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Unconditional #4
Looking Past
Ten years ago, Ben Worthington ran away from home after a violent confrontation with his father. He’s lived with the anger and resentment that confrontation caused ever since.
To the outside world, Dylan Barrows has it all together. But he struggles with the guilt from his inability to protect his older brother from his abuser.
Tragedy brings them together, and an unknown shared history threatens to tear them apart before they can begin looking past their issues ... and finally find love.
To the outside world, Dylan Barrows has it all together. But he struggles with the guilt from his inability to protect his older brother from his abuser.
Tragedy brings them together, and an unknown shared history threatens to tear them apart before they can begin looking past their issues ... and finally find love.
- GenresM M Romance
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 9, 2021
this was an amazing love story... so emotional... roller coaster of emotions.. love and sexy and personalities who are so sweet and become who they needed to be individually and together. it was amazingly written and just a sweet story.
May 7, 2021
Michael Bailey's Looking Past is an extraordinary hurt/comfort romance. The third book in the Unconditional Series, it's easier to read in order, and it's a wonderful addition to this world.
Ben and Dylan meet through ugly and complicated circumstances, but it isn't long before they start to connect. What follows is an amazingly poignant story.
It's a story of pain, hurt, guilt, and loss. Every bit of this story is based upon serious circumstances. Both men are broken in their own way and have a long road to recovery.
Theirs is a story of learning to move on from their pasts. A story of not letting the past define you, or shackle you. The author excels in bringing all the emotions out and illustrating the importance of letting go.
Their tale is all about family issues. Both men suffered a lot in their childhoods, with that shaping who they are now. Both men are survivors of being separated from their families. And both men still have a lot of family issues to deal with.
This is a long story, so be prepared to spend a while getting to know these men and their journeys. The writing style is impressive, with a great balance of dealing with past events and moving forward.
I love the men together. They are seriously fantastic. But more than anything, it's the way they ultimately help each other to heal that's the main draw here. With the addition of some twists and turns, some extra conflict is added, helping to ultimately cement the strength of their love.
I wish I could add a quote or two, but I will pass, since there are way too many that I love. The author adds so much wisdom into this story and I enjoy it all.
Looking Past is just that; a tale of looking beyond past events, of looking towards a future. Michael Bailey had me mesmerized with this heartfelt journey and I highly recommend it.
Ben and Dylan meet through ugly and complicated circumstances, but it isn't long before they start to connect. What follows is an amazingly poignant story.
It's a story of pain, hurt, guilt, and loss. Every bit of this story is based upon serious circumstances. Both men are broken in their own way and have a long road to recovery.
Theirs is a story of learning to move on from their pasts. A story of not letting the past define you, or shackle you. The author excels in bringing all the emotions out and illustrating the importance of letting go.
Their tale is all about family issues. Both men suffered a lot in their childhoods, with that shaping who they are now. Both men are survivors of being separated from their families. And both men still have a lot of family issues to deal with.
This is a long story, so be prepared to spend a while getting to know these men and their journeys. The writing style is impressive, with a great balance of dealing with past events and moving forward.
I love the men together. They are seriously fantastic. But more than anything, it's the way they ultimately help each other to heal that's the main draw here. With the addition of some twists and turns, some extra conflict is added, helping to ultimately cement the strength of their love.
I wish I could add a quote or two, but I will pass, since there are way too many that I love. The author adds so much wisdom into this story and I enjoy it all.
Looking Past is just that; a tale of looking beyond past events, of looking towards a future. Michael Bailey had me mesmerized with this heartfelt journey and I highly recommend it.
May 16, 2021
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews*
This book was filled with angst, I have to get that out of the way asap.
However, it wasn't the overwhelming kind of angst that usually takes from my enjoyment of the story. It made sense because of the general context.
Found family is one of my favorite tropes, and this book handles it with remarkable skill. I really enjoyed the dynamics of all the characters, and there's a lot to say about how well even the minor characters were built.
In the same tone that the main storyline with Ben and Greg, the romantic subplot had a lot to add about the way the characters open themselves to letting the other in. Overall, the journey that Ben and Dylan went through was arduous but oh so satisfying... I deeply enjoyed them learning, and ultimately choosing, to trust each other, and to love each other.
I don't usually jump at the chance of an angsty story, but I'm glad I took a shot with this one.
This book was filled with angst, I have to get that out of the way asap.
However, it wasn't the overwhelming kind of angst that usually takes from my enjoyment of the story. It made sense because of the general context.
Found family is one of my favorite tropes, and this book handles it with remarkable skill. I really enjoyed the dynamics of all the characters, and there's a lot to say about how well even the minor characters were built.
In the same tone that the main storyline with Ben and Greg, the romantic subplot had a lot to add about the way the characters open themselves to letting the other in. Overall, the journey that Ben and Dylan went through was arduous but oh so satisfying... I deeply enjoyed them learning, and ultimately choosing, to trust each other, and to love each other.
I don't usually jump at the chance of an angsty story, but I'm glad I took a shot with this one.
June 13, 2021
In Michael Bailey’s Unconditional series we get the stories of a number of Toledo based guys that know each other though a comic book store and who have all be in or on the edges of traumatic coming out stories featuring parental rejection.
Though Robert Frost wrote “Home is the place where, when you have to go there, They have to take you in” that’s not generally been true where teens coming out as gay is involved. Of the 1.6 million homeless teens in the United States, 40% identify as LGBTQ. More than one in four of those who come out as teens are forced to leave their family homes.
In this tale, Ben is one of those. He runs away after getting a negative reaction to his coming out and years later, he and his family are still dealing with the issue. Even though Ben is intrinsically a strong character, having been failed by those who should love him, has created anger and personal trust issues that are at the core of the pathos in this tale.
One minor nit that I feel needs picking… this tale involves a “twist” concerning Dylan’s ex Joshua that was so poorly foreshadowed that when the reveal came it felt jarringly contrived. Oddly, at the same time a broken nose is mentioned and that is a masterful bit of foreshadowing in that when we later learn where the broken nose came from, it seemed almost obvious.
As the third book in this series this wraps up many of the “loose ends” that were left by the other books and is perhaps the saddest (and still perhaps the most hopeful) of this series. While the series ends on a hopeful note, there is one unredeemed character (T.J.) that might merit a later book that I’d be eager to read.
Being Michigan born and raised, I may be a bit partial as I found this Toledo Ohio based series a bit like visiting home. The environs and the attitudes of the people felt familiar and there were numerous trips between Toledo and Ann Arbor here, a trip that I’ve made scores of times. Even the mention of Dylan being fostered in Sylvania Ohio was a bit nostalgic as Sylvania was a frequent “stopping for lunch” point on my many trips through this part of the country.
That said, I’d recommend this series to even those of you unfamiliar with this part of the USA. The teen homelessness issue is a real and significant concern that doesn’t get enough attention and here it’s dealt with in a way where we see the characters involved healing their past traumas. Though there may be three-hanky moments, overall the outlook in this series is hopeful.
*** Though I received a copy of this free, the above is an unbiased and honest review***
Though Robert Frost wrote “Home is the place where, when you have to go there, They have to take you in” that’s not generally been true where teens coming out as gay is involved. Of the 1.6 million homeless teens in the United States, 40% identify as LGBTQ. More than one in four of those who come out as teens are forced to leave their family homes.
In this tale, Ben is one of those. He runs away after getting a negative reaction to his coming out and years later, he and his family are still dealing with the issue. Even though Ben is intrinsically a strong character, having been failed by those who should love him, has created anger and personal trust issues that are at the core of the pathos in this tale.
One minor nit that I feel needs picking… this tale involves a “twist” concerning Dylan’s ex Joshua that was so poorly foreshadowed that when the reveal came it felt jarringly contrived. Oddly, at the same time a broken nose is mentioned and that is a masterful bit of foreshadowing in that when we later learn where the broken nose came from, it seemed almost obvious.
As the third book in this series this wraps up many of the “loose ends” that were left by the other books and is perhaps the saddest (and still perhaps the most hopeful) of this series. While the series ends on a hopeful note, there is one unredeemed character (T.J.) that might merit a later book that I’d be eager to read.
Being Michigan born and raised, I may be a bit partial as I found this Toledo Ohio based series a bit like visiting home. The environs and the attitudes of the people felt familiar and there were numerous trips between Toledo and Ann Arbor here, a trip that I’ve made scores of times. Even the mention of Dylan being fostered in Sylvania Ohio was a bit nostalgic as Sylvania was a frequent “stopping for lunch” point on my many trips through this part of the country.
That said, I’d recommend this series to even those of you unfamiliar with this part of the USA. The teen homelessness issue is a real and significant concern that doesn’t get enough attention and here it’s dealt with in a way where we see the characters involved healing their past traumas. Though there may be three-hanky moments, overall the outlook in this series is hopeful.
*** Though I received a copy of this free, the above is an unbiased and honest review***
May 21, 2021
I loved this book. Michael Bailey‘s writing is so beautiful, it drew me in and i became really invested in the story and the characters. I was really moved by both Ben & Dylan‘s individual stories, their childhoods, finding themselves and ultimately, finding each other. It was great to catch up with the characters from the previous books in this series too, so if you loved those, you‘ll love this one.
May 7, 2021
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. Thanks to GRR for introducing me to new authors. I feel this is a highly emotional story. From the first when Dylan helps Greg to the last page there is so many emotional issues addressed that I am amazed the author was able to resolve them by the end. The characters are so real. Each of their stories in some way seems to break my heart. How each handles the situation is so real that I could feel what was happening. Ben goes through so much to change his outlook is a surprise to me. Dylan is almost a saint. He is able to keep a positive outlook even though what he has been through. I think the flow of this story is just right and kept my attention the whole way through. The characters are people I’d like to know more. This is an author I will be following.
May 20, 2021
Parents are supposed to love you unconditionally. Greg found out where his long lost brother, Ben was. Ben had run away when he was 16 after their father grabbed Ben by the neck and tried to choke him for being a homosexual. Greg went to see Ben after their Dad had a heart attack. Dylan, who had gone through a similar family estrangement, went to support Greg. Dylan and Ben, were emotionally aware of each other. All of the men, dragged heavy baggage behind them. Ben, was trying to work through his anger and sense of emotional abandonment. Dylan was able to provide support. This story, brings out all of the machinations necessary to find a path to healing and love. Excellent story. Well developed characters and growth circumstances. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2021
This is an incredible addition to a series that gets better with each successive book. Just like peeling an onion, the layers of each character reveal more of their past and the struggles they're still dealing with. Luckily the love they gain gives them more then hope for a better future, it guarantees it.
Dylan, Ben, David and Owen have so many obstacles to overcome. Friends, new found 'family' and the strength that comes from truly being wanted and loved, go a long way to setting up bright futures for all of them. Despite pain inflicted on them from by many, they also are rewarded with unwavering love and support.
Michael Bailey is an amazing author with the ability to make the reader care about his characters. I'm looking forward to every book he writes!
Dylan, Ben, David and Owen have so many obstacles to overcome. Friends, new found 'family' and the strength that comes from truly being wanted and loved, go a long way to setting up bright futures for all of them. Despite pain inflicted on them from by many, they also are rewarded with unwavering love and support.
Michael Bailey is an amazing author with the ability to make the reader care about his characters. I'm looking forward to every book he writes!
May 17, 2021
This is a beautifully written story in terms of both form and content: the characters are deeply sympathetic and their story is so compellingly told that it’s impossible not to feel for them through every step of some incredibly emotional events. I appreciated the careful pacing of the story— it’s a long one, but not a moment is wasted, and the author has a gift for setting moods that resonate. There’s a lot to work through in this novel: plenty of pain, but also the hope that comes from finding someone who sees and supports you as you are, and both our protagonists deserve exactly that. Emotional and rewarding— 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 17, 2021
I found this long story quite deep and somber in the beginning and wondered how I was going to get through it. Then to my joy, once I could remember who fit where, who belonged to whom, it fell into place.
The hurt inflicted on four boys by their fathers was heartbreaking, but once, after many years and more abuse, the boys became men and met up again and their story could change bringing happiness and love.
A lot of plotting and planning went into this story to be able to pull the readers in and become so involved with the lives of the characters and the outcome of their happiness.
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest and voluntary review.
The hurt inflicted on four boys by their fathers was heartbreaking, but once, after many years and more abuse, the boys became men and met up again and their story could change bringing happiness and love.
A lot of plotting and planning went into this story to be able to pull the readers in and become so involved with the lives of the characters and the outcome of their happiness.
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest and voluntary review.
June 22, 2021
“Looking Past” is the 4th book in the Unconventional series, and it’s a great addition to a very good series. Michael Bailey creates thoughtful, likable characters who feel like real people. This is a hurt/comfort story with some angst and a lot of sweetness. Ben has past trauma to work through, and Dylan is a great support as someone who has been through a similar situation.
Characters from previous books appear in “Looking Past” as they are members of the found family that flows through this series. Readers will enjoy catching up with where these characters are now, as well as Ben’s story and his budding relationship with Dylan.
Characters from previous books appear in “Looking Past” as they are members of the found family that flows through this series. Readers will enjoy catching up with where these characters are now, as well as Ben’s story and his budding relationship with Dylan.
May 7, 2021
How do you handle finding your family you thought long lost? You fall in love with one of your brother's friends of course. Moving through reconnecting with his family and dealing with grief, Ben connects with Dylan through their similar experiences. Supporting each other, their feelings slowly grow from respect to love. A slow building romance with the light drama I have come to love in Michael Bailey's stories.
May 9, 2021
The dynamics in this story takes a bit to keep in place but it soon becomes clear and the story takes off. A few main characters and they all contribute bountifully. Old hurts, past grievances, new relationships, new friendships and forgiveness all make appearances in this book. Interesting to watch the pieces fall into place with each person. Strong storyline with a good ending makes this an enjoyable reading. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
May 13, 2021
This was a really well written story with beautiful complex characters. It was highly emotional at times for me to read, the characters felt so real. I loved Ben and Dylan! They had issues that I wasn’t sure the author would be able to clear up, but he did beautifully. The way he handled each situation was well done with perfect pacing! I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
May 16, 2021
Another excellent book. It’s a roller coaster of emotions with a sweet love story about two mc’s learning to move on from their pasts.
Both have been through some tough and heartbreaking stuff which they need to heal from individually and together.
Michaels writing is done so beautifully that he pulls you in from page one keeping you there until the very last page. I would therefore highly recommend but damn you Michael you always make me cry.
Both have been through some tough and heartbreaking stuff which they need to heal from individually and together.
Michaels writing is done so beautifully that he pulls you in from page one keeping you there until the very last page. I would therefore highly recommend but damn you Michael you always make me cry.
May 19, 2021
What an emotionally, well-written book. Ben and Dylan are so sweet together and you can't put hope that they get their happily ever after. Ben left home after his father kicked him after finding out he was gay. His brother wants to reconnect after their father suffers a heart attack. The books deal with emotional and physical abuse, forgiveness, second chances, friendship, family, grief, death, love, and romance. I couldn't put it down once I started reading it.
May 19, 2021
As I started this book, kept asking myself, how I remembered these characters. It was then that I remembered I had read Looking In. I think it would really help if you did read Looking In first before jumping into this one.
Michael Bailey is an incredible author and the characters just jump off the page with realness. But, the books are quiet and unassuming and you forget how good they really are. Hence, how I "forgot" that I had read the first book.
Worth the read? Absolutely!
Michael Bailey is an incredible author and the characters just jump off the page with realness. But, the books are quiet and unassuming and you forget how good they really are. Hence, how I "forgot" that I had read the first book.
Worth the read? Absolutely!
June 20, 2024
So disappointed ☹️
I was looking forward to reading this story. The first book was really good except one bit, but this one I couldn't read it all.
The way Greg and Dylan made Ben feel like he had no right to be upset with what happened to him and then he should forgive his father, the book lost me and I skipped to the end.
Very disappointing, poor Ben someone should have looked out for him, he was all of 16 at the time his dad bashed him.
I was looking forward to reading this story. The first book was really good except one bit, but this one I couldn't read it all.
The way Greg and Dylan made Ben feel like he had no right to be upset with what happened to him and then he should forgive his father, the book lost me and I skipped to the end.
Very disappointing, poor Ben someone should have looked out for him, he was all of 16 at the time his dad bashed him.
May 9, 2021
Michael Bailey is a new author to me and it's thanks to receiving an ARC copy of this book from GRR that I have been able to read this book.
Beautiful,emotional romance that had my attention straight from the beginning.
I don't want to give spoilers for this,I want to give readers the chance to dive in and immerse themselves in this gorgeous story.
Beautiful,emotional romance that had my attention straight from the beginning.
I don't want to give spoilers for this,I want to give readers the chance to dive in and immerse themselves in this gorgeous story.
May 27, 2021
The main characters in this book, Dylan and Ben have great depth. They each have an enthralling story to tell and are the very best thing for each other. The secondary characters are all an amazing addition that kept me interested. There are some triggers but they are all dealt with in a careful way. I really loved this story! “I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.”
May 10, 2021
Slow start with an incredible finish! I adored Ben & Dylan’s story! We all struggle with a sense of belonging and family, and Mr. Bailey made this so relatable in his series! It’s realistic, with no fluff and frills, just a group of men trying to figure it out, but love always wins!
May 13, 2021
Oh wow this was one of the most beautiful stories I've read lately.
Dylan and Ben, their connection, the understanding of each other's past, acceptance and forgiveness of family members and a loving HEA!
This is a must read.
Dylan and Ben, their connection, the understanding of each other's past, acceptance and forgiveness of family members and a loving HEA!
This is a must read.
May 19, 2021
This book hurt my heart to read. Ben and Dylan have such sad relationships with their families and watching them find and help each other heal was emotionally draining and inspiring at the same time. The story is beautifully written and I look forward to reading more by this author.
May 20, 2021
From the first book Michael Bailey has had the power to invoke every emotions in me and this book is no different. Ben and Dylan ripped my heart out and out it back together. I loved how this book made me feel. I couldn't put it down. Definitely recommend.
May 23, 2021
This was an amazing story of past hurt, finding lost family, new love, healing, and discovering your true self. It was a story filled with angst and is a rollercoaster of emotions.
I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy.
October 8, 2021
Beautiful ❤️
I just loved this story! It was th bye perfect
length, with Ben & Dylan perfect for each other, finding who they are, as individuals & as a couple. Their slow burn and the family dynamics felt real and not trite or brittle. I hope to read Greg's story one day.
I just loved this story! It was th bye perfect
length, with Ben & Dylan perfect for each other, finding who they are, as individuals & as a couple. Their slow burn and the family dynamics felt real and not trite or brittle. I hope to read Greg's story one day.
March 3, 2022
great read
Didn’t know what to expect since I didn’t read the first one, but it’s a really beautiful read. Reading the first one might be helpful but you can read it without he first one. Really loved the strength in Dylan, and their love is beautiful.
Didn’t know what to expect since I didn’t read the first one, but it’s a really beautiful read. Reading the first one might be helpful but you can read it without he first one. Really loved the strength in Dylan, and their love is beautiful.
May 25, 2024
Date finished : 2024-05-24
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews