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I See Things In Blue #5
Acceptance
Dario has had a rough year full of angst, anxiety, and depression. After years of trying to be the son he thought his parents wanted he is finally free to be himself, but he doesn't know who he is. Dario is used to the structure his false yet perfect life brought, and his new freedom puts him far out of his element. Still, he has more things to worry about. Funny, confident, and chocolate, Kevin is the friend Dario would never have before and seems to effortlessly break through all his defences. Giving in to the emotions Kevin stirs in him goes against everything Dario has been running from but now, when he no longer has to run, will he take the leap into the unknown? Does he even have a choice? The only thing that seems certain is all roads all roads lead to Kevin.NOTE: This part in the series picks up where the last left off. It's recomended you read the series in order.
103 pages, Paperback
Published September 25, 2020
5 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 12, 2022
In this next installment in this series, we see more of Kevin and Dario together. Kevin's playfulness and his flirting leaves Dario more confused, though he also seems to shake off the shackles his parent's have put on him from a young age. It doesn't come easy. First there is also anger, specially because he now understands he won't ever get his parent's approval, no matter how hard he tries. And now his parent's marriage is falling apart, he wonders what really mattered, how both his father and mother could live up to their own religious' strict believes while they are heading towards a divorce at the same time.
Kevin's brightness and easy character is doing good things for Dario's depressed feelings and his confusion about his self acceptance. But he slowly seems to get better, and Kevin seems to be able to achieve things Gavin and Rayland never could.
I'm really looking forward to find out what will be next!
Kevin's brightness and easy character is doing good things for Dario's depressed feelings and his confusion about his self acceptance. But he slowly seems to get better, and Kevin seems to be able to achieve things Gavin and Rayland never could.
I'm really looking forward to find out what will be next!
January 19, 2022
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.
I got an ARC of this book.
This might be the first book in the series that has a full plot and not just backstory. It was the longest book yet and it really showed. There were just so many details and complete plot lines. I am here for it.
Dario and Kevin actually got to interact. They got to have feelings. There was character growth. There was tension. There was just so much that make this book read so well. I’m pumped to read the next two books. I will probably die if Dario and Kevin ever kiss.
Kevin has really come into his own. He has grown a bit from the first introduction. His teasing has more care now. He actually wants Dario to be ok and he way they look at each other has my heart melting. I ship them so hard. I NEED them to get together, though that will bring so much pain too. Dario isn’t ready. I don’t want him to hurt. I’m so conflicted.
The end of the book really gave me a glimmer of hope that Dario would be ok one day. So much has made me hurt and worry. But that last chapter had me hopeful in a really powerful way.
Book one might be my favorite book emotionally, but this was a better read.
I got an ARC of this book.
This might be the first book in the series that has a full plot and not just backstory. It was the longest book yet and it really showed. There were just so many details and complete plot lines. I am here for it.
Dario and Kevin actually got to interact. They got to have feelings. There was character growth. There was tension. There was just so much that make this book read so well. I’m pumped to read the next two books. I will probably die if Dario and Kevin ever kiss.
Kevin has really come into his own. He has grown a bit from the first introduction. His teasing has more care now. He actually wants Dario to be ok and he way they look at each other has my heart melting. I ship them so hard. I NEED them to get together, though that will bring so much pain too. Dario isn’t ready. I don’t want him to hurt. I’m so conflicted.
The end of the book really gave me a glimmer of hope that Dario would be ok one day. So much has made me hurt and worry. But that last chapter had me hopeful in a really powerful way.
Book one might be my favorite book emotionally, but this was a better read.
February 14, 2022
Oh no... Breaking point indeed... this one broke the good luck of the series...
Firstly, it is the switching perspective. Pretty much each sentence has a different character's perspective/point of view to it, which is really weird to read. It makes it confusing to figure out who feels that way and who is talking. And then there is the other stuff. It is ridiculously over-sexed. Awfully so. I thought it was about a teen and his debilitating anxiety, but it is pretty much people calling each other hoe and telling sex stories. To their friends. Their family. Their crushes. None of whom probably want to hear it. Is there such a thing as nymphomaniacs anonymous? Aside from that, Dario is weird in this one. He has no issues talking shit about his parents behind their back to everyone and everything, his relationships have switched all over the place, and it is just not the same as previous books. Somehow, this one is a not giving me the same feelings that previous ones did, more like making me frown constantly. This is the breaking point in the series, at least for me definitely.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
Firstly, it is the switching perspective. Pretty much each sentence has a different character's perspective/point of view to it, which is really weird to read. It makes it confusing to figure out who feels that way and who is talking. And then there is the other stuff. It is ridiculously over-sexed. Awfully so. I thought it was about a teen and his debilitating anxiety, but it is pretty much people calling each other hoe and telling sex stories. To their friends. Their family. Their crushes. None of whom probably want to hear it. Is there such a thing as nymphomaniacs anonymous? Aside from that, Dario is weird in this one. He has no issues talking shit about his parents behind their back to everyone and everything, his relationships have switched all over the place, and it is just not the same as previous books. Somehow, this one is a not giving me the same feelings that previous ones did, more like making me frown constantly. This is the breaking point in the series, at least for me definitely.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
October 28, 2023
So much has happened in this fifth installment, I’m too much in shock to even begin to comprehend what has happened. Kevin’s playfulness and flirtatious banter has such a profound impact on Dario’s life, and we are starting to see the benefits. And, Dario is slowly starting to step out of his comfort zone and live for himself. Even though he has also finally realized that he will never find the approval he so desperately needs from his parents. Not to mention, his parents are getting a divorce (this came as a shock).
We do get to witness another side of Dario, though. More relaxed and less anxious than usual. The accomplishments that Kevin has made in Dario’s life in such a short period of time, is nothing short of amazing! His depression doesn’t seem as severe, along with his panic attacks. Even though Dario continues to struggle with announcing his sexuality, he does seem to have accepted his fate personally. I am so excited to continue reading this story, Gavin new addition and Dario opening up to Louis about Kevin!!
We do get to witness another side of Dario, though. More relaxed and less anxious than usual. The accomplishments that Kevin has made in Dario’s life in such a short period of time, is nothing short of amazing! His depression doesn’t seem as severe, along with his panic attacks. Even though Dario continues to struggle with announcing his sexuality, he does seem to have accepted his fate personally. I am so excited to continue reading this story, Gavin new addition and Dario opening up to Louis about Kevin!!
January 25, 2022
An amazingly insightful series. 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.”
November 6, 2023
Great coming of age/self-discovery story. I love the way all the people near Dario (outside his awful family) recognize his unhappiness and denial and how they all try to help without overwhelming him. This time, we get Kevin's point of view, basically covering the same time period, but seen through different eyes. We get more from Dario, too, as he begins to open up and see the world as it really is, and not jut through the blinders his parents and their religion have put on him. I love the story, and the growth, but Dario has a ways to go yet. I am eager for Louis' viewpoint in the next book.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
January 27, 2022
So this was book five in the series and it continues with Dario's story. This was the first book with over 100 pgs. In this book we got to see Dario and Kevin become closer, we saw the end-ish of his parent's marriage, we saw more depression, we learned more about Kevin. I actually have hope that Dario with Kevin might be able to learn to live and ugh his parents. That environment…. I can't wait for book six.
January 12, 2022
This shows real insight into depression and the attempted building of self worth. Dario wants to move on, especially in his relationship with Kevin, but still had problems with the idea of being gay. This one is potentially optimistic.
January 24, 2022
This book as the others is an emotional journey faced by Dario as he works through his anxieties, depression, religious family beliefs, working towards his acceptance of himself. We get to learn more about Kevin and Dario as the two grow closer. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I received this book s an Advanced Reader's Copy.
I received this book s an Advanced Reader's Copy.
January 27, 2022
more of these characters lives going on this story.. it was really good and interesting. i enjoyed the storyline and plot. it was fun and made me smile and in spots made me sad.
February 1, 2022
Oh man. Stuff is about to get intense. As scary as it is I’m hopeful with the way this ended. These books really need to be read I order. If you skip any you’ll miss some important information.
April 16, 2024
I am in love with this book and this entire series so far! I have listened to the audiobooks and each has it's own feel while still being true to the story. Michael Mola does an amazing job narrating this as each character and the events as they see them come to life.
Each book has had a single POV, even though they have been different in each book, but this is the first with dual POV between Dario and Kevin. There has been a lot happening in Dario's life that isn't entirely seen. It is shown as how he has reacted to wheat has been happening over the actual events in his home life. Those things are eventually revealed, though not in much detail as his POV is told throughout "Acceptance." Dario is finally realizing that he doesn't want to be the person he was conditioned to be and is trying to become the person HE wants to be for the first time. It isn't easy, but he is trying.
Keving is still there for Dario. Still wanting to help him, push him to be himself, and flirt. He is conflicted because he knows what he wants and he wants to push Dario but doesn't want to push too much, too fast or too hard. His endeavors are working but things are not smooth sailing. Keving and his family seem like they are amazing and he is lucky to have them.
This series, so far, is probably in the category of the best I have ever read/listened to in my life. I highly recommend it for those who like coming of age stories with a lot of heart and internalized teenage angst. Even if these types of stories are not a typical read< I still recommend everyone read it. It is just that good!
Each book has had a single POV, even though they have been different in each book, but this is the first with dual POV between Dario and Kevin. There has been a lot happening in Dario's life that isn't entirely seen. It is shown as how he has reacted to wheat has been happening over the actual events in his home life. Those things are eventually revealed, though not in much detail as his POV is told throughout "Acceptance." Dario is finally realizing that he doesn't want to be the person he was conditioned to be and is trying to become the person HE wants to be for the first time. It isn't easy, but he is trying.
Keving is still there for Dario. Still wanting to help him, push him to be himself, and flirt. He is conflicted because he knows what he wants and he wants to push Dario but doesn't want to push too much, too fast or too hard. His endeavors are working but things are not smooth sailing. Keving and his family seem like they are amazing and he is lucky to have them.
This series, so far, is probably in the category of the best I have ever read/listened to in my life. I highly recommend it for those who like coming of age stories with a lot of heart and internalized teenage angst. Even if these types of stories are not a typical read< I still recommend everyone read it. It is just that good!
November 9, 2023
I leapt for joy when I realized Dario's and Kevin's relationship was going where I hoped it would from book four. Kevin's wonderful family is back and Dario's exposure to them makes him truly see how toxic his own family has been. This could very well be the first big step on Dario's path to self-acceptance and healing. As always, Alexander avoids the nice pat solution to problems that are in real life so complicated some people never find a totally satisfying solution to them and Dario's solution does not arrive in this book tied up in a neat bow. Only two more books in the series and I'm about to burn through them. I've binged this series like none I've done in quite some time. Think of it as a big, meaty novel split into the pieces in this series. I'm so delighted we now have this series on audio and I can revisit these characters through the wonderful performances of Michael Mola. This was a favorite in book form and it remains that in the audio format.
August 3, 2021
The story progresses. This part of the story shows us more of Kevin’s friends Milton and Cindy. This story shows the progression of Kevin and Dario’s relationship. Enamored by Kevin’s accepting family and the boldness with which Kevin lives his truth, Dario continues to fall deeply for this man he finds equally frustrating and alluring. Despite this budding romance, Dario continues to have difficulty with the word gay. A short sweet read, this is one more really great stop on the series that will have you laughing, crying, and reminiscing about treasured close friends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2021
Gradual growth of the inner strength in Dario, seen through the eyes of a "new" friend. The playful insistence of Kevin, who is completely accepted and accepting in his own world for who he is, creates a complete contrast to the way Dario has lived. The lighter narrative tone renders a false sense of happier moments, but there's still an ominous undertone to all of Dario's journey, and the cliffhanger final phrases suggest rough times to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2021
High school is complicated. Everyone is communicating more. Dario is doing a lot more honest self reflection and moving toward growth. Interesting story. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2021
Acceptance is about Dario and his acceptance for being a gay man thanks to his friend Kevin. The book is short, sweet, funny, some angst, family and it will have your attention from start to finish.
November 1, 2023
Definitely feels like the story has made a welcome return to form with this episode--much longer than the others and all the better for it. Love the emerging romance and the character development. This is a beautiful book and I have to say I love the cover art, it's just so perfect for this. Fantastic Coming of Age fiction and a fascinating story that's kept me gripped even though I sometimes hated it as well. Only slight criticism is sometimes the POV changed unexpectedly. For some reason I thought it would be from Dario's POV but it seemed to be mostly Kevin's, with some other POVs thrown into the mix, but there was no warning of POV change in the audio so was occasionally lost for a moment until I worked out whose head I was in! So good to see Dario starting to break free from the restrictions imposed on him. Can't wait to finish the story.
January 11, 2024
I See Things In Blue #5
Acceptance
Samuel Alexander
The kids in this novel are upper middle class taking for granted that at sixteen they get their own cars. I, on the other hand was thirty before I took driving lessons from CAA and bought my first car. I paid cash.
Alas, what is not apparent in audiobooks is the bad grammar and spelling. Even the girls swear like troopers and penises are pretty. And at 17 they fuck like rabbits.
Most apparent is the fact that his parents have utter control of Dario’s life and these Gospel Totting Christian Pastors have him in prison and he tries to be the model prisoner to please them. Being gay is not part of their plan.
In my own life I decided I had nothing to gain from running away from home but when I went off the university I travelled over a thousand miles to get away from it all.
Acceptance
Samuel Alexander
The kids in this novel are upper middle class taking for granted that at sixteen they get their own cars. I, on the other hand was thirty before I took driving lessons from CAA and bought my first car. I paid cash.
Alas, what is not apparent in audiobooks is the bad grammar and spelling. Even the girls swear like troopers and penises are pretty. And at 17 they fuck like rabbits.
Most apparent is the fact that his parents have utter control of Dario’s life and these Gospel Totting Christian Pastors have him in prison and he tries to be the model prisoner to please them. Being gay is not part of their plan.
In my own life I decided I had nothing to gain from running away from home but when I went off the university I travelled over a thousand miles to get away from it all.
November 9, 2023
Loving this series (an audio review)
I have to say that with each installment, I’m falling more and more in love with these characters. Dario has had my heart from the beginning and now he’s in high school and on the cusp of adulthood. This story delves deeper into his relationship with Kevin and how things start to change between the two young men. Samuel has such a deft hand when dealing with Dario’s myriad of psychological issues while also making him just a kid. While things are unraveling in his family life, he’s got the support of Kevin as well as his old friends Rayland and Gavin. The book ended on a minor cliffhanger and I can’t wait to grab the next one.
Quick shout out to Michael Mola for the fantastic narration – he’s perfect for this series.
I have to say that with each installment, I’m falling more and more in love with these characters. Dario has had my heart from the beginning and now he’s in high school and on the cusp of adulthood. This story delves deeper into his relationship with Kevin and how things start to change between the two young men. Samuel has such a deft hand when dealing with Dario’s myriad of psychological issues while also making him just a kid. While things are unraveling in his family life, he’s got the support of Kevin as well as his old friends Rayland and Gavin. The book ended on a minor cliffhanger and I can’t wait to grab the next one.
Quick shout out to Michael Mola for the fantastic narration – he’s perfect for this series.
November 15, 2023
This review is of the audio version of the story.
Throughout the series, we’ve seen Dario’s friends patiently working to bring him to the point of self-realization and be able to stand up to his parents’ expectations. The penultimate book in this series gives readers a more confident and less anxiety-ridden Dario. His problems aren't solved by a long shot, but there is the hope that Dario will have a happy and fulfilled future of his own choosing.
Even with the story being broken up into several sections, it’s been worthwhile to go on this journey with Dario. One more book to go–will Dario have a happy ending?
Michael Mola is excellent, once again, with the narration. I really like his portrayal of all the characters' voices.
Throughout the series, we’ve seen Dario’s friends patiently working to bring him to the point of self-realization and be able to stand up to his parents’ expectations. The penultimate book in this series gives readers a more confident and less anxiety-ridden Dario. His problems aren't solved by a long shot, but there is the hope that Dario will have a happy and fulfilled future of his own choosing.
Even with the story being broken up into several sections, it’s been worthwhile to go on this journey with Dario. One more book to go–will Dario have a happy ending?
Michael Mola is excellent, once again, with the narration. I really like his portrayal of all the characters' voices.
October 27, 2023
We are more than halfway through these stories, and I feel fully invested. There is so much to Dario and like to see him coming out of his shell. Love the dynamic that Kevin adds to this story. How Gavin and Rayland are still invested in Dario as a changing person. The ending is a bit of cliff hanger and anxiously awaiting the next audio to get the next installment. Boy I hope Dario gets a HEA.
July 11, 2022
Making Progress . . .
Dario has tried to be the son his parents expected, but with them heading for divorce and his realization that they will never be satisfied with the person he is, he is ready to move forward. And Kevin is a big part of that progress. Kevin’s friendship is helping him accept himself and he listens as Kevin encourages and empowers him. Are they ready for something more?
Dario has tried to be the son his parents expected, but with them heading for divorce and his realization that they will never be satisfied with the person he is, he is ready to move forward. And Kevin is a big part of that progress. Kevin’s friendship is helping him accept himself and he listens as Kevin encourages and empowers him. Are they ready for something more?
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews