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The Impossible Boy #2
The Lost Boy
Five years after his band Ares shot to success, Ben Easton is struggling. He’s holed up in a mansion in Los Angeles while he fights depression and a dark drug addiction that threatens to destroy everything. In a final attempt to save Ben’s life, his best friend Tone does something desperate—he calls Ben’s ex-boyfriend Stan and begs him to help.
Stan Novikov is living in New York and thriving in his career as a fashion journalist. He hasn’t been back to London since he and Ben broke up, but that seems like the right place to go—along with Tone—to try and shock Ben out of his unhealthy lifestyle.
The band have to finish their album before Christmas but without Ben, work has stalled. Ben has to decide whether he’s going to stay with Ares and keep making music, or find another path for his future. One that might just include Stan.
Stan Novikov is living in New York and thriving in his career as a fashion journalist. He hasn’t been back to London since he and Ben broke up, but that seems like the right place to go—along with Tone—to try and shock Ben out of his unhealthy lifestyle.
The band have to finish their album before Christmas but without Ben, work has stalled. Ben has to decide whether he’s going to stay with Ares and keep making music, or find another path for his future. One that might just include Stan.
ebook
First published January 19, 2020
About the author
Anna Martin
48 books480 followersAnna Martin is from a picturesque seaside village in the south west of England. After spending most of her childhood making up stories, she studied English Literature at university before attempting to turn her hand as a professional writer.
Apart from being physically dependent on her laptop, she is enthusiastic about writing and producing local grassroots theatre (especially at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where she can be found every summer), travelling, learning to play the ukulele, and Ben & Jerry’s New York Super Fudge Chunk.
Although her most recent work is in the LGBT romance genre, in the past Anna has worked on a variety of different projects including short stories, drabbles, flash fiction, fan fiction, plays for both children and adults, and poetry. She has written novels in the Teen or Young Adult genre, Romance and Fantasy novels.
Anna is, by her own admission, almost unhealthily obsessed with books. The library she has amassed is both large and diverse; "My favourite books," she says, "are 'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins, 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee and 'Oryx and Crake' by Margaret Atwood." She also owns multiple copies of Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park books and re-reads the Harry Potter novels with almost startling regularity.
Anna claims her entire career is due to the love, support, pre-reading and creative ass-kicking provided by her closest friend Jennifer. Jennifer refuses to accept any responsibility for anything Anna has written.
Apart from being physically dependent on her laptop, she is enthusiastic about writing and producing local grassroots theatre (especially at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where she can be found every summer), travelling, learning to play the ukulele, and Ben & Jerry’s New York Super Fudge Chunk.
Although her most recent work is in the LGBT romance genre, in the past Anna has worked on a variety of different projects including short stories, drabbles, flash fiction, fan fiction, plays for both children and adults, and poetry. She has written novels in the Teen or Young Adult genre, Romance and Fantasy novels.
Anna is, by her own admission, almost unhealthily obsessed with books. The library she has amassed is both large and diverse; "My favourite books," she says, "are 'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins, 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee and 'Oryx and Crake' by Margaret Atwood." She also owns multiple copies of Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park books and re-reads the Harry Potter novels with almost startling regularity.
Anna claims her entire career is due to the love, support, pre-reading and creative ass-kicking provided by her closest friend Jennifer. Jennifer refuses to accept any responsibility for anything Anna has written.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 9, 2020
This is a story about redemption, salvation and finding home.
Ben and Stan had found a home in each other but life happened and it slipped away. Now, five years later Ben is mired in an addiction that's on the verge of killing him when Tone intervenes and brings them back together. Good ole Tone.
The blurb is pretty straightforward and the narrative is as well, so I'll refrain from summarizing. Suffice to say, it's brimming with the same unfussy writing and unambiguous dialogue that enchanted me in The Impossible Boy.
Life is tough enough without histrionics and that is what works most for me with this duet. Stan is a gay, gender fluid, fashionista with an eating disorder and Ben is a bisexual rockstar with anxiety and a raging drug addiction. Simply navigating the hands they've been dealt while being ever mindful of the landmines that could trigger either of them into a relapse that would quite literally kill them is more than enough to deal with on a daily basis.
But make no mistake becoming 'we' again is an odyssey that is both heartbreaking and joyous, gritty and poignant, just without antics. I found the honesty of Ben's addiction and the stripped down approach to his recovery refreshing. He's an addict. He'll always be an addict but what resonated with me was the fact that he undertakes treatment for himself with Stan's help rather than for Stan and I applaud Ms. Martin for making that distinction.
More than once along the way I found myself becoming emotional while reading The Lost Boy. I actually think 'The Lost Boys' is a more apropos title since they've both lost a part of themselves through their separation; both are shadows of their former selves. I guess losing your soulmate will do that to a person. Rebuilding the trust between them is incremental; the love is still there. Always. Learning how to do it again with all the new extraneous stuff factored in is the trick, so expect more of a love story than an erotic romance.
Some will probably say the story is meandering and could've been tightened up and they may be right but, honestly, I didn't care. I wanted more time with Stan and Ben and that's what I got, so zero complaints from me. I don't know that I can let them go now but I'm happy with how their story ended and, frankly, I cannot bear the thought of them breaking up again. So, au revoir, Stan and Ben. Be well. I'll see you in a reread.
Fans of The Impossible Boy, this is a must read.
If you enjoy love stories free of artifice, this duet is golden.
If you enjoy second chances, The Lost Boy is a melodic ballad to the trope.
If you enjoy fashion or rockstars, this is an ode to both.
Lastly, it's a love song to London so if that appeals, give it a whirl.
An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖
Original squealing
Ben and Stan had found a home in each other but life happened and it slipped away. Now, five years later Ben is mired in an addiction that's on the verge of killing him when Tone intervenes and brings them back together. Good ole Tone.
The blurb is pretty straightforward and the narrative is as well, so I'll refrain from summarizing. Suffice to say, it's brimming with the same unfussy writing and unambiguous dialogue that enchanted me in The Impossible Boy.
Life is tough enough without histrionics and that is what works most for me with this duet. Stan is a gay, gender fluid, fashionista with an eating disorder and Ben is a bisexual rockstar with anxiety and a raging drug addiction. Simply navigating the hands they've been dealt while being ever mindful of the landmines that could trigger either of them into a relapse that would quite literally kill them is more than enough to deal with on a daily basis.
But make no mistake becoming 'we' again is an odyssey that is both heartbreaking and joyous, gritty and poignant, just without antics. I found the honesty of Ben's addiction and the stripped down approach to his recovery refreshing. He's an addict. He'll always be an addict but what resonated with me was the fact that he undertakes treatment for himself with Stan's help rather than for Stan and I applaud Ms. Martin for making that distinction.
More than once along the way I found myself becoming emotional while reading The Lost Boy. I actually think 'The Lost Boys' is a more apropos title since they've both lost a part of themselves through their separation; both are shadows of their former selves. I guess losing your soulmate will do that to a person. Rebuilding the trust between them is incremental; the love is still there. Always. Learning how to do it again with all the new extraneous stuff factored in is the trick, so expect more of a love story than an erotic romance.
Some will probably say the story is meandering and could've been tightened up and they may be right but, honestly, I didn't care. I wanted more time with Stan and Ben and that's what I got, so zero complaints from me. I don't know that I can let them go now but I'm happy with how their story ended and, frankly, I cannot bear the thought of them breaking up again. So, au revoir, Stan and Ben. Be well. I'll see you in a reread.
Fans of The Impossible Boy, this is a must read.
If you enjoy love stories free of artifice, this duet is golden.
If you enjoy second chances, The Lost Boy is a melodic ballad to the trope.
If you enjoy fashion or rockstars, this is an ode to both.
Lastly, it's a love song to London so if that appeals, give it a whirl.
Triggers for mentions of sexual assault and drug usage.
An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖
Original squealing
January 28, 2020
I understand that a lot of readers get mad when an author messes with the HEA. Personally, I'm delighted when this happens. As long as the characters keep ending back together, bring me all the established couple relationship angst you can.
The Lost Boy was an unexpected, gorgeous sequel to The Impossible Boy. It's definitely the good old Anna Martin I 've missed so much.
P.S. Does not stand alone.
The Lost Boy was an unexpected, gorgeous sequel to The Impossible Boy. It's definitely the good old Anna Martin I 've missed so much.
P.S. Does not stand alone.
Did Not Finish
January 27, 2020dnf @ 41%
Nothing seems to be working for me here: the writing, the story, the pacing, the relationship, Ben feels like a completely different character. After reading the blurb I expected to find a good reason for everything that has happened to him, but I'm not buying it at all.
One of the things I loved about The Impossible Boy was how pure that story was. And I would like to keep it that way. If I wanted to read about issues that this book is dealing with, I'd pick something else. And I really wish I could un-read a certain detail I've learned about Ben. It felt like it was put into the story just to make it more angsty.
DNF for now. I really want to read more about Ben and Stan, but I don't think I want to read this story.
Nothing seems to be working for me here: the writing, the story, the pacing, the relationship, Ben feels like a completely different character. After reading the blurb I expected to find a good reason for everything that has happened to him, but I'm not buying it at all.
One of the things I loved about The Impossible Boy was how pure that story was. And I would like to keep it that way. If I wanted to read about issues that this book is dealing with, I'd pick something else. And I really wish I could un-read a certain detail I've learned about Ben. It felt like it was put into the story just to make it more angsty.
DNF for now. I really want to read more about Ben and Stan, but I don't think I want to read this story.
January 25, 2020
-Friendships
-Second chance romance
-Addiction
-Angst
-Redemption
-Hope
This book could've easily been dark and depressing, but instead was full of hope.
4.5 Stars. I loved it.
P.S. Don't read this book before reading The Impossible Boy first.
-Second chance romance
-Addiction
-Angst
-Redemption
-Hope
This book could've easily been dark and depressing, but instead was full of hope.
4.5 Stars. I loved it.
P.S. Don't read this book before reading The Impossible Boy first.
February 11, 2020
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful ❤️ from the pain & angst for both Stan and Ben in both books, comes forgiveness, peace and salvation. You must read the books in order to appreciate the journey and understand the characters. I really loved this. So well written- I was fully invested
January 21, 2020
‘The Lost Boy’ is an excellent title for this compelling and deeply emotional second-chance-at-love story about a rock band, including a fight against addiction by one of its members. All the different types of rocker stereotypes are there, and their issues – pressure to succeed, finish the next album, rabid fans, press attention and public scrutiny, party all the time, and drugs – are pretty much exactly as you’d expect. But the personal relationship between Ben (the addicted band member who collapses) and Stan (his ex who is called in to save Ben, recovered from an eating disorder) makes this plot come alive and gives it a slightly different slant to “the usual". The other element that makes the plot interesting is the gradual reveal of exactly what Stan's old issues are, how they relate to Ben's problem, what their relationship was (and is now), and if and how Ben will pull himself out of the addiction.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 15, 2023
Sorry, but this was barely 2 stars for me. Ben, Stan and even the other members of Ares seem to be different characters altogether when compared to The Impossible Boy (which was a 5 star read for me). Accepted that they have grown and changed within the last 5 years, but these were totally different people! Besides, what I enjoyed about book 1 was completetly absent in this story. Ben wasn't my favourite character in book 1 (Stan was, of course!) and his story did not endear him more to me at all. There was far too little of a real story, but far too much talking and Ben introspecting and, of course, yearning for a hit. Other dark parts were mostly mentioned in passing and in unconvincing retrospect. What about those evil criminals pursuing Ben? The blackmailers? They were mentioned and gone in one sentence ... The rape story came out of nowhere, as if the author realized that something tougher was needed to explain why Ben had gone downhill to such an extent, and it seemed artificially crammed into the story. According to the author, it took 5 years to write The Impossible Boy - and far less time to write this book. I wish the author had taken time to write this book as carefully - and I wish I had not read this book the way it is. It has somehow tainted the wonder of The Impossible Boy and I now need to bleach my memory to get rid of the bad taste it has left behind ...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2020
I admit - I've been shocked when I started reading to realize that Stan and Ben had broken up. I mean - here I was, remembering them as a couple, Stan expressing himself as he wanted to be, Ben and the band on the way up. Everything was fine.
And then I started reading this book and got thrown into cold water. The couple broken up, Ben addicted and a mess, Stan so..conformed...But seriously, I got pulled in immediately. The book is gripping, you suffer with them and you cheer with them. I couldn't put it down. It's not an easy way for both of them and there are setbacks but it is a HEA. I loved it.
And then I started reading this book and got thrown into cold water. The couple broken up, Ben addicted and a mess, Stan so..conformed...But seriously, I got pulled in immediately. The book is gripping, you suffer with them and you cheer with them. I couldn't put it down. It's not an easy way for both of them and there are setbacks but it is a HEA. I loved it.
January 26, 2020
Loved that we arrived without knowing Stan and Ben weren't a thing anymore, and that we had to wait to find out more about that breakup.
Hated seeing Ben in such a state, but silver lining, Stan was in such a good place. Lucky coz now he can support Ben through his own despair.
It takes ages to set this pair right, and it's worth taking this well developed journey. It's all about family, and how we need to care for each other.
(also drugs are bad)
Very intense in some places. so maybe seek out TWs.
Hated seeing Ben in such a state, but silver lining, Stan was in such a good place. Lucky coz now he can support Ben through his own despair.
It takes ages to set this pair right, and it's worth taking this well developed journey. It's all about family, and how we need to care for each other.
(also drugs are bad)
Very intense in some places. so maybe seek out TWs.
September 18, 2020
The first was good, this one blew it all away.
February 12, 2020
Ok. I liked book one and I figured I’d like book two. But ummm....
I didn’t get upset about the breakup between Stan and Ben. I like drama. So I was expecting (hoping for) a big old breakup scene. Nope. It’s glossed over and after the fact. I don’t know why they broke up. Do they know? I think at one point Stan says he was tired of the lies. Ok then if that’s so then why does Summer give Stan the big save yourself because Ben is a lying addict who lies speech? Shouldn’t Stan already know that? He left because of lies. Right? Since I don’t really know why they ended their relationship I couldn’t really connect with their reconciliation.
And I really didn’t like Ben’s band mates. Except for Tone. He is the only secondary character with any depth. The rest came off as selfish assholes in my opinion. I didn’t care what happened to them. I wanted to punch Summer in the throat in book one when she was so put out about Ben not rehearsing and wanting to help Stan after Stan ALMOST DIED. In this book they’re fed up with Ben’s addiction and have seemingly written him off. Oh, except for cuckoo clocking him out to finish that album and tour of course.
And these people need separate homes. Why are they always living together?! I love big well written family scenes. But those guys made me tired and they didn’t seem like a family.
And speaking of family, did Stan meet Ben’s family in book one? Because in this book it’s no big deal. They go see Ben’s mom and they all know each other.
I don’t have much to say about Ben. I liked him in book one. I didn’t dislike him here but he doesn’t do much. I would like to have seen more detail on his recovery.
All the stars I gave this review are for Stan. He’s an interesting character and had some funny and touching moments in this book.
I didn’t get upset about the breakup between Stan and Ben. I like drama. So I was expecting (hoping for) a big old breakup scene. Nope. It’s glossed over and after the fact. I don’t know why they broke up. Do they know? I think at one point Stan says he was tired of the lies. Ok then if that’s so then why does Summer give Stan the big save yourself because Ben is a lying addict who lies speech? Shouldn’t Stan already know that? He left because of lies. Right? Since I don’t really know why they ended their relationship I couldn’t really connect with their reconciliation.
And I really didn’t like Ben’s band mates. Except for Tone. He is the only secondary character with any depth. The rest came off as selfish assholes in my opinion. I didn’t care what happened to them. I wanted to punch Summer in the throat in book one when she was so put out about Ben not rehearsing and wanting to help Stan after Stan ALMOST DIED. In this book they’re fed up with Ben’s addiction and have seemingly written him off. Oh, except for cuckoo clocking him out to finish that album and tour of course.
And these people need separate homes. Why are they always living together?! I love big well written family scenes. But those guys made me tired and they didn’t seem like a family.
And speaking of family, did Stan meet Ben’s family in book one? Because in this book it’s no big deal. They go see Ben’s mom and they all know each other.
I don’t have much to say about Ben. I liked him in book one. I didn’t dislike him here but he doesn’t do much. I would like to have seen more detail on his recovery.
All the stars I gave this review are for Stan. He’s an interesting character and had some funny and touching moments in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2020
Uf, yo quería que este libro me gustara, en serio, iba a perdonarle a la autora el porro que se fumó con el final de Impossible, el principio me enganchó, ellos son monísimos, el libro está bien escrito, el ritmo es ágil, pero no, ha sido un despropósito.
No entiendo nada (desarrollo de personajes, relación, tratamiento de la adicción) sinceramente, conforme avanzaba mi cara era un poema, y otra vez porros al final...
No es que me haya resultado una tarea ardua terminarlo, de ahí que le de 2 estrellas, pero es una pena el potencial que tenía esto y en lo que ha quedado.
Por cierto que mucho hablar Ben de algo que le pasa y que le contará a Stan y luego la autora nos niega esa conversación... Mal.
Lo mejor es q me ha recordado mi viaje a Londres con Elsa e Izen, qué buenos tiempos, algo positivo saco al menos.
No entiendo nada (desarrollo de personajes, relación, tratamiento de la adicción) sinceramente, conforme avanzaba mi cara era un poema, y otra vez porros al final...
No es que me haya resultado una tarea ardua terminarlo, de ahí que le de 2 estrellas, pero es una pena el potencial que tenía esto y en lo que ha quedado.
Por cierto que mucho hablar Ben de algo que le pasa y que le contará a Stan y luego la autora nos niega esa conversación... Mal.
Lo mejor es q me ha recordado mi viaje a Londres con Elsa e Izen, qué buenos tiempos, algo positivo saco al menos.
Read
January 29, 2020DNF been trying to finish this book for like a week. I quit.
January 21, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
The Lost Boy is a direct sequel to Anna Martin’s novel, The Impossible Boy, and these books must read in order. I have to admit, I’m a bit conflicted over my review of this one. On the one hand, I love Stan and Ben and it was wonderful to see more of their lives. On the other hand, The Lost Boy felt stodgier and less defined than its predecessor and it was harder to connect with the story and it’s characters this time around.
When The Lost Boy starts, five years have passed and following a breakup, Ben and Stan have gone their separate ways. Ben is at his worst and when Stan re-enters his life, Ben’s in a fragile, broken state. It was obvious from events in The Impossible Boy that Ben was never going to do well under the pressures of band life and his descent into self destruction is believable and heartbreaking.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
The Lost Boy is a direct sequel to Anna Martin’s novel, The Impossible Boy, and these books must read in order. I have to admit, I’m a bit conflicted over my review of this one. On the one hand, I love Stan and Ben and it was wonderful to see more of their lives. On the other hand, The Lost Boy felt stodgier and less defined than its predecessor and it was harder to connect with the story and it’s characters this time around.
When The Lost Boy starts, five years have passed and following a breakup, Ben and Stan have gone their separate ways. Ben is at his worst and when Stan re-enters his life, Ben’s in a fragile, broken state. It was obvious from events in The Impossible Boy that Ben was never going to do well under the pressures of band life and his descent into self destruction is believable and heartbreaking.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
February 12, 2020
Mmmm, el primero me gustó, con mis dudas, muchas, pero me gustó mucho un planteamiento que no se veía mucho con protagonistas que no se veían nada.
En esta segunda parte, no me molesta nada que la autora juegue con el final feliz prometido, pero he encontrado un poco perdido a Stan y su relación. Mucha introspección, cómo salir del agujero, pero muy poco de la relación amorosa, me ha faltado ver mejor cómo vuelven a trazar esos puentes, cómo vuelven a confiar el uno en el otro. Después de terminar me ha dejado con la sensación de que me he perdido muchas cosas. No me ha convencido nada el planteamiento.
En esta segunda parte, no me molesta nada que la autora juegue con el final feliz prometido, pero he encontrado un poco perdido a Stan y su relación. Mucha introspección, cómo salir del agujero, pero muy poco de la relación amorosa, me ha faltado ver mejor cómo vuelven a trazar esos puentes, cómo vuelven a confiar el uno en el otro. Después de terminar me ha dejado con la sensación de que me he perdido muchas cosas. No me ha convencido nada el planteamiento.
June 24, 2022
Disfruté mas esta historia. Las emociones fueron un poco mas sentidas que en el primer relato.
Aprecié el camino duro y bastante realista, desde mi perspectiva, de lo que la industria de la música y la moda le hace a las personas que trabajan en ella y a sus relaciones.
Aprecié el camino duro y bastante realista, desde mi perspectiva, de lo que la industria de la música y la moda le hace a las personas que trabajan en ella y a sus relaciones.
November 14, 2021
surprising second chance
I liked this couple in the first book and had to see just what had happened to their supposed HEA in book one. Felt like I was left on my own to figure out just what happened between them to make them split up, among other things. Enjoyed the story overall.
I liked this couple in the first book and had to see just what had happened to their supposed HEA in book one. Felt like I was left on my own to figure out just what happened between them to make them split up, among other things. Enjoyed the story overall.
January 29, 2020
I think this sequel to the Impossible Boy was the best book of the two. Not just because you'll find out what happens 5 years later but also the way it was written and the progression of the story was played out best. Just loved it !
November 6, 2020
From Impossible to Lost to Healed (an audio review)
In Book one of the Impossible Boy series, Stan was the one who suffered. Oh, Ben had his issues to be sure – the teddy bear was all the proof you needed of that. But Stan was the one who was dealing with anorexia. Who needed tending. Who appeared healthier with Ben’s love. Now, them being together didn’t solve all their problems – books that wrap things up so nicely don’t always feel as authentic as those who leave a few things hanging. The implication being that as time passes, and as their love deepens, that healing can take place. So I got my happy ending. And I wasn’t sure why there needed to be a second book.
Wham. Slam me down five years later and the world has gone to, uh, crap. Stan is living in New York with a hugely successful career as a fashion journalist, and Ben is living in a mansion in LA in a drug-induced haze that make it impossible for him to finish work on Ares’ latest album. He has the money and fame he always dreamed of, and he’s literally snorting his life away. Out of desperation, his bandmate Tone calls Stan and Stan comes because despite everything, he still loves Ben. Tone and Stan squirrel Ben away to London. Away from record executives. Away from adoring fans. Away from the easy supply of drugs.
What comes next is the painful and heartbreaking journey of an addict. Ben has a lot of atoning to do. He’s made a real hash of his life. Losing Stan was only part of the whole mess. He sees what he’s lost and he’s not sure there’s a reason not to lose himself again in drugs. To say there isn’t a clear and straight line to sobriety is an understatement. Ben truly is the lost boy. I hadn’t expected that. After all Stan’s struggles in the previous book, I expected this book to be a continuation of his struggles. But it wasn’t. It was the story of a man who got everything he’d ever wanted and lost the most important thing in his life in the process.
This was a painful book in many ways, but it was also redemptive. The story of two men who lost their way, finding a way home. A way back to each other. A way to be stronger together. And this time I got a real happy ending.
I’ll say a quick note about Dan Calley – another great performance. He hit every note perfectly and I was able to sink into this world without trouble. So well done and hoping there will be more books by Ms. Martin narrated by Mr. Calley.
In Book one of the Impossible Boy series, Stan was the one who suffered. Oh, Ben had his issues to be sure – the teddy bear was all the proof you needed of that. But Stan was the one who was dealing with anorexia. Who needed tending. Who appeared healthier with Ben’s love. Now, them being together didn’t solve all their problems – books that wrap things up so nicely don’t always feel as authentic as those who leave a few things hanging. The implication being that as time passes, and as their love deepens, that healing can take place. So I got my happy ending. And I wasn’t sure why there needed to be a second book.
Wham. Slam me down five years later and the world has gone to, uh, crap. Stan is living in New York with a hugely successful career as a fashion journalist, and Ben is living in a mansion in LA in a drug-induced haze that make it impossible for him to finish work on Ares’ latest album. He has the money and fame he always dreamed of, and he’s literally snorting his life away. Out of desperation, his bandmate Tone calls Stan and Stan comes because despite everything, he still loves Ben. Tone and Stan squirrel Ben away to London. Away from record executives. Away from adoring fans. Away from the easy supply of drugs.
What comes next is the painful and heartbreaking journey of an addict. Ben has a lot of atoning to do. He’s made a real hash of his life. Losing Stan was only part of the whole mess. He sees what he’s lost and he’s not sure there’s a reason not to lose himself again in drugs. To say there isn’t a clear and straight line to sobriety is an understatement. Ben truly is the lost boy. I hadn’t expected that. After all Stan’s struggles in the previous book, I expected this book to be a continuation of his struggles. But it wasn’t. It was the story of a man who got everything he’d ever wanted and lost the most important thing in his life in the process.
This was a painful book in many ways, but it was also redemptive. The story of two men who lost their way, finding a way home. A way back to each other. A way to be stronger together. And this time I got a real happy ending.
I’ll say a quick note about Dan Calley – another great performance. He hit every note perfectly and I was able to sink into this world without trouble. So well done and hoping there will be more books by Ms. Martin narrated by Mr. Calley.
January 10, 2024
rounding up
Book 2 starts 5 years after book 1 ends and one of the reasons it took me so long to read their story was because of the breakup.
This book did a few things right, we pick up after they have already broken up so we don’t get to experience the breakup and instead experience them rebuilding their relationship since the first chapter.
I can also see why the relationship could have ended the way it did, fame is a beast and everyone copes differently. I rather that it fizzled out because they stopped getting along after the band got famous vs. Cheating. I can also see how Ben got into addiction. Aside from it being prevalent in the lifestyle, he didn’t handle fame well from the beginning and without Stan his anchor he just spiraled out.
It’s a bit upsetting to me because the band and fame was never his top priority. He did it for his friends, the music, the bond, and he didn’t want to disappoint them or take away their opportunity by not following through. Anytime it came up in conversation like when Stan was hospitalized in book 1 and he talked about walking away because he had other priorities the band mates made it about them and basically guilted him into staying.
This was very similar, even if he was killing himself with addiction the bands priority was the band vs Ben the person except Tone. That’s how book 2 starts, Ben an addicted mess at the end of his rope and everyone around had given up on him except Tone who as a last resort brings in the x Stan to try and help Ben. The recovery was not linear and there was some hiccups but I loved how even if they hadn’t been in a relationship for years and lived separate lives that their love for each other was still there as an undercurrent.
It took time for them to get their HEA but we got there. I’m not a giant fan of books with a focus on fame so I still enjoyed book 1 the best. There’s also mention to SA. Be warned.
Book 2 starts 5 years after book 1 ends and one of the reasons it took me so long to read their story was because of the breakup.
This book did a few things right, we pick up after they have already broken up so we don’t get to experience the breakup and instead experience them rebuilding their relationship since the first chapter.
I can also see why the relationship could have ended the way it did, fame is a beast and everyone copes differently. I rather that it fizzled out because they stopped getting along after the band got famous vs. Cheating. I can also see how Ben got into addiction. Aside from it being prevalent in the lifestyle, he didn’t handle fame well from the beginning and without Stan his anchor he just spiraled out.
It’s a bit upsetting to me because the band and fame was never his top priority. He did it for his friends, the music, the bond, and he didn’t want to disappoint them or take away their opportunity by not following through. Anytime it came up in conversation like when Stan was hospitalized in book 1 and he talked about walking away because he had other priorities the band mates made it about them and basically guilted him into staying.
This was very similar, even if he was killing himself with addiction the bands priority was the band vs Ben the person except Tone. That’s how book 2 starts, Ben an addicted mess at the end of his rope and everyone around had given up on him except Tone who as a last resort brings in the x Stan to try and help Ben. The recovery was not linear and there was some hiccups but I loved how even if they hadn’t been in a relationship for years and lived separate lives that their love for each other was still there as an undercurrent.
It took time for them to get their HEA but we got there. I’m not a giant fan of books with a focus on fame so I still enjoyed book 1 the best. There’s also mention to SA. Be warned.
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June 15, 2021“The past five years had been a whirlwind, and the wind had stripped away all the elements of himself that Ben like best.”
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I will admit that I struggled at the beginning of this one bec it's five years after the first book and Ben and Stan are broken up !!! Like, what!?!? LOL. I couldn't wrap my head around it so I read a different book between this duology and when I felt I couldn't keep away from the actual HEA they deserved, I continued.
This time, Ben is the one struggling through a rough patch. The band's fame and success leads him to a downward spiral, and his friends have no choice but call up Stan to maybe help him out of it before he self destructs.
In some ways this one is darker than the first book, but the themes of depression and addiction were deftly handled. The pace was also just right. Not too fast, bec really, Ben must be in a good place first before starting anew with Stan. But it also didn't drag, and I thought though it had been challenging for both of them, the timing of all the events to reignite their love for each other were just right.
What I really loved was the organic and non-linear depiction of getting over mental health issues. There was no ~magic moment~ where everything was clear and trule love magically made everything right in the world. Instead, the characters had to really work through the pain to get to the other side. This was apparent in The Impossible Boy, but I think this was shown so much more in this book.
And finally, the ending in this one was just amazing! 'Nuff said.
•
*The audio copies were provided by the author for free through a giveaway on @joyfullyjay 's blog. It doesn't affect my opinion of the book. Thank you. ❤
*This review also appears as a bookstagram on my IG: @bentchbites
•
I will admit that I struggled at the beginning of this one bec it's five years after the first book and Ben and Stan are broken up !!! Like, what!?!? LOL. I couldn't wrap my head around it so I read a different book between this duology and when I felt I couldn't keep away from the actual HEA they deserved, I continued.
This time, Ben is the one struggling through a rough patch. The band's fame and success leads him to a downward spiral, and his friends have no choice but call up Stan to maybe help him out of it before he self destructs.
In some ways this one is darker than the first book, but the themes of depression and addiction were deftly handled. The pace was also just right. Not too fast, bec really, Ben must be in a good place first before starting anew with Stan. But it also didn't drag, and I thought though it had been challenging for both of them, the timing of all the events to reignite their love for each other were just right.
What I really loved was the organic and non-linear depiction of getting over mental health issues. There was no ~magic moment~ where everything was clear and trule love magically made everything right in the world. Instead, the characters had to really work through the pain to get to the other side. This was apparent in The Impossible Boy, but I think this was shown so much more in this book.
And finally, the ending in this one was just amazing! 'Nuff said.
•
*The audio copies were provided by the author for free through a giveaway on @joyfullyjay 's blog. It doesn't affect my opinion of the book. Thank you. ❤
*This review also appears as a bookstagram on my IG: @bentchbites
May 4, 2020
Hi. The rating shows a 3 star for me but actually its a 3.5. I liked this story, I really did, I just didn't love it. I read the first book as well, and it didn't disappoint me too much that the HFN ending in the first book obviously didn't last. Stan and Ben worked hard at getting their relationship back on track and I think it was pretty realistic but I just didn't get the love and the chemistry. They seemed more like a comfortable pair of shoes. There was practically no sex and after 5 years apart you would figure that would be a big part of their coming back together. Also they didn't have some of the conversations that they needed to. For example, a traumatic incident in Ben's recent past contributed to his spiral into drugs and depression, but it was never addressed between the two of them. In fact, the only person Ben spoke to about it outside of his therapist was his friend Tone. I really think Stan deserved to know. I guess I still am not totally sure that this relationship has what it takes to last forever. Also one other thing, very superficial of me, but hey, it bothers me so I'm sharing it: Stan is supposed to be stunning, beautiful, feminine, stylish, and absolutely eye-catching, but his name is STAN, I mean really? STAN? Everytime I heard him called that, it just took me out of how beautifully I was picturing him.
August 29, 2020
Stan and Ben... Two beautiful, broken boys who love and help each other in ways that no one else can.
I read the first book, The Impossible Boy, years ago and I absolutely fell in love with Stan’s character. He’s such a beautiful, broken boy in the first book and to watch how he falls in love with the sweet, protective Ben is both heartbreaking and magical. Then in this second book, The Impossible Boy, we get to see a completely different side to these two characters; suddenly, we’re looking at them in almost a complete role reversal where Ben is falling down a slippery, dangerous slope and Stan is doing everything in his power to save him! It’s an emotional read but there is light at the end of that tunnel and this book perfectly shows that. I know there have been a couple of poor reviews about Stan and Ben’s change in dynamics but I think it works really well; people change, characters develop, and I thought this book was a real treat to read! I have to mention as well that Tone is an absolute hero; his relationship with both of the main characters is just amazing and I loved his frequent appearances throughout the book.
I won’t give any spoilers away, but if you want a story about love, friendship, redemption and second chances then this is the right one for you.
Happy reading all!
I read the first book, The Impossible Boy, years ago and I absolutely fell in love with Stan’s character. He’s such a beautiful, broken boy in the first book and to watch how he falls in love with the sweet, protective Ben is both heartbreaking and magical. Then in this second book, The Impossible Boy, we get to see a completely different side to these two characters; suddenly, we’re looking at them in almost a complete role reversal where Ben is falling down a slippery, dangerous slope and Stan is doing everything in his power to save him! It’s an emotional read but there is light at the end of that tunnel and this book perfectly shows that. I know there have been a couple of poor reviews about Stan and Ben’s change in dynamics but I think it works really well; people change, characters develop, and I thought this book was a real treat to read! I have to mention as well that Tone is an absolute hero; his relationship with both of the main characters is just amazing and I loved his frequent appearances throughout the book.
I won’t give any spoilers away, but if you want a story about love, friendship, redemption and second chances then this is the right one for you.
Happy reading all!
April 13, 2020
Set to five years after the first book, and almost four years after their break up, we meet Ben and Stan again under completely different circumstances.
Stan have made a name for himself and have become more comfortable with himself, though lost some of his sparkle. But he's grown up and ready to save Ben as Ben saved him once.
While Ben have lost himself completely under the stress of fame he didn't want, pressure he couldn't handle and demons that still haunts him.
The honesty of Ben's addiction is what hits home. It's not an easy fix, there is nothing magical about it and some of it is heartbreaking.
When they meet it's like they haven't been apart, yes there is struggles and setbacks, but when their fingers locks together you know it's meant to last. The small gestures throughout the book where both seek to each other over any crowd and simply know what the other needs.
I loved Tones in the first book and I loved him in this one, he is an amazing character and I wish we had gotten to see him with someone. Because he is so sweet when he blushes. And his friendship with Stan is lovely.
I'm always sceptical about a second book because it can go either way, but this one was needed, it let their story come full circle and show them all grown up.
Stan have made a name for himself and have become more comfortable with himself, though lost some of his sparkle. But he's grown up and ready to save Ben as Ben saved him once.
While Ben have lost himself completely under the stress of fame he didn't want, pressure he couldn't handle and demons that still haunts him.
The honesty of Ben's addiction is what hits home. It's not an easy fix, there is nothing magical about it and some of it is heartbreaking.
When they meet it's like they haven't been apart, yes there is struggles and setbacks, but when their fingers locks together you know it's meant to last. The small gestures throughout the book where both seek to each other over any crowd and simply know what the other needs.
I loved Tones in the first book and I loved him in this one, he is an amazing character and I wish we had gotten to see him with someone. Because he is so sweet when he blushes. And his friendship with Stan is lovely.
I'm always sceptical about a second book because it can go either way, but this one was needed, it let their story come full circle and show them all grown up.
February 1, 2020
A beautifully written book.
You will need to read The Impossible Boy before reading this book as it's a continuation of Stan and Ben's story.
The first book focused more on Stan and his demons whilst this book focuses on Ben and his difficulties in dealing with fame when the band Ares becomes a success.
After the band becomes famous and after losing Stan 5 years earlier Ben is an addict and is at the point of no return when in desperation Tone contacts Stan out of the blue to ask for help.
When Stan sees the state of Ben he has no idea how to help him but flying him back to London is a good start and now the hard part begins.
Ben knows he's an addict but nothing helps him get out of the drug cycle he's in except for some reason seeing Stan again and being home in London again is helping as is a new therapist. Can Stan Tone and the rest of the band help Ben overcome his demons and can the band survive when Ben relapses and will Stan forgive him. Read the book to find out.
Highly recommended.
You will need to read The Impossible Boy before reading this book as it's a continuation of Stan and Ben's story.
The first book focused more on Stan and his demons whilst this book focuses on Ben and his difficulties in dealing with fame when the band Ares becomes a success.
After the band becomes famous and after losing Stan 5 years earlier Ben is an addict and is at the point of no return when in desperation Tone contacts Stan out of the blue to ask for help.
When Stan sees the state of Ben he has no idea how to help him but flying him back to London is a good start and now the hard part begins.
Ben knows he's an addict but nothing helps him get out of the drug cycle he's in except for some reason seeing Stan again and being home in London again is helping as is a new therapist. Can Stan Tone and the rest of the band help Ben overcome his demons and can the band survive when Ben relapses and will Stan forgive him. Read the book to find out.
Highly recommended.
November 3, 2021
This is my review on Audible. This is the sequel I didnt even know I needed! Wow! This takes Ben and Stan's relationship to another level. When The Lost Boy ended I got my HEA but little did I know the story was far from over. Book two takes it to another level. I am new to Anna Martin and I am.so happy to have discovered her. She is an amazing story teller and is now at the top of my favorites list after listening to The Impossible Boy followed by The Lost Boy. I loved book two even more than the first one because their relationship deepened and matured. The characters were fleshed out and this couple deserved a sequel.... I love them so much! I stumbled onto this series because Dan Calley was narrator so I don't need to tell you how much I love his performances and interpretations. He is a masterful story teller! Don't hesitate to click on this one!!
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January 29, 2021I’m not entirely sure how I feel about this book, therefore I don’t know how to rate it.
I really loved The Impossible Boy and was expecting to like this one as much, unfortunately I really didn’t. To be fair, I tend to dislike books where one of the MCs is a drug addict, with the exception of “Vespertine”, one of my all time favourite books. But here Ben just seems like a complete different person, and I get it, drugs do that to people, but I couldn’t deal with the change.
Ben’s bandmates were never my favourite people, except for Tone, and my feelings didn’t change. Stan, luckily, was what kept me reading.
I also felt like something important was missing from the book, and I can’t quite pin point what it is. Well, it was sadly not the book that I was hoping to read.
I really loved The Impossible Boy and was expecting to like this one as much, unfortunately I really didn’t. To be fair, I tend to dislike books where one of the MCs is a drug addict, with the exception of “Vespertine”, one of my all time favourite books. But here Ben just seems like a complete different person, and I get it, drugs do that to people, but I couldn’t deal with the change.
Ben’s bandmates were never my favourite people, except for Tone, and my feelings didn’t change. Stan, luckily, was what kept me reading.
I also felt like something important was missing from the book, and I can’t quite pin point what it is. Well, it was sadly not the book that I was hoping to read.
January 27, 2020
Brilliant ♡
At first I was nervous about the premise of this sequel. Who wants to read that the HEA you just finished didn't last? But I was involved with the characters, invested in their lives and gave it a chance. I am so glad I did.
It's a love story, a romance with barge loads of hurt-comfort, so if you're looking for high heat, look elsewhere. If you are allergic to angst, scroll on by. But if you love broken characters who claw and scratch their way to happiness, you have struck gold. The first one was Stan's journey, this one's Ben's and it's gritty and raw and painful but beautiful.
I love every person in this book.
At first I was nervous about the premise of this sequel. Who wants to read that the HEA you just finished didn't last? But I was involved with the characters, invested in their lives and gave it a chance. I am so glad I did.
It's a love story, a romance with barge loads of hurt-comfort, so if you're looking for high heat, look elsewhere. If you are allergic to angst, scroll on by. But if you love broken characters who claw and scratch their way to happiness, you have struck gold. The first one was Stan's journey, this one's Ben's and it's gritty and raw and painful but beautiful.
I love every person in this book.
February 22, 2020
For some reason, this follow up to The Impossible Boy took me longer than usual to read. That is in no way meant to imply that it wasn’t fantastic. It was! I was a little concerned that after loving the first book so much, and then reading the blurb for book two, all I could think was “What did Anna Martin do to Stan and Ben’s happy-ever-after?” I just didn’t want book two to ruin the story for me. I was happily surprised that The Lost Boy was even better than The Impossible Boy. It’s filled with lots of ups and downs for them both, so if you loved Ben and Stan as much as I did, this follow up story is a must read.
February 27, 2020
I liked The Impossible Boy but this one is amazing. It's so much deeper and goes to such a dark places in Ben's sole and Stan's insecurities...my mind is blown away.
I like that Ms. Martin did not sugarcoat the addiction or that the only way out of it is for the addict to be willing to get help. Otherwise, all your efforts are in vain.
Nothing is easy, even with love to pave the way, so everything is a stumble in the dark until both partners are ready to pick up the pieces and support in the pivot moments.
I loved this story and was pleased with the way it ended.
I like that Ms. Martin did not sugarcoat the addiction or that the only way out of it is for the addict to be willing to get help. Otherwise, all your efforts are in vain.
Nothing is easy, even with love to pave the way, so everything is a stumble in the dark until both partners are ready to pick up the pieces and support in the pivot moments.
I loved this story and was pleased with the way it ended.
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