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Addiction
Addiction can destroy your life. But if you destroy addiction, can you get your life back?
At twenty-eight, Owen Fredrikson is homeless, unemployed, and grappling with drug addiction. Before he let drugs take over his life, he had a pretty sweet job working the front desk of a fancy hotel, his boss was his best friend, and he had a loving fiancé.
After three years together, thirty-three-year-old middle school math teacher Dex Atterbury could no longer ignore Owen’s demons. Dex made the tough decision to part ways, leaving Owen destitute and Dex heartbroken.
When tragedy befalls Owen and Dex is called to his side, Owen has some tough decisions to make. Both men must determine how far they are willing to go to rebuild the life they once shared.
Can Owen conquer his addiction while facing his demons? And can Dex open his heart and trust Owen again?
Content Warnings:
Depictions of drug addiction, drug use and abuse, and drug withdrawal
Scenes of violence
At twenty-eight, Owen Fredrikson is homeless, unemployed, and grappling with drug addiction. Before he let drugs take over his life, he had a pretty sweet job working the front desk of a fancy hotel, his boss was his best friend, and he had a loving fiancé.
After three years together, thirty-three-year-old middle school math teacher Dex Atterbury could no longer ignore Owen’s demons. Dex made the tough decision to part ways, leaving Owen destitute and Dex heartbroken.
When tragedy befalls Owen and Dex is called to his side, Owen has some tough decisions to make. Both men must determine how far they are willing to go to rebuild the life they once shared.
Can Owen conquer his addiction while facing his demons? And can Dex open his heart and trust Owen again?
Content Warnings:
Depictions of drug addiction, drug use and abuse, and drug withdrawal
Scenes of violence
- GenresM M RomanceFiction
183 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2019
5 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Roberta Blablanski
4 books64 followersRoberta Blablanski hails from The Big Easy: New Orleans, Louisiana. She draws inspiration from her colorful hometown and her former life as a college radio DJ. When she isn’t writing, she spends her days searching for the world’s best Bloody Mary and avoiding people she went to high school with. Her normal habitat is curled up in bed with a good book and a cup of coffee.
Roberta developed a love of books at an early age, spending her summers at the library. Years later, after watching the American version of the television show Queer as Folk, she began searching for books featuring queer characters finding love. Most recently, she began writing queer love stories of her own, drawing from her own personal experiences and creating characters and story lines as vibrant as her ever-changing hair color.
Roberta developed a love of books at an early age, spending her summers at the library. Years later, after watching the American version of the television show Queer as Folk, she began searching for books featuring queer characters finding love. Most recently, she began writing queer love stories of her own, drawing from her own personal experiences and creating characters and story lines as vibrant as her ever-changing hair color.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 9, 2019
I think my angst-o-meter is broken?
Pretty sure this time it IS me and not the book.
I've become accustomed to angsty angst (*cough* Lane, Garrett, and Hansen *cough*) from a few of my favorite authors.
And I had anticipated this to be the same.
I wanted an emotional tsunami to sweep me away.
And well, here I am.....still dry, including my eyes.
Things felt subdued. As if I was watching through layers of glass on a foggy night.
It was...muted.
However, it was a beautiful story of how addiction not only destroys the 'victim' but the damage ripples through every connection and relationship the person has.
I enjoyed both Dex and Owen.
But....I never felt their story.
*3 my-heart-doesn't-hurt stars*
Pretty sure this time it IS me and not the book.
I've become accustomed to angsty angst (*cough* Lane, Garrett, and Hansen *cough*) from a few of my favorite authors.
And I had anticipated this to be the same.
I wanted an emotional tsunami to sweep me away.
And well, here I am.....still dry, including my eyes.
Things felt subdued. As if I was watching through layers of glass on a foggy night.
It was...muted.
However, it was a beautiful story of how addiction not only destroys the 'victim' but the damage ripples through every connection and relationship the person has.
I enjoyed both Dex and Owen.
But....I never felt their story.
*3 my-heart-doesn't-hurt stars*
September 17, 2019
It's no surprise that I gave this book five stars. But not for the reasons you think.
I've spent my life with an addict in very close proximity. Needless to say, this book brought back some memories. Every addict is different, but they share certain traits. It is tough to write about it, but Roberta did a fantastic job.
In the prologue, we see how Owen and Dex met and how their relationship started. By Chapter 1 years have passed, and things happened. Through flashbacks, we learn the whole story. We see Owen's struggles, and Dex's attempts to make things work.
Life of an addict and life with an addict are tough. "Addiction" is a love story, but some things can't be sugarcoated. And Roberta didn't try to do it. It is an accurate representation of addiction and its power to destroy lives. There are some hard scenes, but, like in all Roberta's stories, there is a sense of relief and fulfillment in the end.
I love Roberta's style and her ability to grab my attention with the first few paragraphs. Characters are well developed, and the plot is realistic.
*whispers* I've heard from a reliable source that there will be more stories from this universe and I can't wait to read them all.
I've spent my life with an addict in very close proximity. Needless to say, this book brought back some memories. Every addict is different, but they share certain traits. It is tough to write about it, but Roberta did a fantastic job.
In the prologue, we see how Owen and Dex met and how their relationship started. By Chapter 1 years have passed, and things happened. Through flashbacks, we learn the whole story. We see Owen's struggles, and Dex's attempts to make things work.
Life of an addict and life with an addict are tough. "Addiction" is a love story, but some things can't be sugarcoated. And Roberta didn't try to do it. It is an accurate representation of addiction and its power to destroy lives. There are some hard scenes, but, like in all Roberta's stories, there is a sense of relief and fulfillment in the end.
I love Roberta's style and her ability to grab my attention with the first few paragraphs. Characters are well developed, and the plot is realistic.
*whispers* I've heard from a reliable source that there will be more stories from this universe and I can't wait to read them all.
January 16, 2020
First and foremost, please be aware of the content warnings in the blurb. They are no joke. This is another one of those hard stories that pulls no punches, and I have to commend the author on it. Unless you have been an addict or dealt with someone who is an addict, it’s hard to know what someone is going through or putting others through. Granted, this has a happy ending, but remember in life, there aren’t always happy endings. And it could have turned a lot different in this book as well. Be aware of those around you and if you are or have deal with addiction, know there are people who are there for you. And sometimes you have to let things go.
Owen and Dex both, were conned into doing this speed dating thing. Owen, by his friend and coworker/boss. Dex, by his brother who wants him to get out more. Neither wanted to do it, but when it came to them meeting up, sparks were there and they ended up leaving with each other. A few years later, though, and things came crashing to a halt. Owen was using, after getting hooked from breaking his ankle. He’s been lying and the last straw was stealing from his own wedding fund. Dex couldn’t take anymore and left. And his friend had to fire him from his job. He’s hit rock bottom, trying to get a fix. But what he didn’t count on was a cop that was trying to save him. And ended up being the one to save him, literally. Now Owen, while in the hospital, has a decision to make. Finally get the help he needs or continue on the crappy road he’s on, getting beaten, stealing for drugs, and losing everyone and all he has.
Addiction of any kind often leads to very bad things, if not caught in time. And even if caught in time, it can still have some damage. Lying, stealing, pushing others away, anger, shakes, all kinds of stuff. It not only hurts the addict, but the people who love them. And that was the case here. Dex was his fiance for Pete’s sake. He didn’t want to give Owen up, didn’t want to lose him. But he did all he could do to try to help. Even going to NA meetings himself. But if the addict doesn’t want help, then there’s nothing that can be done. And to get better, an addict has to get better for themselves. Not someone else, or it usually doesn’t work. So while it was a tear jerking story and rough, it was a damn good story. The author showed exactly how life can be. And if the addict, in this case, Owen, does what he needs to do for himself, then things can gradually get better. There’s no miracle cure for addicts. Owen was scared when faced with being in any relationship again that he may fail and those who love him had to accept that too. But in order to move forward, you have to let go and trust in the people around you and yourself, that you will get the help you need and stick with the help you have. It’s vital.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Owen and Dex both, were conned into doing this speed dating thing. Owen, by his friend and coworker/boss. Dex, by his brother who wants him to get out more. Neither wanted to do it, but when it came to them meeting up, sparks were there and they ended up leaving with each other. A few years later, though, and things came crashing to a halt. Owen was using, after getting hooked from breaking his ankle. He’s been lying and the last straw was stealing from his own wedding fund. Dex couldn’t take anymore and left. And his friend had to fire him from his job. He’s hit rock bottom, trying to get a fix. But what he didn’t count on was a cop that was trying to save him. And ended up being the one to save him, literally. Now Owen, while in the hospital, has a decision to make. Finally get the help he needs or continue on the crappy road he’s on, getting beaten, stealing for drugs, and losing everyone and all he has.
Addiction of any kind often leads to very bad things, if not caught in time. And even if caught in time, it can still have some damage. Lying, stealing, pushing others away, anger, shakes, all kinds of stuff. It not only hurts the addict, but the people who love them. And that was the case here. Dex was his fiance for Pete’s sake. He didn’t want to give Owen up, didn’t want to lose him. But he did all he could do to try to help. Even going to NA meetings himself. But if the addict doesn’t want help, then there’s nothing that can be done. And to get better, an addict has to get better for themselves. Not someone else, or it usually doesn’t work. So while it was a tear jerking story and rough, it was a damn good story. The author showed exactly how life can be. And if the addict, in this case, Owen, does what he needs to do for himself, then things can gradually get better. There’s no miracle cure for addicts. Owen was scared when faced with being in any relationship again that he may fail and those who love him had to accept that too. But in order to move forward, you have to let go and trust in the people around you and yourself, that you will get the help you need and stick with the help you have. It’s vital.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
August 12, 2019
Addiction is a difficult topic to cover and can be such an emotional experience, but it's very unique to the person. No one's addiction is the same and no one's recovery is the same.
This story was a beautiful telling of two men who had their lives planned out together, until one of them was injured and started taking pain medication and never quit.
The setup for the story was great. Both Owen and Dex had me squeeing at their first date and loving how darn cute Dex was at romance. Their characters were perfect together and I loved every scene with them together, even the ending.
I had expected an emotional tornado of fights and forgiveness and threats and soul crushing love, but I never really felt it. And I think with a topic that's so emotionally charged, that type of reaction is important for the reader to get a sense of the strong bond between characters and really feel it.
Overall, it kept me engaged and I really enjoyed the characters and the story. It all seemed fair and honest, but I wished it pulled at my heart a bit more than it did.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
This story was a beautiful telling of two men who had their lives planned out together, until one of them was injured and started taking pain medication and never quit.
The setup for the story was great. Both Owen and Dex had me squeeing at their first date and loving how darn cute Dex was at romance. Their characters were perfect together and I loved every scene with them together, even the ending.
I had expected an emotional tornado of fights and forgiveness and threats and soul crushing love, but I never really felt it. And I think with a topic that's so emotionally charged, that type of reaction is important for the reader to get a sense of the strong bond between characters and really feel it.
Overall, it kept me engaged and I really enjoyed the characters and the story. It all seemed fair and honest, but I wished it pulled at my heart a bit more than it did.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
August 16, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
2 stars
This was one of those books that I knew was not going to work for me early on. When the book opens, we are in Dex’s POV and he was fairly irritating to me. While I didn’t care for his thought process, the style of writing overall was simplistic in an unpleasant way, relied at times on clichés, read as dated for the age of the characters, and felt forced as it didn’t have a natural flow for inner dialogues and conversation.
The set up for their story did not work for me either. We meet Dex and Owen in the prologue when they meet each other as well. We do not see anything of their relationship and years have passed and they are no longer together. The book then moves to flashbacks and dreams to fill in only a little bit of their story and I never felt like I knew the characters. Since there was no history built to their relationship, there was no connection built to root for them to get back together. There was also little sense of place for the story other than they were near a beach and it was difficult for me to become immersed in their story.
Read the review in its entirety here.
2 stars
This was one of those books that I knew was not going to work for me early on. When the book opens, we are in Dex’s POV and he was fairly irritating to me. While I didn’t care for his thought process, the style of writing overall was simplistic in an unpleasant way, relied at times on clichés, read as dated for the age of the characters, and felt forced as it didn’t have a natural flow for inner dialogues and conversation.
The set up for their story did not work for me either. We meet Dex and Owen in the prologue when they meet each other as well. We do not see anything of their relationship and years have passed and they are no longer together. The book then moves to flashbacks and dreams to fill in only a little bit of their story and I never felt like I knew the characters. Since there was no history built to their relationship, there was no connection built to root for them to get back together. There was also little sense of place for the story other than they were near a beach and it was difficult for me to become immersed in their story.
Read the review in its entirety here.
September 13, 2019
I’ve read this author before. This is a mm contemporary story about drug addiction. Main characters were Dex and Owen. Owen journey was a rough one and after hitting rock bottom this is a way up. I’ll read more from this author.
August 16, 2019
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I fell in love with this author's writing with her first book, "Return to Sender". When I found out she was writing a second book, I was eager to get my hands on it as soon as possible.
As I started reading the story, I became immediately impressed with the writing. While I adored the author's first book, I was stunned by how well this one was written. It's obvious to me that she continues to improve with each book she writes...by leaps and bounds.
I was also impressed by the depth of emotion that was present from almost the very first page. I could easily feel the differing angst, suffering, and despair that was felt by Owen and Dex, the main characters.
This book involves a no-holds-barred look at addiction, and how it can destroy the life of not only the user, but of those who love them as well.
Is anyone ever too far gone with an addiction that they can't be saved? Should loved ones ever give up on them? IS LOVE ENOUGH to reach them?
This is not an easy topic to tackle by any means, and I applaud the unabashed approach taken with the telling of this story. Is it full of angst? Yes. But it is also full of love, friendship, and humor.
I believe the author nailed it perfectly with this one. I couldn't get enough of the story, and it actually hit home for me on many levels.
This one's a no brainer. You don't need to think about whether you need to read it. JUST DO. It's AMAZING!
I fell in love with this author's writing with her first book, "Return to Sender". When I found out she was writing a second book, I was eager to get my hands on it as soon as possible.
As I started reading the story, I became immediately impressed with the writing. While I adored the author's first book, I was stunned by how well this one was written. It's obvious to me that she continues to improve with each book she writes...by leaps and bounds.
I was also impressed by the depth of emotion that was present from almost the very first page. I could easily feel the differing angst, suffering, and despair that was felt by Owen and Dex, the main characters.
This book involves a no-holds-barred look at addiction, and how it can destroy the life of not only the user, but of those who love them as well.
Is anyone ever too far gone with an addiction that they can't be saved? Should loved ones ever give up on them? IS LOVE ENOUGH to reach them?
This is not an easy topic to tackle by any means, and I applaud the unabashed approach taken with the telling of this story. Is it full of angst? Yes. But it is also full of love, friendship, and humor.
I believe the author nailed it perfectly with this one. I couldn't get enough of the story, and it actually hit home for me on many levels.
This one's a no brainer. You don't need to think about whether you need to read it. JUST DO. It's AMAZING!
January 30, 2020
I absolutely devoured this book. I came home from work, laid down on the couch while my kiddo was playing Soul Caliber VI and lost myself completely in the story of Owen and Dex and what they went through.
Blabanski's writing is tender and emotionally charged, and even in scenes of anger or judgement, it's hard not to feel for every single character involved. The story starts with speed dating and ends with one of the most complete and satisfying story and character arcs that I've read in a while. I don't want to go into too much detail, as I don't want to spoil anything, but I can highly recommend this story. It's shorter, but so incredibly deep and gratifying that I can honestly say I'm richer for having experienced it.
Blabanski's writing is tender and emotionally charged, and even in scenes of anger or judgement, it's hard not to feel for every single character involved. The story starts with speed dating and ends with one of the most complete and satisfying story and character arcs that I've read in a while. I don't want to go into too much detail, as I don't want to spoil anything, but I can highly recommend this story. It's shorter, but so incredibly deep and gratifying that I can honestly say I'm richer for having experienced it.
August 16, 2019
Another sparkling success for Roberta and her latest bittersweet second chance love story.
I greatly enjoyed Owen and Dex’s heart breaking journey. They had it rough but deserved each other so much (IMO). Right from the start, they have great chemistry and I was rooting for them to get find their way back into each other’s hearts and lives.
THAT ENDING!!! I MELTED!!!! T___T
The writing was beautiful and flowed effortlessly, the characters vivid, and the story gripping –– sucked me right it from the start.
Highly recommended!
I greatly enjoyed Owen and Dex’s heart breaking journey. They had it rough but deserved each other so much (IMO). Right from the start, they have great chemistry and I was rooting for them to get find their way back into each other’s hearts and lives.
THAT ENDING!!! I MELTED!!!! T___T
The writing was beautiful and flowed effortlessly, the characters vivid, and the story gripping –– sucked me right it from the start.
Highly recommended!
August 15, 2019
Owen has reached rock bottom. He's managed to ruin his life and lose everything: his fiance Dex, his friends and his job. Because of a misunderstanding, he has also made an enemy out of his dealer,who beats him close to death. Luckily, the police find and take him to the hospital. And maybe ending up in the hospital can be lifesaving for Owen in more ways than one,if only he could grasp the opportunity.
I love the way Roberta Blablanski structured the book. She took me from the past to the present and back again,from one point of view to another,in an all encompassing experience of Dex and Owen's story. From when they first met,through their happy moments together, to when Owen started to lose himself to the addiction to pills and subsequently, to the day Dex couldn't deal with the situation anymore and left. So many trials and still,their love for each other is steadfast,like a spark waiting to be rekindled.
It's a sweet story,with tenderness and hotness, but also so much despair,guilt and heartbreak. And hope. Because,despite how broken their lives,maybe there's still a possibility to put them back together, rebuilt relationships,find forgiveness and begin anew.
Reading Addiction was a beautiful, emotional ride. Well depicted characters, gripping feelings and I really appreciated the realism and sensibility the author has used for writing about such a difficult matter.
Absolutely recommended!
I love the way Roberta Blablanski structured the book. She took me from the past to the present and back again,from one point of view to another,in an all encompassing experience of Dex and Owen's story. From when they first met,through their happy moments together, to when Owen started to lose himself to the addiction to pills and subsequently, to the day Dex couldn't deal with the situation anymore and left. So many trials and still,their love for each other is steadfast,like a spark waiting to be rekindled.
It's a sweet story,with tenderness and hotness, but also so much despair,guilt and heartbreak. And hope. Because,despite how broken their lives,maybe there's still a possibility to put them back together, rebuilt relationships,find forgiveness and begin anew.
Reading Addiction was a beautiful, emotional ride. Well depicted characters, gripping feelings and I really appreciated the realism and sensibility the author has used for writing about such a difficult matter.
Absolutely recommended!
September 1, 2019
As the news has been telling us, opioid addiction has become a major problem in the US, affecting millions of people. Roberta tackles the subject in an up-close and (necessarily) hair-raising way, showing the near-worst-case scenario of what can happen to such an individual. Thankfully, for those of us who aren't fond of tragedies, there's redemption to be had, but watching Owen's downward spiral and painful climb back up is still rough. Importantly, we also see the pain of his former fiance (Dex) and friends and coworkers, all of whom have tried unsuccessfully to help Owen in the past, before they realize the message that everyone dealing with an addict has to accept: the person needs to want to seek help himself. No one else can do it for him. It's a vital reminder, since given the disturbing rates of addiction (whether to opioids or other drugs or behaviors), nearly everyone will be close to someone who's addicted at some point in their lives, or will suffer addiction themselves. Stories like this one remind us to hold onto love, hope, and forgiveness--but also to get all the medical and legal help available, and to draw tough-love lines in the sand on occasion.
Also, I'm impressed at Roberta's versatility: her first novella, Return to Sender, was as gentle and sweet as this one is gritty and serious. Looking forward to seeing what she'll write next!
Also, I'm impressed at Roberta's versatility: her first novella, Return to Sender, was as gentle and sweet as this one is gritty and serious. Looking forward to seeing what she'll write next!
August 16, 2019
Wow. Roberta Blablanski's Addiction is a remarkable story that tells of the horrific spiral downwards that addiction can cause.
Owen and Dex were together, engaged to be married. But when Owen became addicted to opiods, everything changed for the couple.
Through the use of frequent flashbacks, we learn of their past happiness, as well as the depth of their love. We also learn of Owen's spiral into addiction.
Their story includes drug addiction, a scary attack, and recovery. It's a quick story, so nothing is explored in great detail. But it's definitely a powerful tale that illustrates the innocent way that opiod addiction can begin. Basically, it's so damn realistic that it's terrifying.
More than anything though, this is a "light" addiction story. As it's a short story, it highlights the lows, and glosses over the recovery.
I love Addiction. I definitely suggest this bittersweet Roberta Blablanski tale to everyone.
August 16, 2019
Roberta Blablanski is quickly becoming one of my go-to authors for second-chance romances.
Addiction is one of those stories that takes your heart apart and then puts it back together in all the right ways. Owen and Dex's romance is sweet and real, but it's also not easy for either man. There's a lot of struggle, both internal and external for both of them throughout this story. I felt so deeply for both of them, especially Dex.
Addiction treats the titular subject matter truthfully, honestly, and respectfully, but never veers into maudlin. It left me feeling hopeful and warm and believing in the power of love and forgiveness. Another wonder read from this author! I can't wait to see what they do next <3
Addiction is one of those stories that takes your heart apart and then puts it back together in all the right ways. Owen and Dex's romance is sweet and real, but it's also not easy for either man. There's a lot of struggle, both internal and external for both of them throughout this story. I felt so deeply for both of them, especially Dex.
Addiction treats the titular subject matter truthfully, honestly, and respectfully, but never veers into maudlin. It left me feeling hopeful and warm and believing in the power of love and forgiveness. Another wonder read from this author! I can't wait to see what they do next <3
August 15, 2019
Owen and Dex's story was an intense read dealing with Owen's addiction and how it affects him and those that love him. Ending up damn near dead was unfortunately probably the only thing that saved Owen by bringing Dex back into his life. I seriously enjoyed these characters and their hard journey as they navigated the pitfalls of Owen's recovery, not just over his addiction but recovering Dex's trust. All in all an enjoyable angsty read.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
August 12, 2019
Is love strong enough to overcome the perils of addiction? This question is at the heart of Owen and Dex’s story.
The ripple effect of addiction for both main characters made for an interesting read. I also got attached to the side character Sammy, and I look forward to reading his story next.
The ripple effect of addiction for both main characters made for an interesting read. I also got attached to the side character Sammy, and I look forward to reading his story next.
August 24, 2019
How strong is your love? What is your breaking point? When is it enough to call it quits? Is second chance even a possibility? Owen Fredrikson and Dex Atterbury come face to face with these questions and more in Roberta Blablanski’s Addiction. Explore the reality of addiction, its devastating heartache, the strength of tough love, and embark on a skeptical new beginning.
It all begins with a chance meeting during, of all things, a dating game that takes place at the hotel where Owen works. Shockingly to both Owen and Dex there is a spark, a mutual attraction that grows stronger as the years progress. Three years in, they are engaged and planning for their special day and the future. It all ends as Owen’s addiction to painkillers spirals out of control and becomes too much, forcing Dex to part ways.
Owen’s actions have torn apart an incredible bond the men once shared. At rock bottom, led by his addiction, he gets himself into a precarious medical situation. Emotionally Dex is wrung out and attempting to put his life back together. One phone call is all it takes to tentatively reunite these two men.
Portraying drug abuse and its addiction accurately the author allows the story to flow truthfully without becoming overwhelming. Throughout the despair and anguish there is always a temperament of hope, however fleeting it may be.
‘Addiction’ is an accurately powerful depiction of the pain an addiction creates. It’s like being on a roller coaster ride of emotions as the devastation of one man parallels the despair and guilt felt by the other. Neither Owen nor Dex intentionally set out to destroy their loving bond, however they fall victim to a cascading set of events. It is the proverbial crash landing that puts things into perspective as they embark on a journey back to what they once had, that is cautious and may not be achievable.
Portraying drug abuse and its addiction accurately the author allows the story to flow truthfully without becoming overwhelming. Throughout the despair and anguish there is always a temperament of hope, however fleeting it may be. The road back is a struggle as Dex favors self-preservation and Owen battles with his guilt.
Addiction is a hard journey for these men and not an easy subject matter to portray. Between the covers is a flawlessly written account of one man’s struggles with addiction as the love of his life stands by helpless watching the world crash around them. From the beginning their emotions are present, sending feels through you. Some of these emotions are hard to take but the forthright delivery of the subject matter is spot on. You can’t help feeling right along with Dex and Owen: the predominant one being sadness as they spiral into an abyss set on destruction. After the inevitable eye-opening event, hope emerges as you witness the re-building process.
It’s funny… As I started to write this review, I was convinced Addiction was a four-heart read. However, as I relived it, I wondered what I had been thinking. The flow, style, treatment of the subject matter, the range of emotions is all there to make this a perfect five-heart read.
It all begins with a chance meeting during, of all things, a dating game that takes place at the hotel where Owen works. Shockingly to both Owen and Dex there is a spark, a mutual attraction that grows stronger as the years progress. Three years in, they are engaged and planning for their special day and the future. It all ends as Owen’s addiction to painkillers spirals out of control and becomes too much, forcing Dex to part ways.
Owen’s actions have torn apart an incredible bond the men once shared. At rock bottom, led by his addiction, he gets himself into a precarious medical situation. Emotionally Dex is wrung out and attempting to put his life back together. One phone call is all it takes to tentatively reunite these two men.
Portraying drug abuse and its addiction accurately the author allows the story to flow truthfully without becoming overwhelming. Throughout the despair and anguish there is always a temperament of hope, however fleeting it may be.
‘Addiction’ is an accurately powerful depiction of the pain an addiction creates. It’s like being on a roller coaster ride of emotions as the devastation of one man parallels the despair and guilt felt by the other. Neither Owen nor Dex intentionally set out to destroy their loving bond, however they fall victim to a cascading set of events. It is the proverbial crash landing that puts things into perspective as they embark on a journey back to what they once had, that is cautious and may not be achievable.
Portraying drug abuse and its addiction accurately the author allows the story to flow truthfully without becoming overwhelming. Throughout the despair and anguish there is always a temperament of hope, however fleeting it may be. The road back is a struggle as Dex favors self-preservation and Owen battles with his guilt.
Addiction is a hard journey for these men and not an easy subject matter to portray. Between the covers is a flawlessly written account of one man’s struggles with addiction as the love of his life stands by helpless watching the world crash around them. From the beginning their emotions are present, sending feels through you. Some of these emotions are hard to take but the forthright delivery of the subject matter is spot on. You can’t help feeling right along with Dex and Owen: the predominant one being sadness as they spiral into an abyss set on destruction. After the inevitable eye-opening event, hope emerges as you witness the re-building process.
It’s funny… As I started to write this review, I was convinced Addiction was a four-heart read. However, as I relived it, I wondered what I had been thinking. The flow, style, treatment of the subject matter, the range of emotions is all there to make this a perfect five-heart read.
August 16, 2019
Owen and Dex.
This is a first for me with this author and I knew going in that it was bound to be a “taboo” subject. I knew though, from personal experience loving an addict is something more people need to talk about. It’s affecting more and more people by the day, and you can point fingers and blame whoever you want, until you’ve experienced it… you have no idea.
With this one, like so many people who get addicted to opioids, Owen had suffered a broken ankle and was prescribed pain pills. He had a great job, a wonderful fiancé and great friends. In less than a year, he lost it all.
Dex had tried everything to get his fiancé the help he needed. At first, he ignored the signs and took his word for it, that everything was under control. And then he lied and he stole from the people that meant the most to him, and continued to let them down and too much was too much and he eventual burned all of his bridges and lost everything he’d ever worked for.
That’s the way it is with addiction. People say, you love the drugs more than me, or, are the drugs more important than me? …. The short answer… yes… yes, they are. Yes, they do…. They may not want to, they may hate themselves for it… but until they’re ready to stop.. there is no low that’s too low for an addict. Ugly truth.
I love how realistic it was from Dex’s perspective. I love how much he loved Owen and cared about him and wanted to help him, even after he’d left him. Here he was, ready to pledge in sickness and in health, and that doesn’t go away just because he had to. Sometimes you have to force folks into getting help. Sometimes you have to lose everything in order to be ready to fight to get it back.
I thought it was a little bit too easy for Owen. I mean, it glossed over some pretty important parts of losing everything and feeling the shame of it…. But, real addiction… real rehab… real relapses, especially an addict that didn’t want to get help, doing it for someone else, just isn’t realistic. Going through physical therapy without pain management and only over the counter ibuprofen or something, without withdraws, detoxing, the physical illnesses and ugly symptoms and he just did it like no problem? That isn’t realistic in the slightest…. But for the sake of the story… I was glad it worked out so well for the both of them. It doesn’t always.
Overall though, I did enjoy these two together and I loved the people willing to help, especially the officer and his wife. I loved that Owen had such a good friend in Sammy, even if he was a touch overly dramatic lol I’m kind of hoping we see something good for him, so I hope there’ll be a book 2 with this. And I enjoyed reading something that wasn’t all fairytales and rainbow fluff, though I’m glad it worked out for them in the end.
4 stars from me.
This is a first for me with this author and I knew going in that it was bound to be a “taboo” subject. I knew though, from personal experience loving an addict is something more people need to talk about. It’s affecting more and more people by the day, and you can point fingers and blame whoever you want, until you’ve experienced it… you have no idea.
With this one, like so many people who get addicted to opioids, Owen had suffered a broken ankle and was prescribed pain pills. He had a great job, a wonderful fiancé and great friends. In less than a year, he lost it all.
Dex had tried everything to get his fiancé the help he needed. At first, he ignored the signs and took his word for it, that everything was under control. And then he lied and he stole from the people that meant the most to him, and continued to let them down and too much was too much and he eventual burned all of his bridges and lost everything he’d ever worked for.
That’s the way it is with addiction. People say, you love the drugs more than me, or, are the drugs more important than me? …. The short answer… yes… yes, they are. Yes, they do…. They may not want to, they may hate themselves for it… but until they’re ready to stop.. there is no low that’s too low for an addict. Ugly truth.
I love how realistic it was from Dex’s perspective. I love how much he loved Owen and cared about him and wanted to help him, even after he’d left him. Here he was, ready to pledge in sickness and in health, and that doesn’t go away just because he had to. Sometimes you have to force folks into getting help. Sometimes you have to lose everything in order to be ready to fight to get it back.
I thought it was a little bit too easy for Owen. I mean, it glossed over some pretty important parts of losing everything and feeling the shame of it…. But, real addiction… real rehab… real relapses, especially an addict that didn’t want to get help, doing it for someone else, just isn’t realistic. Going through physical therapy without pain management and only over the counter ibuprofen or something, without withdraws, detoxing, the physical illnesses and ugly symptoms and he just did it like no problem? That isn’t realistic in the slightest…. But for the sake of the story… I was glad it worked out so well for the both of them. It doesn’t always.
Overall though, I did enjoy these two together and I loved the people willing to help, especially the officer and his wife. I loved that Owen had such a good friend in Sammy, even if he was a touch overly dramatic lol I’m kind of hoping we see something good for him, so I hope there’ll be a book 2 with this. And I enjoyed reading something that wasn’t all fairytales and rainbow fluff, though I’m glad it worked out for them in the end.
4 stars from me.
September 10, 2019
3.75 Stars
The blurb for this story ticked a bunch of boxes for me. I love dark, hurt/comfort reads with a happy ending and I’ve read some amazing romances dealing with drug addiction, but for me, Addiction didn’t fully work.
I thought the author dealt with Owen’s addiction realistically, but I think I wanted more. I wanted more emotion and turmoil from Owen. It would have made the story more believable. I would have enjoyed the story more had the author dug a bit deeper.
There were some good sized flashbacks in the story that I didn’t think were needed to see in such detail and I wish the author had taken that page time to deal with the aftermath of Owen’s addiction once he was out of rehab. I wanted to see the time between Owen leaving rehab and getting back together with Dex filled with how Owen dealt with everyday life and how he earned back Dex’s trust.
As for the romance, it was pretty well-done. I enjoyed seeing how Dex and Owen met and got together the first time around and I loved getting to see how Dex had proposed. It was definitely original. Together, they were hot, but I wish I’d seen more of how they spent their time getting back together.
So, while not my favorite story ever, it was still enjoyable and I’d recommend it.
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
August 21, 2019
An unusual romance but I liked it.
Addiction is the first book I've read by Roberta Blablanski and I think it's actually only her second published book. For such a new author I thought she did a really good job with Addiction.
It was a heart-wrenching story in a lot of ways – but I knew it would be when I decided to read it. Owen's addition nearly destroyed his life. On a lighter note, I loved the way that Dex and Owen originally got together; I don't think I've read an M/M story with a speed-dating scenario before.
I have no personal experience with the pain of loving and/or living with an addict. Some things in the story seemed very realistic and others not quite so but I understand having to take liberties in order to move the story along.
While Dex never stopped loving Owen, I thought that it all worked out just a little too easily for him when they got back together.
I loved Owen's best friend, Sammy, and was happy to learn that he would be getting a book of his own.
So overall, I really liked this book and will definitely read more from this new author.
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***
Addiction is the first book I've read by Roberta Blablanski and I think it's actually only her second published book. For such a new author I thought she did a really good job with Addiction.
It was a heart-wrenching story in a lot of ways – but I knew it would be when I decided to read it. Owen's addition nearly destroyed his life. On a lighter note, I loved the way that Dex and Owen originally got together; I don't think I've read an M/M story with a speed-dating scenario before.
I have no personal experience with the pain of loving and/or living with an addict. Some things in the story seemed very realistic and others not quite so but I understand having to take liberties in order to move the story along.
While Dex never stopped loving Owen, I thought that it all worked out just a little too easily for him when they got back together.
I loved Owen's best friend, Sammy, and was happy to learn that he would be getting a book of his own.
So overall, I really liked this book and will definitely read more from this new author.
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***
August 16, 2019
My first read from Roberta Blablanski, and after this it won't be my last.
Addiction was heartbreaking but the pain and struggle was necessary to get the most out of these characters ..... and to get them to their HEA. Owen and Dex were sweet and real, the pages alive with their intensity from the very beginning. Addiction also dealt with tough subjects matters in such a wonderful way, highlighting the power of healing and forgiveness, perfectly. I REALLY loved reading it.
*Copy kindly given in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much*
Addiction was heartbreaking but the pain and struggle was necessary to get the most out of these characters ..... and to get them to their HEA. Owen and Dex were sweet and real, the pages alive with their intensity from the very beginning. Addiction also dealt with tough subjects matters in such a wonderful way, highlighting the power of healing and forgiveness, perfectly. I REALLY loved reading it.
*Copy kindly given in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much*
August 15, 2019
Owen looses everything due to a prescription drug addiction. Can he get his life back? For me, Owen's story is more about forgiveness than anything else.
Addiction can be a very heavy topic...especially for people who have experienced it. It was nice to read a book that dealt with the issue and left me feeling hopeful.
Addiction can be a very heavy topic...especially for people who have experienced it. It was nice to read a book that dealt with the issue and left me feeling hopeful.
July 11, 2023
The title lets you know this will not be an easy read, but it is ultimately an uplifting one due to the support Owen gets from friends and loved ones. The journey is not an easy one, of course. The book takes you into the world of drug addiction and it is sobering to read how even the deepest love becomes second to the need to take the next pill. The book is strongest (and toughest) when we see the full horror of addiction, something I would imagine many of us (myself included) misunderstand. Well worth the read!
July 18, 2022
2.5 stars
August 26, 2019
I feel like this is a tough book to review because I did like the story and the characters, but I felt like it was missing something, especially in the last third of the book, it just felt very abrupt and incomplete for me. I feel like I just needed a little more.
Addiction is a difficult topic and I think this author does a good job with it, especially in the beginning. I felt like I understood a lot of what Dex and Owen were going through. It’s also very clear that these two mean something very special to each other and even though the trust has been broken, it may be able to be rebuilt. Owen really does have to come to terms with a lot of things in his life and take the time to heal all around. Dex definitely has a huge heart that belongs to Owen!
Overall, I thought this was a touching story of healing and forgiveness. It definitely wasn’t as angsty as I expected, but I was rooting for these guys. I think for me I was just missing a bit more of their rebuild together.
Addiction is a difficult topic and I think this author does a good job with it, especially in the beginning. I felt like I understood a lot of what Dex and Owen were going through. It’s also very clear that these two mean something very special to each other and even though the trust has been broken, it may be able to be rebuilt. Owen really does have to come to terms with a lot of things in his life and take the time to heal all around. Dex definitely has a huge heart that belongs to Owen!
Overall, I thought this was a touching story of healing and forgiveness. It definitely wasn’t as angsty as I expected, but I was rooting for these guys. I think for me I was just missing a bit more of their rebuild together.
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