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717 Miles
The calculated flying distance from Oslo to London is equal to 717 miles which is equal to 1153 km. If you want to go by car, the driving distance between Oslo and London is 1732.79 km. If you ride your car with an average speed of 112 kilometres/hour (70 miles/h), travel time will be 15 hours 28 minutes.
Adam Vik Solheim should not be in London. He’s not supposed to be anywhere near the British capital, because Adam Vik Solheim, age 19, is supposed to be on a beach in Bali. He is supposed to be on the first stop on an Asian backpacking trip of a lifetime. That was the plan. That is where he is supposed to be. Not here. Alone in a weird house in a strange city, being paid to look after some troubled 17-year-old.
Felix Haugland has to survive the final 3 weeks of school. Make it through 21 more days of hell. Then he is going to hide out in his room for the rest of the summer until he can figure out how to get his life back on track. Find a school far far away, where he can start over and not make mistakes.
He doesn't need a flipping babysitter. He just doesn't. His life is messed up enough as it is.
This is a New Adult story and is set in the UK where the age of consent is 16. Triggerwarnings: Severe bullying and mature content.
Adam Vik Solheim should not be in London. He’s not supposed to be anywhere near the British capital, because Adam Vik Solheim, age 19, is supposed to be on a beach in Bali. He is supposed to be on the first stop on an Asian backpacking trip of a lifetime. That was the plan. That is where he is supposed to be. Not here. Alone in a weird house in a strange city, being paid to look after some troubled 17-year-old.
Felix Haugland has to survive the final 3 weeks of school. Make it through 21 more days of hell. Then he is going to hide out in his room for the rest of the summer until he can figure out how to get his life back on track. Find a school far far away, where he can start over and not make mistakes.
He doesn't need a flipping babysitter. He just doesn't. His life is messed up enough as it is.
This is a New Adult story and is set in the UK where the age of consent is 16. Triggerwarnings: Severe bullying and mature content.
371 pages, ebook
First published April 30, 2019
29 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
Sophia Soames
37 books237 followersAuthor of Contemporary M/M romance with all the feels. This is where flawed men discover happy endings, in truly European fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 2, 2019
Beautiful story of two young men falling in love.
At almost 18, Felix doesn’t need an au pair. But his single mom is an airline attendant and doesn’t feel comfortable leaving him alone. At first he’s resistant to Adam’s presence, but before long, he can’t imagine not having him in his life.
I loved this, at times sweet, others pretty sexy, this was nearly perfect.
*ARC provided for review
At almost 18, Felix doesn’t need an au pair. But his single mom is an airline attendant and doesn’t feel comfortable leaving him alone. At first he’s resistant to Adam’s presence, but before long, he can’t imagine not having him in his life.
I loved this, at times sweet, others pretty sexy, this was nearly perfect.
*ARC provided for review
May 5, 2019
I really enjoyed this book even if it felt that the MCs and their approach to the situation was more mature in its feel than what you'd expect for two MCs that are just 18 & 20 years old (although declaring true love after 2 weeks is very much something reflective of that age).
I did, however, very much like Adam and Felix, both struggling to come to terms with their lot and place in life. I really enjoyed watching how their relationship developed and how they both matured.
I also appreciated the way Sophia addressed the bullying and how insidiously it affected everything in Felix's life. This was well done, especially in that nothing was hidden. The social media game was a *little* immature but what it also reiterates the boys' relative youth and the different ways you might address something at 18/20 as opposed to someone with a few more years under the belt.
I thought Birgit was a terrible parent! I don't care how much she "redeemed" herself in the end, her parenting sucked!
She didn't deserve her son's love, she essentially bribed him with travel. I thought this was unrealistic. She was also too much of a teenager - coming home and eating all the food? That's a 16 year old boy in a grown woman's body. There were just too many things that were marks against her character. I can't work out what we were supposed to feel about her. It's.... frustrating.
Interestingly, for all the things I didn't like, 717 Miles still gets 4.5 stars for me because it's considered, great writing, the two MCs are relatable despite their age and the secondary characters are fully fleshed out individuals that you engage with in a real way.
4.5/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌙
I did, however, very much like Adam and Felix, both struggling to come to terms with their lot and place in life. I really enjoyed watching how their relationship developed and how they both matured.
I also appreciated the way Sophia addressed the bullying and how insidiously it affected everything in Felix's life. This was well done, especially in that nothing was hidden. The social media game was a *little* immature but what it also reiterates the boys' relative youth and the different ways you might address something at 18/20 as opposed to someone with a few more years under the belt.
I thought Birgit was a terrible parent! I don't care how much she "redeemed" herself in the end, her parenting sucked!
She didn't deserve her son's love, she essentially bribed him with travel. I thought this was unrealistic. She was also too much of a teenager - coming home and eating all the food? That's a 16 year old boy in a grown woman's body. There were just too many things that were marks against her character. I can't work out what we were supposed to feel about her. It's.... frustrating.
Interestingly, for all the things I didn't like, 717 Miles still gets 4.5 stars for me because it's considered, great writing, the two MCs are relatable despite their age and the secondary characters are fully fleshed out individuals that you engage with in a real way.
4.5/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌙
May 5, 2019
I don’t usually read YA but I am a SO glad I gave this book a chance!
It was a magical and unlikely love story between Felix and Adam. The way in which they are the ying and yang of one another was truly special.
What I love about this author is you get to know the characters really well. Her descriptions and dialogue really give you great insight into who these characters are bone deep. I truly love that!
Even though she only written two books, she is becoming one of my favorite authors. Her words are beautiful and I want to read her books over and over again.
It was a magical and unlikely love story between Felix and Adam. The way in which they are the ying and yang of one another was truly special.
What I love about this author is you get to know the characters really well. Her descriptions and dialogue really give you great insight into who these characters are bone deep. I truly love that!
Even though she only written two books, she is becoming one of my favorite authors. Her words are beautiful and I want to read her books over and over again.
April 15, 2019
I was given an arc copy of this book to review. And I am so glad that I was given the chance.
The stories 2 main characters are Adam 19 and Felix 17 and 18. Felix's mother hired Adam to come basically be a care taker of Felix while she works as a flight attendant. The story tells of Felix getting bullied and I tell you know I wanted to just go and smack those stupid boys. So brace yourself but the story does tell of his bullying and violence he had to face. I hurt for Felix. But Adam was his champion. He took care of him. Not just because it was his job but because he truly did care and have compassion for Felix. They do fall in love quickly. And its sickly sweet at times. I say that in a good way really. They might be young but they loved each other fiercely. There was a small amount of drama between Adam and Felix but it only last a couple of pages so nothing big. The side characters like Felix’s mom and his friends, and Adams family was just great. They really cared for each other and stood up for each other in the hard times. And there are several texts between the characters that you just have to laugh at. The story was funny and mushy and just all around great. Im really grateful for the chance to read this book. I cant wait to read more from this author. She knows how to suck you in and keep you interested in the story the whole way through.
April 28, 2019
Adam is full of regrets because he's made a mistake and how he tries to turn his live around. Felix's story is heartbreaking, he lives his days and nights in fear and his only hope is to survive each day at a time.
In 717 Miles two troubled, sad young men meet ,and their story is beautiful. Two sweet, gentle souls try to make their own place in the world. Trusting, touching, kissing, they slowly begin to belong into each other's hearts and the only home they need is being at the loved one's side.
The writing is brilliant ,the characters are endearing and I can't recommend this book enough.
In 717 Miles two troubled, sad young men meet ,and their story is beautiful. Two sweet, gentle souls try to make their own place in the world. Trusting, touching, kissing, they slowly begin to belong into each other's hearts and the only home they need is being at the loved one's side.
The writing is brilliant ,the characters are endearing and I can't recommend this book enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2019
I have learned my lesson. I don’t get close. I don’t talk too much. I don’t tell people about feelings. That is fucked up.
What a sweet story about two broken young men and their journey to find true love….
The story come with a very promising good start and strong emotional feels because of what Felix been through with the bullying. The traumas, the anxiety and fears are portraying in good writing that could cringed you at some level.
Then come Adam, a Norwegian Au-pairs Felix's mother ask to accompanying his son while she’s go around the world working as an airlines attendant.
At first, Felix refused to have a manny (slash bodyguard) to look after his needs since he will be eighteen soon. Felix didn’t trust easily and he’d learned it hard way. But Adam had gave him a warm and comfort feeling that had long gone since the bullies started. Slowly and so smoothly, their relationship start to grow and change. Adam’s patient and understanding had help Felix to feels safe and alive again. Adam presence had brought positivity to Felix, encourage him to be brave and stand on his own feet again and claimed back his life. There’s an ups and downs in their relationship, they even argued in many things. Both Adam and Felix need to short a lots of things before they finally walk on same pace. And along with that their relationship become more and more stronger. They might be still young, but their connection are strong enough…
This book come with very interesting blurb and a very artistic cover that sold me instantly. The bonding and relationship development of the MC's and the writing are another things that made this book completely hard to put down.
And all those cuddling scenes? It was the best moment I have during the reading….very sweet, comforting and warmed my heart…
His lips brushing briefly against my forehead. Then his head comes to a rest on top of mine. I am held in his embrace like a baby. Like an awkward child being comforted against his will. He strokes my back, just letting his fingers dance over my skin. Breathing softly, his chest rising and falling against my awkwardly bent arms. I can’t go anywhere. I don’t want to go anywhere. I just give up and let go. I am warm. Held tight. Safe.
“I’ve got you.” He whispers.
*ARC is kindly provided by the Author in exchange of a fair, unbiased and honest review*
May 8, 2022
This is as insta-love as stories get, and yet, with the MCs teenagers (17-18, and 19) it works in the kind of falling-in-love intensity of the teen years. Adam is hired by Felix's mother to be a housekeeper-driver-support for Felix, as she flies around the world on her flight-attendant job. He doesn't know, before arriving, that Felix is almost his own age, and also gay.
The two fall hard and fast, amid sharing a house, Adam cooking good delicacies, and Felix coping with school and difficulties with friends. Their relationship is sweet and funny and warm and sexy and intense. What Adam and Felix's mother don't realize is just how bad the bullying Felix is facing has been.
Despite that serious thread, most of the book is like Adam's cinnamon rolls - sweet, warm, and easy to consume in one fast binge.
The two fall hard and fast, amid sharing a house, Adam cooking good delicacies, and Felix coping with school and difficulties with friends. Their relationship is sweet and funny and warm and sexy and intense. What Adam and Felix's mother don't realize is just how bad the bullying Felix is facing has been.
Despite that serious thread, most of the book is like Adam's cinnamon rolls - sweet, warm, and easy to consume in one fast binge.
April 30, 2019
Story About Young Love
Beautifully written book about young love and gaining self confidence. Felix is a lonely young man, wanting someone to give him a chance, someone to care about and be cared for in return. He's been horribly bullied (be aware of this if it's a trigger for you), he's so sad and empty at the beginning of the story. Ms Soames elicits such genuine emotion and compassion throughout the book.
As the story progresses hope emerges, love and self belief. Felix finds his champion in Adam. I loved the character development, and the way in which the boys' relationship developed. Like I said, it's a beautifully written story, obviously there's some angst, but at the end of the book there's a lovely hopefulness and an optimistic anticipation for the future. Well worth a read.
Beautifully written book about young love and gaining self confidence. Felix is a lonely young man, wanting someone to give him a chance, someone to care about and be cared for in return. He's been horribly bullied (be aware of this if it's a trigger for you), he's so sad and empty at the beginning of the story. Ms Soames elicits such genuine emotion and compassion throughout the book.
As the story progresses hope emerges, love and self belief. Felix finds his champion in Adam. I loved the character development, and the way in which the boys' relationship developed. Like I said, it's a beautifully written story, obviously there's some angst, but at the end of the book there's a lovely hopefulness and an optimistic anticipation for the future. Well worth a read.
June 25, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
Please come and be a friend to my son.
These are the words that inspire Adam Vik Solheim to respond to an ad looking for a Norwegian student to come to London — some 717 miles away from Oslo — and be an au pair for the summer. After a stupid decision led to the loss of his friends and his savings, Adam is desperately in need of a change of scenery, and cooking meals, driving a kid to and from school, and doing small household chores seems simple enough. The only problem is his charge is a 17-year-old young man who hides in his room and comes home from school with blood all over his uniform.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
Please come and be a friend to my son.
These are the words that inspire Adam Vik Solheim to respond to an ad looking for a Norwegian student to come to London — some 717 miles away from Oslo — and be an au pair for the summer. After a stupid decision led to the loss of his friends and his savings, Adam is desperately in need of a change of scenery, and cooking meals, driving a kid to and from school, and doing small household chores seems simple enough. The only problem is his charge is a 17-year-old young man who hides in his room and comes home from school with blood all over his uniform.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
April 30, 2019
😐Hovering at 3 🌟stars
I picked this up for the youthful romance and the idea of a Norwegian- and a British-raised guy adapting to each other's cultural idiosyncrasies. It started out really well and introduced two young men in the verge of adulthood, one morose and afraid, the other recovering from stupid actions that cost him some close friends and a killer vacation. But way too much trivial detail and padding got in the way of the romance for me. Cooking, food, grocery shopping and I could not care less! Plus, rather than a romance between two young men, this turned into a brotherhood of friends hangin', coming of age story. Not what I expected from the blurb. There's plenty of hot action between main protagonists Adam and Felix, a load of fear and violent bullying and a flight attendant mother with an outsized personality and an insatiable appetite who bugged me almost every time she came into the story and emptied the pantry and fridge. The romantic relationship also turned so codependent that it induced heavy😣 eye-rolling from this reader!😕
This novel would have been much more appealing at half the length. By the end, I felt like I was moving through quicksand, bogged down with too much detail and side story about minor players.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
I picked this up for the youthful romance and the idea of a Norwegian- and a British-raised guy adapting to each other's cultural idiosyncrasies. It started out really well and introduced two young men in the verge of adulthood, one morose and afraid, the other recovering from stupid actions that cost him some close friends and a killer vacation. But way too much trivial detail and padding got in the way of the romance for me. Cooking, food, grocery shopping and I could not care less! Plus, rather than a romance between two young men, this turned into a brotherhood of friends hangin', coming of age story. Not what I expected from the blurb. There's plenty of hot action between main protagonists Adam and Felix, a load of fear and violent bullying and a flight attendant mother with an outsized personality and an insatiable appetite who bugged me almost every time she came into the story and emptied the pantry and fridge. The romantic relationship also turned so codependent that it induced heavy😣 eye-rolling from this reader!😕
This novel would have been much more appealing at half the length. By the end, I felt like I was moving through quicksand, bogged down with too much detail and side story about minor players.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 8, 2019
Arc received for an honest review.
I think I may be the only one who didn't like this quite so much that it was a 4 or 5 star read. It took me a while to get into because I stopped after the first few pages.
I did like Adam and Felix in the story, but the way their relationship developed for me wasn't something I could really fall for. It read very differently than described by the blurb, which I'm not sure which was supposed to be accurate. It felt a little bit like the semi-cheesy teenage romance. I guess also because it is a YA read. Most of the MM Romances tend to be past the high school age. I'm sure for its intended audience it is something the readers could relate to more and be brought into the story.
The writing also had some to be desired, because it felt like there were so many unnecessary details, but again it could have been for the actual target audience...who knows. 3 stars.
I think I may be the only one who didn't like this quite so much that it was a 4 or 5 star read. It took me a while to get into because I stopped after the first few pages.
I did like Adam and Felix in the story, but the way their relationship developed for me wasn't something I could really fall for. It read very differently than described by the blurb, which I'm not sure which was supposed to be accurate. It felt a little bit like the semi-cheesy teenage romance. I guess also because it is a YA read. Most of the MM Romances tend to be past the high school age. I'm sure for its intended audience it is something the readers could relate to more and be brought into the story.
The writing also had some to be desired, because it felt like there were so many unnecessary details, but again it could have been for the actual target audience...who knows. 3 stars.
April 13, 2019
I don't usually like present tense first person storytelling - i find it jarring, I think. That was never an issue for me with this book. I fell for both Felix and Adam quickly, nearly as quickly as they did for each other. Felix is dealing with an extremely difficult situation in the best way he knows how, though trying to hide from his problems, every just until school ends, is not the best or most effective plan. Adam has made his own mistakes, and is in London for the summer for a job, maybe some fun, that's it. And they found each other, more they were thrown together, and could not have been better matched. Content warning for homophobic bullying, including some graphic violence and blood/injury. This was my first book by this author and I'm already planning to read another.
April 30, 2019
Wow!?!
Soames has once again written a lovely tale of love. 717 miles proves that love can evolve in the most unlikely of circumstances. I found this book to be not only a tale of two people in love, but a tale of family and friends and the strength we have when all who love us are involved. I really enjoyed both main characters as well as the plot of this masterful tale. Definitely well worth the read.
Soames has once again written a lovely tale of love. 717 miles proves that love can evolve in the most unlikely of circumstances. I found this book to be not only a tale of two people in love, but a tale of family and friends and the strength we have when all who love us are involved. I really enjoyed both main characters as well as the plot of this masterful tale. Definitely well worth the read.
May 6, 2019
WOW! OH WOW 😲
OH MY GOSH.... what a sensationally fabulous book!
I enjoyed this book so, so much.
Absolutely one of my favourite reads of the decade. And that is saying a lot, because I have read a ton of excellent books in that time.
This author (new to me in every way) has totally left me gasping with her outstanding writing. Her writing style here (first person, present tense) could not possibly have been executed any other way.
This book. This book just literally grabbed me, and held me captivated for two days straight.
The plot, the development of her main characters, and (several) supporting characters, are just so excellently done.
Her sex scenes (of which we see lots & lots) are almost poetic in their description,
saturated with passion & angst in their execution.
This is, indeed a very sweet, but angsty tale which, at times just skates on the very edge of taboo, in that it deals with a love story between a youngster and the (slightly older) young man who is employed as a au pair and companion for him.
Though this is swinging between insta-attraction and hate at first sight, we are lead on an incredibly realistic journey alongside these two amazing boys.
And my, oh my, these two adorable boys just love one another so, so much,
you get an almost painful sensation in your gut.
But all credit to the author, as her descriptions are so we'll done, that you are living in this story from the first sentence to the last.
I award five million stars for this one!
Most certainly an adult read for sexual content and frequency.
A fair amount of Profanity (but not vulgar).
Heat level 5 flames.
Dual POV with epilogue plus a lovely bonus chapter.
(Very few, very minor typos too. Not enough to distract the reader).
Highly, highly recommended!!
Worth every minute and every penny!
OH MY GOSH.... what a sensationally fabulous book!
I enjoyed this book so, so much.
Absolutely one of my favourite reads of the decade. And that is saying a lot, because I have read a ton of excellent books in that time.
This author (new to me in every way) has totally left me gasping with her outstanding writing. Her writing style here (first person, present tense) could not possibly have been executed any other way.
This book. This book just literally grabbed me, and held me captivated for two days straight.
The plot, the development of her main characters, and (several) supporting characters, are just so excellently done.
Her sex scenes (of which we see lots & lots) are almost poetic in their description,
saturated with passion & angst in their execution.
This is, indeed a very sweet, but angsty tale which, at times just skates on the very edge of taboo, in that it deals with a love story between a youngster and the (slightly older) young man who is employed as a au pair and companion for him.
Though this is swinging between insta-attraction and hate at first sight, we are lead on an incredibly realistic journey alongside these two amazing boys.
And my, oh my, these two adorable boys just love one another so, so much,
you get an almost painful sensation in your gut.
But all credit to the author, as her descriptions are so we'll done, that you are living in this story from the first sentence to the last.
I award five million stars for this one!
Most certainly an adult read for sexual content and frequency.
A fair amount of Profanity (but not vulgar).
Heat level 5 flames.
Dual POV with epilogue plus a lovely bonus chapter.
(Very few, very minor typos too. Not enough to distract the reader).
Highly, highly recommended!!
Worth every minute and every penny!
September 6, 2019
Written before Little Harbour and Open Water - I appreciated this offering less. Perhaps it is because the focus is on two teenage MCs (from Norwegian backgrounds) rather than my preferred mid-life / older romances. Ms Soames' trademark usual banter and humorous text messages do help move the plot along. I would have preferred a little less 'sex' but I guess this is par-for-course for hormone driven teens.
April 30, 2019
This story is just truly beautiful and I am so so tired because I had to stay up until I had devoured the whole book. I laughed and I cried along with Adam and Felix, I think I went through every emotion whilst reading this. It was so heartbreaking to see Felix being bullied throughout this story, I’m just glad that that vile Elias got everything he deserves. I absolute favourite character is Felix’s mum, she is just absolutely crazy. This book is going to stay with me for a long time to come.
June 1, 2019
A beautiful love story between two young men who found each other when they most needed it. Really enjoyed reading this book and seeing how they both developed throughout the story. And as a Scandinavian Adam made laugh with the things that are different in UK. Looking forward to seeing what is next from this author.
May 1, 2019
This is a good book, but it could have benefited from a much tighter writing. Like, for instance, just how many times can you use the word 'whilst' on the course of one book? A LOT, as it turns out. More importantly, what teenager uses the word 'whilst' on a regular basis? Things like this just mess with the flow of what is otherwise a beautiful story centered around awesome characters.
April 21, 2019
I was so pleased when I was given an ARC of 717 Miles by Sophia Soames. I had previously read Safe Harbour so this book immediately went to the top of my wanted list. I loved both books.
In 717 Miles we meet Adam who has been hired to look after Felix while his mother is working. She is an airline hostess who works the long haul flights. Felix has been turned from a happy, popular young man - he is 17 at the start of the book - into a terrified, lonely victim by bullying. All he wants to do is survive his final few weeks of school.
It is Adam who changes everything for him. Although only in England for a few weeks they bond almost immediately and the most wonderful love story develops.
717 Miles kept me reading. The book is written in the present tense and is told from mainly alternating points of view but it works so well. Other characters do chime in during texting and some of these conversations are funny.We get to know everyone so well.
I highly recommend this book and I'm already eagerly anticipating Sophia's next story.
In 717 Miles we meet Adam who has been hired to look after Felix while his mother is working. She is an airline hostess who works the long haul flights. Felix has been turned from a happy, popular young man - he is 17 at the start of the book - into a terrified, lonely victim by bullying. All he wants to do is survive his final few weeks of school.
It is Adam who changes everything for him. Although only in England for a few weeks they bond almost immediately and the most wonderful love story develops.
717 Miles kept me reading. The book is written in the present tense and is told from mainly alternating points of view but it works so well. Other characters do chime in during texting and some of these conversations are funny.We get to know everyone so well.
I highly recommend this book and I'm already eagerly anticipating Sophia's next story.
November 14, 2019
OMG what a beautiful and touching story! I loved every word!
April 22, 2022
A charming and endearing YA novel. Sophia Soames not only captured all the dizzy passion of first love but also the tribalism and friendships of teenage boys. The whole story read so naturally, with every character coming to life as the central romance flowered. Lots of light and shade (particularly with the realistic bullying aspect) made this an even warmer and loving read. A true joy.
November 26, 2019
dnf @ 46%
Having loved the author's In This Bed of Snowflakes We Lie, I found this one in need of editing.
Having loved the author's In This Bed of Snowflakes We Lie, I found this one in need of editing.
May 4, 2019
4 Stars!
This is my second book by Sophia Soames, and while Little Harbour is still my favorite, this was a pretty good read, too. Just be warned that it deals with extreme bullying and that some scenes might be difficult to read.
Adam and Felix were such sweet and loving boys and it was so easy to love them. Adam was especially nice, he loved to cook for Felix and Felix's mom (good God, the woman could eat!) and that fell very quickly into the role of Felix's protector when he realized what Felix had been going through. It was amazing to see Felix's growth throughout the book, how having Adam's love and support helped him to come out of his shell. Their relationship developed fast and their feelings grew even faster, with all the drive of their youth—Adam was 19 and Felix 17—and yet, it didn't feel rushed. It was all very organic and natural.
While I liked Felix's mom and both Felix and Adam's friends, I felt that sometimes it was a little too much and took attention away from Adam and Felix and the bullying subplot, which by the way, was very well done and with a satisfying ending.
While I enjoyed the book, there was one thing that grated on my nerves and it's how many times the word 'whilst' was used in the book. If you're curious, it was 176 times. Not only is the word a bit, well, dated, and something that I expect to read in a historical romance, but it was disruptive and pulled me out of the story every single time I found it every few pages. I'm sorry, I just didn't think it worked well in this setting.
Overall, though, the story has a lot of heart and while there was angst, it was mostly from external sources, and it had a lovely epilogue and bonus scene. If you enjoy emotional NA books with lovable characters, you won't want to miss this one.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This is my second book by Sophia Soames, and while Little Harbour is still my favorite, this was a pretty good read, too. Just be warned that it deals with extreme bullying and that some scenes might be difficult to read.
Adam and Felix were such sweet and loving boys and it was so easy to love them. Adam was especially nice, he loved to cook for Felix and Felix's mom (good God, the woman could eat!) and that fell very quickly into the role of Felix's protector when he realized what Felix had been going through. It was amazing to see Felix's growth throughout the book, how having Adam's love and support helped him to come out of his shell. Their relationship developed fast and their feelings grew even faster, with all the drive of their youth—Adam was 19 and Felix 17—and yet, it didn't feel rushed. It was all very organic and natural.
While I liked Felix's mom and both Felix and Adam's friends, I felt that sometimes it was a little too much and took attention away from Adam and Felix and the bullying subplot, which by the way, was very well done and with a satisfying ending.
While I enjoyed the book, there was one thing that grated on my nerves and it's how many times the word 'whilst' was used in the book. If you're curious, it was 176 times. Not only is the word a bit, well, dated, and something that I expect to read in a historical romance, but it was disruptive and pulled me out of the story every single time I found it every few pages. I'm sorry, I just didn't think it worked well in this setting.
Overall, though, the story has a lot of heart and while there was angst, it was mostly from external sources, and it had a lovely epilogue and bonus scene. If you enjoy emotional NA books with lovable characters, you won't want to miss this one.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
August 2, 2020
4 stars
There were lots of flaws but I still enjoyed it a lot. Some things didn't make sense to me but it was too much fun for me to care. Very steamy, especially for a YA, so I wouldn't categorize it as such, even though the MCs are 19 and 17.
There were lots of flaws but I still enjoyed it a lot. Some things didn't make sense to me but it was too much fun for me to care. Very steamy, especially for a YA, so I wouldn't categorize it as such, even though the MCs are 19 and 17.
May 9, 2019
More accurately, it's 4.8 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
This book was soooooo cute! Sorry, I had to say that BAE, so that those amongst you who don’t have the time to read longish reviews know what to do: grab a copy. Phew. Feeling better now.
Alright. This book introduces a bunch of endearingly crazy people. Adam is a 19-year-old Norwegian guy who has totally fucked up his Asian dream-holidays with his school-mates. As he needs to earn money instead, he applies for an Au-Pair-job in London. To his utter astonishment, the half-Norwegian mother of the kid he’s supposed to look after thinks he’s perfect for the job—she must be mad, he thinks (spoiler: he’s right, she’s slightly bonkers, and I liked her at once). So, he packs his bag and hops on the next airplane. In London he meets Felix Haugland, the youngster he’s meant to babysit. Said youngster turns out to be sweet 17, handsome as hell, and sullen as they come.
What Adam doesn’t know is that being openly gay, Felix is the whipping boy of a gang of school bullies. The more he gets bullied, the more he withdraws into his own, private bubble of teenage angst and passive-aggressive moping. Of course, he’s less than thrilled to stumble upon the new babysitter his mom has hired (she’s a hard-working, frequently absent stewardess, FYI), especially as he finds said babysitter incredibly hot. Both try to find a way to avoid each other, but as days go by, Adam’s chill and easy-going manner makes it harder and harder for Felix to sulk. Unsurprisingly, as soon as he opens up, he discovers he’s falling for the Norwegian stranger, and falling hard and fast. Adam, on the other hand, has no qualms to acknowledge he’s bisexual, because why else would he find young Felix so disturbingly attractive? Then the first, sweet kiss is exchanged, and from there on, love goes its way. As does nature. I mean, two boys, 17 and 19 years old, full of sap and energy… Yes, they can. And they do.
Alright, the book could have been better edited and therefore shorter, as the author freely admits in her afterword. She could have corrected some minor comma-errors, as well. But the way the novel stands, I found it refreshingly sweet, with a certain rhythm, and unpredictable developments. Ah, to be 17 again! Ah, if I had found love at 17, I guess I would have kissed and snogged and cuddled and shagged just as much and with just as much gusto, fervour, passion as these two do. Once they allow themselves to fall in love with each other, there’s no holding back. They can’t keep their eyes off each other, they can’t keep their thoughts off each other, they can’t keep their hands off each other. And the whole thing is so cute, despite the moments of anguish when Felix’s bullies strike again. But you can feel how good these two boys are for each other.
Except the main bully, there was not one character I disliked in this novel. I mean, you can’t not love Adam with his passion for cooking and baking, his artistic sense, his humour, his nice, easy-going, loving, and caring personality. Plus, he’s quite bananas. As is his paramour Felix, despite his angst and the serious issues he tries to hide. His best friends all have a certain grain of folly as well, and so do Adam’s buddies and family members back in Oslo, whom we get to know through frequent exchanges (text messages? WhatsApp?). Felix’s mom comes across as the world’s crappiest mother in the beginning, but as the plot unravels, I completely changed my mind (at the same pace as Adam, in fact) and found her more and more cutely odd (bonkers, I said) and just as loving and trusting a mother as Felix needs.
Yes, there were moments when I was thinking nothing new was added in a scene, and all in all, a good pair of scissors could have straightened out the whole book and made it stream better. And yet. Something in Sophia Soames’s writing, something in her insisting on the Big, Great Love with capital letters that starts to fill Adam’s and Felix’s hearts kept me going and wishing the story would never end. Because when you get a whole lot of believingly written cuteness, why would you complain? Beware, there were even one or two scenes where yours truly started to feel his eyes get moist… PS: the cover drawing is really amazing, too! So if you’re into exploring teenage love at its best, this is definitely a book for you.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
This book was soooooo cute! Sorry, I had to say that BAE, so that those amongst you who don’t have the time to read longish reviews know what to do: grab a copy. Phew. Feeling better now.
Alright. This book introduces a bunch of endearingly crazy people. Adam is a 19-year-old Norwegian guy who has totally fucked up his Asian dream-holidays with his school-mates. As he needs to earn money instead, he applies for an Au-Pair-job in London. To his utter astonishment, the half-Norwegian mother of the kid he’s supposed to look after thinks he’s perfect for the job—she must be mad, he thinks (spoiler: he’s right, she’s slightly bonkers, and I liked her at once). So, he packs his bag and hops on the next airplane. In London he meets Felix Haugland, the youngster he’s meant to babysit. Said youngster turns out to be sweet 17, handsome as hell, and sullen as they come.
What Adam doesn’t know is that being openly gay, Felix is the whipping boy of a gang of school bullies. The more he gets bullied, the more he withdraws into his own, private bubble of teenage angst and passive-aggressive moping. Of course, he’s less than thrilled to stumble upon the new babysitter his mom has hired (she’s a hard-working, frequently absent stewardess, FYI), especially as he finds said babysitter incredibly hot. Both try to find a way to avoid each other, but as days go by, Adam’s chill and easy-going manner makes it harder and harder for Felix to sulk. Unsurprisingly, as soon as he opens up, he discovers he’s falling for the Norwegian stranger, and falling hard and fast. Adam, on the other hand, has no qualms to acknowledge he’s bisexual, because why else would he find young Felix so disturbingly attractive? Then the first, sweet kiss is exchanged, and from there on, love goes its way. As does nature. I mean, two boys, 17 and 19 years old, full of sap and energy… Yes, they can. And they do.
Alright, the book could have been better edited and therefore shorter, as the author freely admits in her afterword. She could have corrected some minor comma-errors, as well. But the way the novel stands, I found it refreshingly sweet, with a certain rhythm, and unpredictable developments. Ah, to be 17 again! Ah, if I had found love at 17, I guess I would have kissed and snogged and cuddled and shagged just as much and with just as much gusto, fervour, passion as these two do. Once they allow themselves to fall in love with each other, there’s no holding back. They can’t keep their eyes off each other, they can’t keep their thoughts off each other, they can’t keep their hands off each other. And the whole thing is so cute, despite the moments of anguish when Felix’s bullies strike again. But you can feel how good these two boys are for each other.
Except the main bully, there was not one character I disliked in this novel. I mean, you can’t not love Adam with his passion for cooking and baking, his artistic sense, his humour, his nice, easy-going, loving, and caring personality. Plus, he’s quite bananas. As is his paramour Felix, despite his angst and the serious issues he tries to hide. His best friends all have a certain grain of folly as well, and so do Adam’s buddies and family members back in Oslo, whom we get to know through frequent exchanges (text messages? WhatsApp?). Felix’s mom comes across as the world’s crappiest mother in the beginning, but as the plot unravels, I completely changed my mind (at the same pace as Adam, in fact) and found her more and more cutely odd (bonkers, I said) and just as loving and trusting a mother as Felix needs.
Yes, there were moments when I was thinking nothing new was added in a scene, and all in all, a good pair of scissors could have straightened out the whole book and made it stream better. And yet. Something in Sophia Soames’s writing, something in her insisting on the Big, Great Love with capital letters that starts to fill Adam’s and Felix’s hearts kept me going and wishing the story would never end. Because when you get a whole lot of believingly written cuteness, why would you complain? Beware, there were even one or two scenes where yours truly started to feel his eyes get moist… PS: the cover drawing is really amazing, too! So if you’re into exploring teenage love at its best, this is definitely a book for you.
May 3, 2019
Sophia Soames' 717 Miles is a wonderful coming of age romance.
Definitely a great romance, Felix's world is shaken off it's axis when Adam shows up as Felix's new babysitter. Both men have tragic backgrounds, Felix's full of horrific bullying, Adam's with a problem with his friends. The bullying is bad, and I definitely suggest you skip this one if that's a trigger. However, the bullying is well explored, including the nightmares that Felix struggles with.
I love these two, both individually and as a couple. They definitely have a lot to offer each other, and drastically help heal one another. An enemies to lovers tale, they develop a strong connection as Adam develops compassion and caring for the scared younger man.
Their story is one of pain and fear, as well as guilt and regret. It's an emotional ride as they deal with their relationship, homophobia, and bullying.
Felix's mother is such an enigma. She's both an absentee mom, yet she also has a wonderful relationship with Felix, and offers him the world, literally. I found this part of the story to be frustrating and interesting.
Written in present tense, I was a little uncomfortable, as I don't enjoy present tense writing. That's just a personal issue of mine.
Overall, 717 Miles is a heartfelt story of healing and love. I was a little weary of the blurb, but I am thrilled I decided to try this one. It is truly a great read.
May 4, 2019
A beautiful and sensuous story of young love that is heartbreaking and joyous all at once. Adam and Felix are captivating and precious. The beauty and flow of the story swept me up in it's emotional and at times harrowing prose. As a first time reader of Sophia Soames I was instantly transported to the struggles and fears and hopes of love and the strength that was embedded in Felix. Adam who comes in as Au Pair, hired by Felix's mother , the wonderful character Birgit, is charged to help her "troubled" son. The way Adam and Felix test each other early on is oft times funny and sweet . What is also apparent is they both have instant almost magnetic attraction to each other. All the wonderful way this story travels through the weeks and some incredible journeys had me lost in such a pleasant ease as the pages kept turning and my absolute heart hung on every word and emotion and laughs and cries. Brilliant and and exceptionally uplifting, 717 Miles will make your heart young again and believe full stop that the power of love is the greatest way to triumph in a sometimes cold and heartless world.
May 3, 2019
Loved
I've read this story twice now. I love the whole book. Adam and Felix are wonderful characters. Felix is just surviving and trying to stay alive for the next few weeks until he can graduate. Adam is getting away from home for a bit after a bad experience. These two boys/guys needed something or someone in their life and they find it in each other. They give so much to each other and complete each other. They are sweet and funny together. Adam wants to take care of Felix; keep him safe and felling loved. I like how their relationship brings them back together with their best friends and encourages them to remember that they aren't alone.
This is a fabulous story about love and overcoming past and present tragedies. Stopping a bully and moving on with your life.
I've read this story twice now. I love the whole book. Adam and Felix are wonderful characters. Felix is just surviving and trying to stay alive for the next few weeks until he can graduate. Adam is getting away from home for a bit after a bad experience. These two boys/guys needed something or someone in their life and they find it in each other. They give so much to each other and complete each other. They are sweet and funny together. Adam wants to take care of Felix; keep him safe and felling loved. I like how their relationship brings them back together with their best friends and encourages them to remember that they aren't alone.
This is a fabulous story about love and overcoming past and present tragedies. Stopping a bully and moving on with your life.
June 16, 2020
Brigit is a terrible, clueless mother. She seems more of a friend than a parent to her son.
Throughout this book, I always get a sense of impending doom around the corner, just don't know when it will happen. So I skimmed until I find the scene so I can more or less expect it when it happens. Bullying and homophobic attacks are horrible in this day and age. And the letter at the end by the bully Elias to Felix served no purpose. He did not show remorse.
Felix and Adam are good for each other.
Throughout this book, I always get a sense of impending doom around the corner, just don't know when it will happen. So I skimmed until I find the scene so I can more or less expect it when it happens. Bullying and homophobic attacks are horrible in this day and age. And the letter at the end by the bully Elias to Felix served no purpose. He did not show remorse.
Felix and Adam are good for each other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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