals him, and one almost kills him. It’s a heck of a year and the author sure packs a lot into it.
If you like an easy ride with fluffy bunnies and sweet kisses, then this is probably not the book for you. It has its fair share of sweetness but it’s at a cost. Watching Cid fall apart is not an easy process, but it’s only when he hits rock bottom that the healing can begin. We take every step with him and it’s all the better when he climbs out of the box, although don’t expect everything to be “fixed” and tied neatly with a bow because that’s not how these things work.
Right off the bat I loved the character of Cid who’s a seething mass of contradiction, anxiety and pain. He does the best he can to get through the day but he’s a mess. Every step of his journey is a triumph and a trial, and I travelled every one alongside him. He begs you to invest and you have little choice but to comply.
The other characters are equally well drawn and three dimensional and they have their highs and lows, none of them being perfect.
I don’t want to give away too much - although the blurb pretty much goes there anyway - but I have to be honest and admit I didn’t like Barry at all. He’s very sugar-and-spice and at eighteen, from a stable family in a nice home, it’s not surprising he’s also clueless. Cid seems happy to shoulder much of the blame for their very one-sided relationship, and the author seems to want the story to go that way, but to me it was clear right from the start that the relationship wasn’t going to work. Cid said so himself on more than one occasions. That Barry kept pushing it, almost forcing Cid into situations then whining when they backfired, is all on him. I found myself wishing he’d just give it a rest already and let Cid get on with his life.
That being said, I think Barry was probably necessary as he was a perfect foil to showcase Cid’s personality and many issues. If he’d found the right person at the start, we would never have seen so many layers and so much of the struggle he faced.
Cid is not an easy story to read, especially if you’re triggered by abuse and/or sexual violence, but it’s an important one. Yes, there are rough patches. Yes, Barry can be incredibly annoying, but this is Cid’s journey with all its triumphs and pitfalls. His heart it open, raw and bleeding and watching him taken apart and put back together again is one of the most rewarding reads I’ve had in a while. Well worth a read.
August 4, 2018
A Pain So Deep Life Feels Hopeless
I was offered CID as a free gift, but after reading it I chose to purchase it. I put off reading it for a few weeks, yet once I started I couldn't stop. I can't express the unexpected surprise this book gave me. Please pay attention to the warnings given by the author about possible emotional and/or psychological triggers. While this is a story about college students, one's age is nontraditional at 26 years old. While the other main & secondary characters are 18-22 years of age. A well earned full scholarship is finally being put to good use. The traditional students had typical loving family dynamics, but even the "family" network of friends of the older were atypical.I
A chance to do what he loved was what had Cid fighting his inner demons in order to appear "normal", as he hid in plain sight. He felt lonely, but discouraged interactions with other students. He didn't have a roommate. He scurried through the hallways, sat alone in the cafeteria, and wore clothes that kept most of of him covered.
Imagine his surprise when others in his class wanted to befriend him, hang out at lunch & afterwards, and wanted to see his art. Some of the attention wasn't too bad, while others were actually picking on him, one to the point of harassment. When avoidance didn't work his new acquaintances offered a much welcomed buffer.
A freshman attached himself to Cid like a barnacle and ended up getting his feelings hurt when he didn't listen to Cid's repeated utterances that he wasn't ready for a boyfriend relationship, due partially to Cid continuing to encourage him to hang around in part to avoid his stalker. There were a few storylines going on simultaneously. The author Ms. Danielson was adroit at handling them as she fleshed out her characters gradually revealing more about each of them.
This is a very visceral emotional book. The pain experienced by the characters is palpable. I found myself angry, sad, shocked, dismayed, exasperated, heartbroken, hopeful and finally happy. This happiness was at the cost of riding the author's emotional roller coaster. If you like love triumphing over tragedy you will enjoy this book.
I was offered CID as a free gift, but after reading it I chose to purchase it. I put off reading it for a few weeks, yet once I started I couldn't stop. I can't express the unexpected surprise this book gave me. Please pay attention to the warnings given by the author about possible emotional and/or psychological triggers. While this is a story about college students, one's age is nontraditional at 26 years old. While the other main & secondary characters are 18-22 years of age. A well earned full scholarship is finally being put to good use. The traditional students had typical loving family dynamics, but even the "family" network of friends of the older were atypical.I
A chance to do what he loved was what had Cid fighting his inner demons in order to appear "normal", as he hid in plain sight. He felt lonely, but discouraged interactions with other students. He didn't have a roommate. He scurried through the hallways, sat alone in the cafeteria, and wore clothes that kept most of of him covered.
Imagine his surprise when others in his class wanted to befriend him, hang out at lunch & afterwards, and wanted to see his art. Some of the attention wasn't too bad, while others were actually picking on him, one to the point of harassment. When avoidance didn't work his new acquaintances offered a much welcomed buffer.
A freshman attached himself to Cid like a barnacle and ended up getting his feelings hurt when he didn't listen to Cid's repeated utterances that he wasn't ready for a boyfriend relationship, due partially to Cid continuing to encourage him to hang around in part to avoid his stalker. There were a few storylines going on simultaneously. The author Ms. Danielson was adroit at handling them as she fleshed out her characters gradually revealing more about each of them.
This is a very visceral emotional book. The pain experienced by the characters is palpable. I found myself angry, sad, shocked, dismayed, exasperated, heartbroken, hopeful and finally happy. This happiness was at the cost of riding the author's emotional roller coaster. If you like love triumphing over tragedy you will enjoy this book.
August 12, 2018
CID is SL Danielson’s newest novel. It’s a tough angsty read, but ultimately ends with a heartwarming ending.
This novel reads like two separate stories. In the first half of the book, we are introduced to Cid Walker. We know something awful has happened in his past, but we are unsure exactly what has occurs. All we know is that Cid has severe anxiety issues and lives his life by burying himself in his art. In this half, Cid, a 26 year old college art major, is pursued by a sexy, yet inexperienced little freshman named Barry. Cid tries to maintain a friendship with Barry, but he knows that anything deeper than that would be a disaster for the much younger man. Halfway through, Cid breaks off his relationship with Barry to protect the younger man from Cid’s Issues.
In the second half, Cid begins a relationship with another college student, the older, snarkier Kellen. Much like Cid, Kellen also has a dark secret in his past. As the two young men work through their relationship, those past secrets begin to come out into the open and the two men help each other come to terms with the past, which then allows them to move ahead into their future.
I really liked this novel. Once I got it into my head that Barry and Cid were not going to end up with each other (don’t worry, Barry gets his HEA as well) then it becomes a matter of following Cid’s journey. The book does touch on some very difficult topics, so be forewarned. Ms. Danielson deftly takes you into the depths of despair and leads you back out of it. I would classify this novel as a slow burn as well, the sexual component of the book doesn’t occur until well into the second half. (And it’s nice to see that it occurs when Cid and Kellen are both ready for it to happen)
One criticism I have, there are three characters here who all could have had their own novel. But that may just be me being greedy and wanting two extra novels from Ms. Danielson! Also, at times, this book is told from each character’s POV. In the ARC version, there are no chapter headings letting you know that the POV has changed. It takes a couple paragraphs before you realize that Cid is no longer telling the story. That omission may have been dealt with in the final draft.
Overall. A great novel.
This novel reads like two separate stories. In the first half of the book, we are introduced to Cid Walker. We know something awful has happened in his past, but we are unsure exactly what has occurs. All we know is that Cid has severe anxiety issues and lives his life by burying himself in his art. In this half, Cid, a 26 year old college art major, is pursued by a sexy, yet inexperienced little freshman named Barry. Cid tries to maintain a friendship with Barry, but he knows that anything deeper than that would be a disaster for the much younger man. Halfway through, Cid breaks off his relationship with Barry to protect the younger man from Cid’s Issues.
In the second half, Cid begins a relationship with another college student, the older, snarkier Kellen. Much like Cid, Kellen also has a dark secret in his past. As the two young men work through their relationship, those past secrets begin to come out into the open and the two men help each other come to terms with the past, which then allows them to move ahead into their future.
I really liked this novel. Once I got it into my head that Barry and Cid were not going to end up with each other (don’t worry, Barry gets his HEA as well) then it becomes a matter of following Cid’s journey. The book does touch on some very difficult topics, so be forewarned. Ms. Danielson deftly takes you into the depths of despair and leads you back out of it. I would classify this novel as a slow burn as well, the sexual component of the book doesn’t occur until well into the second half. (And it’s nice to see that it occurs when Cid and Kellen are both ready for it to happen)
One criticism I have, there are three characters here who all could have had their own novel. But that may just be me being greedy and wanting two extra novels from Ms. Danielson! Also, at times, this book is told from each character’s POV. In the ARC version, there are no chapter headings letting you know that the POV has changed. It takes a couple paragraphs before you realize that Cid is no longer telling the story. That omission may have been dealt with in the final draft.
Overall. A great novel.
May 10, 2022
This one was very difficult for me to rate. All of the MC's were in college but this story seemed much younger to me (and so did the writing). It follows an art/business student who its hinted (at first) was terribly abused by an ex-boyfriend and now can't seem to relate to anyone.
He initially meets a young, immature boy in one of his classes. This boy is supposed to be a sophomore in college, but certainly acted like to me like maybe he was still in junior high. This boy likes our artist and tries to make friends with him which the boy hopes will lead to a relationship. The artist rebuffs the boy's advances and eventually does a "it's me, not you" and dumps him. The boy eventually ends up with a boyfriend much more suited to his maturity level.
Then our artist, who feels bad about dumping on the boy, renews an acquaintance with a red headed Scotsman student who also tries to break the barriers around our artist and he has more success. They share abuse stories, help each other heal and it was kind of nice.
But, overall, I think the story was just a little underwhelming in the emotions that I, as the reader, should have felt so I settled on a 3-star rating.
He initially meets a young, immature boy in one of his classes. This boy is supposed to be a sophomore in college, but certainly acted like to me like maybe he was still in junior high. This boy likes our artist and tries to make friends with him which the boy hopes will lead to a relationship. The artist rebuffs the boy's advances and eventually does a "it's me, not you" and dumps him. The boy eventually ends up with a boyfriend much more suited to his maturity level.
Then our artist, who feels bad about dumping on the boy, renews an acquaintance with a red headed Scotsman student who also tries to break the barriers around our artist and he has more success. They share abuse stories, help each other heal and it was kind of nice.
But, overall, I think the story was just a little underwhelming in the emotions that I, as the reader, should have felt so I settled on a 3-star rating.
July 29, 2019
This book is truly not a pretty read. Trigger Warnings: rape, attempted rape, attempted self harm, flashbacks. With those warnings in place, this is a really good book about someone who has been hurt so badly finally learns to live and maybe even love again. It is a heartbreaking read but I will say that it does end in a happy ending. Like I said it is a heartbreaking story but at the same time it is also a story about learning to live again after feeling like th life you have is no longer worth living.
CID is the main character in this book. He is twenty six years old and attending college even though he cannot handle being around d people. He is an art major and want to one day not only teach art but also keep up with his personal art at the same time. He is a snarky individual that does not let anyone close to him. But CID has his reasons for not letting anyone close.
When a guy in one of his classes named Barry introduced his self and decided that he wants him and CID to be friends in the very least, CID is not real thrilled about this but decided to give Barry a chance to be friends. Barry is young and sweet. CID believes him to be too sweet for him but it is hard to be mean to Barry so they start a friendship. After a while Barry starts to push for more then friends and CID knows that is out of the question.
While Barry and CID are getting to know one another better another man has taken an interest in CID as well but there is something really off about the guy that throws all kinds of warnings CID’s way. Cid does his best to avoid the guy but that is not always easy.
Durning Christmas break everything comes to a head between CID and Barry. Barry just cannot accept that CID is not ready for a relationship and friendship alone is not enough for him any longer so after once again trying to push CID too fast, CID and Barry decide to quit hanging around one another once school starts back.
At first it is really hard for CID because even though he did not want a relationship with Barry, he does miss the friendship that they started. But this left CID with the opportunity to become friends with another class mate that is more compatible with Cid’s personality names Kellen.
Kellen knows from his own personal experience that something in Cid’s Past hurt him horribly. He sees the signs in it and the way that CID pushes everyone away. So even though he is attracted to CID, he knows he is going to have to handle CID with kid gloves and go at Cid’s pace.
Something horrible happens to Cid and if Kellen cannot get through to him in time, CID May never recover.
This is one of those reads that will break you to pieces and then put you back together again. The trigger warnings should be heeded because their is very descriptive detail at points in this book so the warnings should not be taken lightly. SL Danielson wrote a really good book about learning to live again. I look forward to more books by SL Danielson in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review.
CID is the main character in this book. He is twenty six years old and attending college even though he cannot handle being around d people. He is an art major and want to one day not only teach art but also keep up with his personal art at the same time. He is a snarky individual that does not let anyone close to him. But CID has his reasons for not letting anyone close.
When a guy in one of his classes named Barry introduced his self and decided that he wants him and CID to be friends in the very least, CID is not real thrilled about this but decided to give Barry a chance to be friends. Barry is young and sweet. CID believes him to be too sweet for him but it is hard to be mean to Barry so they start a friendship. After a while Barry starts to push for more then friends and CID knows that is out of the question.
While Barry and CID are getting to know one another better another man has taken an interest in CID as well but there is something really off about the guy that throws all kinds of warnings CID’s way. Cid does his best to avoid the guy but that is not always easy.
Durning Christmas break everything comes to a head between CID and Barry. Barry just cannot accept that CID is not ready for a relationship and friendship alone is not enough for him any longer so after once again trying to push CID too fast, CID and Barry decide to quit hanging around one another once school starts back.
At first it is really hard for CID because even though he did not want a relationship with Barry, he does miss the friendship that they started. But this left CID with the opportunity to become friends with another class mate that is more compatible with Cid’s personality names Kellen.
Kellen knows from his own personal experience that something in Cid’s Past hurt him horribly. He sees the signs in it and the way that CID pushes everyone away. So even though he is attracted to CID, he knows he is going to have to handle CID with kid gloves and go at Cid’s pace.
Something horrible happens to Cid and if Kellen cannot get through to him in time, CID May never recover.
This is one of those reads that will break you to pieces and then put you back together again. The trigger warnings should be heeded because their is very descriptive detail at points in this book so the warnings should not be taken lightly. SL Danielson wrote a really good book about learning to live again. I look forward to more books by SL Danielson in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review.
August 21, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4 stars
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2.5
Content Warning: Deals with sexual assaults (explicit), domestic violence, suicide and other somewhat confronting themes. Unfortunately I was not warned about any of these strong themes and as a sexual assault survivor this was very confronting and I’d like to start with a warning.
The story follows Cid, Barry, Kellen and Frank with a focus on the moody and ‘damaged’ artist, Cid. Cid has had to deal with a lot; parents deaths, foster care, various neglect, sexual assault, domestic violence, abuse, suicide, depression and a violent stalker. This explains the reason he is the way he is and his character was interesting to unwrap. I felt for his story and liked how the author kept the mystery that is Cid alive throughout the story, I just wasn’t expecting his past to be so explicit. I did like that the author faced these issues head on but a warning is recommended. I felt there was so much more to all the characters and felt like we only touched the surface of these four and the friendship they could develop.
I loved Kellen and how much he cared for Cid. I felt the story had very quick to fall in love characters with Kellen and Barry both falling for Cid rather quickly. A lot of instalove, important themes and sweet moments. It was an interesting read with a sweet HEA. I enjoyed watching Cid come back to himself and heal and I like that it showed that every story is different and healing it possible.
A confronting read with a healing HEA!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2.5
Content Warning: Deals with sexual assaults (explicit), domestic violence, suicide and other somewhat confronting themes. Unfortunately I was not warned about any of these strong themes and as a sexual assault survivor this was very confronting and I’d like to start with a warning.
The story follows Cid, Barry, Kellen and Frank with a focus on the moody and ‘damaged’ artist, Cid. Cid has had to deal with a lot; parents deaths, foster care, various neglect, sexual assault, domestic violence, abuse, suicide, depression and a violent stalker. This explains the reason he is the way he is and his character was interesting to unwrap. I felt for his story and liked how the author kept the mystery that is Cid alive throughout the story, I just wasn’t expecting his past to be so explicit. I did like that the author faced these issues head on but a warning is recommended. I felt there was so much more to all the characters and felt like we only touched the surface of these four and the friendship they could develop.
I loved Kellen and how much he cared for Cid. I felt the story had very quick to fall in love characters with Kellen and Barry both falling for Cid rather quickly. A lot of instalove, important themes and sweet moments. It was an interesting read with a sweet HEA. I enjoyed watching Cid come back to himself and heal and I like that it showed that every story is different and healing it possible.
A confronting read with a healing HEA!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
October 1, 2018
Reviewer’s Note: First, I’d like to explain that I do not consider a 3 star review to be a ‘bad review’. To me it means that the book was an average read. A typical professionally written book gets this kind of rating. I seldom give reviews above a 4 and have given fewer than 10 5 star reviews in my reviewing career.
Review: Our titular hero, Cid, is a twenty-six year old artist, and college student--tormented by a bad past relationship that has soured him on love and relationships in general. But then he meets Barry, an eighteen year old romantic who dreams of having Cid as his partner.
Tormented by his past, Cid has trouble relating to the innocent, sweetness that is Barry, and Barry, for his part, can’t understand Cid’s reticence.
But all hope for Cid isn’t lost, and it takes another man—Kellen—to find his way into Cid’s dark world and bring him into the light.
Add a man who won’t take no for an answer, someone bound and determined to have Cid willingly or not, and you have a story full of angst, soul-searching, and healing.
A book well worth reading for fans of contemporary m/m romance that features a tormented soul finding his way to love.
Reviewer’s Warning: This book contains mention of rape/molestation—all off screen—and the contemplation of suicide. If you are triggered by either of these subjects this book is not for you.
Review: Our titular hero, Cid, is a twenty-six year old artist, and college student--tormented by a bad past relationship that has soured him on love and relationships in general. But then he meets Barry, an eighteen year old romantic who dreams of having Cid as his partner.
Tormented by his past, Cid has trouble relating to the innocent, sweetness that is Barry, and Barry, for his part, can’t understand Cid’s reticence.
But all hope for Cid isn’t lost, and it takes another man—Kellen—to find his way into Cid’s dark world and bring him into the light.
Add a man who won’t take no for an answer, someone bound and determined to have Cid willingly or not, and you have a story full of angst, soul-searching, and healing.
A book well worth reading for fans of contemporary m/m romance that features a tormented soul finding his way to love.
Reviewer’s Warning: This book contains mention of rape/molestation—all off screen—and the contemplation of suicide. If you are triggered by either of these subjects this book is not for you.
August 21, 2019
CID by S.L. Danielson is a heart-wrenching read that kept me turning the pages. I did have to have my tissues handy for this read, it is a heart-breaking beautiful read.
Cid: one of the more complicated characters I have ever read. He has so many layers I doubt my description will do him justice. He is prickly, honest, and has a true heart of gold. He is gorgeous and shy, along with complicated. He also is a little old school and artistic to his core.
Barry: he is young, naïve, and like a puppy sometimes just overly friendly. But I loved his energy. He is a good person, but he cannot understand what he has not experienced yet. Not a lot of insight into others. Felt very young at heart.
Kellen: surly, a redhead with attitude. He is strong, has great insight into others. Has experienced life more mature for that experience. He is forged in steel is what comes to mind. He still retains his kind heart.
To all this mix we add a stalker. Who by the way is creepy as heck. This is a college-aged story with a lot of depth. This is not a story that you binge read. I would need a break every now and again, but it is memorable and well worth the read. I really love stories with true heart and soul, and this is one. Highly recommend this story and cannot wait for more from this author in the future.
Five Shooting Stars and Recommended Read
Cid: one of the more complicated characters I have ever read. He has so many layers I doubt my description will do him justice. He is prickly, honest, and has a true heart of gold. He is gorgeous and shy, along with complicated. He also is a little old school and artistic to his core.
Barry: he is young, naïve, and like a puppy sometimes just overly friendly. But I loved his energy. He is a good person, but he cannot understand what he has not experienced yet. Not a lot of insight into others. Felt very young at heart.
Kellen: surly, a redhead with attitude. He is strong, has great insight into others. Has experienced life more mature for that experience. He is forged in steel is what comes to mind. He still retains his kind heart.
To all this mix we add a stalker. Who by the way is creepy as heck. This is a college-aged story with a lot of depth. This is not a story that you binge read. I would need a break every now and again, but it is memorable and well worth the read. I really love stories with true heart and soul, and this is one. Highly recommend this story and cannot wait for more from this author in the future.
Five Shooting Stars and Recommended Read
August 1, 2019
3,5
ARC-
I really can't know what to feel about this book. It wasn't bad, not at all, but not what I was hoping for. I missed the deepness of the story and i couldn't get close to either character.
Cid was unique but not enough. At times he was too much and another times not so much. I can totally live without this book, I wanted it so bad to be something special, but it wasn't. And all the drama around Cid and the school...
I get that his life isn't easy and he separated himself from others, but sometimes i can be angry at these people so much because they are they own enemy at their happiness.
Barry was so naive, i didn't get his character at all?! Why was he there? I thought he will be someone who can change into an amazing side character, but sadly, no. Although i liked how the things went with and to him.
And Kellen! Finally someone who is worth my time! I just wish we got more from him. I wish it were more chapters about and with Kellen. He was the light in the darkness. I loved every chapter with him in it. If not for him, i didn't liked this book as much as now.
I give 3,5 stars, and this stars only for Kellen!
ARC-
I really can't know what to feel about this book. It wasn't bad, not at all, but not what I was hoping for. I missed the deepness of the story and i couldn't get close to either character.
Cid was unique but not enough. At times he was too much and another times not so much. I can totally live without this book, I wanted it so bad to be something special, but it wasn't. And all the drama around Cid and the school...
I get that his life isn't easy and he separated himself from others, but sometimes i can be angry at these people so much because they are they own enemy at their happiness.
Barry was so naive, i didn't get his character at all?! Why was he there? I thought he will be someone who can change into an amazing side character, but sadly, no. Although i liked how the things went with and to him.
And Kellen! Finally someone who is worth my time! I just wish we got more from him. I wish it were more chapters about and with Kellen. He was the light in the darkness. I loved every chapter with him in it. If not for him, i didn't liked this book as much as now.
I give 3,5 stars, and this stars only for Kellen!
August 4, 2019
*I voluntarily read a review copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Cid’s broken is so many ways and his struggles continue with each passing day.
Barry was needy, annoying and pushy. Cid was upfront about his feelings but Barry just didn’t get the message. Barry was overbearing and I just didn’t understand how he can fall in love with Cid without really knowing him.
Kellen was Cid’s protector and their horrible past experiences brought them together. I liked Kellen; he was patient, sweet and never pushed Cid beyond what he was comfortable with. These two helped in each other heal emotionally and physically. Watching these two beautiful guys opening their hearts again, brought happy tears.
Cid’s broken is so many ways and his struggles continue with each passing day.
Barry was needy, annoying and pushy. Cid was upfront about his feelings but Barry just didn’t get the message. Barry was overbearing and I just didn’t understand how he can fall in love with Cid without really knowing him.
Kellen was Cid’s protector and their horrible past experiences brought them together. I liked Kellen; he was patient, sweet and never pushed Cid beyond what he was comfortable with. These two helped in each other heal emotionally and physically. Watching these two beautiful guys opening their hearts again, brought happy tears.
August 22, 2019
A very emotional and intense book that is dealing with traumatic events with the main character. Once I started reading it I couldn't put down and I read in one sitting. We have a Cid who is in college and really doesn't interact with anyone. Barry who is sweet an innocent and Kellan who wants to be friends with Cid but who is scared to be friends with anyone because of his past. The story will break your heart but overall it's a great book.
September 4, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
Okay, so this book took me forever to get through considering it’s about 200 pages long. The story just moved slow and I think my annoyance with the characters/storyline didn’t help. And while it’s not a bad story, I think there were just too many things that bugged me.
I get why Cid was stand-offish and scared to get involved with someone but I think my biggest annoyance was Barry. He was childish and needy and that was the last thing Cid needed to deal with but then Barry would lay the guilt trip and it made Cid think he did something wrong throughout the whole book, which he didn’t, they were never dating, Cid never said they were dating and specifically said friends (which seems to be an impossibility to Barry).
I did like Cid and Kellen together they both helped each other heal though I think Kellen protecting Cid did more for both of them. I loved the Kellen could just silently sit there when it was needed to (not something Barry seemed capable of). I was glad to see their happily ever after and Cid gained a family but with the large time jumps there was more explaining what had happened than seeing it which is alright for a short story but not one this long.
The cover art by Bee Javier is alright and it gives a slight visual of Cid.
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
Okay, so this book took me forever to get through considering it’s about 200 pages long. The story just moved slow and I think my annoyance with the characters/storyline didn’t help. And while it’s not a bad story, I think there were just too many things that bugged me.
I get why Cid was stand-offish and scared to get involved with someone but I think my biggest annoyance was Barry. He was childish and needy and that was the last thing Cid needed to deal with but then Barry would lay the guilt trip and it made Cid think he did something wrong throughout the whole book, which he didn’t, they were never dating, Cid never said they were dating and specifically said friends (which seems to be an impossibility to Barry).
I did like Cid and Kellen together they both helped each other heal though I think Kellen protecting Cid did more for both of them. I loved the Kellen could just silently sit there when it was needed to (not something Barry seemed capable of). I was glad to see their happily ever after and Cid gained a family but with the large time jumps there was more explaining what had happened than seeing it which is alright for a short story but not one this long.
The cover art by Bee Javier is alright and it gives a slight visual of Cid.
March 21, 2021
I liked this book OK, but I was more frustrated with Cid's relationship with Barry. Barry was a whiny and annoying character that I didn't really fall for. I found myself wondering what point it had in any of this story other than to show Cid wasn't interested in relationships. I could've bought that, though, if Cid didn't then fall into a relationship with Kellen. Yes, I thought Kellen was a much better partner and match for Cid. He understood where Cid was coming from and knew when to push and when to be patient. He was a great character and I enjoyed them. When we finally got to these guys, I liked the book much more.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy provided by Gay Book Promotions
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy provided by Gay Book Promotions
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