Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Gavin is helping one of his best friends, Dario, navigate through depression with the help of another friend, Rayland. The three did everything together until high school ruined the bond. Something happened to Gavin that puts his friendship with Dario at risk. When it came down to the choice between their friendship and his own feelings, Gavin chose himself. Was it the best choice? Can the damage he did to Dario be undone? Will he ever get a chance to deal with the pain that led to the decision? Will he tell Dario what hurt him so bad he'd risk their friendship? Or will he bury it so deep he becomes numb to the pain? Gavin doesn't have the answers, he only knows that this one choice may be his biggest regret in life.

53 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 20, 2020

7 people want to read

About the author

Samuel Alexander

25 books27 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
15 (38%)
4 stars
21 (53%)
3 stars
2 (5%)
2 stars
1 (2%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for NicoleR.M.M..
674 reviews168 followers
January 6, 2022
This second story covers the same timeline as the first (Dario), but we read things from Gavin’s pov. I really loved this second book.
Where Dario’s parents only care about themselves and about their religion, Gavin has one awesome family! There is a lot of fun and happiness and love in that house and it’s no wonder Dario loves to be part of that. I love the dynamics between Rayland and Gavin, their banter and their shared love for their friend Dario. How they worry about him and try to take care of him. It’s another coming of age, we follow the 3 friends from a young age until they are in their teens. Compared to Dario Gavin has an easy breezy life. The only thing he has to worry about is that his room is clean enough to Dario’s standards when Dario comes over. From the first book, we know Dario suffers from severe anxiety and depression, mostly due to the way his strict, religious and homophobic parents treat him.

I really enjoy the writing and the setup in this series. To read about the same happenings, but from another pov, is interesting.
I have a good feeling about this series!

On to Rayland’s book!
Profile Image for Nedra81 .
907 reviews
October 20, 2023
Audio

The second audio of this coming-of-age series did provide a better insight into how selfish Dario’s parents are, just from Gavin’s POV. There is a drastic difference in family dynamics, as Gavin’s parents are more relaxed and down-to-earth, rather than uptight like Dario’s.

We also were able to witness the love Gavin and Rayland have for Dario, along with Gavin’s family. Dario is widely loved and accepted as he is now, except by the ideals of his over-religious parents. I commend Gavin for biting his tongue with Dario’s parents' unannounced visit, especially with what was shared.

Even though the events were the same, and the timeline, hearing from another person's perspective was informative. The emotional aspect was still there, not as intense, but the homophobia, anxiety, and depression were present once again. But, I have a feeling Gavin is holding back some emotions regarding this childhood friend.
Profile Image for Nichole.
742 reviews
October 24, 2023
The second story provides more to the dynamic between the three friends. We get to learn more about Dario but from Gavin's point of view. It also helps to understand a little more about Gavin and his family and finally get to understand some of the why things happened in book one. I'm invested now and will continue. I really hope some good things come to these kids.
5,704 reviews39 followers
January 9, 2022
things i didnt see coming. it was wonderful.. and heartbreaking at times. it was good
Profile Image for Isaiah.
Author 1 book87 followers
January 12, 2022
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.

I got an ARC of this book.

BOOK TWO!

The thing is, Gavin is just not as compelling of a character for me. He isn’t dull, but the book really wasn’t about him. So little of the book was about him that despite this being his book, I feel like I know just about as much as I did before reading.

This is more about setting the stage for Dario to really come to terms with his sexuality. Gavin’s older brother is gay. Dario’s family cracks down on gayness. It really is just fleshing out the story and less about who Gavin really is. I want to see more of Gavin and find out who he really is.

I loved getting to know his family. I loved how his brother coming out was just a non-event outside of his family being competitive. The way they interacted was adorable and loving. It was something that I enjoyed reading. So even though I didn’t get the satisfaction of knowing Gavin as well as I know Dario, I feel like Gavin and his family are real. They really are fleshed out enough that I care about them and I want to know more.

The plots and little scenes were on the opposite side of a lot of Dario’s. Why did Gavin suddenly disappear? What was Gavin thinking and doing while Dario was performing? It was a great companion piece and it didn’t read as repetitive like a lot of stories like this can. There were not huge inconsistencies in the plots or the timing. These were not retellings or the same scenes, instead they fleshed out the world so much more than that.

I really can’t wait to find out about Rayland.
1,600 reviews8 followers
October 22, 2023
This review is for the audiobook. I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

This second short book in the series covers approximately the same time period as the first book, but from the viewpoint of Dario's friend, Gavin. The books should be read in order for best understanding. This book answers the primary question I had from the first book, namely What Happened to break up these two friends, and it's a doozy. I completely understood where Gavin was coming from, but I also sympathized with Dario, because he didn't know. This book also gives the reader a counterpoint to Dario's cold and demanding parents, in the form of Gavin's quiet, generous, and affectionate parents. I loved how sweet they were to their own son, and Dario. Everyone seems to realize the stress and unhappy home life Dario endures (although he doesn't seem to fully recognize the cause himself), and it is endearing, while still being sad. I kept finding myself asking, Why doesn't someone do something?! But what could they do? Gavin's sudden change (to friendship again) did seem a bit abrupt to me, and while I liked it, this book didn't deliver quite the emotional punch the first book did.

The narration, again, really delivers on the emotions of all the characters.
1,565 reviews11 followers
January 25, 2022
I am going to do this series review a little differently, I am making a cover comment and making it the same for all 7 books. I truly enjoyed this series. There is one main character, Dario and all the rest of the amazing characters are his salvation. There are some dark triggers so make sure you check that out, however, if you read this series in order it is well worth it. At first I thought, why not just make it one big book, but once I started I couldn't put it down, except for eating and sleeping. Each player in this well crafted story gives a new and different perspective. Whether they are a saviour or an evil hell bend wretch, they bring this story to life. I highly recommend this series. “I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.”
Profile Image for Maddy.
879 reviews
February 13, 2022
Yup, let's continue with the punches. Damn, these shorties know how to pick a real good one. It is actually surprising how much emotion can be packed into such short reads.

**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
Profile Image for Denise GremoryKohta.
4,243 reviews6 followers
January 30, 2022
It’s so hard reading this and I know the next one will be too. But I keep thinking they will help us understand the adult versions later.
606 reviews3 followers
January 22, 2022
This is a continuation of Dario's from Gavin's POV. It is a story of friendship. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I received this book as an Advanced reader's Copy.
Profile Image for Edga.
2,241 reviews23 followers
January 6, 2022
A short, very intense read. This one acts to bring friends together, acknowledging the others needs, and helping said friends to cope with their difficulties. Be aware that one of the MCs suffers from very low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. Cannot be read as a standalone, must read the previous book.
Profile Image for Darryl Terry.
Author 6 books11 followers
September 12, 2020
Rough and uncultured, perhaps? A teenager's experience of coming of age, on his own terms.

Gavin has a pleasant life as a young teenager, with generally permissive parents, and great siblings as well. He deals in dope as a small enterprise, enjoys it himself, as well as the occasional drink. Between his sister, Rayland, and his best friend, Dario, life is a bit of a breeze, even if his parents make him attend church on Sundays. But Dario has very conservative parents and is, himself, a perfectionist and an obsessive academic.

Gavin is happy to accommodate his friend, even if that means tidying up his room when he visits him, much to his sisters and his mother's amusement. But beneath his normal exterior, Gavin has feelings of anxiety as well as sexual confusion and identity. When Dario's parents upset him with comments about his far too permissive upbringing and culture, Gavin snaps inside, and for a while, his feelings of impotence and rage are consummated against Dario. Will his betrayal of his friend and his brooding sullenness affect his life and ruin what he has, forever? In the turmoil of his youthful life, he is faced with making choices that his friends and family can only stand by and offer whatever advice and help that they can. Ultimately, he must make his decisions for himself, although he is surprised at the way things eventually work out.

This is a short but entertaining read that offers an insight into the world that the new generation experiences. Themes like gay sex, recreational drugs, and intimate relationships are part of the plot which is aimed at a younger audience and readers interested in their ideals. Although it is part of a series, it may be read as a standalone. After reading about Gavin and his friends, many readers will feel empathy and experience the urge to read the other books in the series in order to appreciate Gavin and his world further.

Profile Image for Carolina Solano.
149 reviews6 followers
July 18, 2020
I chose to read Samuel Alexander again. The first book in this series, Dario is a very moving and revealing book. This time he presents us with the second book in the series: Gavin.
Gavin and Dario are close friends, together with Rayland they form an inseparable trio. They know about Dario's difficulties in relating (anxiety and depression) added to that Dario has very strict and oppressive parents. That was never a barrier to their friendship because it is indestructible. Until one day Dario's parents complain relentlessly to Gavin's parents about the way they educate their son, saying phrases like: 'bad influence' 'not Christian enough' 'sexual perversion' 'improper upbringing'. Gavin thought they were horrible people and wanted to get revenge on them but the only thing he could do was to get out of Dario's life to heal that moment.
It is a complex story that hooks you from the first moment, due to the ability that the writer has to finish the chapters at the most decisive point. We know each character from a deep side, and what they think and feel at all times and that the emotional bond between them is true.
It is a very short book, but the intensity of the story makes it a great read. The author touches on topics such as homosexuality, relationships and, above all, forgiveness in a very natural and frank way. It is a story to think and reflect.
I recommend reading this novel, mainly to young people and adults who are going through situations similar to that of the protagonists.
8 reviews
August 10, 2020
Gavin (I See Things in Blue Book 2) by Samuel Alexander is the second book in the series. This instalment is from Gavin’s perspective. I hadn’t previously read book 1 but don’t feel I lost anything or felt like I couldn’t get into this book due to this.

The book tells the story of 3 friends Gavin, Rayland and Dario. Dario suffers from anxiety and depression. As you get further into the story the reader discovers Dario has a secret. We watch as the three friends deal with the nitty gritty that comes with Darios confession. Half way through the book it seemed like we jump several years and start to read and learn more about Gavin, in his teenage years and family life. This threw me a little and had me double checking, I hadn’t accidentally skipped over a chapter or two.

Although not the longest read there were true touching moments, between the characters, showing emotion and being truthful about personal things such as relationship and sexuality. However like all stories there was some very sad moments showing the ups and downs of friendships. As the reader, you wonder whether the turmoil can become calm and all will be ok again between the friends.

I enjoyed reading this and would like to read from the beginning and end of this series, to get true feel for all the three friends and find out what happens next especially due to the cliff hanger ending.
Profile Image for S Tyty.
1,276 reviews29 followers
July 16, 2020
GAVIN: I see things in Blue is the second book of a series, being DARIO the first one. Actually, this second book brings Dario back to the scene since the story revolves around a male character, Gavin, who wants to help his friend Dario go through times of depression and anxiety in the best possible way. Gavin is also helped by another boy called Raynard in this endeavour.
The three boys do everything together, but something that happens in high school would put this amazing bond at risk. Gavin has to make a decision between his friendship with Dario and his own feelings and he finally decides to chose his own feelings. The main thing that keeps readers hooked with this narrative is, in fact, the uncertainty about whether Dario would be able to understand why Gavin has taken that decision and whether Gavin himself would be able to tell Dario exactly what is causing him unrest.
The author did an amazing job portraying the three friends as strong male characters with a marked personality that would make readers feel touched and involved with them.
The book is easy to follow since it is narrated in a simple way, perfect for any type of reader.
Totally recommended!
Profile Image for Evelyn.
1,262 reviews27 followers
July 18, 2020
Samuel Alexander is the writer of Gavin, which is the second book in the I See Things in Blue series. The first book, very interesting and addictive, is about a boy, Dario, who is depressive, so his friends Gavin and Rayland help him to overcame it. This second book centers on Gavin and the friendship that the boys have, which due to their families is at risk.
It is a book addressed to a general audience. Part fantasy, part drama, this story will captivate everyone. It is narrated in third person. The characters are all well described, especially the protagonist of the story. Each chapter is more exciting than the last one. The plot is very realistic and I found myself drawn into the story and caring for the characters. I couldn’t stop reading it. It is a fantastic work to explore.
Once I started the first book of the series I found myself thinking about it throughout the day, so I didn’t doubt to read this second one. I highly recommend all of Samuel's books. I've read all of his recent works and can't wait for him to write more!
Gavin is a very fascinating masterpiece to read.
Profile Image for Georgette B.
234 reviews1 follower
July 10, 2021
The second book in the series is just as good as the first. When we left off with Dario we hear about his forget the first year of freshman year and his disappointment that Gavin did nothing to help him. We find out in

Samuel Alexander does an uncanny job of continuing the time line of I see in Blue from Gavin’s POV. You really need to read Dario to understand the relationship and how the three amigos fit together. Although there are overlaps in the storyline, you will get it first person POV from Gavin. In this story you learn about the dynamic trio’s #2 member. We learn about his relationship with his parents and siblings. What I love about Samuel Alexander’s take on these mini books that introduce you to the the main attraction book is that each character has a unique backstory. They are not just sidekicks or extras in Darios life, they are fully evolving independent entities.

Samuel Alexander continues to give us rich characters with dynamic dialogue. The layers of complexity in this friendship and the continuing support of Dario is absolutely captivating.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Alfredo R.
603 reviews8 followers
July 26, 2020
Gavin is the second book of the series named I see things in blue. It was written by the young author Samuel Alexander, who tries to capture and describe everyday situations in all his remarkable books.
Gavin is a story about friendship and about how the everyday bumps of life can separate us from the people we cherish. The main character, called Gavin, helps his friend Dario to overcome a difficult and at the same time real-life situation. Gavin chooses a different path and the decisions he takes led him to leave his intimate and long-standing friendship behind.
The exciting story is divided in ten chapters. The language used is colloquial and very easy to understand. The well-developed plot will certainly capture your attention. One of the best thing about the book is the way the author manages to describe the situations faced by the characters.
Readers can enjoy this book without reading the first part, but i also recommend reading "Dario". I think this book is perfect for both children and teenagers.
Profile Image for Karyn H.
568 reviews10 followers
July 28, 2020
The True test of Friendship

Gavin reminds me of my childhood days, growing up in a small farming community. You struggle to be loyal to your friends, and at the same time, your struggle to keep your personality balanced, especially as you grow older. High school can change a lot of things, and such was the case of Gavin, Dario, and Rayland.
In this book, the author Samuel Alexander takes on very sensitive issues like morality and the influence of parental pressure on the actions of the children. Gavin is also very easy to understand, especially if you have read the book one beforehand. The book is also very easy to read and understand, and it is a great book with a lot of lessons to learn. Both the book one and two of this book has shown that this book has a lot of potentials and will be a great book.
I look forward to reading the next book in this I See Things In Blue Book series, and I am very much anticipating the next book. Gavin is a book I can easily recommend to my friends and family. I'm sure they will enjoy it.
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,332 reviews23 followers
July 12, 2020
This is the second book in a series. We are again introduced to a young man named Gavin. In this book, he sets out to help one of his best friends, Dario who suffers from depression and anxiety (as we found out in the first book). Along with another friend, Raymond, the three try to navigate a road to recovery. When Gavin has to make a choice, between his friendship and his own personal feelings, Gavin struggles to figure out what the right thing to do would be. As the friendships get strained, the importance of honesty and openness is showcased by the avoidable situations the three find themselves in.
I liked this book, I do confess to not having read the first book, but I wasn’t lost, I think that you can go back and read the first later as the three books are written from each viewpoint of the same situations. I liked the story and was able to identify with some of what Gavin was going through.
Profile Image for Pearl.
534 reviews7 followers
July 15, 2020
Gavin by Samuel Alexander was an easy and fast-paced read. It is the second installment of the I See Things in Blue series. I haven't actually read the first book but it wasn't a problem for me as I was able to easily follow the storyline. When it comes to the theme of the book, I honestly loved it. I loved that it was centered on the friendship that Gavin, Rayland, and Dario shared.

While reading the book I realized that I need a friend like Gavin. He was so genuine, dependable, and selfless. I also liked Rayland's character and her genuine nature. Their friendship was not at all perfect as there were obstacles such as depression and anxiety that tested it, but it generally spoke of reality about life.

All in all, I found this book really good and amazingly done. The writing style also wowed me and given the fact that the book is short, it still didn't fail to make my mind glued to its story.
Profile Image for Liz.
1,383 reviews31 followers
July 23, 2020
“Gavin” was written by Samuel Alexander. This is the second book of the I SEE THINGS IN BLUE series. It is a short- length book with no more than 45 pages, divided into 10 chapters.
The main characters of the novel are three friends: Gavin, Dario and Rayland. They did everything together; they went to the same church and school, and their friendship just happened. Dario is facing a hard time, he suffers from depression. Gavin and Rayland are helping him recover from this disorder. One day something happens to Gavin that put their friendship at risk. This is a story of friendship and the way friends face difficulties.
I really enjoyed reading this book; it only took me one afternoon. It is dynamic, thought-provoking, easy and quick to read.
The author describes the characters in such an exquisite way that makes you emphasize with them immediately.
I would recommend this book to young adults who look for short stories that are quick and easy to read.
Profile Image for CarlitasFox.
1,463 reviews28 followers
July 25, 2020
A thought-provoking book.
This short and fast-paced book is another good choice for avid readers. “Gavin” is the second book in the series called “I see things in Blue” by Samuel Alexander. I found it very absorbing and compelling, as well as the first book.
In this book, the story revolves around Dario, Gavin and Raynald who are very close friends. Gavin and Raynald are trying to help Dario to cope with his depression. Unfortunately, something occurs with Gavin that puts their friendship at stake. Will they be able to amend their friendship?
It is a well-written book with dynamic and complex characters. While I was reading the book, I felt so engrossed with the plot that I could not put it down. It is a story of friendship, forgiveness, acceptance and love. I really liked the story because it highlights the importance of friendship in life; the importance of making decisions without regretting, too. It is worth reading it!



Profile Image for Celeste.
995 reviews26 followers
July 26, 2020
Gavin by Samuel Alexander is a short and gripping story. It is the second book in the series I See Things in Blue which introduces the three friends: Dario, Gavin and Rayland.
This trio is inseparable and has navigated the ups and downs of their friendship since they were kids. Now, they are teenagers starting high school. This new challenge paired with family and social pressure will put their bond at risk. In this book, the author presents Gavin’s perspective, approaching the narration from his point of view.
The three main characters, each of them with their own personalities and particularities, are wonderfully developed. Gavin’s feelings and emotions are so vividly described that it is very easy to empathize with him and understand his struggles and the choices he makes.
While simple and pleasant to read, this is a powerful and moving story. It is well-worth reading. I strongly recommend it.
Profile Image for Ivana S..
537 reviews10 followers
July 24, 2020
It is an incredible read! As soon as I opened this book, I was glued to the pages. It is a non-stop reading. “Gavin” is the tittle of this amazing story written by Samuel Alexander. It is the second book in the “I See Things In Blue” series. It’s a fast-paced story about troubles in friendship and how the characters get thought it. This fiction book is written for a general audience.

The story is narrated in the third person and it tells the story of three boys: Gavin, Dario and Rayland. But something happened between Dario and Gavin that makes their bond be in danger. Will Gavin change what he has done? What will happen if he doesn't do it? Also, drama is aroused by the smart use of dilemmas.

I think this book is perfect to disconnect your head from work and to have a good time. It is a highly entertaining read. I thoroughly recommend it. Don’t miss it!
Profile Image for Valery.
1,500 reviews57 followers
July 17, 2020
Gavin (I See Things In Blue Book 2) by Samuel Alexander is a thoughtful and compelling short book about the challenges of friendship. As the second book in the series, this one focuses on Gavin, but the trio of friends includes Dario and Rayland as well. The book explores the choices that are sometimes made that hurt other people, the strong bonds of friendship, and also looks at the concepts of forgiveness and redemption. The characterizations of each person are finely drawn, yet written in a straightforward manner. The book pulls you in that way, and while short, has a powerful message and a lasting impact. The author is quite skilled at conveying the tumult that often accompanies teenage life. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Pegboard.
1,821 reviews9 followers
September 14, 2020
I feel like Samuel Alexander opened up a world most people don't see in Gavin. This is the second book in his I See Things in Blue series. It is best to read these in order, but can be read alone. This short novel is about teens struggling with their friendship while opposition comes from inside and out.

Samuel Alexander's character Gavin wants his friend Dario to hurt as much as Dario's parents hurt him, but the question is will Gavin be a friend to Dario when he needs him most? There is a lot of injustice, love, and doubt within these few pages. I did not connect with this story or any of the characters. I would say this novella hits a lot of controversial topics, right or wrong this is life and life can be messy.
4,882 reviews18 followers
July 18, 2021
Life is only not tough, when we're toddlers. Gavin, was a good kid. He lived a relatively ordinary boring life. As he grew older and became more confused about life and it's choices, he took his confusion out on his friend, Dario. When he felt overwhelmed, he made a choice concerning Dario that has devestating circumstances. Dario's conflict resolution skills are as comples as Gavin's and he suffers from depression. Can Gavin help Dario with his depression? Does Dario get professional help? Does Gavin seek help? Do the boys successfully make it out of the bad times? Interesting story. Nicely handled.Good story. Life's journey is never easy. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,517 reviews47 followers
October 30, 2023
Poor Dario, we saw him in the first book of this series and now we see more of him and understand more because we also glimpse more of his awful, judgemental parents. Unfortunately, in this book they don't just hurt Dario, they say hurtful things about Dario's friend Gavin and that severs a friendship of long standing. I am so intrigued by the way this author has taken these characters and split their stories up so that each book focuses on a different one but also lets us see things that happened in the other books from new perspectives. I'm updating this to now cover the audiobook narrated by Michael Mola as well. The narrator does a wonderful job bringing the story to life. We feel the pain and confusion as bonds are broken and lives altered by hateful people.
Profile Image for C..
372 reviews
April 14, 2024
This is for the audiobook version.

The narration is very good for these books and the characters are brought to life.

This 2nd book follows the POV of one of Dario's best friends, Gavin. This books shows how Dario's friends have done what they can to help him, sticking by him through most of his difficulties. It also show how different Gavin's home is compared to Dario's and this become so much clearer as they reach their teen years and their friendships are places under pressure.

This was such a great book to listen too. I can't wait to get started on the next and feel a need to hope for the best possible HEA for all involved.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.