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Can two broken men build one life?
Ten years.
That’s what Makai lost for a crime he didn’t commit. He’s been exonerated, but the abuse he suffered in prison isn’t so easy to leave behind. He heads to the one place he remembers being happy: Acker, Wisconsin, where he spent summers with his grandpa. Unfortunately, not everyone wants Makai there.
Ten days.
That’s how long Emil, now twenty-one, was held prisoner as a teenager. The mental and physical injuries he suffered at the hands of a drug trafficking ring still haunt him.
Nightmares, anxiety, and PTSD challenge the connection forming between Makai and Emil, though together, they might find a way to move beyond their pain and into a future—and a relationship—that both had thought impossible.
Now they just have to convince Emil’s father, the town sheriff. It won’t be easy with danger closer than they know….
Ten years.
That’s what Makai lost for a crime he didn’t commit. He’s been exonerated, but the abuse he suffered in prison isn’t so easy to leave behind. He heads to the one place he remembers being happy: Acker, Wisconsin, where he spent summers with his grandpa. Unfortunately, not everyone wants Makai there.
Ten days.
That’s how long Emil, now twenty-one, was held prisoner as a teenager. The mental and physical injuries he suffered at the hands of a drug trafficking ring still haunt him.
Nightmares, anxiety, and PTSD challenge the connection forming between Makai and Emil, though together, they might find a way to move beyond their pain and into a future—and a relationship—that both had thought impossible.
Now they just have to convince Emil’s father, the town sheriff. It won’t be easy with danger closer than they know….
328 pages, Paperback
First published January 15, 2019
38 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Tia Fielding
68 books229 followersTia Fielding is a Finnish author who loves witty people, words, peppermint, sarcasm, autumn, and the tiny beautiful things in life.
Tia identifies as genderqueer but isn’t strict about pronouns. Why? Because luckily, in her native language there aren’t gender-specific pronouns.
These days, preferring to live in the middle of nowhere with her fur babies is as big of a part of her psyche as writing. Tia likes to recharge in nature and tends to watch where she’s going through her cell phone’s camera.
In 2013 Tia’s novel Falling Into Place was recognized by the industry’s Rainbow Awards in the Best LGBT Erotic Romance (Bobby Michaels Award) category.
In 2019, her novel Four (Love by Numbers #2) won a Rainbow Award in the Best Transgender Contemporary category.
Facebook Reader Group: facebook.com/groups/spoondrawer/
Twitter: @tiafielding
Email: tiafielding@gmail.com
Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/tiafielding
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
January 16, 2019
In a word, boring. I admit I was anticipating angst and/or emotionality given the blurb. I was looking to be gutted, but that didn't come to pass. What did come to pass was an extensive amount of mundane daily activities and a whole lot of naps.
Makai is new to town having been recently exonerated of a crime he didn't commit. Ten years and an untold number of traumas survived, he's surprisingly well adjusted and not at all bitter. He meets Emil who was once kidnapped and tortured and is skittish as a colt. Emil continues to struggle with his disorder mightily.
Thanks to a precocious gender fluid child named Joie the two cross paths a few times and shortly thereafter begin one of the most ordinary and prosaic relationships I've ever read. Their days are filled with running errands to the closest major city, shopping, Netflix, playing with the kittens, working on the various buildings on Makai's property, going for walks, lunching at the local deli, going to the grocery store, making and eating meals and visiting with the locals.
Then napping. Extensive napping. I'm not sure either one of these guys can go ten minutes of semi-strenuous activity without napping shortly thereafter.
See the rest of my pillishness on the blog then later here.
An ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Makai is new to town having been recently exonerated of a crime he didn't commit. Ten years and an untold number of traumas survived, he's surprisingly well adjusted and not at all bitter. He meets Emil who was once kidnapped and tortured and is skittish as a colt. Emil continues to struggle with his disorder mightily.
Thanks to a precocious gender fluid child named Joie the two cross paths a few times and shortly thereafter begin one of the most ordinary and prosaic relationships I've ever read. Their days are filled with running errands to the closest major city, shopping, Netflix, playing with the kittens, working on the various buildings on Makai's property, going for walks, lunching at the local deli, going to the grocery store, making and eating meals and visiting with the locals.
Then napping. Extensive napping. I'm not sure either one of these guys can go ten minutes of semi-strenuous activity without napping shortly thereafter.
See the rest of my pillishness on the blog then later here.
An ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2019
I love hurt/comfort stories so this one was right up my alley. Both MCs have traumatic pasts. One was wrongfully imprisoned for ten years and one was the victim of a kidnapping. The way they are careful and respectful of each other's issues, talk things out, and help each other heal is so well done. It's angsty a bit but also soft and gushy and I love that kind of slow burn romance. Recommended.
April 10, 2019
This is a gorgeous hurt/comfort story, set in a small town in Wisconsin.
CW: physical and emotional abuse in the past, some of which is described in this book.
Makai, having been sentenced to twenty years in prison for a crime he didn't commit, has been recently exonerated after spending ten years behind bars. He has suffered brutal abuse while incarcerated and just wants to move on with his life, starting over in the one place that has felt like home to him.
Required to check in with the local sheriff and realizing that the whole town knows of his arrival, he keeps his head down and does his best to move forward. He's damaged from his time in prison and under no illusion that there's anything really good out there for him to find. He's not as bitter about having lost ten years of his life as I would have expected him to be... in fact, he seemed numb to me. Broken. Sure, he got a settlement from the state, but obviously money doesn't buy back the time he's lost nor does it compensate for the horrific abuse he endured.
Emil is the sheriff's son and struggles with PTSD and anxiety attacks after having been abducted and held captive for 10 days when he was 17, during which time he was tortured and starved. He has trouble eating regularly and his fingers are severely messed up after having been broken during his captivity to the point where he requires specific kinds of braces so they don't spasm or hurt.
Makai and Emil meet through a mutual acquaintance (a sweet if precocious genderfluid child), but recognize the haunted looks in each other's eyes, realizing that they might have something in common. Slowly, they start to build a relationship, first as friends and then as love interest, as they help each other across the hurdles of their pasts. They talk, honestly and openly, and set limits that they each understand and respect.
I absolutely loved watching both Makai and Emil come to life again, stepping into the sunlight and becoming stronger with each passing day. It's obviously not all smooth sailing. PTSD isn't something easily conquered, and there are setbacks. Emil's father, the sheriff, also isn't initially too happy about his son spending time with Makai, but he eventually realizes that Emil is coming out of the cocoon.
The author did a fine job with the characterizations, and we're given fairly explicit descriptions of the trauma Makai and Emil experienced to draw an accurate picture. The characters are multi-dimensional, even if their anxiety and fear takes center stage for quite some time in this book; there is plenty of growth as they go about their daily activities, as mundane as they might be - all of this contributes to their healing, to their moving forward.
This was a wonderful story, and I don't regret a single minute spent within its pages. Even if neither Makai nor Emil are completely healed by the end of the book, there is a truly hopeful ending here - I have no doubt that with continued love and care for each other, they will make it. They're both good people who've been dealt shitty hands, but who persevere and become stronger together.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
CW: physical and emotional abuse in the past, some of which is described in this book.
Makai, having been sentenced to twenty years in prison for a crime he didn't commit, has been recently exonerated after spending ten years behind bars. He has suffered brutal abuse while incarcerated and just wants to move on with his life, starting over in the one place that has felt like home to him.
Required to check in with the local sheriff and realizing that the whole town knows of his arrival, he keeps his head down and does his best to move forward. He's damaged from his time in prison and under no illusion that there's anything really good out there for him to find. He's not as bitter about having lost ten years of his life as I would have expected him to be... in fact, he seemed numb to me. Broken. Sure, he got a settlement from the state, but obviously money doesn't buy back the time he's lost nor does it compensate for the horrific abuse he endured.
Emil is the sheriff's son and struggles with PTSD and anxiety attacks after having been abducted and held captive for 10 days when he was 17, during which time he was tortured and starved. He has trouble eating regularly and his fingers are severely messed up after having been broken during his captivity to the point where he requires specific kinds of braces so they don't spasm or hurt.
Makai and Emil meet through a mutual acquaintance (a sweet if precocious genderfluid child), but recognize the haunted looks in each other's eyes, realizing that they might have something in common. Slowly, they start to build a relationship, first as friends and then as love interest, as they help each other across the hurdles of their pasts. They talk, honestly and openly, and set limits that they each understand and respect.
I absolutely loved watching both Makai and Emil come to life again, stepping into the sunlight and becoming stronger with each passing day. It's obviously not all smooth sailing. PTSD isn't something easily conquered, and there are setbacks. Emil's father, the sheriff, also isn't initially too happy about his son spending time with Makai, but he eventually realizes that Emil is coming out of the cocoon.
The author did a fine job with the characterizations, and we're given fairly explicit descriptions of the trauma Makai and Emil experienced to draw an accurate picture. The characters are multi-dimensional, even if their anxiety and fear takes center stage for quite some time in this book; there is plenty of growth as they go about their daily activities, as mundane as they might be - all of this contributes to their healing, to their moving forward.
This was a wonderful story, and I don't regret a single minute spent within its pages. Even if neither Makai nor Emil are completely healed by the end of the book, there is a truly hopeful ending here - I have no doubt that with continued love and care for each other, they will make it. They're both good people who've been dealt shitty hands, but who persevere and become stronger together.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
January 21, 2019
I am a sucker for damaged characters, and this one packs a double whammy. Makai, released from a ten-year prison sentence after being found innocent tries to pick up with his life that was basically on hold for a decade. He heads to a small town who all seem to know his story and not all the residents are happy about him being there. He just wants to keep his head down and make a comfortable life as he readjusts to life outside and getting past the horrors he experienced during his incarceration.
Then there is Emil, a sweet young man who suffers from PTSD and injuries he sustained when he was kidnapped and kept captive and tortured for ten days when he was 17 in connection with his father’s job as the town sheriff. He has trouble eating (due to being starved), has problems with his fingers (that were all broken), and suffers from fairly frequent panic attacks.
These two meet accidentally, and it is quickly apparent that they share a connection and commonality that allows them to be more comfortable with each other than they have been able to with others up to this point. They take things extremely but understandably slow given their issues, but it is easy to see their relationship blossoming. Their trust in each other grows with every interaction, and I was rooting for them from the get go.
We don’t get too many details about their pasts, but there are definitely enough to give a clear picture and understanding of what these guys have been through. It is the story of two people who were wronged but through each other, find happiness. It was really sweet, and I can easily recommend it to anyone who loves seeing guys get second chances at life and love.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
January 17, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Tia Fielding’s latest release, Ten, is perhaps the best example of a hurt/comfort trope I have ever read. With a controlled slow burn romance coupled with both men recognizing they can actually move beyond a tortured past and consider the idea of falling in love, this story is remarkably beautiful in its simplicity. There is no great angst here, but neither is there an insta-love, which would have shattered the fragile recovery both men begin to experience. I loved how this author allowed her men to slowly heal and left room for the fact that the process was nowhere near finished by the end of the novel. Instead, we were taken on a journey with two men who, through no fault of their own, were damaged goods. They talked–really talked and made sure that their limits, and they both had them, were respected and known. We pick up with Emil’s life after a few years of therapy, which allowed for his character to understand the triggers that would be with him the rest of his life, but timewise also allowed him to have the tools with which to handle those episodes of frantic anxiety and fear. What he lived through will make your heart hurt for him and please be aware if abduction and torture are triggers for you, you may want to take care in reading this novel for he does describe what happened to him.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Tia Fielding’s latest release, Ten, is perhaps the best example of a hurt/comfort trope I have ever read. With a controlled slow burn romance coupled with both men recognizing they can actually move beyond a tortured past and consider the idea of falling in love, this story is remarkably beautiful in its simplicity. There is no great angst here, but neither is there an insta-love, which would have shattered the fragile recovery both men begin to experience. I loved how this author allowed her men to slowly heal and left room for the fact that the process was nowhere near finished by the end of the novel. Instead, we were taken on a journey with two men who, through no fault of their own, were damaged goods. They talked–really talked and made sure that their limits, and they both had them, were respected and known. We pick up with Emil’s life after a few years of therapy, which allowed for his character to understand the triggers that would be with him the rest of his life, but timewise also allowed him to have the tools with which to handle those episodes of frantic anxiety and fear. What he lived through will make your heart hurt for him and please be aware if abduction and torture are triggers for you, you may want to take care in reading this novel for he does describe what happened to him.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
January 19, 2019
I'm DNFing this at 50%.
I was expecting so much delicious angst from the summary of this book. I mean, honestly, how does an author use this kind of set up and NOT dive into a bottomless pit of angsty goodness? And yet, somehow, the author managed to do just that. I never felt an emotional connection to any of the characters in this book; I found it to be incredibly BORING. How can this premise even be boring? It doesn't make sense to me.
I'm not a fan of unusually precocious children in romance books, especially when they are relied upon heavily to drive the plot forward, and - surprise! - there's one in here. Look, I'm all for genderqueer representation and all of that, but I want to read a romance between two adult characters at the forefront, thanks.
And there's a LOT of queer representation in this book. Too much, really, considering how tiny and rural this town is. I've lived in multiple towns like the one described here before, and let's just say that none of them were remotely like this town in any regard. Maybe there's some rural queer utopia out there that I don't know about, but...I kind of doubt it.
But none of these things were the straws that broke this camel's back. Nope, that happened 50% of the way through,
So yeah, I ragequit, and I regret nothing.
I was expecting so much delicious angst from the summary of this book. I mean, honestly, how does an author use this kind of set up and NOT dive into a bottomless pit of angsty goodness? And yet, somehow, the author managed to do just that. I never felt an emotional connection to any of the characters in this book; I found it to be incredibly BORING. How can this premise even be boring? It doesn't make sense to me.
I'm not a fan of unusually precocious children in romance books, especially when they are relied upon heavily to drive the plot forward, and - surprise! - there's one in here. Look, I'm all for genderqueer representation and all of that, but I want to read a romance between two adult characters at the forefront, thanks.
And there's a LOT of queer representation in this book. Too much, really, considering how tiny and rural this town is. I've lived in multiple towns like the one described here before, and let's just say that none of them were remotely like this town in any regard. Maybe there's some rural queer utopia out there that I don't know about, but...I kind of doubt it.
But none of these things were the straws that broke this camel's back. Nope, that happened 50% of the way through,
So yeah, I ragequit, and I regret nothing.
March 19, 2020
Two wounded souls for whom “10” has a special significance, a ton of complications, and a love that seems impossible for more than one reason are at the center of this emotional drama that pulled me in on page one and didn’t let me go until the final page. Both primary characters are interesting, complex, compelling young men who had my sympathy for what they have gone through as soon as I read the blurb. I loved how they gradually become friends despite all the obstacles they and everyone else identify. As soon as they realize they can help each other, as unlikely as that may seem, they begin to fight for what they want rather than what everyone else thinks might be “good for them” and when they finally admit the feelings that have grown between them, I was a goner.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 19, 2020
Two wounded souls for whom “10” has a special significance, a ton of complications, and a love that seems impossible for more than one reason are at the center of this emotional drama that pulled me in on page one and didn’t let me go until the final page. Both primary characters are interesting, complex, compelling young men who had my sympathy for what they have gone through as soon as I read the blurb. I loved how they gradually become friends despite all the obstacles they and everyone else identify. As soon as they realize they can help each other, as unlikely as that may seem, they begin to fight for what they want rather than what everyone else thinks might be “good for them” and when they finally admit the feelings that have grown between them, I was a goner.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
did-not-finish
August 6, 2021DNF @ 45%
I really wanted to like TEN because I saw some great reviews but this was not working for me. Based on the description I was expecting something really angsty and emotional but I found that I was quite bored while reading this. I didn't necessarily need the angst and I liked that Makai was such a gentle person and he understood Emil's struggles, but overall TEN's pace was just really slow.
But the biggest thing that bothered me was the way Makai and Emil's past trauma was addressed; in this case it felt too much like trauma porn for the reader. After only knowing each other for a few days, Emil and Makai decide to share their pasts and tell each other (and us the reader) what happened to them in great detail. So much detail that felt really unnecessary, especially considering neither of them have ever talked about this trauma to anyone other than a therapist. In fact, Emil's therapist tells him afterward how much of a bad idea it was. This combined with the slow pacing just didn't work for me so I had to DNF.
Content Warning: Makai was sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit and while in prison he was abused and raped several times by other inmates leaving him with lasting physical issues; Emil was kidnapped as a teenager where he was starved, tortured, and raped; Emil has PTSD and struggles with eating, panic attacks, being around strangers, and touch aversion; both rapes are described in detail on page
I really wanted to like TEN because I saw some great reviews but this was not working for me. Based on the description I was expecting something really angsty and emotional but I found that I was quite bored while reading this. I didn't necessarily need the angst and I liked that Makai was such a gentle person and he understood Emil's struggles, but overall TEN's pace was just really slow.
But the biggest thing that bothered me was the way Makai and Emil's past trauma was addressed; in this case it felt too much like trauma porn for the reader. After only knowing each other for a few days, Emil and Makai decide to share their pasts and tell each other (and us the reader) what happened to them in great detail. So much detail that felt really unnecessary, especially considering neither of them have ever talked about this trauma to anyone other than a therapist. In fact, Emil's therapist tells him afterward how much of a bad idea it was. This combined with the slow pacing just didn't work for me so I had to DNF.
Content Warning: Makai was sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit and while in prison he was abused and raped several times by other inmates leaving him with lasting physical issues; Emil was kidnapped as a teenager where he was starved, tortured, and raped; Emil has PTSD and struggles with eating, panic attacks, being around strangers, and touch aversion; both rapes are described in detail on page
December 24, 2018
This was so good. It was hurt/comfort at its finest. Oh, man, I just can't.
Makai was sentenced to 20 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, due to a racist, dirty cop. After 10 years and DNA evidence, he's released and ends up in a small town in Wisconsin. Being a small town, everyone knows who he is, what he's been accused of, and why he's there.
The town sheriff has his own bias towards Makai and is quick to judge his friendship with his own son, Emil. Because of his job, Emil has suffered his own ordeal and is still very broken.
I loved that both Makai and Emil had gone through harrowing experiences and didn't give up, and the 'talk' that they had together was such a great scene. I loved how they each took turns when the other couldn't speak.
This book was so much about growth and truth and trust and I just loved the emotional support the town gave both of them. It was so inspiring to see how quickly they took to Makai, even with his past.
I just really enjoyed reading this so much. I loved the surrounding stories with the kittens and Joie and the other couples in town. It was an all encompassing book with a lot of lessons that all tied in to the theme of Love Conquers. Read it.
*Galley copy graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted on http://gaybook.reviews/ *
Makai was sentenced to 20 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, due to a racist, dirty cop. After 10 years and DNA evidence, he's released and ends up in a small town in Wisconsin. Being a small town, everyone knows who he is, what he's been accused of, and why he's there.
The town sheriff has his own bias towards Makai and is quick to judge his friendship with his own son, Emil. Because of his job, Emil has suffered his own ordeal and is still very broken.
I loved that both Makai and Emil had gone through harrowing experiences and didn't give up, and the 'talk' that they had together was such a great scene. I loved how they each took turns when the other couldn't speak.
This book was so much about growth and truth and trust and I just loved the emotional support the town gave both of them. It was so inspiring to see how quickly they took to Makai, even with his past.
I just really enjoyed reading this so much. I loved the surrounding stories with the kittens and Joie and the other couples in town. It was an all encompassing book with a lot of lessons that all tied in to the theme of Love Conquers. Read it.
*Galley copy graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted on http://gaybook.reviews/ *
September 2, 2023
4.25
Di una delicatezza infinita. Mi è piaciuto molto.
Di una delicatezza infinita. Mi è piaciuto molto.
January 18, 2019
Ten is the first book in a new series by Tia Fielding. Makai is sent to prison and stays there for ten years for a crime he never committed. Emil is kidnapped, held hostage and abused physically mentally and sexually for ten days all because of his father’s job. Both men think they are broken.
After being released Makai returns to Acker, Wisconsin, where his grandfather used to live and where he grew up. Once he arrives he realizes he is not wanted there and decides to lay low. Soon after he meets Emil who is looking after a young genderless child who forms a quick attachment to him. Emil and Makai realize everything they have in common and get closer to the point they decide to attempt a relationship. Will it work out?
I loved both main characters. They were both well thought out and they were honestly perfect for each other. They both had their quirks due to past trauma but they complemented each other very well.
I really liked this book. As mentioned above, I loved both guys but the ending itself I found a bit rushed. I love the fact that cats were included in the story because what is better than a hurt/comfort story? Cats of course!
The ending has Makai gaining contact with his past cellmate then it ends. It doesn’t seem to be a series so it leaves us all wondering what happens with the meeting and I really hope there is another book about the roommate.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
After being released Makai returns to Acker, Wisconsin, where his grandfather used to live and where he grew up. Once he arrives he realizes he is not wanted there and decides to lay low. Soon after he meets Emil who is looking after a young genderless child who forms a quick attachment to him. Emil and Makai realize everything they have in common and get closer to the point they decide to attempt a relationship. Will it work out?
I loved both main characters. They were both well thought out and they were honestly perfect for each other. They both had their quirks due to past trauma but they complemented each other very well.
I really liked this book. As mentioned above, I loved both guys but the ending itself I found a bit rushed. I love the fact that cats were included in the story because what is better than a hurt/comfort story? Cats of course!
The ending has Makai gaining contact with his past cellmate then it ends. It doesn’t seem to be a series so it leaves us all wondering what happens with the meeting and I really hope there is another book about the roommate.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
January 24, 2020
Wow. I really enjoyed this story. Much more than I had anticipated after reading book two first. Both men were damaged: one from being wrongfully imprisoned and the other from having been kidnapped a few years before. This is a hurt/comfort, slow burn romance at its best. Both respected the other's boundaries and allowed their relationship the time they each needed to be able to accept each other's issues and allow themselves to love and be loved. I definitely recommend it.
Warning - mention of rape (in prison) and of female attempted rape of underage male (the kidnapping).
Warning - mention of rape (in prison) and of female attempted rape of underage male (the kidnapping).
January 30, 2019
3.5 stars!
It was very interesting but things happened too fast for my liking. I feel like people with issues like them should have more time to get used to one another and get comfortable. And Makai's issues were a little bit overlooked... But that's just my opinion!
I will definitely be reading the rest! Can't wait to met Kaos and see what will happen with the vet and if he'll find his happy ending! :D
It was very interesting but things happened too fast for my liking. I feel like people with issues like them should have more time to get used to one another and get comfortable. And Makai's issues were a little bit overlooked... But that's just my opinion!
I will definitely be reading the rest! Can't wait to met Kaos and see what will happen with the vet and if he'll find his happy ending! :D
April 1, 2020
I’ve read this author before. This is a mm contemporary story set in the USA. Both main characters, Emil and Makai have horrible incidents in their past but together they learn to heal. This book may have triggers for readers about sexual abuse. The journey to love and acceptance for these two characters was slow but well worth the time. I’ll read more from this author.
November 20, 2023
Voto 3,5
.
Nayeli - per RFS
.
I protagonisti sono due ragazzi fragili come ghiaccio sottile. Makai ha perso dieci anni della sua giovinezza in prigione perché accusato ingiustamente. Ora, oltre a sentirsi defraudato di un periodo di tempo lunghissimo tutto da recuperare, e arrabbiato per l’ingiustizia subita, deve ricostruirsi una vita da capo sopportando i pregiudizi di gente che vede in lui solo un ex detenuto.
Emil, invece, ha subito un trauma terribile (lo scopriremo solo alla fine) che gli ha lasciato alcuni problemi fisici permanenti e un disturbo da stress post traumatico. Fatica a sopportare di essere avvicinato o sfiorato e ha paura di tutto e di tutti.
Sono due anime che si muovono camminando sulle uova e che si riconoscono nelle paure, nelle vibrazioni, nel loro essere spaventate e bisognose, imparando a muoversi rispettando i trigger dell’altro.
Emil gli fece un piccolo sorriso. Poi vacillò e distolse di nuovo lo sguardo, ma allo stesso tempo strinse più forte le sue dita. «Che succede, Emil?» chiese dolcemente, sperando di non spaventarlo. «Io… non tengo la mano di nessuno da mesi. Quella di un estraneo… da anni. Più di cinque anni.»
Esplorata molto bene la sfera di emozioni di chi rientra nella società dopo un’esperienza carceraria. Non solo nel desiderio di recuperare la normalità e riappropriarsi delle cose perse (musica, film, moda…), ma nella fatica di vivere senza routine scandita al secondo, di riappropriarsi degli spazi, di oggetti personali, della solitudine, della libertà.
Anche Makai deve superare un disturbo da stress post traumatico: il carcere ha lasciato cicatrici di esperienze violente, brutali e abusanti. Inoltre, l’essere stato incastrato dalla persona che amava lo ha reso cauto e disilluso.
Notiamo pagina dopo pagina questo percorso di conquiste un passo alla volta verso la normalità: trovare qualcosa da fare, comprare oggetti che prima non poteva avere, rimettersi al passo con la tecnologia, ecc.
Emil trasalì, e anche Makai. «Senti, mi dispiace molto,» disse. «Avrei dovuto pensarci…» «Cosa? Che potrei scattare da un momento all’altro?» Aveva un’aria arrabbiata, ma la rabbia non sembrava diretta verso di lui. Quello la rendeva in qualche modo peggiore. Quando fece per parlare, Emil agitò una mano in maniera irrequieta. «No, non intendevo dire questo. Ormai lo so bene. È solo una reazione impulsiva.» «O-kay…» «So che non posso controllarlo e so che non posso aspettarmi che qualcuno si ricordi di badare sempre alla mia sensibile maledetta reattività, ma è frustrante come l’inferno non prevederlo mai.»
Tra i personaggi secondari è presente un/a bambino/a queer in età prescolare (a giorni alterni si veste da maschio o da femmina), che la mamma istruisce in casa perché non venga bullizzato/a o costretto/a scegliere una precisa identità di genere. Gli altri personaggi le/gli si rivolgono utilizzando lo schwa. È un tema che mi ha fatto riflettere, in particolare per la giovane età. Non sono certa di avere un’idea precisa in merito, ma mi ha fatto piacere poter entrare in contatto con questa sfera emozionale.
Una volta, prima di incontrare Makai, aveva pensato che non gli sarebbe mai più successo. Poi aveva pensato che sarebbe impazzito e avrebbe avuto un attacco di panico se avesse di nuovo provato a baciare qualcuno, persino Makai stesso. Ora che il momento era arrivato, si ritrovò a stringergli le dita e a inclinare la testa, gemendo contro le labbra dell’uomo finché non ottenne ciò che voleva e questi aprì la bocca.
Lascio per ultima un’annotazione sullo stile. La narrazione è minuziosa e lenta, si attarda nelle descrizioni delle routine dei ragazzi e in momenti senza particolare significato, dando risalto specialmente a una famiglia di gatti che vengono adottati da Makai.
Questo, se da un lato ci fa immergere molto nell’ambientazione e ci fa percepire il calore della convivenza che instaurano fra loro, dall’altro rallenta parecchio il ritmo di lettura. L’assenza di momenti epici non è una tragedia, perché i gesti quotidiani e abitudinari trasmettono un senso di vicinanza, ci fa sentire a casa con loro e ci fa percepire il rafforzarsi di un legame che matura giorno dopo giorno. Una relazione che non si sviluppa tramite colpi di scena ma con il rafforzarsi di una connessione, affrontando insieme le piccole cose, andando a rappresentare un porto sicuro e confortante, nella certezza di poter contare su qualcun altro al proprio fianco.
Lo scotto è una trama in cui non accade tantissimo e in cui gli sviluppi sono molto lenti e poco accattivanti.
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Nayeli - per RFS
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I protagonisti sono due ragazzi fragili come ghiaccio sottile. Makai ha perso dieci anni della sua giovinezza in prigione perché accusato ingiustamente. Ora, oltre a sentirsi defraudato di un periodo di tempo lunghissimo tutto da recuperare, e arrabbiato per l’ingiustizia subita, deve ricostruirsi una vita da capo sopportando i pregiudizi di gente che vede in lui solo un ex detenuto.
Emil, invece, ha subito un trauma terribile (lo scopriremo solo alla fine) che gli ha lasciato alcuni problemi fisici permanenti e un disturbo da stress post traumatico. Fatica a sopportare di essere avvicinato o sfiorato e ha paura di tutto e di tutti.
Sono due anime che si muovono camminando sulle uova e che si riconoscono nelle paure, nelle vibrazioni, nel loro essere spaventate e bisognose, imparando a muoversi rispettando i trigger dell’altro.
Emil gli fece un piccolo sorriso. Poi vacillò e distolse di nuovo lo sguardo, ma allo stesso tempo strinse più forte le sue dita. «Che succede, Emil?» chiese dolcemente, sperando di non spaventarlo. «Io… non tengo la mano di nessuno da mesi. Quella di un estraneo… da anni. Più di cinque anni.»
Esplorata molto bene la sfera di emozioni di chi rientra nella società dopo un’esperienza carceraria. Non solo nel desiderio di recuperare la normalità e riappropriarsi delle cose perse (musica, film, moda…), ma nella fatica di vivere senza routine scandita al secondo, di riappropriarsi degli spazi, di oggetti personali, della solitudine, della libertà.
Anche Makai deve superare un disturbo da stress post traumatico: il carcere ha lasciato cicatrici di esperienze violente, brutali e abusanti. Inoltre, l’essere stato incastrato dalla persona che amava lo ha reso cauto e disilluso.
Notiamo pagina dopo pagina questo percorso di conquiste un passo alla volta verso la normalità: trovare qualcosa da fare, comprare oggetti che prima non poteva avere, rimettersi al passo con la tecnologia, ecc.
Emil trasalì, e anche Makai. «Senti, mi dispiace molto,» disse. «Avrei dovuto pensarci…» «Cosa? Che potrei scattare da un momento all’altro?» Aveva un’aria arrabbiata, ma la rabbia non sembrava diretta verso di lui. Quello la rendeva in qualche modo peggiore. Quando fece per parlare, Emil agitò una mano in maniera irrequieta. «No, non intendevo dire questo. Ormai lo so bene. È solo una reazione impulsiva.» «O-kay…» «So che non posso controllarlo e so che non posso aspettarmi che qualcuno si ricordi di badare sempre alla mia sensibile maledetta reattività, ma è frustrante come l’inferno non prevederlo mai.»
Tra i personaggi secondari è presente un/a bambino/a queer in età prescolare (a giorni alterni si veste da maschio o da femmina), che la mamma istruisce in casa perché non venga bullizzato/a o costretto/a scegliere una precisa identità di genere. Gli altri personaggi le/gli si rivolgono utilizzando lo schwa. È un tema che mi ha fatto riflettere, in particolare per la giovane età. Non sono certa di avere un’idea precisa in merito, ma mi ha fatto piacere poter entrare in contatto con questa sfera emozionale.
Una volta, prima di incontrare Makai, aveva pensato che non gli sarebbe mai più successo. Poi aveva pensato che sarebbe impazzito e avrebbe avuto un attacco di panico se avesse di nuovo provato a baciare qualcuno, persino Makai stesso. Ora che il momento era arrivato, si ritrovò a stringergli le dita e a inclinare la testa, gemendo contro le labbra dell’uomo finché non ottenne ciò che voleva e questi aprì la bocca.
Lascio per ultima un’annotazione sullo stile. La narrazione è minuziosa e lenta, si attarda nelle descrizioni delle routine dei ragazzi e in momenti senza particolare significato, dando risalto specialmente a una famiglia di gatti che vengono adottati da Makai.
Questo, se da un lato ci fa immergere molto nell’ambientazione e ci fa percepire il calore della convivenza che instaurano fra loro, dall’altro rallenta parecchio il ritmo di lettura. L’assenza di momenti epici non è una tragedia, perché i gesti quotidiani e abitudinari trasmettono un senso di vicinanza, ci fa sentire a casa con loro e ci fa percepire il rafforzarsi di un legame che matura giorno dopo giorno. Una relazione che non si sviluppa tramite colpi di scena ma con il rafforzarsi di una connessione, affrontando insieme le piccole cose, andando a rappresentare un porto sicuro e confortante, nella certezza di poter contare su qualcun altro al proprio fianco.
Lo scotto è una trama in cui non accade tantissimo e in cui gli sviluppi sono molto lenti e poco accattivanti.
July 4, 2019
3.5 Stars
This was both heartbreaking and heartwarming hurt/comfort. Makai and Emil had both experienced major trauma, so their stories were very hard to read about. The author pulled no punches with some graphic details and resultant severe PTSD, mostly for Emil. Makai’s damage was less overt but still horrific. The story is more about recovery, interspersed with a couple of events that shakes things up. I did feel quite lost as the two went from two or three brief conversations to *boom*, lets bare our souls because we’re having a relationship. Mostly the story chronicles mundane activities and the sudden momentum Emil gains in his recovery. Some was a bit hard to believe but hey, it’s a romance. Physical intimacy is very slow, as was appropriate for the storyline but felt quite poignant when they reached that point near the end. Great writing and engaging reading, just my subjective reaction to some details prevented a better rating.
This was both heartbreaking and heartwarming hurt/comfort. Makai and Emil had both experienced major trauma, so their stories were very hard to read about. The author pulled no punches with some graphic details and resultant severe PTSD, mostly for Emil. Makai’s damage was less overt but still horrific. The story is more about recovery, interspersed with a couple of events that shakes things up. I did feel quite lost as the two went from two or three brief conversations to *boom*, lets bare our souls because we’re having a relationship. Mostly the story chronicles mundane activities and the sudden momentum Emil gains in his recovery. Some was a bit hard to believe but hey, it’s a romance. Physical intimacy is very slow, as was appropriate for the storyline but felt quite poignant when they reached that point near the end. Great writing and engaging reading, just my subjective reaction to some details prevented a better rating.
February 2, 2019
Reviewed by Cindy
At first Makai and Emil seem like a couple of very broken men who are looking for something to anchor themselves with, but as the story went on, I realized that neither one was as broken as they could have been.
Makai returns to the only place that’s ever felt like home when he’s released from prison. He’s unsure of his welcome but he’s gotta start somewhere and it turns out that Acker is the perfect place.
Emil has every reason to be afraid, but he keeps pushing through the fear to find himself something better in life. With the support of his parents and therapist, he’s already healed so much even before he meets Makai.
I loved watching these two figure out how to first be friends before slowly moving on with their relationship. Makai’s care and attention to Emil’s needs are the direct result of the abuse he saw and suffered through in prison. It’s what first puts Emil at ease long enough for them to get to know each other.
And Emil? It’s in his nature to take care of others and Makai is desperately in need of someone on his side. They both have issues that leave them vulnerable but together they shore up the broken parts of each other.
The appearance of Joey/Joie is a welcome addition to this story. I love the author’s portrayal of this young gender-fluid person and the attitudes of the people around them. I only wish every town was a accepting as most of the people in Acker are.
The glimpses we get into the anguish felt by Emil’s parents because of the horrors their son faced are small but powerful and I think a good representation of how to be supportive.
To me this whole story felt hopeful without falling into something cheesy. The emotions are honest and heartfelt and there’s never a time where the story feels rushed or fake. I applaud the author for not letting the whole “love fixes everything” trope run away with this story. Because love doesn’t fix everything. It can, however, help make the trials and tribulations we go through in life a little easier to bear, just like it did for Emil and Makai.
I can’t recommend this story enough.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
At first Makai and Emil seem like a couple of very broken men who are looking for something to anchor themselves with, but as the story went on, I realized that neither one was as broken as they could have been.
Makai returns to the only place that’s ever felt like home when he’s released from prison. He’s unsure of his welcome but he’s gotta start somewhere and it turns out that Acker is the perfect place.
Emil has every reason to be afraid, but he keeps pushing through the fear to find himself something better in life. With the support of his parents and therapist, he’s already healed so much even before he meets Makai.
I loved watching these two figure out how to first be friends before slowly moving on with their relationship. Makai’s care and attention to Emil’s needs are the direct result of the abuse he saw and suffered through in prison. It’s what first puts Emil at ease long enough for them to get to know each other.
And Emil? It’s in his nature to take care of others and Makai is desperately in need of someone on his side. They both have issues that leave them vulnerable but together they shore up the broken parts of each other.
The appearance of Joey/Joie is a welcome addition to this story. I love the author’s portrayal of this young gender-fluid person and the attitudes of the people around them. I only wish every town was a accepting as most of the people in Acker are.
The glimpses we get into the anguish felt by Emil’s parents because of the horrors their son faced are small but powerful and I think a good representation of how to be supportive.
To me this whole story felt hopeful without falling into something cheesy. The emotions are honest and heartfelt and there’s never a time where the story feels rushed or fake. I applaud the author for not letting the whole “love fixes everything” trope run away with this story. Because love doesn’t fix everything. It can, however, help make the trials and tribulations we go through in life a little easier to bear, just like it did for Emil and Makai.
I can’t recommend this story enough.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
March 6, 2020
Reviewed by Jenn for Diverse Reader
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ten by Tia Fielding is the first book in her Love by Numbers series and it a great start to three really good books.
Welcome to the town of Acker, Wisconsin where Makai has come after being in prison for ten years for a crime he didn’t commit. Makai has come here to find peace and a fresh start. He’s hoping that the pain and prejudice he’s faced will be a thing of the past. The town of Acker is small, and everyone knows everyone so they’re waiting for Makai…waiting and wondering if he’ll fit in their town.
Emil is the sheriff’s son and has had his own painful past. Held captive for ten years because of a case his dad got too close to solving. Emil is jumpy, touch sensitive, and traumatized. It’ll take someone very special to get through to him and Makai may be just who he’s been waiting for. These two recognize each other’s demons. Both see pain in the other and both realize the other has PTSD and will need time and patience. Seeing the damaged men working together to help each other heal, talk through everything their feeling, and just give each another a chance is lovely to watch.
Tia Fielding does a wonderful job of allowing Makai and Emil to ease into a relationship, into intimacy. It’s really very touching to see the care these men give to each other and to members of their town. The willingness to put in the work to heal is inspiring to see. There is something very special with these two and I love watching this town rally around them. A second chance at life, at happiness is so deserved by both these men. These are two of the good guys and I was rooting for them and I found them both to be incredibly strong. I’m ready to spend more time in Acker and hope you’ll pay a visit too.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ten by Tia Fielding is the first book in her Love by Numbers series and it a great start to three really good books.
Welcome to the town of Acker, Wisconsin where Makai has come after being in prison for ten years for a crime he didn’t commit. Makai has come here to find peace and a fresh start. He’s hoping that the pain and prejudice he’s faced will be a thing of the past. The town of Acker is small, and everyone knows everyone so they’re waiting for Makai…waiting and wondering if he’ll fit in their town.
Emil is the sheriff’s son and has had his own painful past. Held captive for ten years because of a case his dad got too close to solving. Emil is jumpy, touch sensitive, and traumatized. It’ll take someone very special to get through to him and Makai may be just who he’s been waiting for. These two recognize each other’s demons. Both see pain in the other and both realize the other has PTSD and will need time and patience. Seeing the damaged men working together to help each other heal, talk through everything their feeling, and just give each another a chance is lovely to watch.
Tia Fielding does a wonderful job of allowing Makai and Emil to ease into a relationship, into intimacy. It’s really very touching to see the care these men give to each other and to members of their town. The willingness to put in the work to heal is inspiring to see. There is something very special with these two and I love watching this town rally around them. A second chance at life, at happiness is so deserved by both these men. These are two of the good guys and I was rooting for them and I found them both to be incredibly strong. I’m ready to spend more time in Acker and hope you’ll pay a visit too.
August 30, 2021
Perhaps Emil and Makai were at the point in their recoveries to let another person in.
Or
Perhaps it was having lost their freedom to false imprisonment and kidnapping, being victims of sexual assault, and having their control taken away, they understand each other and trust each other.
Regardless of the reason, Fielding has created a really good book. The reader cries and cheers as Emil and Makai slowly open up to each other. They laugh, talk, and bond over a stray mama cat and her kittens. They set boundaries and discuss instead of shutting each other out.
The book doesn’t end with a magic cure. Too much has been endured and that would be an insult to the reader. The book ends on a HFN with both men content to take life a day at a time and value the happiness they have found.
Bonus points…Emil has a great mom and dad and most of the townsfolk have Emil an Makai’s backs.
Or
Perhaps it was having lost their freedom to false imprisonment and kidnapping, being victims of sexual assault, and having their control taken away, they understand each other and trust each other.
Regardless of the reason, Fielding has created a really good book. The reader cries and cheers as Emil and Makai slowly open up to each other. They laugh, talk, and bond over a stray mama cat and her kittens. They set boundaries and discuss instead of shutting each other out.
The book doesn’t end with a magic cure. Too much has been endured and that would be an insult to the reader. The book ends on a HFN with both men content to take life a day at a time and value the happiness they have found.
Bonus points…Emil has a great mom and dad and most of the townsfolk have Emil an Makai’s backs.
February 21, 2019
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
Ugh....I so wanted to like this book. The blurb was amazing, the book, not so much. I was expecting angst and didn't really get it. I couldn't connect with either of the main characters. I knew this wouldn't be an instant love story but for the love of Pete it moved snail slow. I would have liked more angst and connection with the characters. Not sure if I'll read more books in the series. Wasn't my cup of tea but I'm sure others will enjoy it.
Ugh....I so wanted to like this book. The blurb was amazing, the book, not so much. I was expecting angst and didn't really get it. I couldn't connect with either of the main characters. I knew this wouldn't be an instant love story but for the love of Pete it moved snail slow. I would have liked more angst and connection with the characters. Not sure if I'll read more books in the series. Wasn't my cup of tea but I'm sure others will enjoy it.
Read
February 7, 2019DNF, lost interest.
March 10, 2021
3,5/5
Dix, c'est le nombre d'années durant lesquelles la vie de Makai s'est arrêtée. Dix années passées en prison pour un délit qu'il n'a pas commis.
Dix, c'est le nombre de jours durant lesquelles la vie de Emil a été mise en suspens. Dix heures durant lesquelles il fut retenu captif, dix jours qui vont le marquer à vie.
C'est dans la ville de Acker, dans le Wisconsin, que Makai a décidé de revenir à sa sortie de prison. Sur place, il va faire la connaissance du fils de shérif, Emil.
Tia Fielding nous offre une jolie histoire de reconstruction. Peu importe la durée du traumatisme, certaines blessures peuvent rester à vie et handicaper la vie au quotidien. C'est le cas de Emil.
Je me suis attachée à ces deux personnages. Emil et Makai sont deux hommes gentils, bons. Makai, en plus de ses origines, n'est pas vraiment le genre de personne que monsieur et madame tout le monde veut fréquenter. Cependant, Emil va être intrigué par l'ancien détenu, il va se sentir à l'aise et surtout apaisé auprès de lui.
C'est une jolie romance où on y va pas à pas, en douceur. Emil, tout comme Makai, progressent doucement ensemble, une jolie complicité va se développer en les deux hommes. J'ai aimé la prévenance et la délicatesse de Maki envers Emil afin de ne pas le brusquer, lui montrer qu'il le comprend et qu'il ne lui fera jamais de mal. Il en va de même pour l'inverse.
Les personnages secondaires sont bien développés aussi, je pense notamment au père d'Emil, le shérif qui voit d'abord d'un mauvais œil le rapprochement de son fils avec cet homme fraîchement sorti de prison. Il va se rendre compte de lui-même que l’habit ne fait pas le moine, loin de là. Sans oublier le jeune Joy avec sa maman, qui vont adopter d'emblée Makai ^^ Mention spéciale à Mouse et à ses petits bébés tout choupinou !
Après, j'aurais aimé plus de développement sur certains points, plus d'introspections peut-être. Vu les traumatismes de chacun, je pensais qu'un certain passage allait être riche en émotion. Honnêtement, s'il n'avait pas eu lieu, cela ne m'aurait pas dérangé, mais ce n'est pas le cas, l'auteur le décrit. Et pour le coup, je trouve qu'il manque d'intensité, dans ce cas de figure.
Après, ce fut une chouette lecture ! Une histoire sur deux personnages blessés, qui tentent de se reconstruire, ensemble, tous les deux. Une histoire pleine de bons sentiments aussi, l'auteur ne sort pas les grands violons si je puis dire, elle reste juste et c'est fort appréciable.
Dix, c'est le nombre d'années durant lesquelles la vie de Makai s'est arrêtée. Dix années passées en prison pour un délit qu'il n'a pas commis.
Dix, c'est le nombre de jours durant lesquelles la vie de Emil a été mise en suspens. Dix heures durant lesquelles il fut retenu captif, dix jours qui vont le marquer à vie.
C'est dans la ville de Acker, dans le Wisconsin, que Makai a décidé de revenir à sa sortie de prison. Sur place, il va faire la connaissance du fils de shérif, Emil.
Tia Fielding nous offre une jolie histoire de reconstruction. Peu importe la durée du traumatisme, certaines blessures peuvent rester à vie et handicaper la vie au quotidien. C'est le cas de Emil.
Je me suis attachée à ces deux personnages. Emil et Makai sont deux hommes gentils, bons. Makai, en plus de ses origines, n'est pas vraiment le genre de personne que monsieur et madame tout le monde veut fréquenter. Cependant, Emil va être intrigué par l'ancien détenu, il va se sentir à l'aise et surtout apaisé auprès de lui.
C'est une jolie romance où on y va pas à pas, en douceur. Emil, tout comme Makai, progressent doucement ensemble, une jolie complicité va se développer en les deux hommes. J'ai aimé la prévenance et la délicatesse de Maki envers Emil afin de ne pas le brusquer, lui montrer qu'il le comprend et qu'il ne lui fera jamais de mal. Il en va de même pour l'inverse.
Les personnages secondaires sont bien développés aussi, je pense notamment au père d'Emil, le shérif qui voit d'abord d'un mauvais œil le rapprochement de son fils avec cet homme fraîchement sorti de prison. Il va se rendre compte de lui-même que l’habit ne fait pas le moine, loin de là. Sans oublier le jeune Joy avec sa maman, qui vont adopter d'emblée Makai ^^ Mention spéciale à Mouse et à ses petits bébés tout choupinou !
Après, j'aurais aimé plus de développement sur certains points, plus d'introspections peut-être. Vu les traumatismes de chacun, je pensais qu'un certain passage allait être riche en émotion. Honnêtement, s'il n'avait pas eu lieu, cela ne m'aurait pas dérangé, mais ce n'est pas le cas, l'auteur le décrit. Et pour le coup, je trouve qu'il manque d'intensité, dans ce cas de figure.
Après, ce fut une chouette lecture ! Une histoire sur deux personnages blessés, qui tentent de se reconstruire, ensemble, tous les deux. Une histoire pleine de bons sentiments aussi, l'auteur ne sort pas les grands violons si je puis dire, elle reste juste et c'est fort appréciable.
March 8, 2023
I just adored this. It was so sweet. Two people with trauma who have a lovely, sweet journey together and a happy ending. It was like cotton candy. Normally I really like interpersonal conflict in a romance but I felt there was great character development in both characters and their separate journeys and I didn't miss it--in fact, I loved that there wasn't. They were just both so supportive of each other. And the emotional risks they took together to be in a relationship and the work they did together was just so sweet and so pleasant to read that it was just a great feel good book. I'll be looking for the rest of this series.
Want to read
February 3, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/3/2020)! 🎁
May 1, 2020
Ten by Tia Fielding is a surprisingly angst-free gay romance.
Makai Stone is starting over after serving ten years for a crime he did not commit. Estranged from his mother and the rest of his family, he decides to move to Acker, WI. Makai does not want any trouble so his first stop is the local sheriff office. He then begins settling into the small lakeside home he purchased. Makai is hopeful he can move past the abuse he suffered in prison but he is not planning on starting a relationship any time soon. But will he change his mind after meeting the sheriff's son Emil Newman?
Emil is still trying to recover from the harrowing ten days he spent after being kidnapped five years ago. He lives with his parents as he deals with myriad issues from the abuse he suffered at the hands of a sadistic criminal. Emil sometimes takes two steps forward and one step back as he tries to manage his eating problems, panic attacks, and anxiety. While unable to work in a traditional job, Emil fills in as a babysitter for a precocious young child.
Makai and Emil's romance is a slow burn that takes a backseat to their surprising friendship. Initially shy and reticent around Makai, Emil gradually feels comfortable spending time with the newcomer. The two men have fully mastered meaningful conversations in which they fully discuss their pasts and residuals problems. With attraction slowly creeping in, are both men healed enough to explore the possibility of a future together?
Ten is an enjoyable gay romance which features two emotionally wounded men. The characters are well-developed and their respective issues ring true. Their friendship is mostly free from unnecessary drama and conflict. Their attraction simmers on the back burner for the most of the story, but it is nice to see their emotional relationship firmly in place before they give in to their desire. I enjoyed this first installment in Tia Fielding's Love by the Number series and I am looking forward to reading the next books in the series.
Makai Stone is starting over after serving ten years for a crime he did not commit. Estranged from his mother and the rest of his family, he decides to move to Acker, WI. Makai does not want any trouble so his first stop is the local sheriff office. He then begins settling into the small lakeside home he purchased. Makai is hopeful he can move past the abuse he suffered in prison but he is not planning on starting a relationship any time soon. But will he change his mind after meeting the sheriff's son Emil Newman?
Emil is still trying to recover from the harrowing ten days he spent after being kidnapped five years ago. He lives with his parents as he deals with myriad issues from the abuse he suffered at the hands of a sadistic criminal. Emil sometimes takes two steps forward and one step back as he tries to manage his eating problems, panic attacks, and anxiety. While unable to work in a traditional job, Emil fills in as a babysitter for a precocious young child.
Makai and Emil's romance is a slow burn that takes a backseat to their surprising friendship. Initially shy and reticent around Makai, Emil gradually feels comfortable spending time with the newcomer. The two men have fully mastered meaningful conversations in which they fully discuss their pasts and residuals problems. With attraction slowly creeping in, are both men healed enough to explore the possibility of a future together?
Ten is an enjoyable gay romance which features two emotionally wounded men. The characters are well-developed and their respective issues ring true. Their friendship is mostly free from unnecessary drama and conflict. Their attraction simmers on the back burner for the most of the story, but it is nice to see their emotional relationship firmly in place before they give in to their desire. I enjoyed this first installment in Tia Fielding's Love by the Number series and I am looking forward to reading the next books in the series.
March 28, 2021
Pour moi, c’est une jolie et très touchante découverte. Il y a vraiment deux gros points positifs avec ce roman ! Le premier, c’est que l’autrice parvient à rester sur le fil très ténu (et dangereux) du mélodrame, sans jamais tomber du côté trop pathos. Nos deux héros ont vécu des évènements extrêmement traumatisants, mais ce sont deux survivors. Cette histoire est très positive. Ils ne seront jamais « guéris » mais parviendront en s’aident mutuellement à vivre avec au jour le jour. Cela reste donc très émouvant mais très encourageant.
La seconde très bonne idée, c’est Emil, jeune homme qui a vécu donc une horrible « aventure », mais l’autrice a trouvé une autre cause que l’attaque homophobe gratuite. L’implication de la ville, de ses parents, de ses amis, et son propre vécu apportent de nouveaux ressorts à l’intrigue, de nouvelles possibilités. Nos deux héros, pourtant très différents l’un de l’autre, se comprennent. L’attention qu’ils porteront l’un à l’autre, leur feront oublier leurs propres manques, leurs propres problèmes. Peu à peu, par petites touches, se tissent avec énormément de sensibilité, de tendres liens. Ce style qui prend très justement son temps, sonne très juste.
J’ai aussi bien aimé l’idée de montrer que les animaux domestiques représentent un grand confort pour les gens souffrants d’anxiété et de stress post traumatiques. Vraiment, une très jolie histoire pleine de tendresse et de compréhension !
La seconde très bonne idée, c’est Emil, jeune homme qui a vécu donc une horrible « aventure », mais l’autrice a trouvé une autre cause que l’attaque homophobe gratuite. L’implication de la ville, de ses parents, de ses amis, et son propre vécu apportent de nouveaux ressorts à l’intrigue, de nouvelles possibilités. Nos deux héros, pourtant très différents l’un de l’autre, se comprennent. L’attention qu’ils porteront l’un à l’autre, leur feront oublier leurs propres manques, leurs propres problèmes. Peu à peu, par petites touches, se tissent avec énormément de sensibilité, de tendres liens. Ce style qui prend très justement son temps, sonne très juste.
J’ai aussi bien aimé l’idée de montrer que les animaux domestiques représentent un grand confort pour les gens souffrants d’anxiété et de stress post traumatiques. Vraiment, une très jolie histoire pleine de tendresse et de compréhension !
August 20, 2019
Ten by author Tia Feilding is the first book in the Love by Numbers series. This is a very heavy start to a series. I loved it, but I also wanted some relief from how serious this book is. I could not finish this one in one sitting. It is a kind of read where you need hearts and rainbows after. It is emotion and heart-wrenching.
Makai did ten years for a crime he did not commit.
Emil was held prisoner for ten days.
Makai is going back to the only place he has known joy. He has been exonerated but still feels the stigma of being in prison. He is Native American and been subjected to racism. He needs a break. He is a good person who has had a ton of bad luck in life.
Emil after five years of being free he has hurt hands to remember the experience by, along with PSTD. He is very kind and very aware of his own shortcomings. Almost too aware. He is in desperate need of joy and love.
These two are really good together. They have what the other needs, and they make each other better people. Finally, maybe together they can also find peace. The peace that has eluded them both.
This is a great story, again I could not finish it in one sitting due to its dark nature but I felt it was very well done and thought out. I would love to read more from this author in the future and see where they go next.
Makai did ten years for a crime he did not commit.
Emil was held prisoner for ten days.
Makai is going back to the only place he has known joy. He has been exonerated but still feels the stigma of being in prison. He is Native American and been subjected to racism. He needs a break. He is a good person who has had a ton of bad luck in life.
Emil after five years of being free he has hurt hands to remember the experience by, along with PSTD. He is very kind and very aware of his own shortcomings. Almost too aware. He is in desperate need of joy and love.
These two are really good together. They have what the other needs, and they make each other better people. Finally, maybe together they can also find peace. The peace that has eluded them both.
This is a great story, again I could not finish it in one sitting due to its dark nature but I felt it was very well done and thought out. I would love to read more from this author in the future and see where they go next.
March 20, 2021
Une romance riche en émotions entre deux âmes traumatisées mais néanmoins magnifiques. Makai et Emil tentent malgré leur passif de nouer une relation saine. Une relation qui évolue lentement, avec douceur, tendresse et amour. Certaines tournures de phrases sont un peu lourdes, mais j’ai quand même succombé aux charmes de ces deux hommes adorables et de la communauté de Acker.
Mon avis : http://les-lectures-de-titou.over-blo...
Mon avis : http://les-lectures-de-titou.over-blo...
January 20, 2019
An interesting and tender love story, realistically and sensitively paced, of two men in a very small town, who despite traumatic and damaging histories, both prove themselves capable of the honest communication and mutual patience to build a healthy relationship with one another as well as with other members of the community.
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