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Whatever He Needs
CORE VALUES
Liam McAllister might be a preppy rich kid, but for one night all he cares about is finding the seediest bar in town and forgetting his complicated life for a few hours. When a captivating purple-haired go-go dancer catches his eye, his plans change.
Following in his larger-than-life father’s footsteps is ingrained in his DNA, but this dancer, who is nothing like what his parents expect of him, is a desire Liam can’t ignore.
For Dimmy Cirillo, being dissed is nothing new. After his mother’s death, he's sought his cruel, narcissistic father’s approval, only to learn he’s nothing more than a commodity to the heartless man. When a sexy patron shows him a life he's always dreamed of, he revels in the attention, even though he knows it’ll never last.
A swift kick of reality has Liam questioning his duty to his father, and puts his relationship with Dimmy in jeopardy. They must find a way to break free from their pasts if they’re ever going to have a shot of building a future together.
Liam McAllister might be a preppy rich kid, but for one night all he cares about is finding the seediest bar in town and forgetting his complicated life for a few hours. When a captivating purple-haired go-go dancer catches his eye, his plans change.
Following in his larger-than-life father’s footsteps is ingrained in his DNA, but this dancer, who is nothing like what his parents expect of him, is a desire Liam can’t ignore.
For Dimmy Cirillo, being dissed is nothing new. After his mother’s death, he's sought his cruel, narcissistic father’s approval, only to learn he’s nothing more than a commodity to the heartless man. When a sexy patron shows him a life he's always dreamed of, he revels in the attention, even though he knows it’ll never last.
A swift kick of reality has Liam questioning his duty to his father, and puts his relationship with Dimmy in jeopardy. They must find a way to break free from their pasts if they’re ever going to have a shot of building a future together.
ebook
Published May 4, 2021
5 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Mia Kerick
42 books538 followersMia Kerick is the mother of four exceptional children—one in law school, another at a dance conservatory, a third studying at Mia’s alma mater, Boston College, and her lone son still in high school. She has published more than twenty books of LGBTQ romance when not editing National Honor Society essays, offering opinions on college and law school applications, helping to create dance bios, and reviewing English papers. Her husband of twenty-five years has been told by many that he has the patience of Job, but don’t ask Mia about this, as it is a sensitive subject.
Mia focuses her stories on the emotional growth of troubled young people and their relationships. She has a great affinity for the tortured hero in literature, and as a teen, Mia filled spiral-bound notebooks with tales of tortured heroes and stuffed them under her mattress for safekeeping. She is thankful to her wonderful publishing houses for providing her with an alternate place to stash her stories.
Her books have been featured in Kirkus Reviews magazine, and have won Rainbow Awards for Best Transgender Contemporary Romance and Best YA Lesbian Fiction, a Reader Views’ Book by Book Publicity Literary Award, the Jack Eadon Award for Best Book in Contemporary Drama, an Indie Fab Award, and a Royal Dragonfly Award for Cultural Diversity, among other awards.
Mia Kerick is a social liberal and cheers for each and every victory made in the name of human rights. Her only major regret: never having taken typing or computer class in school, destining her to a life consumed with two-fingered pecking and constant prayer to the Gods of Technology. Contact Mia at miakerick@gmail.com or visit at www.miakerickya.com to see what is going on in Mia’s world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 10, 2022
A great love between a man influenced and mistreated by his father and the other whose ties with the family are really tight. Their destinies are so entwined.
Dimmy deserves all the love!!
Dimmy deserves all the love!!
August 24, 2021
Dimitri’s dad rules his life, all for the big bucks. Selling his son is what he does. Dimmy has to dance as a go-go dancer at his dads bar All the Feels Lounge, he can’t even decide his own clothes or haircut. A fist or feet is what he gets when he doesn’t obey in the right way.
Liam is mesmerized by the beautiful go-go dancer. Liam is from a different world. He’s coming from business and money, raised by nannies, educators, coaches. He feels heavily pressured by parents who expect him to marry and give them grandchildren. He can’t imagine what they’ll do when he tells them he’s gay, so far in the closet is where he’ll stay.
The only thing Dimitri ever desired was to be loved by his dad. The only thing he received was manipulation, indoctrination and abuse.
It’s hard to approach Dimitri and show him a different kind of life, Liam wants to show him so bad.
Dimitri reaches the end of his strength. His dependence situation is the reason he has unhealthy expectations and make wrong decisions. Liam is in a split, living his life with Dimitri or his life with the rest of the world.
Okay, to be honest, I got so angry, I wanted to scream and slap more than one person in the face, with a chair, because ugh what an assholes. I will not name any but prepare for some awful attitudes from unexpected sides.
I wanted to shake Dimitri awake, run baby, run as fast as you can!!
The title says Whatever He Needs and oh my, that’s exactly what it is about, the question is how to interpret this.
It’s a story where the beauty and ugliness of human behavior are portrayed, with unhealthy relationships, yes plural!
It’s not an easy or regular romance, destructive actions are in the way of a future.
There is a lot that plays on the wrong side of the law.
Thank goodness for friends and family. The growing up was well pictured.
I was quite conflicted while reading, it wasn’t easy to like or love some people.
After finishing I still had my doubts, I would have loved a peek in the future for more reassurance. I had trouble to connect with some characters.
The whole story was focused, intense, emotional and slow paced. It’s captivatingly written, and had, for me, a harsh plot. The author did a wonderful job!
Liam is mesmerized by the beautiful go-go dancer. Liam is from a different world. He’s coming from business and money, raised by nannies, educators, coaches. He feels heavily pressured by parents who expect him to marry and give them grandchildren. He can’t imagine what they’ll do when he tells them he’s gay, so far in the closet is where he’ll stay.
The only thing Dimitri ever desired was to be loved by his dad. The only thing he received was manipulation, indoctrination and abuse.
It’s hard to approach Dimitri and show him a different kind of life, Liam wants to show him so bad.
Dimitri reaches the end of his strength. His dependence situation is the reason he has unhealthy expectations and make wrong decisions. Liam is in a split, living his life with Dimitri or his life with the rest of the world.
Okay, to be honest, I got so angry, I wanted to scream and slap more than one person in the face, with a chair, because ugh what an assholes. I will not name any but prepare for some awful attitudes from unexpected sides.
I wanted to shake Dimitri awake, run baby, run as fast as you can!!
The title says Whatever He Needs and oh my, that’s exactly what it is about, the question is how to interpret this.
It’s a story where the beauty and ugliness of human behavior are portrayed, with unhealthy relationships, yes plural!
It’s not an easy or regular romance, destructive actions are in the way of a future.
There is a lot that plays on the wrong side of the law.
Thank goodness for friends and family. The growing up was well pictured.
I was quite conflicted while reading, it wasn’t easy to like or love some people.
After finishing I still had my doubts, I would have loved a peek in the future for more reassurance. I had trouble to connect with some characters.
The whole story was focused, intense, emotional and slow paced. It’s captivatingly written, and had, for me, a harsh plot. The author did a wonderful job!
December 17, 2021
DNF @ 40%
Had high hopes for this one, it seemed interesting... but it ended up being meh. I didn`t last long as the DNF told you. Dimmy/Dimitri was alright, but i didn`t like Liam.
Had high hopes for this one, it seemed interesting... but it ended up being meh. I didn`t last long as the DNF told you. Dimmy/Dimitri was alright, but i didn`t like Liam.
May 3, 2021
Mia Kerick does not disappoint!
Mia kerick has long been one of my go-to authors when I want something special, and once again she delivers with Whatever He Needs. Dimmy is the beautiful, sensual go-go dancer at the bar Liam frequents, brave and broken, who yet tries every day to break out of the chains of abuse and exploitation his father binds around him. Liam, successful and self-confident, becomes a father figure to Dimmy, saving him from his father’s cruelty. And yet, as they come to know each other better, they realize their friendship and love has grown into something more. They not only complete each other, but raise each other up to become their more authentic selves. This is a story of how friendship and understanding can heal, and that even opposites can find lasting love.
Mia kerick has long been one of my go-to authors when I want something special, and once again she delivers with Whatever He Needs. Dimmy is the beautiful, sensual go-go dancer at the bar Liam frequents, brave and broken, who yet tries every day to break out of the chains of abuse and exploitation his father binds around him. Liam, successful and self-confident, becomes a father figure to Dimmy, saving him from his father’s cruelty. And yet, as they come to know each other better, they realize their friendship and love has grown into something more. They not only complete each other, but raise each other up to become their more authentic selves. This is a story of how friendship and understanding can heal, and that even opposites can find lasting love.
April 22, 2021
This story did a number on my nerves. Dimmy’s dad just about did me in. My dislike for him was off the charts as it was for the dirtbags he had to deal with. Liam, his fear of nit being accepting was pitiful. He made up for it, though. This story takes you through your paces, for sure. It’s a struggle to lay witness to Dimmy’s life and feel appalled. This writer has done a fabulous job creating heroes with whom you feel so much for. The book has so many emotions tied up in it. The final acceptance, deliverance and the HEA that follows is well worth, well not the pain for sure, but definitely worth reading through to the very end. Very easy to get lost in this story. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
April 23, 2021
They say opposites attract, and you'll never find two more opposite people than Liam and Dimmy. With Liam, as soon as he sees Dimmy dancing on the go-go cube, he's drawn to him.
Dimmy is figuratively 'shackled' to the cube and his life by his father and Liam wants to free him from his father's abuse. However, Liam has 'shackles' of his own. He is afraid to come out to his family.
The attraction between the two intensifies as Dimmy fights to be free of his father, and Liam struggles to come to terms with admitting his sexuality to his family.
Dimmy is figuratively 'shackled' to the cube and his life by his father and Liam wants to free him from his father's abuse. However, Liam has 'shackles' of his own. He is afraid to come out to his family.
The attraction between the two intensifies as Dimmy fights to be free of his father, and Liam struggles to come to terms with admitting his sexuality to his family.
April 23, 2021
I received an ARC of this book.
This was my first time reading anything by this author. The story was excellent. I read it all in a day because I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. There was some dark stuff going on. Dimmy just wanted to be loved by his father and his father was a disgusting waste of space. Liam I wanted to love and hate at the same time. I felt much better when they got their happy ending.
This was my first time reading anything by this author. The story was excellent. I read it all in a day because I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. There was some dark stuff going on. Dimmy just wanted to be loved by his father and his father was a disgusting waste of space. Liam I wanted to love and hate at the same time. I felt much better when they got their happy ending.
April 25, 2021
3.5 stars!
When I picked this up, I was in the mood for some serious hurt-comfort goodness. And the blurb was really promising too. A young man (Dimmy) taken advantage of by his father, forced to work as a go-go dancer and worse. Then being “saved” by the rich, closeted guy (Liam). That’s some yummy guilty pleasure right there.
Overall, there’s a very black-and-white portrayal of the characters which gave the story a bit of an exaggerated fairy-tale vibe. Think Cinderella, but instead of the stepmother forcing Cinderella to clean, sew and cook, it was Dimmy’s father making him dance and give strange men nude massages while taking all of the money for himself.
Despite that, the read did deliver in many ways, however, I found the writing to be a bit uneven. But the story evolved and, sure, it was predictable in some ways, yet it ended up taking some surprising turns. It also offered more complexity and character development than I expected from the initial first few chapters. It’s like the story, and the writing, hit its stride about 25% in.
The first part of the story, with the over the top evil that Dimmy’s father represented, took away some of the credibility, which in turn actually lowered the angst. Because in the face of such extreme cruelty and callousness, Dimmy’s failure to realize that he was being used just made him appear… less smart. It was more than naïveté (which I’m guessing is what Kerrick was going for) that made a 19-year old accept that he’d need to practically starve, dance all night and also be pimped out – “because money was tight” – by his dad the club-owner.
Liam and Dimmy might be an unlikely couple, but it was more the way they met that made their connection seem shallow at first. On Liam’s part, it was insta-lust. For Dimmy though, it felt more like he was starved for affection – the non-sexual kind – and therefore accepted Liam’s attempts to get close. In other terms, it was a very unequal relationship. Which is the second part of the story. It’s where the (very mild, mind you) daddy-kink was introduced. And to me, it just felt wrong. Dimmy managed to escape from his abusive dad only to end up in an equally dependent relationship with Liam.
Thankfully it didn’t stay that way. In the third and last part, everything is resolved; Liam’s inconsiderate treatment of Dimmy and fear of stepping out of the closet. Dimmy’s insecurities and low self-esteem. And the douche of a dad who gets what he deserves.
Basically, it’s a fairy tale ending to this modern, M/M, NSFW fairy-tale. It’s an entertaining read with occasional steam, and if you get past the overdone beginning, it’s quite all right.
* A free copy of this book was provided by Gay Romance Reviews *
https://reflectionsofaswedishgirl.blo...
When I picked this up, I was in the mood for some serious hurt-comfort goodness. And the blurb was really promising too. A young man (Dimmy) taken advantage of by his father, forced to work as a go-go dancer and worse. Then being “saved” by the rich, closeted guy (Liam). That’s some yummy guilty pleasure right there.
Overall, there’s a very black-and-white portrayal of the characters which gave the story a bit of an exaggerated fairy-tale vibe. Think Cinderella, but instead of the stepmother forcing Cinderella to clean, sew and cook, it was Dimmy’s father making him dance and give strange men nude massages while taking all of the money for himself.
Despite that, the read did deliver in many ways, however, I found the writing to be a bit uneven. But the story evolved and, sure, it was predictable in some ways, yet it ended up taking some surprising turns. It also offered more complexity and character development than I expected from the initial first few chapters. It’s like the story, and the writing, hit its stride about 25% in.
The first part of the story, with the over the top evil that Dimmy’s father represented, took away some of the credibility, which in turn actually lowered the angst. Because in the face of such extreme cruelty and callousness, Dimmy’s failure to realize that he was being used just made him appear… less smart. It was more than naïveté (which I’m guessing is what Kerrick was going for) that made a 19-year old accept that he’d need to practically starve, dance all night and also be pimped out – “because money was tight” – by his dad the club-owner.
Liam and Dimmy might be an unlikely couple, but it was more the way they met that made their connection seem shallow at first. On Liam’s part, it was insta-lust. For Dimmy though, it felt more like he was starved for affection – the non-sexual kind – and therefore accepted Liam’s attempts to get close. In other terms, it was a very unequal relationship. Which is the second part of the story. It’s where the (very mild, mind you) daddy-kink was introduced. And to me, it just felt wrong. Dimmy managed to escape from his abusive dad only to end up in an equally dependent relationship with Liam.
Thankfully it didn’t stay that way. In the third and last part, everything is resolved; Liam’s inconsiderate treatment of Dimmy and fear of stepping out of the closet. Dimmy’s insecurities and low self-esteem. And the douche of a dad who gets what he deserves.
Basically, it’s a fairy tale ending to this modern, M/M, NSFW fairy-tale. It’s an entertaining read with occasional steam, and if you get past the overdone beginning, it’s quite all right.
* A free copy of this book was provided by Gay Romance Reviews *
https://reflectionsofaswedishgirl.blo...
October 5, 2021
Dimmy is a gorgeous character, and his story (and his perspective) kept me going through this book at a juggernaut pace even though I found Liam pretty unlikeable until about 85% of the way through the book (sorry Liam!)
Whatever He Needs is a fairy-tale style hurt-comfort tome of big grandiose gestures to try and save poor Dimmy from truly unfortunate circumstances. But Liam is not a two-dimensional 'strong' hero, he has a ton of flaws! And Dimmy is a lot stronger than he seems, even though the way he was raised makes it very difficult for him to leave tough circumstances. I think this would suit anyone who really enjoys hurt-comfort stories with angsty back stories, that require a suspension of belief re: realism. It's exaggerated. The feelings are bombastic and so are the actions. We're talking damsel-style rescues, and grand gestures, and sometimes that's all you need on the way to the happy ending.
I really enjoyed the side characters in this, Alva, Tilly, and bless Larry Culpepper. Kerick has a real strength with these characters, they're not in there too much, they have their own personalities, and I was still able to stay focused on Liam and Dimmy. Of course the villain in this is a horrible human being, but in exaggerated hurt-comfort, I actually really enjoy that. You can sort of sink into a big fairytale story and know a happy ending is coming, and the hurt-comfort won't be forever.
I personally feel - and this is a minor quibble - that italics were over-used throughout all the dialogue. It made me feel like characters were sometimes talking to each other like five year olds, and I wish Kerick would trust the readers to know when she intends strong dialogue or emphasis. She could cut 50-75% of dialogue italics and none of the flow would suffer, if anything, it would flow better for me personally. That's just me, and like I said, completely minor.
This is otherwise really tightly edited, nicely paced, and has great flow! I'm really grateful for this review copy, and glad to see some romance with strong angst that isn't too dark (for me) and still piles on loads of rescue and hurt-comfort moments. I also liked the illustrations, there were lots of nice little additional touches in this romance, that aren't often seen, that show Kerick's love for her characters and stories in a way that touches the reader too.
Whatever He Needs is a fairy-tale style hurt-comfort tome of big grandiose gestures to try and save poor Dimmy from truly unfortunate circumstances. But Liam is not a two-dimensional 'strong' hero, he has a ton of flaws! And Dimmy is a lot stronger than he seems, even though the way he was raised makes it very difficult for him to leave tough circumstances. I think this would suit anyone who really enjoys hurt-comfort stories with angsty back stories, that require a suspension of belief re: realism. It's exaggerated. The feelings are bombastic and so are the actions. We're talking damsel-style rescues, and grand gestures, and sometimes that's all you need on the way to the happy ending.
I really enjoyed the side characters in this, Alva, Tilly, and bless Larry Culpepper. Kerick has a real strength with these characters, they're not in there too much, they have their own personalities, and I was still able to stay focused on Liam and Dimmy. Of course the villain in this is a horrible human being, but in exaggerated hurt-comfort, I actually really enjoy that. You can sort of sink into a big fairytale story and know a happy ending is coming, and the hurt-comfort won't be forever.
I personally feel - and this is a minor quibble - that italics were over-used throughout all the dialogue. It made me feel like characters were sometimes talking to each other like five year olds, and I wish Kerick would trust the readers to know when she intends strong dialogue or emphasis. She could cut 50-75% of dialogue italics and none of the flow would suffer, if anything, it would flow better for me personally. That's just me, and like I said, completely minor.
This is otherwise really tightly edited, nicely paced, and has great flow! I'm really grateful for this review copy, and glad to see some romance with strong angst that isn't too dark (for me) and still piles on loads of rescue and hurt-comfort moments. I also liked the illustrations, there were lots of nice little additional touches in this romance, that aren't often seen, that show Kerick's love for her characters and stories in a way that touches the reader too.
August 24, 2021
I absolutely got lost in Dimmy and Liam’s story! The character development of the two is impressive to see span the pages! In the beginning you think it’s going to be a typical “wrong side of the tracks” opposite attract story but then it’s not! It’s so much more! This was my first read by this author but it surely won’t be my last! I’m voluntarily reviewing after reading an ARC!
April 26, 2021
Liam McAllister comes from a well-to-do business family. He wears all the best clothes, stays at "The Cottage" which is actually more like a mansion, and is so far in the closet he can't see the light of day. Things begin to get complicated for him when Liam sees a dancer at a local gay club.
Gorgeous, tattoo-covered, purple-haired… Dimmy is dancing at a club. He doesn't dance because he wants to, he dances because he is locked into a ridiculously unhealthy and abusive relationship with his father. Left alone with his father, Dimmy was forced to "earn his keep" by working in his father's club. The problem is that as Dimmy got older, he was forced closer and closer to sex work.
Mia Kerick has a very emotional and visceral writing style, and this book is no exception. Liam and Dimmy are both facing immense challenges, not the least of which is how they may or may not "fit" together.
This book is an exploration of the feeling of "need" and what that really means in someone's life. She delves into the way that what we are subjected to can far too easily become what we think we need. The power imbalance that exists between. Dimmy and his father are so well written that I often found myself with tears in my eyes. And the remarkable thing that Kerick captures is the way that Dimmy moves from one controlling relationship to another because he's been so conditioned to believe he isn't the master of his own life.
Dimmy is an extremely well-written character. The descriptions of him are beautiful and heart-wrenching at the same time. He is an extraordinary man who is trapped in a life that is threatening to completely erase his sense of self. I loved the way that Dimmy struggled to be himself by covering his body in tattoos of birds in flight, by dying his hair vivid colors. He is a wounded and broken person, but he knows that he needs to escape. He will stick with me for a long time to come.
Liam is equally as interesting even though he is trapped in a completely different way. There are expectations in Liam's life… marry a lovely socialite, produce grandchildren, and be successful. Liam has known most of his life that he is gay, but he has remained silent, believing that he won't be accepted by his friends and family. As he falls in love with Dimmy, he struggles to be what he thinks Dimmy needs while at the same time keeping his true self from his family. I've met people like Liam, and it broke my heart to read it so clearly written. He is, in many ways, more lost than Dimmy.
The supporting characters in this book are remarkable. They are quirky, loving, original, and sometimes funny. They are a found family waiting to be seen, but both men are struggling too much at times to even know this support system is there for them.
This book isn't always easy to read. Dimmy is subjected to some horrible things because of his father. What I liked was that Mia Kerick handled these situations delicately and gently. While it's difficult to read the aftermath of what Dimmy had to survive, Kerick doesn't give the reader a play-by-play of what goes on. The subtle impact of Kerick's writing wasn't lost on me.
So, were there things in this book that made me uncomfortable? Yes. But ultimately, I think that is more than okay. Both Dimmy and Liam face things in this book that much of the LGBTQIA community has faced in the past. Very important issues and situations are written with care and authenticity.
Gorgeous, tattoo-covered, purple-haired… Dimmy is dancing at a club. He doesn't dance because he wants to, he dances because he is locked into a ridiculously unhealthy and abusive relationship with his father. Left alone with his father, Dimmy was forced to "earn his keep" by working in his father's club. The problem is that as Dimmy got older, he was forced closer and closer to sex work.
Mia Kerick has a very emotional and visceral writing style, and this book is no exception. Liam and Dimmy are both facing immense challenges, not the least of which is how they may or may not "fit" together.
This book is an exploration of the feeling of "need" and what that really means in someone's life. She delves into the way that what we are subjected to can far too easily become what we think we need. The power imbalance that exists between. Dimmy and his father are so well written that I often found myself with tears in my eyes. And the remarkable thing that Kerick captures is the way that Dimmy moves from one controlling relationship to another because he's been so conditioned to believe he isn't the master of his own life.
Dimmy is an extremely well-written character. The descriptions of him are beautiful and heart-wrenching at the same time. He is an extraordinary man who is trapped in a life that is threatening to completely erase his sense of self. I loved the way that Dimmy struggled to be himself by covering his body in tattoos of birds in flight, by dying his hair vivid colors. He is a wounded and broken person, but he knows that he needs to escape. He will stick with me for a long time to come.
Liam is equally as interesting even though he is trapped in a completely different way. There are expectations in Liam's life… marry a lovely socialite, produce grandchildren, and be successful. Liam has known most of his life that he is gay, but he has remained silent, believing that he won't be accepted by his friends and family. As he falls in love with Dimmy, he struggles to be what he thinks Dimmy needs while at the same time keeping his true self from his family. I've met people like Liam, and it broke my heart to read it so clearly written. He is, in many ways, more lost than Dimmy.
The supporting characters in this book are remarkable. They are quirky, loving, original, and sometimes funny. They are a found family waiting to be seen, but both men are struggling too much at times to even know this support system is there for them.
This book isn't always easy to read. Dimmy is subjected to some horrible things because of his father. What I liked was that Mia Kerick handled these situations delicately and gently. While it's difficult to read the aftermath of what Dimmy had to survive, Kerick doesn't give the reader a play-by-play of what goes on. The subtle impact of Kerick's writing wasn't lost on me.
So, were there things in this book that made me uncomfortable? Yes. But ultimately, I think that is more than okay. Both Dimmy and Liam face things in this book that much of the LGBTQIA community has faced in the past. Very important issues and situations are written with care and authenticity.
Read
May 14, 2021Pending review due to author's request
November 14, 2021
3.75 STARS
I love these characters and their journey.
Liam and Dimmy’s (Dimitri) story is emotional, sexy and a bit gritty.
Dimmy has had his choices in life taken away, he’s controlled and used by his father. Abused and taken advantage of horribly.
He remains bit naive despite the seedy world he lives and works in. It’s an adorable part of him. It’s also sad and it angered me that he was overlooked by others who knew he was in a bad situation.
Dimmy just wants to be loved. He’s so likable and sweet. I wanted to wrap him up in love and hugs.
Liam is immediately attracted to Dimmy.
He’s enthralled by him. At first it’s purely attraction, it does become more.
Friendship and true feelings emerge.
I enjoyed the interactions and chemistry between the characters.
I liked the emotional aspects and how they played out.
Both characters have things they are hiding and things to overcome.
They both help each other and that’s a very beautiful thing.
The way the characters spoke sometimes seemed not fitting to who they were. It’s something that made it seem a bit off and it could be jarring to me at times.
Overall, I loved the characters and story.
Big emotions! Big heart!
I love these characters and their journey.
Liam and Dimmy’s (Dimitri) story is emotional, sexy and a bit gritty.
Dimmy has had his choices in life taken away, he’s controlled and used by his father. Abused and taken advantage of horribly.
He remains bit naive despite the seedy world he lives and works in. It’s an adorable part of him. It’s also sad and it angered me that he was overlooked by others who knew he was in a bad situation.
Dimmy just wants to be loved. He’s so likable and sweet. I wanted to wrap him up in love and hugs.
Liam is immediately attracted to Dimmy.
He’s enthralled by him. At first it’s purely attraction, it does become more.
Friendship and true feelings emerge.
I enjoyed the interactions and chemistry between the characters.
I liked the emotional aspects and how they played out.
Both characters have things they are hiding and things to overcome.
They both help each other and that’s a very beautiful thing.
The way the characters spoke sometimes seemed not fitting to who they were. It’s something that made it seem a bit off and it could be jarring to me at times.
Overall, I loved the characters and story.
Big emotions! Big heart!
May 4, 2021
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Liam’s is a closeted wealthy guy who is taking the summer after finishing college working for his father. Supposedly he’s thinking about going to med school (and should have been studying for his MCATs in my humble opinion) and hanging out at the local gay bar where he becomes infatuated with the beautiful vacant go-go boy who dances there. He’s obviously in his own world while he’s dancing, but Liam witnesses him being abused by the boss, who it turns out it the boy’s father. Alva, the bartender gives him to scoop on Dimitri, “Dimmy” to his friends and the crap that he has to put up with from Gregory, the bar owner. Liam is pissed, but he doesn’t want to give things away. Liam’s father owns the building and Liam is supposed to be checking out the place and providing intel to his dad about whether or not they should be making changes. Needless to say, that seems pretty obvious.
Liam can’t stay away and when he sees Dimmy being harassed, he rescues him and takes him home. To his mansion. Which blows Dimmy’s mind. But he’s safe and he begins to trust Liam. Liam doesn’t want to push Dimmy and he does tell him he’s not out. But then Gregory pushes Dimmy to do more and more disgusting stuff with men for money that Gregory keeps so that Dimmy at his mercy – with no money, no job outside of that, he’s totally dependent. So Liam rescues him from a bad situation one night and so Dimmy trades one set of problems for another. Because now he’s dependent on Liam and there is very much an imbalance in their relationship. And beyond that, there is the little detail about Liam not being out. And so difficulties ensue. So much so that Dimmy can’t see a way forward if he’s not Liam’s equal.
Overall, this was a good story, but I can’t say that I enjoyed reading it. There is so much abuse of Dimmy from an absolute maggot of a father. Luckily he had some good friends who tried to look out for him. Liam took time to come to grips with his truth which I would understand and empathize with to a great degree. It’s not easy to change what he always thought his life would be like and his fear of losing that life was palpable. This of course hurt Dimmy because he was a bit Liam’s “dirty little secret” and wanted to keep their relationship on the DL. Poor Dimmy was already dealing with feelings of worthlessness. The fact that his father was willing to pimp him out for various and progressively degrading “jobs” and keeping all the cash – blaming him for his money problems and telling him he “owed him” for keeping a roof over his head – had already done a number of Dimmy as far as what he would ever have to offer someone like Liam. There were a few one-dimensional characters in this story – including Austin, a guy who wanted Liam, and Gregory, Dimmy’s father. I don’t know – maybe I’m lucky I’ve never met anyone so abusive to their own kid, but he came off to me as a bit of a cartoon villain. The story got a bit too melodramatic for me with the ultimate rescue and the cavalry coming to save the day. Some of the story dragged for me a bit as well which took away from the story. I did LOVE Tilly, Liam’s sister who had his number immediately 🙂 She is a total badass and I’d love to read her story sometime. Recommended, but be forewarned about the drama.
Liam’s is a closeted wealthy guy who is taking the summer after finishing college working for his father. Supposedly he’s thinking about going to med school (and should have been studying for his MCATs in my humble opinion) and hanging out at the local gay bar where he becomes infatuated with the beautiful vacant go-go boy who dances there. He’s obviously in his own world while he’s dancing, but Liam witnesses him being abused by the boss, who it turns out it the boy’s father. Alva, the bartender gives him to scoop on Dimitri, “Dimmy” to his friends and the crap that he has to put up with from Gregory, the bar owner. Liam is pissed, but he doesn’t want to give things away. Liam’s father owns the building and Liam is supposed to be checking out the place and providing intel to his dad about whether or not they should be making changes. Needless to say, that seems pretty obvious.
Liam can’t stay away and when he sees Dimmy being harassed, he rescues him and takes him home. To his mansion. Which blows Dimmy’s mind. But he’s safe and he begins to trust Liam. Liam doesn’t want to push Dimmy and he does tell him he’s not out. But then Gregory pushes Dimmy to do more and more disgusting stuff with men for money that Gregory keeps so that Dimmy at his mercy – with no money, no job outside of that, he’s totally dependent. So Liam rescues him from a bad situation one night and so Dimmy trades one set of problems for another. Because now he’s dependent on Liam and there is very much an imbalance in their relationship. And beyond that, there is the little detail about Liam not being out. And so difficulties ensue. So much so that Dimmy can’t see a way forward if he’s not Liam’s equal.
Overall, this was a good story, but I can’t say that I enjoyed reading it. There is so much abuse of Dimmy from an absolute maggot of a father. Luckily he had some good friends who tried to look out for him. Liam took time to come to grips with his truth which I would understand and empathize with to a great degree. It’s not easy to change what he always thought his life would be like and his fear of losing that life was palpable. This of course hurt Dimmy because he was a bit Liam’s “dirty little secret” and wanted to keep their relationship on the DL. Poor Dimmy was already dealing with feelings of worthlessness. The fact that his father was willing to pimp him out for various and progressively degrading “jobs” and keeping all the cash – blaming him for his money problems and telling him he “owed him” for keeping a roof over his head – had already done a number of Dimmy as far as what he would ever have to offer someone like Liam. There were a few one-dimensional characters in this story – including Austin, a guy who wanted Liam, and Gregory, Dimmy’s father. I don’t know – maybe I’m lucky I’ve never met anyone so abusive to their own kid, but he came off to me as a bit of a cartoon villain. The story got a bit too melodramatic for me with the ultimate rescue and the cavalry coming to save the day. Some of the story dragged for me a bit as well which took away from the story. I did LOVE Tilly, Liam’s sister who had his number immediately 🙂 She is a total badass and I’d love to read her story sometime. Recommended, but be forewarned about the drama.
August 26, 2021
I loved this book and it made me feel so much that this will be a long review.
Liam has put his well to do parents on a pedestal, striving to be like his father and make him proud but in doing this he’s stopped seeing them as real thinking, feeling people and is too concerned with appearances which is why he’s never told his family that he’s gay. While he’s not totally a spoilt rich kid he’s led a privileged life and doesn’t really understand the type of life Dimmy comes from or his feelings about their differences. Dimmy has always had a hard life, first losing his mother and then living with a father who belittles and exploits him for money. As is often the case the abused seeks comfort and validation from the abuser and Dimmy stays in the hope of some kindness, but Dimmy’s father is scum and really is only a sperm donor and should have stayed that way because he shows no parental feelings or inclination to be one whatsoever.
Liam and Dimmy are opposites, one rich from the right side of the bay and one poor from the wrong side, but they share one thing - daddy issues and in the case of Dimmy, really nasty daddy issues. They have an instant attraction and gradually, despite Dimmy initially holding Liam at arm's length to protect himself they develop a relationship. While Dimmy has had to grow up fast, Liam feels a little more immature but they work well together. However, while Liam is good with Dimmy and they take things slowly he also expects the relationship to follow his rules and be hidden. Gradually Dimmy begins to realise that he’s worth more than he thinks and it’s wonderful to see him gain strength and belief in himself to improve his life. Luckily Dimmy has wonderful friends in Alva and Lizzy who support him when Liam treats him badly. There were numerous times I wanted to swat Liam for how he didn’t always think about Dimmy’s feelings and his point of view but thankfully with the help of his family he redeemed himself in the end. Dimmy took hold of my heart, right from the beginning; Liam got there too, eventually, but he had to work for it.
This hurt/comfort, opposites attract story with heat and all the feels held me captive from the first page to the satisfying last and I’m happy to recommend it.
I was given an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
Liam has put his well to do parents on a pedestal, striving to be like his father and make him proud but in doing this he’s stopped seeing them as real thinking, feeling people and is too concerned with appearances which is why he’s never told his family that he’s gay. While he’s not totally a spoilt rich kid he’s led a privileged life and doesn’t really understand the type of life Dimmy comes from or his feelings about their differences. Dimmy has always had a hard life, first losing his mother and then living with a father who belittles and exploits him for money. As is often the case the abused seeks comfort and validation from the abuser and Dimmy stays in the hope of some kindness, but Dimmy’s father is scum and really is only a sperm donor and should have stayed that way because he shows no parental feelings or inclination to be one whatsoever.
Liam and Dimmy are opposites, one rich from the right side of the bay and one poor from the wrong side, but they share one thing - daddy issues and in the case of Dimmy, really nasty daddy issues. They have an instant attraction and gradually, despite Dimmy initially holding Liam at arm's length to protect himself they develop a relationship. While Dimmy has had to grow up fast, Liam feels a little more immature but they work well together. However, while Liam is good with Dimmy and they take things slowly he also expects the relationship to follow his rules and be hidden. Gradually Dimmy begins to realise that he’s worth more than he thinks and it’s wonderful to see him gain strength and belief in himself to improve his life. Luckily Dimmy has wonderful friends in Alva and Lizzy who support him when Liam treats him badly. There were numerous times I wanted to swat Liam for how he didn’t always think about Dimmy’s feelings and his point of view but thankfully with the help of his family he redeemed himself in the end. Dimmy took hold of my heart, right from the beginning; Liam got there too, eventually, but he had to work for it.
This hurt/comfort, opposites attract story with heat and all the feels held me captive from the first page to the satisfying last and I’m happy to recommend it.
I was given an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
May 1, 2021
The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Speaking of filling…..wait, that’s for later. Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
(Believe me when I say you won’t put it down until the last page is read…you will find yourself getting upset cause someone called, texted or bothered you while reading this one, you will find yourself up at ungodly hours just to finish it knowing you have to be at work early (like 3am early) the very next day) YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!
This is my first book by this author and it won’t be my last but next book I will have tissues handy, because some real issues are touched on. Okay be prepared this book will do a number on your heart and it will force you to keep your anger in check because both the father’s will back you so upset. Opposites attract the more different they are the more attracted they are to each other. Dimmy’s father is controlling, narcissistic and when you don’t do what he wants, the way he wants well it isn’t a pretty picture all Dimmy needed was a little love from his father. Liam’s life isn’t much better his dad is also controlling, unaccepting of his son’s choices pressures him into being who he isn’t nor wants to do. Both Dimmy and Liam just needs to get away from their lives and fathers. Liam goes out to this gay club just to get away when he lays eyes on Dimmy and the chemistry is instant and intense. Dimmy’s life is extremely complicated he is being forced to work by his father in his club as he gets older his father is forcing him into paid sex work (something he doesn’t want in no shape form or fashion) by his father, but he won’t be getting the pay his father will. Liam is expected to marry someone from the same social standing, give grandbabies to his parents, be successful and so being taught this from birth he never comes clean with his parents about his life choice. So, he is on a merry go round so to speak he is living two separate lives trying to be what Dimmy needs as well as pleasing his parents and we all know that doesn’t work/last for very long. Will the two of them stand up and be truth to each other and their way of life and is there happiness for them?
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
(Believe me when I say you won’t put it down until the last page is read…you will find yourself getting upset cause someone called, texted or bothered you while reading this one, you will find yourself up at ungodly hours just to finish it knowing you have to be at work early (like 3am early) the very next day) YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!
This is my first book by this author and it won’t be my last but next book I will have tissues handy, because some real issues are touched on. Okay be prepared this book will do a number on your heart and it will force you to keep your anger in check because both the father’s will back you so upset. Opposites attract the more different they are the more attracted they are to each other. Dimmy’s father is controlling, narcissistic and when you don’t do what he wants, the way he wants well it isn’t a pretty picture all Dimmy needed was a little love from his father. Liam’s life isn’t much better his dad is also controlling, unaccepting of his son’s choices pressures him into being who he isn’t nor wants to do. Both Dimmy and Liam just needs to get away from their lives and fathers. Liam goes out to this gay club just to get away when he lays eyes on Dimmy and the chemistry is instant and intense. Dimmy’s life is extremely complicated he is being forced to work by his father in his club as he gets older his father is forcing him into paid sex work (something he doesn’t want in no shape form or fashion) by his father, but he won’t be getting the pay his father will. Liam is expected to marry someone from the same social standing, give grandbabies to his parents, be successful and so being taught this from birth he never comes clean with his parents about his life choice. So, he is on a merry go round so to speak he is living two separate lives trying to be what Dimmy needs as well as pleasing his parents and we all know that doesn’t work/last for very long. Will the two of them stand up and be truth to each other and their way of life and is there happiness for them?
May 4, 2021
Whatever He Needs is an extraordinary hurt/comfort story by Mia Kerick.
This is not an easy read, so consider yourself warned. It's heavy, but it's wonderful.
Dimmy's situation is vile, as his father is basically pimping him out at his whim. Poor Dimmy feels he has no option. His father is the master of manipulation and Dimmy is the one who suffers.
As for Liam, he struggles a lot too, as he's closeted and spends his life faking his sexuality. It definitely causes him a lot of confusion, as well as conflict, as he can't face telling his family his truth. He grew up with certain expectations and is stuck in the world his family wants for him.
The opposites attract factor is large here, with two men who come from different worlds and are polar opposites. At the beginning of the book this is firmly established.
But oh man, there is so much more to these men. They're complex and wounded. They're lovable and hurting. They're both being controlled by other people and it's tough to read. The conflict this causes between the two is well done.
I appreciate how the author explores Dimmy's dependence issues, and the way he finally sees that he can fly on his own. His new found confidence is amazing.
This is a tale of finding someone worth coming out for. This is a tale of finding someone who shows you what you're worth. This is a tale of taking control of one's life.
I continued to love the author's writing style. Everything flows well and her stories are always multi-layered and powerful. These complex men have one hell of a story to tell. This is a hard earned happy ending that is hard to imagine they will ever achieve. But they do.
Whatever He Needs is a compelling read with all the feels. Mia Kerick once again impresses me with the depth of her stories. These men capture my heart early on and I couldn't read fast enough. As usual, this is another Mia Kerick book that is a must read. It's powerful, impressive, and memorable.
This is not an easy read, so consider yourself warned. It's heavy, but it's wonderful.
Dimmy's situation is vile, as his father is basically pimping him out at his whim. Poor Dimmy feels he has no option. His father is the master of manipulation and Dimmy is the one who suffers.
As for Liam, he struggles a lot too, as he's closeted and spends his life faking his sexuality. It definitely causes him a lot of confusion, as well as conflict, as he can't face telling his family his truth. He grew up with certain expectations and is stuck in the world his family wants for him.
The opposites attract factor is large here, with two men who come from different worlds and are polar opposites. At the beginning of the book this is firmly established.
But oh man, there is so much more to these men. They're complex and wounded. They're lovable and hurting. They're both being controlled by other people and it's tough to read. The conflict this causes between the two is well done.
I appreciate how the author explores Dimmy's dependence issues, and the way he finally sees that he can fly on his own. His new found confidence is amazing.
This is a tale of finding someone worth coming out for. This is a tale of finding someone who shows you what you're worth. This is a tale of taking control of one's life.
I continued to love the author's writing style. Everything flows well and her stories are always multi-layered and powerful. These complex men have one hell of a story to tell. This is a hard earned happy ending that is hard to imagine they will ever achieve. But they do.
Whatever He Needs is a compelling read with all the feels. Mia Kerick once again impresses me with the depth of her stories. These men capture my heart early on and I couldn't read fast enough. As usual, this is another Mia Kerick book that is a must read. It's powerful, impressive, and memorable.
May 16, 2021
M/M romance between an out-and-proud gay boy and his very-closeted friend
Perfect cover! Dimmy’s description is exactly as the cover model which makes me wonder, which came first? Dimmy has bird tattoos on his body because as he says, “Birds got it good. They can fly away when it all gets to be too much.” This story is poignant, sad, steamy with a beautiful HEA. Before the happy ending however, there will be some very disturbing events: physical and emotional abuse, drugging, near-rape and more. Just be aware…
Liam McAllister, 21yo and Dimmy Cirillo, 19yo both have Daddy issues: Liam has taken on a job for his father to gain his approval whereas poor Dimmy is looking to get his father’s love and less abuse! When Liam is scouting out the properties that will be incorporated into his father’s newest project in Windermere, he goes to a LBGTQ Club where he is spellbound by the breath-taking Go-Go dancer, Dimitri Cirillo. After several nights, Liam can tell that something is off between Dimmy and his father, Gregory, king of sleaze. Liam is so far in the closet that he can’t even see the light! Dimmy is proud of his gayness but self-conscious about everything else because his father has demeaned him for so long. There is so much more to their independent stories that you will experience by reading this book.
The tile is perfect also. First Dimmy does whatever his father wants and then whatever Liam wants. While Liam does what he thinks his father needs and eventually what he learns Dimmy needs. So well done! If you like raw and beautifully written M/M love stories between two young men, you will enjoy this book. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews.
Perfect cover! Dimmy’s description is exactly as the cover model which makes me wonder, which came first? Dimmy has bird tattoos on his body because as he says, “Birds got it good. They can fly away when it all gets to be too much.” This story is poignant, sad, steamy with a beautiful HEA. Before the happy ending however, there will be some very disturbing events: physical and emotional abuse, drugging, near-rape and more. Just be aware…
Liam McAllister, 21yo and Dimmy Cirillo, 19yo both have Daddy issues: Liam has taken on a job for his father to gain his approval whereas poor Dimmy is looking to get his father’s love and less abuse! When Liam is scouting out the properties that will be incorporated into his father’s newest project in Windermere, he goes to a LBGTQ Club where he is spellbound by the breath-taking Go-Go dancer, Dimitri Cirillo. After several nights, Liam can tell that something is off between Dimmy and his father, Gregory, king of sleaze. Liam is so far in the closet that he can’t even see the light! Dimmy is proud of his gayness but self-conscious about everything else because his father has demeaned him for so long. There is so much more to their independent stories that you will experience by reading this book.
The tile is perfect also. First Dimmy does whatever his father wants and then whatever Liam wants. While Liam does what he thinks his father needs and eventually what he learns Dimmy needs. So well done! If you like raw and beautifully written M/M love stories between two young men, you will enjoy this book. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews.
May 5, 2021
A Must Read Book!!!
Mia Kerick has done it again! I did not want to put this book down it had me gripped from the start and took me on an incredible journey of heartbreak, anger, hurt and grief and then when I hit despair the author gently put me back together and I felt relief, comfort and hope, especially when Dimmy sighed “I love that word now, tomorrow”
I’m not gonna lie some of it made difficult reading, my heart was breaking for Dimmy, such a sweet soul who only ever wanted to be loved and Liam who totally misunderstood his wonderful family and wasted years trying to be someone he thought he should be.
Dimmy and Liam were two lost and needy people and it was beautiful to see them transform, grow and develop as the story unfolded, Dimmy’s developing strength of character was a joy to behold.
There were many strong and loving characters in the supporting cast and a few evil ones! Dimmy’s dad had me screaming and wanting to do him damage.
I got totally lost in this story and would highly recommend it and the only criticism I have is that the creepy and nasty Austin didn’t get his comeuppance!
Mia Kerick has done it again! I did not want to put this book down it had me gripped from the start and took me on an incredible journey of heartbreak, anger, hurt and grief and then when I hit despair the author gently put me back together and I felt relief, comfort and hope, especially when Dimmy sighed “I love that word now, tomorrow”
I’m not gonna lie some of it made difficult reading, my heart was breaking for Dimmy, such a sweet soul who only ever wanted to be loved and Liam who totally misunderstood his wonderful family and wasted years trying to be someone he thought he should be.
Dimmy and Liam were two lost and needy people and it was beautiful to see them transform, grow and develop as the story unfolded, Dimmy’s developing strength of character was a joy to behold.
There were many strong and loving characters in the supporting cast and a few evil ones! Dimmy’s dad had me screaming and wanting to do him damage.
I got totally lost in this story and would highly recommend it and the only criticism I have is that the creepy and nasty Austin didn’t get his comeuppance!
May 5, 2021
Saving Each Other . . .
Dimmy Cirillo is living a difficult life under his cruel father’s rule. He is not allowed to make any decisions on his own. He is a nightclub dancer at his father’s bar, and his father makes money off of him in whatever way he chooses.
Liam McAllister comes from a different world of wealth and privilege, but his life is not his own either. He is a construction-company heir, and his parents expect him to marry and give them grandchildren, so he keeps his orientation quiet. But when he goes to a bar, he sees a willowy, tattooed man who takes his breath away.
Liam will need to make a decision if he wants a relationship with Dimmy. Dimmy’s father will gladly ruin his life if he can keep him under his control. Both Liam and Dimmy have a common weakness. Unless they finally break away from their controlling parent(s) and stand up for themselves, they will never have the future they were meant to share. Can they find the strength they need? Or will they walk away from saving each other?
Dimmy Cirillo is living a difficult life under his cruel father’s rule. He is not allowed to make any decisions on his own. He is a nightclub dancer at his father’s bar, and his father makes money off of him in whatever way he chooses.
Liam McAllister comes from a different world of wealth and privilege, but his life is not his own either. He is a construction-company heir, and his parents expect him to marry and give them grandchildren, so he keeps his orientation quiet. But when he goes to a bar, he sees a willowy, tattooed man who takes his breath away.
Liam will need to make a decision if he wants a relationship with Dimmy. Dimmy’s father will gladly ruin his life if he can keep him under his control. Both Liam and Dimmy have a common weakness. Unless they finally break away from their controlling parent(s) and stand up for themselves, they will never have the future they were meant to share. Can they find the strength they need? Or will they walk away from saving each other?
May 4, 2021
I’m not normally one for lost of angst but I had read this author previously and enjoyed the writing style so I thought I would give it a go.
It’s definitely all the feels from happy to sad anger to hurt even grief but it was worth every minute as the two main MC’s transformed right before your eyes.
Liam will do anything to please his well to parents even if it means sacrificing his own happiness by staying well and truly buried in the closet. That is until he stumbles across the purple haired go go dancer. From the minute he sees him he is transfixed and has to know more about him.
Dimmi hasn’t had the best starts in life and now that he is working for his father he sees no way out he knows deep down his father is using him and it becomes more and more evident with the more he gets him to do. Dimmi tries to talk to him with no success if anything it makes things worse. But could the well do to guy from the bar be the one to save him from his father and maybe even himself.
These two have so many issues to work out you find it hard to see how they will ever have a HEA but sometimes things do work out in the end you just have to have a little hope and a lot of patience.
Definitely recommend this story with excellent side characters and some you want to strangle with your bare hands it’s a very enjoyable read.
It’s definitely all the feels from happy to sad anger to hurt even grief but it was worth every minute as the two main MC’s transformed right before your eyes.
Liam will do anything to please his well to parents even if it means sacrificing his own happiness by staying well and truly buried in the closet. That is until he stumbles across the purple haired go go dancer. From the minute he sees him he is transfixed and has to know more about him.
Dimmi hasn’t had the best starts in life and now that he is working for his father he sees no way out he knows deep down his father is using him and it becomes more and more evident with the more he gets him to do. Dimmi tries to talk to him with no success if anything it makes things worse. But could the well do to guy from the bar be the one to save him from his father and maybe even himself.
These two have so many issues to work out you find it hard to see how they will ever have a HEA but sometimes things do work out in the end you just have to have a little hope and a lot of patience.
Definitely recommend this story with excellent side characters and some you want to strangle with your bare hands it’s a very enjoyable read.
May 1, 2021
Wow my love for this cover was answered! This book was a wonderful journey of love for two very different young guys! We have Dimmy our 19 year old dancer in a devastating situation working for his father as a dancer and performing other services since he was 15.. My Heart broke for Dimmy because despite it all he wanted his father to love him. Liam is a little bit older at 21, and he works in for his father in the family construction business so he is very well off financially but completely in the closet. Liam is instantly taken by Dimmy and wants to help him. What I loved most about this story was how realistic these characters were. They were both flawed and did not always say or do the right thing in situations. Liam was a hero but not a perfect hero! Yes Dimmy is elegant and beautiful, but it is his determination and simple love of art and drawing that really pulled Liam in! They are steamy sweet together .. very sensual scenes between these too.. I have to say that Liam's Dad stole MY Heart though!! LOL.. I received an ARC of this book and I highly recommend this for those who love a story of two young men coming to terms with who they are themselves as well as together! I could not put this book down because I just had to know how things worked out! It was intense!
May 5, 2021
A little love, encouragement and support can make the man. Liam and Dimmy are both living their lives to please their Dads. Liam, deep in the closet works for his Dad's construction company instead of working in the medical field. Dimmy is under his Dad's thumb, working in his club as a go go dancer and rendering services as requested, giving his Dad all his money. He thinks he is paying his Dad for letting him survive. Neither men are fulfulled or happy. Liam is tasked with changing the area. He has to make some decisions and maybe guide his Dad into seeing the neighborhood as part of the community. Dimmy thinks his only choice is to do as his Dad wants and not what he wants. Liam hopes to show Dimmy, he has choices. Will Dimmy let him in? Will Liam have the right words? Will eithor or both men stand up to their Dads? Nice story, some painful parts. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2021
What a ride! This was far from an easy one but I’m glad I had the chance to read this book!
Dimmy and Liam couldn’t be more different and there are soooo many reasons why their relationship shouldn’t work: their origins and social status, their upbringings but above all, the way they perceive themselves and how much they have to overcome on their own to love and accept themselves, before being able to love each other properly. This is the story of two young men who beat all odds and get their hard earned but very well deserved happy ending.
It is heavy at times so beware of the trigger warnings. But if you can get over them, you’ll get to experience a very well written and powerful love story. I highly recommend this book!!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Dimmy and Liam couldn’t be more different and there are soooo many reasons why their relationship shouldn’t work: their origins and social status, their upbringings but above all, the way they perceive themselves and how much they have to overcome on their own to love and accept themselves, before being able to love each other properly. This is the story of two young men who beat all odds and get their hard earned but very well deserved happy ending.
It is heavy at times so beware of the trigger warnings. But if you can get over them, you’ll get to experience a very well written and powerful love story. I highly recommend this book!!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
August 27, 2021
THIS HAS AN INCREDIBLE ENDING
This is a Book of many emotions, failed opportunities and bad decisions. Liam is from a rich prominent family. Dimmy was born on the wrong side of the beach. Liam is struck by the sexy guy providing entertainment to the bar crowd. Liam is a young man going through an identity crisis. Dimmy knows his place, put in difficult situations by his Father all for money. It really is a heartbreaking story. But Dimmy although naive is determined to live life his own way. He just wants the freedom to live in his truth. The struggle lies with Liam. I loved Liam even with his faults. I loved Dimmy for his ability to see the true path of himself. This has different dynamics and complications that have to be worked through. It has a happily ever after and a great epilogue. MIA KERICK has written some outstanding characters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!
This is a Book of many emotions, failed opportunities and bad decisions. Liam is from a rich prominent family. Dimmy was born on the wrong side of the beach. Liam is struck by the sexy guy providing entertainment to the bar crowd. Liam is a young man going through an identity crisis. Dimmy knows his place, put in difficult situations by his Father all for money. It really is a heartbreaking story. But Dimmy although naive is determined to live life his own way. He just wants the freedom to live in his truth. The struggle lies with Liam. I loved Liam even with his faults. I loved Dimmy for his ability to see the true path of himself. This has different dynamics and complications that have to be worked through. It has a happily ever after and a great epilogue. MIA KERICK has written some outstanding characters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!
September 18, 2021
4.5/5 stars
I really enjoyed this book! This is my first time reading a book from this author and I am thoroughly impressed and super interested in the rest of their books! It's definitely not for everyone so be sure to check out the CW before reading!
I loved this story and the characters in this book, Dimmy and Liam were such a passionate couple and the feelings they had for each other were so beautifully portrayed in this book, it felt right to read and to experience. The writing was amazing, flowed so well and easily that I finished this in a day! I definitely couldn't put this one down! It's your opposites attract, coming out love story and I highly recommend it!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mia Kerick and Xpresso Book Tours for the earc in return for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! This is my first time reading a book from this author and I am thoroughly impressed and super interested in the rest of their books! It's definitely not for everyone so be sure to check out the CW before reading!
I loved this story and the characters in this book, Dimmy and Liam were such a passionate couple and the feelings they had for each other were so beautifully portrayed in this book, it felt right to read and to experience. The writing was amazing, flowed so well and easily that I finished this in a day! I definitely couldn't put this one down! It's your opposites attract, coming out love story and I highly recommend it!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mia Kerick and Xpresso Book Tours for the earc in return for an honest review.
May 9, 2021
This novel has an intensity that’s hard to describe but easy to get caught up in, and I both love and hate this author’s ability to create realistic, complex, and deeply sympathetic characters here because of the sheer amount of angst and trauma they go through, often at the hands of deeply unsympathetic characters (see Dimmy’s abusive father) who are also drawn with terrifying vividness. Watching Liam and Dimmy’s relationship grow and develop is such a beautifully fraught experience, and every step, while not always (or really ever) easy, brought them closer to something they hadn’t imagined and both needed. Well worth a read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2021
This is the first story I’ve read by this author. I want to thank GRR for giving me the opportunity to find this author. This story grabbed me from the beginning. There is strong emotion all the way through from the abuse by Dimmy’s father to Liam’s fear of coming out. The attraction between them is instant but the relationship is anything but. I love most all the characters. The author made them seem so real. I liked Dimmy’s ability to seem so positive through such horrific times. The story flow moved right along and held my interest. I am happy with the ending. I will be looking into more books by this author.
May 5, 2021
This book was serious on the hurt/comfort. Nonetheless, was an excellent, well written book. Both characters have their fair share of personal challenges.
Dimitri's father was a horrible person. Selling your own son, and controlling nearly every aspect of his life. Follow the rules or suffer.
Liam sees him and is completely infatuated. While his world is different, both were far from warm and loving. Liam is expected to marry right and produce heirs. Maintain a certain image.
Breaking old habits can be difficult. How do you go from existing to really living? With the right person.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Dimitri's father was a horrible person. Selling your own son, and controlling nearly every aspect of his life. Follow the rules or suffer.
Liam sees him and is completely infatuated. While his world is different, both were far from warm and loving. Liam is expected to marry right and produce heirs. Maintain a certain image.
Breaking old habits can be difficult. How do you go from existing to really living? With the right person.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
May 6, 2021
I really enjoyed this book even though I warn you that it put me through an emotional wringer. Dimmi and Liam each have problems but Dimmi’s are the most serious, at least at first. Liam helps him and you think that you know how the story is going to go and then....well I wouldn’t want to give away any spoilers I will just refer you to the emotional wringer that I talked about. This is a terrifically readable and ultimately satisfying book to read and it’s also a lot of fun as opposites attract.
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