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Socks for an Otter
He fell from his ivory tower and landed in the gutter.
But Sebastian would rather be homeless and hungry than clueless.
On his way to the food pantry, a guy on his cell phone runs into him and triggers his prickly side. As a sign of goodwill, Louis offers to cook for him. But all Sebastian sees is the privilege he used to have.
This isn’t a fairytale. Louis isn’t Prince Charming. And Sebastian can make it on his own.
But it’s been days since he’s had a hot meal. And a blizzard is coming.
Will Sebastian’s pride be his appetizer?
Socks for an Otter is a heartwarming riches-to-rags MM romance brewed with hurt, comfort, comedy, a second chance at love, age gap, and men from different worlds who will give you all the feels.274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2019
70 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Posy Roberts
31 books232 followersPosy Roberts started reading romance when she was young, but textbooks eventually replaced the novels, and she somehow existed without reading for fun. When she finally picked up a romance years later, it was like slipping on a soft hoodie . . . that didn’t quite fit right. She wanted something more.
Now she wanted to read about queer people falling in love. She wanted to explore beyond the happily ever after and watch characters navigate the unpredictability of life as they create their happy homes. So Posy sat down at her keyboard to write the books she wanted to read.
Her stories have been USA Today’s “Happily Ever After” Must-Reads and Rainbow Award finalists. When she’s not writing or editing, she’s spending time with loved ones and doing anything possible to get out of grocery shopping and cooking.
Now she wanted to read about queer people falling in love. She wanted to explore beyond the happily ever after and watch characters navigate the unpredictability of life as they create their happy homes. So Posy sat down at her keyboard to write the books she wanted to read.
Her stories have been USA Today’s “Happily Ever After” Must-Reads and Rainbow Award finalists. When she’s not writing or editing, she’s spending time with loved ones and doing anything possible to get out of grocery shopping and cooking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
December 6, 2020
This was a very sweet romance, while at the same time opening our eyes to the deep issues surrounding homelessness. The MCs were really sweet and adorable together.
But while I agree homelessness is an important issue, and I am happy i read about it in a way that made it personal, and reminded me of my privilege, there was a lot if parts where I felt like I was being lectured. And the lecture went on and in and on. And Louis, I don’t know, nobody is perfect like that. It was just too much. And how Sebastian learned all these lessons and grew so much as a person. Again, too much.
And the whole part about Sebastian’s past and his parents didn’t make much sense. Too many parts of the story were missing and I felt like I never got the answers I was hoping for.
But while I agree homelessness is an important issue, and I am happy i read about it in a way that made it personal, and reminded me of my privilege, there was a lot if parts where I felt like I was being lectured. And the lecture went on and in and on. And Louis, I don’t know, nobody is perfect like that. It was just too much. And how Sebastian learned all these lessons and grew so much as a person. Again, too much.
And the whole part about Sebastian’s past and his parents didn’t make much sense. Too many parts of the story were missing and I felt like I never got the answers I was hoping for.
January 10, 2020
I'd almost forgotten how easy to read Posy's books are. And while some of the plot points of this book didn't feel entirely realistic, the writing flowed easily and I was quickly fully immersed in the story.
Sebastian, who now goes by Bash, is 23 and recently homeless, after having lived a life of luxury and privilege in NYC off his parents' money, partying without any responsibilities or direction, and currently in Washington, DC, in hopes of the winter being not quite as brutal as in New York. He has no contact with his parents after his father threw him out and cut him off financially.
Louis is 38 and a successful political influencer on Capital Hill, pan and out, and so very lonely after having lost his wife and unborn son a couple of years ago. To alleviate his loneliness, Louis volunteers at a homeless shelter where he regularly drops off food and other things to help out.
In some areas, the book might feel a little preachy to some readers, but I want to applaud the author for including real life situations and real life problems in her book. Especially the issue around homelessness and shelters and what can happen to people in shelters and how the city will just come in and trash the few belongings Bash and his friends have scrounged up to simply survive without a real roof over their heads and without a job.
The relationship, after an initial hiccup, develops rather fast, and for reasons, Bash keeps staying with Louis. As they spend time together and learn about each other and talk, Bash's prickliness slowly dissipates and Louis' eyes are opened a little more every day. Despite the given ages, Louis on occasion read a little younger than he was supposed to be, and Sebastian, possibly to what he's seen in the past six months, read as a little more mature than his age would indicate. But they fit together really well, and Louis' caring personality, his willingness to accommodate Bash however he can, and his desire to help were endearing. There's a scene around 65% that drips with emotion and is so very intimate that it made my eyes tear up.
Obviously, there is some conflict, and then we get into a situation out of Louis' control, which becomes a big misunderstanding, during which Bash's fears of Louis not being real are confirmed to him (and only him), and... nah, you read this for yourself.
This story is set around the holidays, but it's not a holiday story. It's angsty and emotional and sweet and made me cry, and I think it's definitely worth your time, so check it out.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
Sebastian, who now goes by Bash, is 23 and recently homeless, after having lived a life of luxury and privilege in NYC off his parents' money, partying without any responsibilities or direction, and currently in Washington, DC, in hopes of the winter being not quite as brutal as in New York. He has no contact with his parents after his father threw him out and cut him off financially.
Louis is 38 and a successful political influencer on Capital Hill, pan and out, and so very lonely after having lost his wife and unborn son a couple of years ago. To alleviate his loneliness, Louis volunteers at a homeless shelter where he regularly drops off food and other things to help out.
In some areas, the book might feel a little preachy to some readers, but I want to applaud the author for including real life situations and real life problems in her book. Especially the issue around homelessness and shelters and what can happen to people in shelters and how the city will just come in and trash the few belongings Bash and his friends have scrounged up to simply survive without a real roof over their heads and without a job.
The relationship, after an initial hiccup, develops rather fast, and for reasons, Bash keeps staying with Louis. As they spend time together and learn about each other and talk, Bash's prickliness slowly dissipates and Louis' eyes are opened a little more every day. Despite the given ages, Louis on occasion read a little younger than he was supposed to be, and Sebastian, possibly to what he's seen in the past six months, read as a little more mature than his age would indicate. But they fit together really well, and Louis' caring personality, his willingness to accommodate Bash however he can, and his desire to help were endearing. There's a scene around 65% that drips with emotion and is so very intimate that it made my eyes tear up.
Obviously, there is some conflict, and then we get into a situation out of Louis' control, which becomes a big misunderstanding, during which Bash's fears of Louis not being real are confirmed to him (and only him), and... nah, you read this for yourself.
This story is set around the holidays, but it's not a holiday story. It's angsty and emotional and sweet and made me cry, and I think it's definitely worth your time, so check it out.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
December 19, 2019
Sebastian Lewis is a 23 years old homeless young man who live under a bridge in Washington DC.
Louis Drake is a 38 years old man working at the capitol, he’s a politic influencer.
Those men don’t evolve in the same universe, but life will bring them in the same path. What will happen is up to them, they just must be ready for it.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a winner. Sock for an Otter by Posy Roberts is hitting my top 5 books in 2019.
I adored this book, I adored the characters, the story, the plot and the writing.
Sebastian used to live in a penthouse in the upper east side. He’s one of these kids, the heir of his parent’s empire, He’s used to never deal with anything, just live, spent money and doing whatever he wants…. Until his parents kick him out in the street and Sebastian discover an unknow world. Rough and dangerous, where he risks his life every day. I adored Sebastian, he’s very self-conscious of who he was, a spoil brat without any care for anyone. He grew up faster living in the street, he didn’t have a choice and despite everything, he remained strong and proud no matter what.
Louis is a widower; he lost his wife and unborn son tragically. He’s a work addict and a real Samaritan. When he’s not working, he’s helping other, people who don’t have his chance in life. Meeting Sebastian awoke something in Louis, something that Louis thought never have again.
I really adored this story; the author did a wonderful job with her characters and their harsh reality. It wasn’t too much, it wasn’t pathetic, it was written with simplicity and humility.
Sometimes we’re so caught up in our live and our daily basis that we forget that people have nothing and have a harsher life than us… this book is a reminder of that, and I gladly recommend it.
I’ve discovered a new talent author and I will happily follow her.
Louis Drake is a 38 years old man working at the capitol, he’s a politic influencer.
Those men don’t evolve in the same universe, but life will bring them in the same path. What will happen is up to them, they just must be ready for it.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a winner. Sock for an Otter by Posy Roberts is hitting my top 5 books in 2019.
I adored this book, I adored the characters, the story, the plot and the writing.
Sebastian used to live in a penthouse in the upper east side. He’s one of these kids, the heir of his parent’s empire, He’s used to never deal with anything, just live, spent money and doing whatever he wants…. Until his parents kick him out in the street and Sebastian discover an unknow world. Rough and dangerous, where he risks his life every day. I adored Sebastian, he’s very self-conscious of who he was, a spoil brat without any care for anyone. He grew up faster living in the street, he didn’t have a choice and despite everything, he remained strong and proud no matter what.
Louis is a widower; he lost his wife and unborn son tragically. He’s a work addict and a real Samaritan. When he’s not working, he’s helping other, people who don’t have his chance in life. Meeting Sebastian awoke something in Louis, something that Louis thought never have again.
I really adored this story; the author did a wonderful job with her characters and their harsh reality. It wasn’t too much, it wasn’t pathetic, it was written with simplicity and humility.
Sometimes we’re so caught up in our live and our daily basis that we forget that people have nothing and have a harsher life than us… this book is a reminder of that, and I gladly recommend it.
I’ve discovered a new talent author and I will happily follow her.
December 25, 2019
DNF at 52%
Couldn’t get past the implausibility of a billionaire’s son living under a bridge.
Also couldn’t get past the long and ridiculous sex scene. Why do women authors drop the subject in their sentence during m/m sex scenes as if imagining that’s how men would talk to each other. It’s extremely cliche. Lots of “wanna make you come. Want you inside me. Gonna wear you out.” etc.
It’s quite conspicuous, this shift in syntax and jargon. Everywhere else, outside of bed, they speak like normal people. I haven’t read m/m in a while, but it’s annoying to see this practice still being upheld.
Anyway, those are the top two grievances. The writing isn’t strong besides and there’s an insta quality to this relationship that’s not particularly gripping. Lastly, Louis is this pansexual liberal who seems written to check every SJW box. There’s also mention of Sebastian checking his privilege etc and of Louis lobbying for equity in Washington. These are all commendable, however, the book reads as if it has an agenda. These issues are not seamlessly woven in, which makes the writing seem contrived.
It just does let read as real.
Couldn’t get past the implausibility of a billionaire’s son living under a bridge.
Also couldn’t get past the long and ridiculous sex scene. Why do women authors drop the subject in their sentence during m/m sex scenes as if imagining that’s how men would talk to each other. It’s extremely cliche. Lots of “wanna make you come. Want you inside me. Gonna wear you out.” etc.
It’s quite conspicuous, this shift in syntax and jargon. Everywhere else, outside of bed, they speak like normal people. I haven’t read m/m in a while, but it’s annoying to see this practice still being upheld.
Anyway, those are the top two grievances. The writing isn’t strong besides and there’s an insta quality to this relationship that’s not particularly gripping. Lastly, Louis is this pansexual liberal who seems written to check every SJW box. There’s also mention of Sebastian checking his privilege etc and of Louis lobbying for equity in Washington. These are all commendable, however, the book reads as if it has an agenda. These issues are not seamlessly woven in, which makes the writing seem contrived.
It just does let read as real.
July 18, 2020
⭐️3 stars⭐️
Oh boy. Do you know the feeling when you read a book so promising and you saying to yourself “yayyy! A 5 stars book” and then you keep reading and wish you didn’t assumed so early that it’s perfect because it’s not? So this was one of those.
First I want to say I did like the book. The theme was pretty unique for M/M romance books (in my experience), the MC were sweet and adorable together (and HOT) but somehow it wasn’t enough.
One thing I didn’t like about it - Bash came from a wealthy family and was disowned by his father after telling him he’s useless, what made him a homeless at 22, but what Bash would do when he will meet his father again?! Of course he will forgive him like nothing happened! Very realistic. I felt like it was important detail for the story but I guess I was wrong. Okay I’m done complaining (:
Oh boy. Do you know the feeling when you read a book so promising and you saying to yourself “yayyy! A 5 stars book” and then you keep reading and wish you didn’t assumed so early that it’s perfect because it’s not? So this was one of those.
First I want to say I did like the book. The theme was pretty unique for M/M romance books (in my experience), the MC were sweet and adorable together (and HOT) but somehow it wasn’t enough.
One thing I didn’t like about it - Bash came from a wealthy family and was disowned by his father after telling him he’s useless, what made him a homeless at 22, but what Bash would do when he will meet his father again?! Of course he will forgive him like nothing happened! Very realistic. I felt like it was important detail for the story but I guess I was wrong. Okay I’m done complaining (:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf
November 24, 2021DNF at 57%
I wasn't that invested in the first place, but when we got to the sex scenes it got too much for me.
I wasn't that invested in the first place, but when we got to the sex scenes it got too much for me.
September 11, 2022
Homeless fairytale
with instalove and Costco.
“Suck my tits”?!!? Really?
with instalove and Costco.
“Suck my tits”?!!? Really?
November 30, 2020
What a beautiful story. I REALLY enjoyed reading this. Both MCs were lovable, despite Bash’s prickliness and because of Louis’ pure good heart.
This is a longer holiday novel, and I normally stick to novellas for my holiday books but I’m so glad I made the exception for this one. It moved at a good pace, and it wasn’t boring.
They make the perfect couple, and I absolutely love them.
This book dealt with some heavy topics in a beautiful way.
I definitely recommend this book.
This is a longer holiday novel, and I normally stick to novellas for my holiday books but I’m so glad I made the exception for this one. It moved at a good pace, and it wasn’t boring.
They make the perfect couple, and I absolutely love them.
This book dealt with some heavy topics in a beautiful way.
I definitely recommend this book.
June 12, 2020
Have to list it on my Holidays shelf although it's connection to that time of the year is only loose knit. It's just that without a certain believe in miracles the story wouldn't work for me. The plot and its execution is so implausible, farfetched and sweet that it needs some Christmas magic to enjoy it but if you're able to lock your knowledge about life and human nature safely away and maybe press the fast-forward button during the sex scenes then it's a really nice pastime best enjoyed on a grey Sunday afternoon together with a cup of hot cocoa. So it's still the cover what I like the most.
February 7, 2020
I wanted to like this more than I did. I'm really not sure why it didn't completely click with me. I've been homeless, although not living on the street like Bash, and I know how hard it is to dig out of that hole. Honestly, I'm still working on digging out. Maybe that's why I didn't ooh and ah over these two finding each other. Still, it was a good story.
August 3, 2022
3-
Jak tylko zobaczyłam tytuł tej książki, potem przeczytałam blurb, wiedziałam, że tę książkę MUSZĘ przeczytać...
To opowieść, nazwijmy ją - okołoświąteczna. Jak ktoś się bardzo uprze, to może nazwać ją i świąteczną. A tym książkom naprawdę jestem w stanie dużo wybaczyć. Magia świąteczna zawsze robi cuda z moim odbiorem takich historii, które zresztą rządzą się odmiennymi prawami od innych.
Ale tutaj... kurde balans, było ciężko. Louis był dobry, bardzo dobry, zbyt dobry - wręcz właściwie idealny i święty, bez żadnych zauważalnych wad. Przez to totalnie ciężkostrawny - bo nawet w historiach świątecznych trudno wziąć na klatę takich ludzi. Zaś Sebastian? Jego historia była niedorzeczna i zdecydowanie niewiarygodna ...
Są w tej historii rzeczy ważne, związane z bezdomnością. Najbardziej przejmująca chyba scena, to "czyszczenie" przez miasto za pomocą policji obozowiska bezdomnych pod mostem - bezduszne niszczenie wszystkiego, co udało im się zdobyć, cały ich majątek, w ramach udawania, że "nasze miasto jest super i czyścimy śmieci, które to wrażenie psują"...
Ale to mało, za mało. Cała historia jest w sumie dość naiwna, słabo trzymająca się kupy, z obowiązkowym pogodzeniem się z ojcem, który zrozumiał swoje błędy...
Zatem skąd się wzięła taka ocena, skoro - szczerze - powinna być niższa?
Zakochałam się w tytule, najzwyczajniej w świecie 🤷♀️
Jak tylko zobaczyłam tytuł tej książki, potem przeczytałam blurb, wiedziałam, że tę książkę MUSZĘ przeczytać...
To opowieść, nazwijmy ją - okołoświąteczna. Jak ktoś się bardzo uprze, to może nazwać ją i świąteczną. A tym książkom naprawdę jestem w stanie dużo wybaczyć. Magia świąteczna zawsze robi cuda z moim odbiorem takich historii, które zresztą rządzą się odmiennymi prawami od innych.
Ale tutaj... kurde balans, było ciężko. Louis był dobry, bardzo dobry, zbyt dobry - wręcz właściwie idealny i święty, bez żadnych zauważalnych wad. Przez to totalnie ciężkostrawny - bo nawet w historiach świątecznych trudno wziąć na klatę takich ludzi. Zaś Sebastian? Jego historia była niedorzeczna i zdecydowanie niewiarygodna ...
Są w tej historii rzeczy ważne, związane z bezdomnością. Najbardziej przejmująca chyba scena, to "czyszczenie" przez miasto za pomocą policji obozowiska bezdomnych pod mostem - bezduszne niszczenie wszystkiego, co udało im się zdobyć, cały ich majątek, w ramach udawania, że "nasze miasto jest super i czyścimy śmieci, które to wrażenie psują"...
Ale to mało, za mało. Cała historia jest w sumie dość naiwna, słabo trzymająca się kupy, z obowiązkowym pogodzeniem się z ojcem, który zrozumiał swoje błędy...
Zatem skąd się wzięła taka ocena, skoro - szczerze - powinna być niższa?
Zakochałam się w tytule, najzwyczajniej w świecie 🤷♀️
July 8, 2020
The beginning was good. Something in the way the author introduces the characters by painting Sebastian's hopelessness in contrast with the normalcy of Louis's life engages me. However, I almost gave up halfway through the book. It was almost 3 stars for me but it got so much better in the later parts and I decided to round up my rating to 4 stars.
I have a love-hate relationship with the main characters. I love how Louis is so caring and sweet with Sebastian but also hate how selfless he could be. He was so selfless that I was nodding to Leah's caution every single time and wanted to shake him up. It makes me wonder whether he loves Sebastian or he was just enjoying the feeling of caring for him and his companionship (and his teases!). I could feel Sebastian's charm and he's such a teaser! But the way he blamed his "actions" and "upbringing" on his parents was very immature and I couldn't bring myself to understand that part of him.
I have a love-hate relationship with the main characters. I love how Louis is so caring and sweet with Sebastian but also hate how selfless he could be. He was so selfless that I was nodding to Leah's caution every single time and wanted to shake him up. It makes me wonder whether he loves Sebastian or he was just enjoying the feeling of caring for him and his companionship (and his teases!). I could feel Sebastian's charm and he's such a teaser! But the way he blamed his "actions" and "upbringing" on his parents was very immature and I couldn't bring myself to understand that part of him.
December 19, 2019
Loved it! Could not put it down at all!
December 23, 2019
I had never read anything by this author before but I really liked this. I admit at first I wasn’t a big fan of the writing style but once I let myself just enjoy the characters and the story line I couldn’t put this down. It was beautiful.
Bash was born into a family with old money and was used to having whatever and whoever he wanted but a terrible judgement made by his father sent him to the streets. He isn’t looking for a knight in shining armor to save him -- he’s just trying to survive the winter.
After losing his wife and child three years ago Louis is trying to regain his footing in the world and this Christmas seems like the perfect time to try and feel okay with being alone. While donating crabs to a local food pantry Louis quite literally runs into Bash...and it’s the beginning of something neither of them ever expected.
Their relationship isn’t easy. It takes awhile for Bash to trust Louis and realize that Louis truly does have a kind heart. Louis on the other hand struggles with not wanting Bash to feel like he has to repay him for the things he’s done for him. But, once these two start to just trust one another and let the feeling between them simmer into something more...it’s lovely.
This may not be a fairy tale but it’s a beautiful love story between two men who both have lost things and find one another in the process of climbing back to the top.
4.5 stars.
Bash was born into a family with old money and was used to having whatever and whoever he wanted but a terrible judgement made by his father sent him to the streets. He isn’t looking for a knight in shining armor to save him -- he’s just trying to survive the winter.
After losing his wife and child three years ago Louis is trying to regain his footing in the world and this Christmas seems like the perfect time to try and feel okay with being alone. While donating crabs to a local food pantry Louis quite literally runs into Bash...and it’s the beginning of something neither of them ever expected.
Their relationship isn’t easy. It takes awhile for Bash to trust Louis and realize that Louis truly does have a kind heart. Louis on the other hand struggles with not wanting Bash to feel like he has to repay him for the things he’s done for him. But, once these two start to just trust one another and let the feeling between them simmer into something more...it’s lovely.
This may not be a fairy tale but it’s a beautiful love story between two men who both have lost things and find one another in the process of climbing back to the top.
4.5 stars.
December 25, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I absolutely loved Sebastian and Louis together in Socks for an Otter. There is a sweetness to them, as well as a lot of heat and sexiness. They are both lovely men and it is hard not to root for them together immediately. Louis is so caring and dotes on Sebastian, wanting to give him every comfort and luxury. And Sebastian revels in not only Louis’ indulgence, but also that Louis treats him as an equal. There is a bit of fantasy feel to this story that I liked, a sort of dreamy quality that really fits the tone. I will say there is a bit of suspension of disbelief required here that Louis would ask a random stranger off the street to come to his house for dinner. Not to mention that Sebastian is willing to go. Or that the men are so quickly comfortable with one another. But if you can go with that aspect of the plot, it is a really rewarding book.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I absolutely loved Sebastian and Louis together in Socks for an Otter. There is a sweetness to them, as well as a lot of heat and sexiness. They are both lovely men and it is hard not to root for them together immediately. Louis is so caring and dotes on Sebastian, wanting to give him every comfort and luxury. And Sebastian revels in not only Louis’ indulgence, but also that Louis treats him as an equal. There is a bit of fantasy feel to this story that I liked, a sort of dreamy quality that really fits the tone. I will say there is a bit of suspension of disbelief required here that Louis would ask a random stranger off the street to come to his house for dinner. Not to mention that Sebastian is willing to go. Or that the men are so quickly comfortable with one another. But if you can go with that aspect of the plot, it is a really rewarding book.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
December 21, 2019
Not for me
I don’t think this is a bad book per se, but I didn’t enjoy it. I wasn’t able to connect with the characters and the plot was kind of boring. And ideas to help homeless are discussed, but aren’t really executed in a long-term sort of way. Not all books are for all readers and this one’s not for me, unfortunately.
I don’t think this is a bad book per se, but I didn’t enjoy it. I wasn’t able to connect with the characters and the plot was kind of boring. And ideas to help homeless are discussed, but aren’t really executed in a long-term sort of way. Not all books are for all readers and this one’s not for me, unfortunately.
January 18, 2020
Once upon a time an oppressed and hungry Otter and a dejected lone Wolf bumped into each other, quite by accident (unless you believe in fate) and began a slow mating ritual that would inspire others in their natural habitat...
The otter, aptly named Bash, because of his fighting spirit was pushed from his home by his parents and forced to make a new home among strangers in a place far away, where conditions were hard for someone who grew up with all the comforts afforded the son of a billionaire. Now Bash lives under a bridge with the rest of the homeless in Washington D.C.. His home consists of cardboard boxes and a tarp. A long way from NYC's upper East side.
Our wolf, Louis, let's his work consume his life. He works hard to help put policies in place to help those like the otter. When he is not working on policies, he volunteers in soup kitchens, or shelters. Anywhere he can be useful. He knows what it means to have nothing, so he wants to always give back.
When Louis and Bash first meet, it is not a good meeting. Tensions run high, but Louis can sense some of the pain, and humor hidden behind the mask the beautiful little otter wears.
Pushed together by a dinner invitation, and the vouching for each other's safety from a mutual friend, the two begin a friendship that over some days turns into much more.
This was a very charming story with a VERY relevant message for today. Homelessness is still a devastating issue in our nation. Especially among the lgbtq+ youth who have been shunned by their families and communities. Even as I write this book review I am sitting in my warm house, and have no clue how these precious people feel, and that both breaks my heart and makes me feel ashamed at the same time. Sure I can help, and I do, but until every last soul has a warm bed and food in their bellies, there is more to be done.
While poignant the message was also uplifting because it showed the strength and determination of the human spirit. It showed how when someone sets their mind to something, no matter their circumstances, they can turn the course of their life in a new direction.
While I personally felt the parents ending was too easy, I need to keep my stones to myself. Glass houses, ya know.
I loved this story, how transparent the characters were, and how real tent city became for me. Where I live we have one, a large one I have been told. While I am not ambulatory much, I can still do more, and this has inspired me to do just that. I recommend this to anyone who could use a smile and perhaps some inspiration of their own.
I have found a new author in Posey. I will be bAck for more! 💖
4.5 under-the-bridge-falling-stars🌟🌟🌟🌟•✨
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The otter, aptly named Bash, because of his fighting spirit was pushed from his home by his parents and forced to make a new home among strangers in a place far away, where conditions were hard for someone who grew up with all the comforts afforded the son of a billionaire. Now Bash lives under a bridge with the rest of the homeless in Washington D.C.. His home consists of cardboard boxes and a tarp. A long way from NYC's upper East side.
Our wolf, Louis, let's his work consume his life. He works hard to help put policies in place to help those like the otter. When he is not working on policies, he volunteers in soup kitchens, or shelters. Anywhere he can be useful. He knows what it means to have nothing, so he wants to always give back.
When Louis and Bash first meet, it is not a good meeting. Tensions run high, but Louis can sense some of the pain, and humor hidden behind the mask the beautiful little otter wears.
Pushed together by a dinner invitation, and the vouching for each other's safety from a mutual friend, the two begin a friendship that over some days turns into much more.
This was a very charming story with a VERY relevant message for today. Homelessness is still a devastating issue in our nation. Especially among the lgbtq+ youth who have been shunned by their families and communities. Even as I write this book review I am sitting in my warm house, and have no clue how these precious people feel, and that both breaks my heart and makes me feel ashamed at the same time. Sure I can help, and I do, but until every last soul has a warm bed and food in their bellies, there is more to be done.
While poignant the message was also uplifting because it showed the strength and determination of the human spirit. It showed how when someone sets their mind to something, no matter their circumstances, they can turn the course of their life in a new direction.
While I personally felt the parents ending was too easy, I need to keep my stones to myself. Glass houses, ya know.
I loved this story, how transparent the characters were, and how real tent city became for me. Where I live we have one, a large one I have been told. While I am not ambulatory much, I can still do more, and this has inspired me to do just that. I recommend this to anyone who could use a smile and perhaps some inspiration of their own.
I have found a new author in Posey. I will be bAck for more! 💖
4.5 under-the-bridge-falling-stars🌟🌟🌟🌟•✨
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2020
A lovely story set around Christmas time but not predominantly Christmasy. It has a strong message of helping others and social conscience but is in no way preachy.
The characters feel real and the relationship develops organically.
I loved it.
Highly recommended.
The characters feel real and the relationship develops organically.
I loved it.
Highly recommended.
January 11, 2022
I got pleasantly lost in this story and while the beginning is hardly believable, it did bring together two characters who needed to be together.
The research into the reality of homelessness and the way that was told was very effective. These were individual human beings, they weren't just a "homeless problem" for the city and the politics. The story was a good mix of reality and a romance novel.
The research into the reality of homelessness and the way that was told was very effective. These were individual human beings, they weren't just a "homeless problem" for the city and the politics. The story was a good mix of reality and a romance novel.
December 1, 2021
**This may contain some spoilers**
This is the second homelessness story I've read this week, and it was amazing.
True, the whole billionaire's son going homeless overnight seemed a bit farfetched, as it was the family's reconciliation, and there were a few cringy scenes, mostly at the bathtub part of the book at the start of the story. But the author managed to save it and give a good explanation and reasons for that.
Despite all of that, the story was very well written, a bit preachy at times, but I mean c'mon, with the current world's situation I think sometimes a bit of preaching is needed to make us snap out of our comfort zones and actually give a shit about what others are going through.
Our otter had every reason to be prickly af, and the situation in which he spent his days was truly heartwrenching, the way the author explained and illustrated the struggles homeless people go through was just to the point and done in a very respectful way, and even then I'm sure most of it was tame comparing it with what real homeless people live day after day.
I loved that he was a very decent person from the start, despite having needs, he thought of others, even to the point of not taking extra groceries he couldn't carry or use and leave them for others.
He was considerate and respectful when he was at our Wolf's house, and the fact that he didn't jump into a relationship with Wolf or took advantage of anything Wolf generously offered, or even to move in with him when first offered, just proves that Otter was careful and cautious, and very responsible and mature, especially for his age.
I just couldn't help to fall in love with Wolf, he was one of those unique, one in a life time individuals, with such a humanity and kindness in him, despite his sorrow and loss. And the way he devoted himself to care for others and then turned all that love and kindness and protectiveness towards his Otter, and yet in such a way that never made him feel useless or less, respecting his space and his pride. Pff... I just loved him so much.
I wish we had gotten an epilogue at least, I feel there's so much more to know about their story.
But all in all, a great novel. Enjoyed reading it very much.
This is the second homelessness story I've read this week, and it was amazing.
True, the whole billionaire's son going homeless overnight seemed a bit farfetched, as it was the family's reconciliation, and there were a few cringy scenes, mostly at the bathtub part of the book at the start of the story. But the author managed to save it and give a good explanation and reasons for that.
Despite all of that, the story was very well written, a bit preachy at times, but I mean c'mon, with the current world's situation I think sometimes a bit of preaching is needed to make us snap out of our comfort zones and actually give a shit about what others are going through.
Our otter had every reason to be prickly af, and the situation in which he spent his days was truly heartwrenching, the way the author explained and illustrated the struggles homeless people go through was just to the point and done in a very respectful way, and even then I'm sure most of it was tame comparing it with what real homeless people live day after day.
I loved that he was a very decent person from the start, despite having needs, he thought of others, even to the point of not taking extra groceries he couldn't carry or use and leave them for others.
He was considerate and respectful when he was at our Wolf's house, and the fact that he didn't jump into a relationship with Wolf or took advantage of anything Wolf generously offered, or even to move in with him when first offered, just proves that Otter was careful and cautious, and very responsible and mature, especially for his age.
I just couldn't help to fall in love with Wolf, he was one of those unique, one in a life time individuals, with such a humanity and kindness in him, despite his sorrow and loss. And the way he devoted himself to care for others and then turned all that love and kindness and protectiveness towards his Otter, and yet in such a way that never made him feel useless or less, respecting his space and his pride. Pff... I just loved him so much.
I wish we had gotten an epilogue at least, I feel there's so much more to know about their story.
But all in all, a great novel. Enjoyed reading it very much.
January 18, 2020
Bash is living on the streets when he meets an older man delivering crabs to a shelter. Something about the encounter immediately gets Bash's back up and he lets Louis know. For his part, Louis was most definitely not intending on offending or hurting the young man, and something about him has him offering to cook for him. And something is forged between the two when Bash takes him reluctantly up on the offer. Can two such different men in two such different situations make a relationship work?
Wow. Yep wow. I loved this story. Bash and Louis are seemingly mismatched on paper, but they somehow fit together perfectly. I loved how much they get each other, how much they were there for each other. And how they loved each other. This is one of those stories that sticks with you, and it definitely has stuck with me.
ARC via Xpresso Book Tours for an honest review.
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May 31, 2020
a riches to rags story with a pansexual guy dating a gay guy......is that the influence of schitt's creek i smell???
for real. an on page pansexual character makes references to schitt's creek, a show with an on screen pansexual character, calling it a comfort show and naming said pansexual character, david rose!!! this book did THAT!!!!
and when the pansexual character is talking about the antagonism mspec people experience from both straight and gay people, he says "us pansexuals and bisexuals and omnisexuals"!!! we love not just saying bi and being done with it!!!!! we love omnisexual actually being included!!!!
content/trigger warnings; homelessness, sexual content, ableism, poverty, mentions of queerphobia and homophobia and bi/omni/panphobia,
rep; louis (mc) is pansexual. sebastian (mc) is gay. sc in a polyamorous relationship with another woman and two guys.
i do wish the book had been a hundred? two hundred? more pages, honestly. i get why it ended where it did, with everything wrapped up nicely. but i wanted to see more of sebastian and his parents mending their relationship, and it would've been awesome to see all the ideas sebastian and louis had for helping homeless people turn into actual action and change.
i was also a little disappointed by the lack of acknowledgement of marginalized homeless people other than queer youth. what about homeless people of color? disabled homeless people? any combination of the three? i just wish that marginalized communities that are even more likely to be homeless or likely to be even more vulnerable because of those other/multiple marginalizations had been acknowledged. because how can you address homelessness without addressing that reality?
for real. an on page pansexual character makes references to schitt's creek, a show with an on screen pansexual character, calling it a comfort show and naming said pansexual character, david rose!!! this book did THAT!!!!
and when the pansexual character is talking about the antagonism mspec people experience from both straight and gay people, he says "us pansexuals and bisexuals and omnisexuals"!!! we love not just saying bi and being done with it!!!!! we love omnisexual actually being included!!!!
content/trigger warnings; homelessness, sexual content, ableism, poverty, mentions of queerphobia and homophobia and bi/omni/panphobia,
rep; louis (mc) is pansexual. sebastian (mc) is gay. sc in a polyamorous relationship with another woman and two guys.
i do wish the book had been a hundred? two hundred? more pages, honestly. i get why it ended where it did, with everything wrapped up nicely. but i wanted to see more of sebastian and his parents mending their relationship, and it would've been awesome to see all the ideas sebastian and louis had for helping homeless people turn into actual action and change.
i was also a little disappointed by the lack of acknowledgement of marginalized homeless people other than queer youth. what about homeless people of color? disabled homeless people? any combination of the three? i just wish that marginalized communities that are even more likely to be homeless or likely to be even more vulnerable because of those other/multiple marginalizations had been acknowledged. because how can you address homelessness without addressing that reality?
December 27, 2019
My Man Godfrey/Cinderella/Truths about Homelessness
If you want a read that touches both your head and your heart, this is the one for you. Instead of "meet cute", Louis literally crashes into a homeless man on the street. Sebastian, homeless and living under a bridge for a year after being kicked out by his father for "being useless", has all his defenses up and is not ready to accept any apology. Of course, since this is a romance, the two meet minutes later in the food pantry where Sebastian has come for food and Louis has come to drop some off. Roberts never lets you forget that there are real stakes here. When Sebastian allows Louis to convince him to come to his house and get the first real dinner he's had in months, we get inside Sebastian's head as he weighs just what sexual act he will have to trade for the food and beyond that, what he would have to do extra for a shower, getting his clothes washed, etc. For anyone who follows the news, the remarks about serial predators aren't jokes either. Just who are these guys? What is going to happen? As the story develops, we learn about the tragedy in Louis' life, how Sebastian has matured after being forced to survive on his own and how together, these two can literally change life for the homeless in DC. A mix of gritty realism and fairy tale, there are hand knitted otter/wolf gloves, MM romance novels, raids on homeless encampments, running away from parties at midnight and so much more. If you know the movie "My Man Godfrey", mix that with Cinderella and some hard facts about homeless people and you will have a feel for this book. I bought a hard copy because this is one that has immediately gone on my re-read shelf.
If you want a read that touches both your head and your heart, this is the one for you. Instead of "meet cute", Louis literally crashes into a homeless man on the street. Sebastian, homeless and living under a bridge for a year after being kicked out by his father for "being useless", has all his defenses up and is not ready to accept any apology. Of course, since this is a romance, the two meet minutes later in the food pantry where Sebastian has come for food and Louis has come to drop some off. Roberts never lets you forget that there are real stakes here. When Sebastian allows Louis to convince him to come to his house and get the first real dinner he's had in months, we get inside Sebastian's head as he weighs just what sexual act he will have to trade for the food and beyond that, what he would have to do extra for a shower, getting his clothes washed, etc. For anyone who follows the news, the remarks about serial predators aren't jokes either. Just who are these guys? What is going to happen? As the story develops, we learn about the tragedy in Louis' life, how Sebastian has matured after being forced to survive on his own and how together, these two can literally change life for the homeless in DC. A mix of gritty realism and fairy tale, there are hand knitted otter/wolf gloves, MM romance novels, raids on homeless encampments, running away from parties at midnight and so much more. If you know the movie "My Man Godfrey", mix that with Cinderella and some hard facts about homeless people and you will have a feel for this book. I bought a hard copy because this is one that has immediately gone on my re-read shelf.
December 25, 2019
Bash went from being on top of the world to living on the streets. He has spent the last year learning about a side of life he would have never otherwise even considered. Louis has spent the past few years dead inside, and then he meets Bash, and things change.
I really loved this book. I love how it gives a good look into the world of homelessness, but it doesn't glorify it. I think that it takes a pretty realistic and truthful look at what being homeless is like and how hard it is.
Louis is a good man. He has really tried to help people in the world, both by volunteering and by helping to create and form policy. He's made mistakes, but a lot of them are mistakes because of his good heart and because he's trying to do the right thing. When he learns better, he does better.
Bash learns a lot too, mostly about himself, I think. He was failed by so many people in his life, and that really hurt him a lot.
I really loved this book. I love how it gives a good look into the world of homelessness, but it doesn't glorify it. I think that it takes a pretty realistic and truthful look at what being homeless is like and how hard it is.
Louis is a good man. He has really tried to help people in the world, both by volunteering and by helping to create and form policy. He's made mistakes, but a lot of them are mistakes because of his good heart and because he's trying to do the right thing. When he learns better, he does better.
Bash learns a lot too, mostly about himself, I think. He was failed by so many people in his life, and that really hurt him a lot.
January 4, 2020
Louis and Bast
Bast and Louis worked. The age difference did not take away from the story.
At the point of meeting they needed each other. Bast was disowned by his parents and Louis was trying to start over after being widowed.
However the real story is being homeless and coping.
That is where found himself ..homeless.
The difficulty these people endure is beyond belief. Cannot believe in these modern times the insensitive way the Government try to deal with this issue.
The hard break of not being able to get a job because of no postal address. Trying to get out of a situation but the people in charge makes it hard.
Best is trying to get out of the situation, but he keeps getting knock back.
Things change after he meets Louis. They form a bond and slowly things start to change. Some set backs but eventually things turned out right for Bast and Louis
Bast and Louis worked. The age difference did not take away from the story.
At the point of meeting they needed each other. Bast was disowned by his parents and Louis was trying to start over after being widowed.
However the real story is being homeless and coping.
That is where found himself ..homeless.
The difficulty these people endure is beyond belief. Cannot believe in these modern times the insensitive way the Government try to deal with this issue.
The hard break of not being able to get a job because of no postal address. Trying to get out of a situation but the people in charge makes it hard.
Best is trying to get out of the situation, but he keeps getting knock back.
Things change after he meets Louis. They form a bond and slowly things start to change. Some set backs but eventually things turned out right for Bast and Louis
January 12, 2020
I loved Sebastian and Louis. They have good chemistry and are really adorable together. I like how it's not your typical rich guy saves homeless man. Sebastian can stand on his own. Sebastian is all prickly and quick tempered. But then he grows to trust Louis.
I have never read anything by the author before and I did take a while to be comfortable with the writing style. This is dual POV.
I did find it a bit weird how Louis invites him to his house when he first met him or how Sebastian accepts it. Well it is a novel, so yeah. I loved Javon, Sebastian's best friend and Blanche. Overall a really fun read.
*ARC provided by the author via Xpresso Tours in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
I have never read anything by the author before and I did take a while to be comfortable with the writing style. This is dual POV.
I did find it a bit weird how Louis invites him to his house when he first met him or how Sebastian accepts it. Well it is a novel, so yeah. I loved Javon, Sebastian's best friend and Blanche. Overall a really fun read.
*ARC provided by the author via Xpresso Tours in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
February 6, 2024
While I felt like this book dragged at times, I would have liked to see certain parts expanded upon more; for example, Sebastian’s reunion with his parents happened so late in the book and felt lacking, like it was an afterthought. Another thing I wasn’t crazy about was the discussion regarding fantasies Louis had about his dead wife. I’m all for acknowledging deceased spouses and sharing fond memories of them, but that was a bit weird.
What I did like was that the representation of homelessness felt well researched and addressed issues that many people might not have been aware of. It seems like some readers felt they were being lectured, but I didn’t personally see it that way. Overall, I also liked the characters and enjoyed their interactions.
3.5/5 stars, rounded down to 3.
What I did like was that the representation of homelessness felt well researched and addressed issues that many people might not have been aware of. It seems like some readers felt they were being lectured, but I didn’t personally see it that way. Overall, I also liked the characters and enjoyed their interactions.
3.5/5 stars, rounded down to 3.
April 18, 2020
DNF at 14% -an other absurd story in my opinion...
I never was homeless, i never starved but i know struggle low intake of food /month ... like mostly my fellow readers.
But taking home a total stranger from the street, a man you don't know anything about... he could be a serial killer or an addict ( im not saying that all homeless are criminal, far from it)... and also one moment you are crying about your dead wife and the very next second your flirt with this guy ...
It's not for me ... i can't get into it ... the questions keep poping in my mind like seriously?! When this is ever ...?!?!
No hard feelings dear author...
I never was homeless, i never starved but i know struggle low intake of food /month ... like mostly my fellow readers.
But taking home a total stranger from the street, a man you don't know anything about... he could be a serial killer or an addict ( im not saying that all homeless are criminal, far from it)... and also one moment you are crying about your dead wife and the very next second your flirt with this guy ...
It's not for me ... i can't get into it ... the questions keep poping in my mind like seriously?! When this is ever ...?!?!
No hard feelings dear author...
August 29, 2020
Props to the author for tackling the subject of homelessness as a key part of one of the MC’s. I feel as though I learned a little something more about this harsh reality and it opened my eyes to a different perspective. I’m not sure I totally loved the MC’s as a couple, but I still found it to be a compelling story.
July 1, 2020
DNF at 40%, this story is just ridiculous
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