For What It's Worth

#lovehim #5

by S.M. James

Rory García is terrible at making choices.

Dating Micah has been the best decision Rory’s ever made. Micah calms his wild side by bringing Rory back down to earth. They’re perfect for each other.
But when Rory’s Australian crush randomly shows up to stay with him, Rory’s torn between the boyfriend he maybe loves, and the guy he thought he was over.

Micah Holtz is the most loyal boyfriend in history.

Since the day Micah first saw Rory, he fell hard. There’s never been a moment where Micah’s doubted his feelings and when they finally start to date, Micah plans to hold on with both hands.
But then Justin arrives from Australia and Micah finds his single-minded attention starting to slip…

Justin Anderson has a plan for everything.

Showing up on Rory’s doorstep is the most adventurous thing Justin’s ever done. He’s lowkey sick with nerves, but knowing Rory’s there makes it all worth it. Until he finds out Rory has a boyfriend. Which was never part of the plan.
Suddenly Justin’s back to his usual game of second guessing everything, including Rory’s flirting and Micah’s lingering looks.

When Micah’s childhood haunt is set to be torn down, the three of them join forces to try to save the historic building. But will the teamwork add cracks to an already unstable friendship, or bring them closer than they ever imagined?

Genres: M M Romance, M M M, Young Adult, New Adult, Polyamory, Contemporary, College

400 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2020

Reviews

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

*While For What It's Worth is a standalone in The #lovehim Series, I'd highly suggest at least reading Thanks in Advance first- you meet Justin and Rory there and I think it's a good introduction to what's to come.

For What It's Worth is such an entertaining and endearing story. I loved all the representation and diversity that was portrayed. It's not every day you read a young adult story featuring polyamory, but I think S.M. James did a really wonderful job with the relationship between these 3. They all brought something special to their relationship, and they really did balance each other out. I just wanted to smoosh Rory, Micah, and Justin in one great big hug!

While the main focus of this book was the relationship between the 3, there were also side stories that affected each one. I enjoyed the way S.M. James was able to weave these storylines together in such a way that all three of our main characters had important parts to play.

I'm glad this story was told from the points of view of Rory, Micah, and Justin. It was great to see all of their feelings, and their thought processes when it came to navigating their relationship. They are each so different, but I feel that's what made things between them work.
For What It's Worth is really a darling of a story, and I think it's an important one as well. It shows that not everyone has to fit into what society deems as "normal", that it's okay to love who you love, even if that means you love more than one person.

[Amy Aislin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet and adorable and lovely and real.

After reading Thanks In Advance I wasn't sure how I'd feel about this. How dare Rory start dating someone else in the time between the prequel novella and this novel?!?!?! But I've got to give credit to S.M. James because this threesome totally worked. Rory, Justin, and Micah are so different from each other but also have so much in common. They compliment each other beautifully and seeing them not only support each other in their growth, but talk things through in order to make their relationship work? It was great to see these young adults actively make a commitment to being with each other and making things work.

Fantastic read, as usual, by S.M. James. Thank you to the author and to Gay Book Promotions for the ARC.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars

So, at the heart of this story are several conflicts: what’s going on with Sal’s Market, gentrification of urban and suburban neighborhoods, societal expectations for monogamy, issues around trans acceptance (Rory’s friend Alexis is trans), and struggles within interracial families, social justice, and social consciousness. The potential buyer of Sal’s is a teenaged boy from a billionaire Middle East family—he wants to raze the place to build luxury condos and prove to his father that he can run a part of their business. The people of Rory and Micah’s town aren’t pleased, because they’ll lose a gem of a market and the higher housing costs will drive locals even farther from Pittsburgh’s urban center. Justin is a bit of a wunderkind at solving real-world problems and he takes on Micah’s mission to save Sal’s, which helps bring them close together.

For a YA menage story, this book hits the mark of having the right amount of realistic attraction with the expected emotional turmoil. Rory suffers a lot, believing he can’t have what he really wants—both Justin and Micah–and it’s only through a lot of talk and trial and error that these three find a way to bridge their interpersonal gaps. Justin’s struggles with choosing a college seem slightly easier in the face of their new relationship, but it’s still not easy. And, I felt that difficulty was managed well within the three character points-of-view.

Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.

[iam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute story about three teenagers learning to navigate a polyamorous relationship, graduation and more.

Content warnings include: transphobia, social anxiety, non-explicit sexual situations between teenagers, underage drinking, skipping school; mentions of homophobia, unsupportive family, deadnaming.

First I want to say that I was told this book is a standalone - it can be read on it's own, but there is a prequel novella, Thanks in Advance, the events of which are frequently referred to. Having not read the novella, I could still follow For What It's Worth just fine, but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had know about and read the novella first.
There are also cameos from other characters from the #lovehim series, but those I did not find distracting at all.

I loved the social anxiety representation of the book, both from the POV of the anxious character as well as how the other characters treated him.
Another great part was that one of the three protagonists is chubby, which is acknowledged frequently. I didn't find any fatphobia aside from veeeery mild internalized one, but only in one short instance that is tied more to general insecurity about relationships.
Additionally, one character is half-Mexican.

The focus of the plot is very much on Micah, Rory and Justin learning to navigate a polymorous relationship. It starts with the three of them arraging themselves with the situation they are in: Micah and Rory a couple and Justin someone Rory has been interested in before and now living with Rory's family. The attraction between Rory and Justin is obvious, an despite some jealousy, Micah and Justin like each other from the very beginning.

I liked reading along as they navigate their feelings and learn about polyamory. Despite the relationship being the main plot, it didn't go overly deep. There are several side plots, surrounding the boys' uncertain futures both together and individually, a TERF teacher at the school and a beloved cathedral in the city getting sold and planned to be torn down, both of the latter the boys are determined to stop.

While the single plots themselves were nice, they also didn't wholly engage me. There were times when I got mildly annoyed with the characters, though I will not hold that against them: after all, they are teenagers, and I found what I thought to be annoying behaviour rather authentic for kids their age.

Overall a cute, slow blook that is hopeful and lighthearted, perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good read.

I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

Find more reviews on the blog!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

This is a very sweet and almost angst free YA/NA romance. All three of the boys are interesting and engaging characters and I enjoyed the family and community that surrounds them. This is poly writing with a focus on emotions and relationships.

There is angst free romance and there’s romance that lacks conflict. And there are moments when this book actually needs a little bit more conflict. These teenagers are a little bit too selfless, a little bit too reflective and their communication skills are a little bit too good to be convincing. The boys are sweet together but I’m not sure readers ever really feel any real chemistry between them.

I feel like the plot wanders a little in this story. The central conflict around the sale of an old church feels like an add-on and it doesn’t necessarily develop the romance element of the story at all. Lots of plot threads are introduced but not always followed through with. I’m still a little fuzzy on Justin’s touch issues and I’m not sure Rory’s high school escapades add much to a story about his relationship with two older guys. The story lacks the heat I’d expect from a NA romance but with one of the main characters still in high school, the NA/YA lines get a little blurry. Even as a YA read the characters are probably a little bit too pure to be really believable. I’m just not sure all the parts of this book come together in a coherent whole. I enjoyed the characters and their coming of age decision making but this book somehow lacks the tension I need in a good romance.

[Karolina Cebula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Micah and Rory are a happy, sweet and loving teenage couple who can't imagine their lives without each other. However, the harmony of their everyday life is disturbed when unexpectedly Rory's old crush, Justin, comes from Australia with the intention of studying in the college while staying as close to Rory as possible.
Suddenly the old feelings revive, although the present ones do not fade, and the matter gets even more complicated when the completely new and totally unexpected feelings between the three boys are born.
Micah's, Rory's and Justin's world turns upside down, all because of love.

"For What It's Worth" is another volume of the wonderful and addictive series "#lovehim" by S.M. James. As you can easily guess, once again we have the opportunity to read a novel full of numerous advantages, from which I chose a few that I would like to write a little about. The first one is the story presented in this part of the series. As it usually happens in the case of "#lovehim", the love story is the most important element of the plot, but it is not the only one we come across while reading the novels. In "For What It's Worth", S.M. James raises many very important topics, some of which are related to feelings, such as friendship, jealousy, love, while others are mostly based on the more psychological side and touch such problems as being lost while coming of age, inability to let the past go, and also anxiety. I admit that some of the events in this novel are clearly a fiction, but as we're reading the YA novel they make it all the more interesting for the readers, especially for those in the age of our characters.

I've mentioned the characters and I want to stick to this topic a little longer. What I really like about "For What It's Worth" is that Rory, Micah and Justin are so different that it's probably impossible to make this difference between them even greater. Each of them is created while taking into account the character traits that make them who they are, and at the same time, are some of the reasons each of the boys is loved by the other two. What I think is equally important is the fact that S.M. James doesn't really focus on what links our three boys and makes them perfect for one another. Instead, the novel shows us that our boys are, in one way or another, like each other's opposites, thanks to which they complement each other in different spheres of life, although even together they are not perfect. And that's it for me. However, I also like to mention that I love the fact that Rory, Micah and Justin are not ideal in terms of personality or appearance, and yet knowing their flaws they consider each other beautiful inside and out.

Another advantage of the novel is undoubtedly the topic of polyamory, which is rather rarely seen in YA novels. What is important, however, is the way in which S.M. James presents this topic, as it's done in a really fantastic, full of acceptance and free of judgment way. A big plus of this motif is the fact that the characters come to the decision to start a polyamorous relationship by themselves, after prior search for the right solution to their love dilemmas. The boys are looking for answers to their questions and carefully think about different solutions to finally give the one that speaks to them, which seems the most appropriate a chance. What's more, Rory, Micah and Justin accept the option of a polyamorous relationship quite quickly and without any problems, while not judging it even when they look at it from the perspective of the society. However, they bear in mind that other people may see their love in a completely wrong way. And I like it all very much. The boys are aware of the possible reactions of others, but they still do what they think is right.

In this review, I would also like to write a few words about the problem with which I identified the most when reading "For What It's Worth". Namely, Rory's difficult choice regarding his life path. Questions like "who should I become in the future?", "what should I do next?", they accompanied me throughout my adolescence and to tell the truth, even now I often ask myself the same questions, although at my age I already chose a career for myself (I had to) and I slowly live my life. So, I am aware of the fact that many young people have similar problems and that is why I am glad that this topic has been raised in the novel. I think that the way this problem is developed and completed in the novel, although in this case it is probably not the best term, is also very important. Some problems can't be solved for good, some discussions don't end, and they can only be postponed. The future is unknown and in some respects that is how it works for Rory.

To sum up, "For What It's Worth" is a really well written, very interesting, uplifting novel, that shows the way towards acceptance and happiness, even if the path to it is not entirely conventional. This book tells us that we are perfect with all our strong points and flaws, that sometimes not everything goes like we want it to, but it all can work out still. This is a very positive novel that I highly recommend.

____________________

Micah i Rory są szczęśliwą, słodką parą kochających się nastolatków, którzy nie wyobrażają sobie życia bez siebie nawzajem. Harmonia ich codzienności zostaje jednak zakłócona, kiedy niespodziewanie dawna miłość Rory’ego, Justin, przyjeżdża z Australii z zamiarem podjęcia nauki możliwie najbliżej Rory’ego. I nagle dawne uczucia odżywają, chociaż te teraźniejsze nie gasną, zaś sprawę komplikują jeszcze bardziej te zupełnie nowe, które pojawiają się między trójką chłopców, chociaż nikt się ich nie spodziewał. Świat Micaha, Rory’ego i Justina staje na głowie, a wszystko to za sprawą miłości.

„For What It's Worth” to kolejny tom wspaniałej i uzależniającej serii „#lovehim” autorstwa S.M. James. Jak łatwo się więc domyślić, kolejny raz mamy okazję przeczytać powieść bogatą w liczne zalety, spośród których wybrałam kilka, o których chciałabym trochę napisać. Pierwszą z nich jest opisana w tej części historia. Jak to często w przypadku „#lovehim” bywa, wątek miłosny stanowi najważniejszy element fabuły, jednak nie jest jedynym, na który natrafiamy czytając powieść. W „For What It's Worth” S.M. James porusza wiele bardzo istotnych tematów, z czego niektóre wiążą się z uczuciami, jak na przykład przyjaźń, zazdrość, miłość, inne zaś opierają się bardziej na sferze psychologicznej i dotykają takich problemów jak chociażby zagubienie na progu dorosłości, niemożliwość rozstania się z przeszłością, czy też lęki. Przyznaję, że niektóre z wydarzeń przedstawionych w tej powieści są dosyć mocno naznaczone fikcją, niemniej jednak w przypadku powieści YA czynią ją one tym bardziej interesującą dla czytelników, szczególnie tych w wieku zbliżonym do naszych bohaterów.

Wspomniałam o bohaterach i przy tym temacie zostanę trochę dłużej. W „For What It's Worth” ogromnie podoba mi się to, że Rory, Micah i Justin są od siebie tak bardzo różni, że chyba już bardziej się nie da. Każdy z nich jest budowany z uwzględnieniem innych cech charakteru, które czynią go tym, kim jest, a jednocześnie stanowią niektóre z powodów, dla których każdy z chłopców jest kochany przez pozostałą dwójkę. Co istotne, S.M. James nie skupia się tak naprawdę na tym, co łączy tę trójkę, co sprawia, że do siebie pasują. Zamiast tego, w powieści zostaje odmalowany obraz chłopców, którzy pod tym lub innym względem są swoimi przeciwieństwami, dzięki czemu dopełniają się w różnych sferach życia, chociaż nawet wspólnie nie są perfekcyjni. No i właśnie. Ogromnie spodobało mi się również to, że Rory, Micah i Justin nie są ideałami ani pod względem charakteru, ani wyglądu, a jednak znając swoje wady uważają siebie nawzajem za pięknych wewnątrz i na zewnątrz.

Inną zaletą powieści jest niewątpliwie poliamoria, z którą jak dotąd nie zetknęłam się w powieściach YA. Co jednak istotne, sposób w jaki S.M. James przedstawia ten temat jest naprawdę fantastyczny, pełen akceptacji i pozbawiony oceny. Dużym plusem tego wątku jest fakt, iż bohaterowie dochodzą do decyzji o związku poliamorycznym sami, po wcześniejszych poszukiwaniach właściwego dla nich rozwiązania miłosnych dylematów. Chłopcy szukają odpowiedzi na swoje pytania, ważą uważnie rozwiązania, które się pojawiają, aby ostatecznie dać szansę temu, co do nich przemawia, co wydaje się najwłaściwsze. Ponadto, Rory, Micah i Justin akceptują myśl o związku poliamorycznym dosyć szybko i bez większych problemów, nie oceniając go przez pryzmat społeczeństwa, jednakże mają na uwadze fakt, iż inni ludzie mogą odebrać ich miłość w zupełnie niewłaściwy sposób. I to tak bardzo mi się podoba. Chłopcy są świadomi możliwych reakcji innych, ale mimo wszystko robią to, co uważają za właściwe.

W tej recenzji chciałabym napisać coś także o problemie, z którym czytając „For What It's Worth” identyfikowałam się najbardziej, a mianowicie o trudnym wyborze dalszej ścieżki życiowej Rory’ego. Pytania typu „kim powinnam zostać w przyszłości?”, „co powinnam dalej robić?” towarzyszyły mi przez cały okres dorastania i prawdę mówiąc nadal często je sobie zadaję, chociaż w moim wieku musiałam już wybrać jakąś ścieżkę zawodową i powoli ją realizować. Zdaję sobie sprawę z tego, że wielu młodych ludzi boryka się z podobnymi problemami i dlatego cieszę się, że w powieści podobny temat został podjęty. Równie istotne jest dla mnie to, w jaki sposób temat ten jest rozwijany i zakończony, chociaż w tym wypadku nie jest to chyba najlepsze określenie. Pewnych problemów nie da się bowiem rozwiązać ostatecznie, pewnych dyskusji nie da się zakończyć, a jedynie mogą zostać przesunięte w czasie. Przyszłość to niewiadoma i dla Rory’ego niewątpliwie pod pewnymi względami właśnie taką jest.

Podsumowując, „For What It's Worth” to powieść naprawdę dobrze napisana, bardzo interesująca, podnosząca na duchu, wskazująca drogę ku akceptacji i szczęściu, nawet jeśli droga do niego nie jest w pełni konwencjonalna. Ta książka mówi nam, że jesteśmy idealni ze wszystkimi naszymi zaletami i wadami, że czasami nie wszystko idzie po naszej myśli, ale i tak może się ułożyć. To bardzo pozytywna powieść, którą gorąco Wam polecam.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Loved this story! The topic was interesting and unique. I think this is the first YA novel dealing with polyamory that I have ever heard of. It's handled in a very mature and realistic way. Like all the other books in the series this is a slow-burn romance based on feelings of love and friendship. It was probably a little more sexy than the rest of the books but really nothing explicit.

After having met Rory and Justin in the prequel novella, I was very curious how another guy would fit in. But I was very happy to see, that Rory, Justin and Micah just clicked. At least, once Micah and Justin got to know each other. I loved that it wasn't insta-anything but progressed slowly from wariness to friendship to love and how the romance was handled in such a realistic way. They worried what their families and friends would say but also how their relationship would be viewed by society. But in the end they decided that it was their life and screw everyone else. It was still great to see that they all had very open and caring families who took it in stride and supported them.

The book was also pretty funny, almost on par with Brooks and Dariens banter in "In Case You Missed It". Rory was such a cheeky little shit but in a very endearing way. :) The relationship he had with his best friend Alexis, who was transgender, was great and their dialogue had me grinning throughout the story. Micah would give as good as he got, too. And once Justin felt more comfortable, there was even the occasional quip from him, that made me smile. Though, fair warning, if you don't like the F-word, don't read this.

As I've come to expect from this author, the writing was great and the story flowed effortlessly and had me captivated from the first page. All characters, even the supporting ones, had very distinct personalities. Their thoughts and actions made sense and felt true to how each person was portrayed. All three guys were such loveable people that I couldn't help but root for their HEA. There was no big misunderstanding or argument between them. Once they found a solution for their relationship dilemma and decided they would become a "throuple" as Rory named it, they were all in and communicating openly.

There were still conflicts, both internal and external. Justin had to decide on a college and was torn between staying near Rory and Micah or going somewhere further away that would probably suit his academic goals better. Rory had no clue what to do after high school and felt inadequate, because unlike his two boyfriends he wasn't cut out for college and an office job. And Micah felt helpless when the old church, that housed an organic and arts and crafts market and where his sister had a booth, was supposed to be demolished. It was great seeing each of the three guys bringing their unique talents to the table to fight for its preservation.

I think this is my second favorite book in the series so far, right after the fabulous ICYMI! Unfortunately, I can't get any other books by this author, even though there are three more in the series listed at the end of this book. But I will keep an eye out in case they get published one of these days. This author is definitely an auto-buy for me now!

[Annie Maus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Warning, S.M. James’s new adult novel, For What It’s Worth tops the adorability scale. It features a gay threesome, a transgender bestie, a demisexual and lesbians, all of whom experience a slew of normal early-adulthood angst. Though it brings in characters from past novels in the #lovehim series, it reads fine as a standalone.

Rory, a high school senior, takes his boyfriend Micah, a first year college student, home after Micah falls from a ladder. There Rory finds Justin, who Rory met on an Australian vacation before he dated Micah. Oops! Rory never mentioned either guy to the other.

And Justin has arranged with Rory’s parents to stay at their house while visiting colleges in Pennsylvania, so he might attend close to Rory. Yikes! But the book cover shows three boys hugging. Yeah, I was hooked right away! How’s that hugging gonna become a reality?

The thruples’s interactions are honest, for one. Readers learn and appreciate their differing opinions. I loved how attune they are to one another. They recognize when tensions exist and address the issues. It is a lesson in tolerance and good communication.

S.M. James is a master at quickly sketching core personality traits. Micah’s maturity is evident with thoughts like this. “Rory can sort his own life out. That’s not my role. My role is to show him how completely, over-the-top into him I am.” Justin’s demi-confusion is stated simply and elegantly, like when he’s scared Rory will touch him. “I think for one heart stopping moment he’s going to hug me. But when all he does is rock back on his heels, I release a breath of relief and try to stamp down my disappointment that I’m actually relieved.” And Rory, forever self-aware, notes, “I’ve always been a bit of an indecisive shit, and other than irritating people, it’s never been much of a problem.”

For What It’s Worth is a fast-moving novel. Rory can’t choose what to do after high school. A teacher keeps “dead naming” (learned a new term) his bestie, a transgender gal. Micah’s sister has an art stall at a farmer’s market housed within an old church, but it is being sold, endangering her livelihood. And Justin, who has social anxiety, must decide which college to choose while trying not to be a jealous third wheel to Micah and Rory.

Throughout these events, readers can ask themselves what they would do in similar circumstances. When would they speak up or stay silent, take a stand or let something slide? Is there a helpful role for rebellion? And what is the best role for parents? This is new adult literature at its strongest, examining intergenerational perceptions.

‘For What It’s Worth’ is a heart-warming parable that showcases how to develop self-acceptance, in and out of all sorts of norms.. It’s the perfect theme for its age group and for the parents who love their teens, delivered as delightful entertainment.

[Charlotte · Rating 3 out of 5]

Micah and Rory are finally a couple. Michah had always had a crush on his friend and now it's finally a reality. The two teens really complement one another. Micah is calm and thoughtful. Rory is impulsive and frenetic. When they get together, they are a couple that balances each other out.

One day, Rory arrives home to find an unexpected guest. Justin has traveled all the way from Australia to check out schools. He's contemplating going to Penn or Princeton... and maybe he was contemplating that because he felt a connection with Rory during the summer they spent together.

Of course, there's a complication! Rory has never mentioned Justin to his boyfriend Micah. He figured that they would never meet...and honestly, he really loves Micah. He has never questioned his love for his boyfriend...but does he still have feelings for Justin from that past summer.

My favorite part of this book was each of the characters. Rory is a wonderful ball of energy. He's chaotic at his best, clumsy, adventurous. Micah is constant and strong, devoted to Rory in every way.

And Justin. Sweet Justin shows up...which is surprising because he lives with a social anxiety disorder and has some issues with physical contact. He's summoned his courage primarily because he still has feelings for Rory after the summer they spent together at his family's ranch.

Here is where the meat and potatoes for the novel come from. These three young men all have feelings for one another in different ways. Rory loves that Micah takes care of him, but he also wants to take care of Justin. The ways they relate to one another are different... as unique as each of them is.

I have never read a young adult novel before that explored the possibility of a polyamorous relationship. It was interesting. At times, I wondered if the voices of the characters were a bit too adult. There were definitely times when they seemed far too mature in comparison to their lived experience.

In addition to the love story and all the challenges that come with it, there's a subplot regarding a local Church. Micah and his friends and family have booths set up at which they sell crafts. It's like the town market. When a rich businessman swoops into town to buy it and knock it down, the friends rally to try and prevent it. I always like a tale in which people band together to try and make changes. It restores my faith in people a little bit.

It appears that this book is part of a series, but I haven't read any of the other books and I had no trouble keeping up with the story. I'm certain that other characters are revealed in the other books in the series! I would definitely go back and read the previous book because it's about Rory and Justin.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story!

S. M. James is a new-to-me author. I've read that her #lovehim series can be read in any order but she also has a suggested order. If you want to read the books about individual couples in order then this Facebook post (http://bit.ly/2Tc2rCi) might be of interest. For example, before I read For What It's Worth, I read Thanks in Advance which is about Rory and Justin before Rory is with Micah. I'm really glad that I did that because it really helped me understand Rory and Justin better.

For What It's Worth was such a compelling story. I don't typically read YA (young adult) books, actually maybe no MM ones before this, but I do enjoy NA (new adult). Having said that, I will now be reading the rest of the books in this series! [Note: If you're confused about the difference between YA and NA, like I was at one time, here's a link to what seems to be a good explanation: https://www.swoonreads.com/blog/ask-a....]

While the idea of a polyamory relationship among high school age kids might turn some people off, I found it intriguing. S. M. James did a fantastic job with this story and totally made me believe in Rory, Micah and Justin and how their relationship can work long-term. Justin is such a special person; with his social anxiety issues, I think it's beautiful how Rory and Micah completed and helped him.

I believe that the author created a story that is respectful of the characters desire to be together and allowed them to explore with each other how the poly relationship can/will work between them. I like how we are left with the feeling that they will always be together.

I am now anxious to read the other books in this series. If only my TBRL (to be read list) wasn't so long. 😊

A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***

[Ida Umphers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a big reader of YA/new adult fiction and I have not previously read any YA/new adult LGBTQ fiction, but this sounded intriguing, especially with the addition of the polyamory element, so I decided to try it. I should also note I have not read any other books in this series (but I shall remedy that soon). I really loved these characters. I liked the initial relationship between Rory and Micah, they seemed to perfectly balance each other and have figured out how to communicate with each other to get what they need. I was curious to see how the addition of Justin would affect that relationship. I was sceptical that the author could convice me guys of this age could find a way to make the threesome work but it happened. Sure, there were bumps along the way and negotiation had to happen a lot, but Rory, Justin and Micah were well writeen and it was believable that they were able to work out their solution. I hesitate to say this is a happy every after because of their ages, but I do believe they are happy for now and will each be an asset to the other two's growth and development. It was interesting to read this after watching the Charlie David documentary called PolyLove about polyamorous adults. The importance of communication, honesty, trust, etc. emphasized in that documentary were well handled in this story. I am a sucker for a story where a group of artistis, craftspeople, farmers, etc. form a co-op of some kind and have to keep it going, so the non-romance plot here of trying to save the church for the farmer's market from the evil developer was right up my alley too. More fiction like this needs to be written and placed in libraries and on reaading lists for young adults and their parents to read.

[CrispyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was super hard for me to read because my own lack of self-worth is crippling enough on its own without getting emotionally invested in fictional characters who also struggle with it (and all three main characters do in this book). This story also makes me anxious because my friends who have been in poly relationships have dealt with a LOT of heartbreak and very little stability and happiness with their partners. I want to be accepting, but it's hard to feel optimistic about a story like this when my only personal observations of poly relationships are negative.

That said, books like this are important. Representation matters. Kids shouldn't have to deal with homophobia, transphobia, fatphobia, unreasonable societal expectations, etc., but they do. So having main characters who are not conventionally attractive matters. Showing characters who are healthy but not skinny is important. Stories where characters find happiness in healthy yet non traditional relationships are good. Having characters who are trans and who deal with the challenges that brings without the whole focus of the book being about THE MECHANICS OF BEING TRANS is pretty awesome. Showing concerned and involved yet supportive parents is excellent. It's good. And important. But probably not a book I'll be rereading.

(P.S. I could have definitely done without the big judgy point about how disapproving we are about how the Politically Problematic female teacher chooses to dress. Let's focus on judging people--especially women--by how they treat others and not by what they wear. It was tasteless and unnecessary to bring up her underwear line as if that had anything to do with her being a bully.)

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful, well-balanced, thoughtfully written YA poly romance. All three main characters are absolute gems, Rory, Micah and Justin are all so genuine and utterly lovable each in their own way. Though I must confess to being the slightest bit partial to Micah, he’s so gentle and has such a big heart! All the heart emoji’s in the world for dearest Micah.

The author has brilliantly captured the myriad of complex feelings that come with falling in love and also with taking those final steps towards adulthood and independence, not shying away from her characters’ insecurities and the occasional jealousy and worry, while they are trying to find their way in the world and towards each other. Keeping it all nuanced and realistic, and yet… always absolutely enchanting. The author took her time to build a strong bond between all three of the boys, which I loved! Not rushing anything, but laying the foundation of a lasting friendship to support the romantic connection and attraction they all grow to feel towards each other.

A throuple romance in YA is definitely not an obvious or easy choice, but I’m so happy the author decided to go there anyway. Representation matters so much, especially when it’s done in such a positive, hopeful manner as it was brought here, I think.

As always S.M. James has created a lively and diverse world for her characters, with several highly interesting secondary characters. Fingers crossed we haven’t seen the last of some of them.

It’s been a bit of a wait for this next installment in the #lovehim series, but it was definitely worth it! What an amazing story! Recommend onto infinity and beyond!

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me quite a while to get into this and believe in the three of them being together, because for the longest time Rory came across as a selfish prick and I didn't really like him very much! After the halfway point though, Rory was so much more likeable and I understood him better, and I was genuinely happy that Micah and Justin were both on board with being a throuple.

I liked the plot to save Sal's, and I liked how it felt believable that these guys were all in their late teens and every decision was life changing, the way it is when everything feels so big when you're that young! They felt very relatable and they all fit together really well. Each of the guys had a really clear personality and their own goals and although they were making some pretty big decisions with a fairly new relationship as a factor, none of them lost out on what they wanted for themselves because they figured out what was important to each of them and worked out how to have it.

With YA romance books, I always ask myself would I recommend this to my nieces and nephews or would it be a bad example of how to have a healthy and respectful relationship, and I would definitely recommend this to them to read.

[Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

SM James' fifth book in the #lovehim series, For What It's Worth, is an enjoyable new adult menage romance.

The love triangle conflict is wonderfully done, easily drawing the reader into all the emotions involved. Basically, Rory loves his boyfriend Micah, and Micah loves Rory. But when Justin is reunited with Rory, Rory can't deny he loves Justin too, and Justin is definitely in love with Rory.

This is the story of three young men fighting their feelings and discovering polyamory. The way all three men comes together, and maturely handle their situation is inspiring.

Justin's character is wonderfully complex. He's brilliant, but suffers from severe social anxiety. He's a wounded man, unable to be comfortable with someone touching him. The way Rory and Micah help calm the anxious Justin is phenomenal.

I love the author's writing style. The characters fully come alive, leaving the reader intrigued throughout their heartfelt journey.

For What's It's Worth is a great addition to the #lovehim series. I am enjoying this SM James and definitely recommend it.

[Shaay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rory, Micah, Justin... Three totally different guys on the cusp of adulthood trying to navigate their school, social and love life. They are pure, fluffy, understanding characters, too good for this world, haha. While this is a part of a series, the book is decribed as a standalone and I didn't feel like I was missing much of a backstory (Justin and Rory's past). Along their story, there is also a plot of selling the local church, which harbors a small local market and is of big significance to some of the characters. All's well that ends well...

Two nitpicky things:
- The cover: I'm guessing it's depicting Justin, Rory & Micah respectively. But in the book, Micah is described as white, with puffy dark blond brown hair... which is contrary to the cover art.
- Is Micah vegetarian or not?
Micah says in
*ch4: "/.../I don't eat meat."
*then in ch5 : "I think I'm going to go with ham and cheese. You?"
*and in ch19: "/.../I'm a vegetarian, for Christ sake."

[Deli · Rating 4 out of 5]

For What its Worth is the new Novel in the #lovehim series. Its a standalone, but like the other books in the series it has a shortstory ( Thanks in Advance) that i highly recommend reading beforehand.

This is the first time i saw a YA novel with an mmm theme. It first i was a bit skeptical, but i shouldnt have worried, because its just as endearing and well done like all the other books in the series with a natural flow that didnt seem to "force" the 3 of them together.

Something i nearly always have trouble with, especially in mmm books, are multible POVs because it easy to get confused whos turn it is and it often disrups the flow of the story for me. If ure the same as me, u should know that this book has 3 POVs. However i think it was ok, i didnt get lost much xD
S.M James did a good job there imo. This book definitely is a nice addition to the series.

[Mx Phoebe · Rating 3 out of 5]

For What It’s Worth (2020) is a new adult poly story written by S.M. James that starts off with emotional cheating. For me, this ruined the entire story due to the fact that I had no trust in one of the characters. As someone who believes in poly relationships, the lack of trust made it hard for me to believe in any part of this character’s part of the relationship.

I understand that it is fiction (laugh). I understand that it is a new adult book and everyone has a growing process. BUT For me, as I was reading I just kept coming back to this main issue especially seeing another character’s issues. The story’s entire premise just did not work for me based on my personal feelings regarding poly relationships and how a person with trust issues would respond and react to a betrayal of trust.

I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great story about three young men building a relationship together despite each having very different personalities and interests. I thought Rory, Micah, and Justin each grew and gained confidence through their relationship. I liked that they were happy taking things slowly, and were just happy being together. I'd love a follow-up someday to see where they end up after Justin and Micah graduate from college.
This author writes young adult stories that are easy to love, and I enjoy seeing some of the characters I'm fond of make appearances in later books, which happened here. I'm always happy to know there is a new book out by S.M. James, and I recommend the #lovehim series, including this book, wholeheartedly!

[T Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was something special. The boys were very young but so full of passion, both for their friends and each other. The quest to save St. Albian’s/ Sal’s showed their passion in another way. The journey, as they discovered that they were meant to be a throuple, was an emotional ride. The boy’s were so open and easy to care for. The story was charming, the characters were spirited and HEA was stirring, as it left you with a warm feeling of contentment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Urban Andenius Skeppstedt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet story about a rare thing

It was great getting into Rory’s and Justin’s lives again and with the addition of Micah and the throuple I truly enjoyed it. The story is sweet with some hurdles always overcome in the best possible way. As before my only concern is about why The main characters stay clear of sex and only fool around. I don’t mean it needs to be explicit or anything, but clearlY stating it doesn’t happen between guys 17-18-19 years old comes off a bit prudish to me.

[Breanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captured me from the start

This book drew me in from the beginning! It started with the cover. I’m not usually a fan of YA books but i couldn’t resist giving it a try from the blurb.

This is beautiful story. Following three boys who discover new relationship while also trying to navigate adulthood. Through thick and thin they learn and grow with each other. You don’t have to read the first one to enjoy this book but i will be going back to read it because i enjoyed For What Its Worth so much!

[Kitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the characters in this story of three very different young men who mesh together perfectly. I enjoyed that the story focused on the deeper connections between the three and not just hormones and sex, sex, sex. They communicated better than the adults in many books I read. This was my first read in this series, and although I was not confused at all, I now want to go back and read the previous stories about these three.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Joscelyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory, Micah and Justin were absolutely wonderful characters, so lovable and engaging. I so enjoyed watching them navigate their three-way relationship, the author did an amazing job of making these characters come alive and getting me invested in their story. This was a great coming of age story with easy to love characters, all in all a very enjoyable read.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*

[Belinda Zamora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being young and in a relationship is hard enough.
What do you do when a crush shows up unexpectedly?
You and your boyfriend go through an emotional upheavel as you slowly realize that you both care for him and that he feels the same way.
Rory, Micah and Justin were such sweet young guys and I really enjoyed how as their journey towards solidifying their relationship helped them all become stronger.
Overall a really sweet depiction of young love.

[Teal Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

For What It’s Worth by S. M. James is an YA LGBT romance with opposites attracting, friends turning to lovers, and a bit of polyamory. A sweet read that had me smiling and loving the characters and their interactions. Micah, Justin and Rory work together, learn to navigate the waters of poly love and give us a wonderful lovestory to enjoy.

[Dara Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm always hesitant to ready polyamory stories, not because I don't believe that they can work but because it's challenging to write them well. S.M. James surprised me by not only writing this well, but by writing it in a way that truly engaged me and, more importantly, it was believable and wonderful.

[devil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story from a new-to-me author. This book totally works as a standalone... (I didn't even realize it was part of a series until I came here to review.) Amazing chemistry among the characters, great writing... I will definitely read this author again.

[Tamar Elmensdorp-lijzenga · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I love about this whole series is that, no matter what is thrown at the main characters, it always ends as a feel good story. I love that Rory got to have both Micah and Justin. I hope they live happily ever after.

[Patricia Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet, grab-you-by-the-feels, poignant, charming, engaging, amazing, tender, beautiful, lovely, wonderful, and totally awesome story. It had me hooked from the very first page, and I would definitely recommend getting this marvelous gem immediately.