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Tales from Ballena Beach #2
Double Bound
Winner! ForeWord Magazine's Gay/Lesbian Book of the Year, 2008; Readerviews Gay/Lesbian Book of the Year, 2008. Nick Nolan's Double Bound reunites us with many of the characters introduced in his delightful Strings Attached: Jeremy, now in a committed relationship with fun-loving, hotheaded Carlo; Arthur, Jeremy's protector, confidant, and mentor; and Katharine, Jeremy's wealthy benefactress, still hiding a slew of secrets and hidden agendas. This sequel displays the same wit, verve, style, and sense of adventure that were so engaging and fresh in Strings Attached. And where Strings Attached playfully alluded to Pinocchio, Double Bound has fun with the Jack and the Beanstalk fable.
Just as Strings Attached was Jeremy's story, Double Bound is Arthur's, exploring his troubled relationship with disapproving parents and his precarious years as a gay Marine. However, there's an added element this time out - the stakes are higher, the repercussions more dire, and the choices harder and more consequential. There is a darker feel to this novel, which not only adds depth to the characters but highlights Mr. Nolan's growth and confidence as a storyteller. We've moved beyond high school concerns into real-world choices, where outcomes are not always tied up in neat "happily ever after" packages.
"The plot moves along swiftly with great suspense...Double Bound is one of those books that is not easily forgotten...this is the kind of read that will haunt you." Amos Lassen, Literary Pride
Just as Strings Attached was Jeremy's story, Double Bound is Arthur's, exploring his troubled relationship with disapproving parents and his precarious years as a gay Marine. However, there's an added element this time out - the stakes are higher, the repercussions more dire, and the choices harder and more consequential. There is a darker feel to this novel, which not only adds depth to the characters but highlights Mr. Nolan's growth and confidence as a storyteller. We've moved beyond high school concerns into real-world choices, where outcomes are not always tied up in neat "happily ever after" packages.
"The plot moves along swiftly with great suspense...Double Bound is one of those books that is not easily forgotten...this is the kind of read that will haunt you." Amos Lassen, Literary Pride
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2008
18 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
About the author
Nick Nolan
9 books58 followersBorn and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles, Nick Nolan worked nights and weekends selling furniture to put himself through college. After graduation he went on to direct a group home for homeless and abused LGBT youth, and during his scant spare time began writing. Inspired by the works of authors Gordon Merrick, Paul Russell and Paul Monette, Nolan penned his debut novel, Strings Attached, the first in a planned trilogy. Shortly after its release, Strings Attached was named 2006 Gay/Lesbian Book of the Year by ForeWord Magazine, hit #1 in Gay Fiction on Amazon.com, and spent nearly a year in that genre's Top 10. Two years later Nolan's second thriller Double Bound won Book of the Year awards for Gay/Lesbian Fiction by both ForeWord Magazine and ReaderViews. Nolan's most recent work Black as Snow became the #1 selling Kindle title in the UK following its release, and spent over six weeks at #1 on Amazon USA in the simultaneous categories of 'Contemporary Fantasy', 'Gay/Lesbian Fiction', and 'Science Fiction Thrillers'. His fourth novel Wide Asleep, the long awaited sequel to Strings Attached and Double Bound, will be published in January 2014.
Nick is a die-hard car nut and an enthusiastic cook, while his longtime partner Jaime Flores is an award winning graphic designer and the principal at Monocle Design: monocledesign.com. Nick, Jaime and their two beloved dogs divide their time between a home in the San Fernando Valley and a cabin high in the mountains of California.
--from the author's website
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Nick is a die-hard car nut and an enthusiastic cook, while his longtime partner Jaime Flores is an award winning graphic designer and the principal at Monocle Design: monocledesign.com. Nick, Jaime and their two beloved dogs divide their time between a home in the San Fernando Valley and a cabin high in the mountains of California.
--from the author's website
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 16, 2016
3,5 stars.
I liked this one somewhat less than 'Strings Attached'. There were parts that really got through to me and the parts that didn't.
I loved Arthur's backstory, and I especially liked the way it was told. It focused on the things we didn't know about Arthur: his family, his struggling while a Marine, his depression - but we don't get the retelling of the things we already knew, for example, what happened to Danny. In the first book, from Jeremy's point of view, we see Arthur as strong and wise, always knowing what to do. Here we see more of him, his flaws and vulnerabilities, and it was heartbreaking and precious at the same time.
There are surprises about other characters as well - Katharine, for once... and Carlo whom I love so much it hurts. The adventures in Rio were fast-paced, and while for the most part of the book I was face-palming as to "how stupid can everyone be?" - in the end it all made sense, and it was good.
I had a bit of a problem with Jeremy-Arthur-Carlo love triangle, though. It is not that cheating is a trigger for me, I understand that people make mistakes and put themselves into situations that are not pretty in any way... it's human. But while it's human and it happens - I don't think it's okay to be okay about it. The way Jeremy behaves - - I expected more integrity from him. It's like the author is so enamoured with the god-like beautiful Jeremy that it doesn't cross his mind to apply common norms of morality to him.
Okay, it was resolved... kinda quickly and too easy, I think, but whatever. The bucket of angst certainly was poured in a different place.
I'm also not sure what to make out of the ending. Well, there is the third book, of course, but the ending really made me shrug and that's it.
But I did enjoy the book and can't wait to read the next one.
I liked this one somewhat less than 'Strings Attached'. There were parts that really got through to me and the parts that didn't.
I loved Arthur's backstory, and I especially liked the way it was told. It focused on the things we didn't know about Arthur: his family, his struggling while a Marine, his depression - but we don't get the retelling of the things we already knew, for example, what happened to Danny. In the first book, from Jeremy's point of view, we see Arthur as strong and wise, always knowing what to do. Here we see more of him, his flaws and vulnerabilities, and it was heartbreaking and precious at the same time.
There are surprises about other characters as well - Katharine, for once... and Carlo whom I love so much it hurts. The adventures in Rio were fast-paced, and while for the most part of the book I was face-palming as to "how stupid can everyone be?" - in the end it all made sense, and it was good.
I had a bit of a problem with Jeremy-Arthur-Carlo love triangle, though. It is not that cheating is a trigger for me, I understand that people make mistakes and put themselves into situations that are not pretty in any way... it's human. But while it's human and it happens - I don't think it's okay to be okay about it. The way Jeremy behaves - - I expected more integrity from him. It's like the author is so enamoured with the god-like beautiful Jeremy that it doesn't cross his mind to apply common norms of morality to him.
Okay, it was resolved... kinda quickly and too easy, I think, but whatever. The bucket of angst certainly was poured in a different place.
I'm also not sure what to make out of the ending. Well, there is the third book, of course, but the ending really made me shrug and that's it.
But I did enjoy the book and can't wait to read the next one.
August 31, 2010
A few months ago I read Nick Nolan’s first book, Strings Attached, which is a warm coming of age, rags to riches story about a young gay man that comes to find acceptance and happiness. Double Bound picks up exactly where the previous book leaves off instead the focus is now on Arthur, the bastion of strength, guidance, and care from the first book. Now the story becomes a look into the complicated, rough life of a middle aged gay man struggling with serious bouts of depression and inappropriate feelings for his young friend and pseudo son, Jeremy. Throw in a complicated murder mystery plot and this book is tough to put down.
The plot is tightly paced and combined with clean writing makes the pages fly by. Although there are some holes and leaps in the plot, the speed of the story and the characters make this a fun book to read. I didn’t always like where the book was going, there is a huge foreshadowing event at the very beginning that had me almost scared about what would happen, but that’s a credit to the author and story that it sucked me in so much immediately. The story has some definite over the top moments and ridiculous turns but in the style of fun, high action, creepy mysteries this didn’t bother me too much. I was easily able to sink into the story and go along for the ride.
Part of this is due to the superior characterization. Arthur is a very different creature from the first book, although be sure to have read Strings Attached before attempting Double Bound. Here Arthur is somewhat of a tortured mess. The reader follows his past through losing his first love Jonathan – ironically Jeremy’s father – to enrolling in the Marines and struggling to survive in the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell environment, then to the FBI before his current position with Jeremy’s family. Again the progression and leaps don’t always make sense and come across as believable, as well Arthur seems to be a totally different character from the first book with some details that don’t add up. If you can get past this then his complicated personality, dealing with severe depression and self worth issues, create a fascinating leading man.
Similarly the return of Jeremy, Carlo, and Katherine rounds out the cast with their well crafted and in depth personalities. Again, these characters felt like a departure from how they were presented in the first book, which isn’t bad per se but made me wonder since the changes felt manipulated by the story sometimes rather than natural and authentic. One of the best aspects though is the triangle between Jeremy, Carlo, and Arthur. It’s resolved mostly painlessly but creates an interesting dynamic that keeps you reading alongside the mystery. The complex web of emotions here feels honest as they make mistakes, stumble, and reach for happiness.
The mystery portion is well researched, involving creepy Brazilian rituals and some truly hair raising scenes. Again there are some obvious stumbles and the incorporation of the Jack and The Beanstalk theme never came across for me. The author explains this but I still found the connection absent and rather weak, if even there. But this doesn’t affect the actual story and the ease of writing makes this entertaining and fun to read. This is an author whose stories I enjoy reading quite a bit, regardless that there may be problems with the plot. The crisp writing is fresh, descriptive, and interesting with a flair for pace and dialogue.
Double Bound is a good sequel and engaging to read. It’s not a story I’d necessarily read again but Nick Nolan is an author I’d read whatever he wrote. There’s a third story planned and honestly I’m eagerly looking forward to reading that one and hope that it shows more of Jeremy’s advancement and development. The side trip into Arthur’s background makes for a nice story but Jeremy remains the star of the series. I’m curious what he’ll get up to next.
The plot is tightly paced and combined with clean writing makes the pages fly by. Although there are some holes and leaps in the plot, the speed of the story and the characters make this a fun book to read. I didn’t always like where the book was going, there is a huge foreshadowing event at the very beginning that had me almost scared about what would happen, but that’s a credit to the author and story that it sucked me in so much immediately. The story has some definite over the top moments and ridiculous turns but in the style of fun, high action, creepy mysteries this didn’t bother me too much. I was easily able to sink into the story and go along for the ride.
Part of this is due to the superior characterization. Arthur is a very different creature from the first book, although be sure to have read Strings Attached before attempting Double Bound. Here Arthur is somewhat of a tortured mess. The reader follows his past through losing his first love Jonathan – ironically Jeremy’s father – to enrolling in the Marines and struggling to survive in the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell environment, then to the FBI before his current position with Jeremy’s family. Again the progression and leaps don’t always make sense and come across as believable, as well Arthur seems to be a totally different character from the first book with some details that don’t add up. If you can get past this then his complicated personality, dealing with severe depression and self worth issues, create a fascinating leading man.
Similarly the return of Jeremy, Carlo, and Katherine rounds out the cast with their well crafted and in depth personalities. Again, these characters felt like a departure from how they were presented in the first book, which isn’t bad per se but made me wonder since the changes felt manipulated by the story sometimes rather than natural and authentic. One of the best aspects though is the triangle between Jeremy, Carlo, and Arthur. It’s resolved mostly painlessly but creates an interesting dynamic that keeps you reading alongside the mystery. The complex web of emotions here feels honest as they make mistakes, stumble, and reach for happiness.
The mystery portion is well researched, involving creepy Brazilian rituals and some truly hair raising scenes. Again there are some obvious stumbles and the incorporation of the Jack and The Beanstalk theme never came across for me. The author explains this but I still found the connection absent and rather weak, if even there. But this doesn’t affect the actual story and the ease of writing makes this entertaining and fun to read. This is an author whose stories I enjoy reading quite a bit, regardless that there may be problems with the plot. The crisp writing is fresh, descriptive, and interesting with a flair for pace and dialogue.
Double Bound is a good sequel and engaging to read. It’s not a story I’d necessarily read again but Nick Nolan is an author I’d read whatever he wrote. There’s a third story planned and honestly I’m eagerly looking forward to reading that one and hope that it shows more of Jeremy’s advancement and development. The side trip into Arthur’s background makes for a nice story but Jeremy remains the star of the series. I’m curious what he’ll get up to next.
September 18, 2010
Not a very happy story but well written and entertaining
October 5, 2015
Second in this series
this is such an amazing listen. like a telenovela
Can't wait for the third , and sadly , last installment
this is such an amazing listen. like a telenovela
Can't wait for the third , and sadly , last installment
May 25, 2017
This is the second book I've read by Nick Nolan in this series... Luckily I'm reading them in order!
There was so much depth to the mystery... So many characters that pulled you into the action. The myriad of feelings felt by Arthur, Jeremy, and Carlo caused me to wish there could be a happily ever after for each of them. The ending was so heart wrenching, and yet perfect, that I had to read the last chapter and epilogue twice.
The details given about the beliefs of some people in Brazil really 'fleshed' out the plot line. I loved the line; 'I should learn the difference between what I need and what I want.' Also the description of the woman in the coffee shop; 'She's actually living her life in the here and now, and she's happy with what she has.' The best part was probably their discussions in the epilogue; about their futures, them being square pegs and how you knew if you were in love.
I loved this book.
There was so much depth to the mystery... So many characters that pulled you into the action. The myriad of feelings felt by Arthur, Jeremy, and Carlo caused me to wish there could be a happily ever after for each of them. The ending was so heart wrenching, and yet perfect, that I had to read the last chapter and epilogue twice.
The details given about the beliefs of some people in Brazil really 'fleshed' out the plot line. I loved the line; 'I should learn the difference between what I need and what I want.' Also the description of the woman in the coffee shop; 'She's actually living her life in the here and now, and she's happy with what she has.' The best part was probably their discussions in the epilogue; about their futures, them being square pegs and how you knew if you were in love.
I loved this book.
May 26, 2017
This is the second book I've read by Nick Nolan. I'm reading the books in order, as suggested, and they're amazing. The tension between adversaries runs throughout the book and the attraction between Jeremy and Arthur is so sweet and tender...and ultimately painful.
The events set in South America and so unbelievable, and yet, you find yourself drawn into a plot that you can definitely see taking place.
Just when you find something in Aunt Katherine to admire, she shows flaws that seriously undermine her worth as a human being! Jeremy just can't seem to catch a break when it comes to family and love!
I'm off to read the third book, 'Wide Asleep', and have high hopes for the drama to continue, and hopefully a HEA!
The events set in South America and so unbelievable, and yet, you find yourself drawn into a plot that you can definitely see taking place.
Just when you find something in Aunt Katherine to admire, she shows flaws that seriously undermine her worth as a human being! Jeremy just can't seem to catch a break when it comes to family and love!
I'm off to read the third book, 'Wide Asleep', and have high hopes for the drama to continue, and hopefully a HEA!
July 4, 2017
5.0⭐️. POV - ARTHUR story (Jack In the Bean Stack story). Follow on of the Nick Nolan series. This is the best of the Tales from Ballena Beach series! THIS SERIES IS BEST IF READ IN ORDER!
June 1, 2016
***Edited after reading book 3. Although I stand by my thoughts while reading book 2 and those immediately afterward, after completing book 3, the series overall was engaging and this book served a purpose that I didn't understand until the entire series was read. I came to the understanding that as a standalone, or even stopping after this book would do a disservice to the series as a whole and that these books should truly be all read (maybe even back to back) to be understood and appreciated.***
This book made me rage for so many reasons I'm not sure that I even remember them all so I'll just highlight some of the reasons in a semi coherent manner. The only reason I finished it is because I'm vested in the characters (my own personality flaw that I can't just walk away when I'm vested. I'm going to get over that one of these days). The two stars were earned simply because the writer created the characters well enough to capture me and that alone was worth them.
There will potentially be spoilers ahead. Lots of them and for both this book and maybe book 1 as well.
I really liked Arthur in the first book even if I wasn't crazy about book one, I liked the characters enough to continue. This was supposed to be Arthur's book and yet it starts out putting me in the head of a boy in the process of being murdered. Yes it had to do with the main plot of the book but I didn't feel it necessary to be in his head at the time.
This was loosely based on Jack and the Beanstalk according to the author but there was so much mythology pounded into my brain that I barely caught the Jack references at all. It felt like the book was written that way so it could be shown how much research was done. My eyes started glossing over. Not such a great thing when you're listening on a commute. It was almost excruciating in detail. I could have picked up a text book if that's what I was looking for.
The characters...every single one of them from the 18 year olds to the 70 year olds and those in between show such amazing amounts of immaturity that it boggles the mind.
The writing (to me) felt smug. There were still way too many words, the never ending flowing descriptions that had me struggling to focus on just what was being described after a while.
The plot twists that weren't twists at all because the way it was handled (illogically) there could really be no other way something happened.
And my greatest annoyance of them all, I'm still interested in the characters and I will have to work my way through book 3 in hopes that my questions end up with some semblance of answers in the end because THIS particular book had an ending so awful I wouldn't even call it a cliff hanger, more like a big old middle finger to the readers. It was vague, ambiguous and completely unsatisfying. I am not a fan of "leaving it to the reader to interpret". Own your story for goodness sake. Some will love it; some will hate it but give it a damn ending.
I did not however, have a problem with the elements of romance or the particular romantic pairing that others seem to have found distasteful. There was very little sex in the book and what was there was not very detailed. I think this was billed as gay fiction so the minimal amount didn't bother me one way or another nor did the previous relationship connection.
Although I can't in good conscience recommend this book to any of my friends, I am holding out hope that book 3 gives me a little closure at the very least.
This book made me rage for so many reasons I'm not sure that I even remember them all so I'll just highlight some of the reasons in a semi coherent manner. The only reason I finished it is because I'm vested in the characters (my own personality flaw that I can't just walk away when I'm vested. I'm going to get over that one of these days). The two stars were earned simply because the writer created the characters well enough to capture me and that alone was worth them.
There will potentially be spoilers ahead. Lots of them and for both this book and maybe book 1 as well.
I really liked Arthur in the first book even if I wasn't crazy about book one, I liked the characters enough to continue. This was supposed to be Arthur's book and yet it starts out putting me in the head of a boy in the process of being murdered. Yes it had to do with the main plot of the book but I didn't feel it necessary to be in his head at the time.
This was loosely based on Jack and the Beanstalk according to the author but there was so much mythology pounded into my brain that I barely caught the Jack references at all. It felt like the book was written that way so it could be shown how much research was done. My eyes started glossing over. Not such a great thing when you're listening on a commute. It was almost excruciating in detail. I could have picked up a text book if that's what I was looking for.
The characters...every single one of them from the 18 year olds to the 70 year olds and those in between show such amazing amounts of immaturity that it boggles the mind.
The writing (to me) felt smug. There were still way too many words, the never ending flowing descriptions that had me struggling to focus on just what was being described after a while.
The plot twists that weren't twists at all because the way it was handled (illogically) there could really be no other way something happened.
And my greatest annoyance of them all, I'm still interested in the characters and I will have to work my way through book 3 in hopes that my questions end up with some semblance of answers in the end because THIS particular book had an ending so awful I wouldn't even call it a cliff hanger, more like a big old middle finger to the readers. It was vague, ambiguous and completely unsatisfying. I am not a fan of "leaving it to the reader to interpret". Own your story for goodness sake. Some will love it; some will hate it but give it a damn ending.
I did not however, have a problem with the elements of romance or the particular romantic pairing that others seem to have found distasteful. There was very little sex in the book and what was there was not very detailed. I think this was billed as gay fiction so the minimal amount didn't bother me one way or another nor did the previous relationship connection.
Although I can't in good conscience recommend this book to any of my friends, I am holding out hope that book 3 gives me a little closure at the very least.
December 3, 2010
I'm going to be completely honest here and say that this book was really good. I absolutely loved Arthur. Jeremy, not so much. Sure, I liked him but he just got annoying at times that I just wanted to smack him. *sigh*
I liked the Brazil setting and the suspense when it came to everyone being kidnapped. Hated the aunt with a passion but you know what? All these elements made a great book and the reason I'm not rating this higher is because of two things.
1. At times, I was annoyed and frustrated with the constant poem-like writing in places. Actually, I don't even know if it would be considered poem-like writing but, in some places, it was just an exaggeration of a detail. For example, (Chris gave me this one ;-)): "...Arthur moaned, as he felt himself brim with tears that were not tears, but rather the inhaled gasping of his soul that sometimes erupted during pieces by Handel or Copeland, whose fiercely beautiful passages transposed into song moments like these." Really? The writing was good but in some places like that one, it's just too much. Also, sometimes you just couldn't tell who the author was referring to, it was just He this and He that so you couldn't tell who the pov was talking about. Arthur, Jeremy, Carlo, Babalu, or even Fabiano?
2. The second reason, and this is a big one because before this I was at a 4.5, is it's not a HEA. Okay, some might consider it one because it does state that Arthur is with a 'lover' but who that 'lover' is? I have no freaking clue. This is where evasive writing comes in because there's no indication who that lover is. It could be Jeremy or it could have been the guy he just met while walking his dog. I was disappointed with this because throughout the whole book I was under the impression Arthur and Jeremy were going to end up together and I loved that because I love May-December relationships but in the end, Arthur tells Jeremy they wouldn't work and to go out, live his life and find someone his own age. *shakes head*
After all that, the max I can give this book is a 3.5 rating because I did really like the book. It kept my attention after you get past the first few chapters. I liked how we got a glimpse of Arthur's life before he came to work for Jeremy and Aunt Katherine. I just can't give it more than that because I was sorely disappointed with the unsatisfied ending. As it is, if there is a third, I'm not even sure I'd read it because I've been so unsatisfied with the endings of the books in this series so far.
But, if you don't mind a pseudo-HEA and have no problems with the on and off writing style, you'll like this book because it does have a good plot, at least in my opinion. :-\
I liked the Brazil setting and the suspense when it came to everyone being kidnapped. Hated the aunt with a passion but you know what? All these elements made a great book and the reason I'm not rating this higher is because of two things.
1. At times, I was annoyed and frustrated with the constant poem-like writing in places. Actually, I don't even know if it would be considered poem-like writing but, in some places, it was just an exaggeration of a detail. For example, (Chris gave me this one ;-)): "...Arthur moaned, as he felt himself brim with tears that were not tears, but rather the inhaled gasping of his soul that sometimes erupted during pieces by Handel or Copeland, whose fiercely beautiful passages transposed into song moments like these." Really? The writing was good but in some places like that one, it's just too much. Also, sometimes you just couldn't tell who the author was referring to, it was just He this and He that so you couldn't tell who the pov was talking about. Arthur, Jeremy, Carlo, Babalu, or even Fabiano?
2. The second reason, and this is a big one because before this I was at a 4.5, is it's not a HEA. Okay, some might consider it one because it does state that Arthur is with a 'lover' but who that 'lover' is? I have no freaking clue. This is where evasive writing comes in because there's no indication who that lover is. It could be Jeremy or it could have been the guy he just met while walking his dog. I was disappointed with this because throughout the whole book I was under the impression Arthur and Jeremy were going to end up together and I loved that because I love May-December relationships but in the end, Arthur tells Jeremy they wouldn't work and to go out, live his life and find someone his own age. *shakes head*
After all that, the max I can give this book is a 3.5 rating because I did really like the book. It kept my attention after you get past the first few chapters. I liked how we got a glimpse of Arthur's life before he came to work for Jeremy and Aunt Katherine. I just can't give it more than that because I was sorely disappointed with the unsatisfied ending. As it is, if there is a third, I'm not even sure I'd read it because I've been so unsatisfied with the endings of the books in this series so far.
But, if you don't mind a pseudo-HEA and have no problems with the on and off writing style, you'll like this book because it does have a good plot, at least in my opinion. :-\
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2018
Good follow-up novel
As gay novels go, this is one of the best I've ever read. Good character development is pretty rare in these kind of stories, but is well done with these multi dimensional characters. All in all, it's a very nice time spent with some interesting people.
As gay novels go, this is one of the best I've ever read. Good character development is pretty rare in these kind of stories, but is well done with these multi dimensional characters. All in all, it's a very nice time spent with some interesting people.
February 20, 2013
I really wanted to like this book. The writing was great and the beginning really caught me. Arthur was a very interesting person at the start, and his depression was described very well.
But then the story went down the drain for me.
I didn't like the sexual tension between the father figure and the son of his first love - that felt wrong to me.
Then the age difference: A 39 year old and an 18 year old? I don't buy into the "I had a hard childhood and therefore mentally I am MUCH older than my young and sexy body looks like"...the old guy had a hard youth as well, how old does that make him now according to this logic?
I think that especially young people who have a unstable or difficult youth are even more vulnerable. I never really believed in this "hard experiences make you more mature and strong". It might be true for some people, but my personal experience with pretty much everybody I ever met, says clearly different. I think it is kind of a nice idea that you get maturity and wisdom out of a shitty childhood, but in real life? I am not so sure.
And the relationship doesn't prevail. So the whole "I love you so much, can't live without you" is more or less pointless, because they stay "only" friends in the end. Would have made a better story imo if they didn't fool around with each other in the first place - the whole Daddy-re-live-first love-issue was a bit much, especially with the physical similarities between father and son. I don't know, but in Jeremy's place, I would not feel so special and cherished and loved for myself, if I found out my lover was the first love of my Dad's, whose spitting image I am...
As I said, I enjoyed the very good writing (some even poetic phrases in between), but the story and characters were not really interesting to me and hit some sore points with me.
But then the story went down the drain for me.
I didn't like the sexual tension between the father figure and the son of his first love - that felt wrong to me.
Then the age difference: A 39 year old and an 18 year old? I don't buy into the "I had a hard childhood and therefore mentally I am MUCH older than my young and sexy body looks like"...the old guy had a hard youth as well, how old does that make him now according to this logic?
I think that especially young people who have a unstable or difficult youth are even more vulnerable. I never really believed in this "hard experiences make you more mature and strong". It might be true for some people, but my personal experience with pretty much everybody I ever met, says clearly different. I think it is kind of a nice idea that you get maturity and wisdom out of a shitty childhood, but in real life? I am not so sure.
And the relationship doesn't prevail. So the whole "I love you so much, can't live without you" is more or less pointless, because they stay "only" friends in the end. Would have made a better story imo if they didn't fool around with each other in the first place - the whole Daddy-re-live-first love-issue was a bit much, especially with the physical similarities between father and son. I don't know, but in Jeremy's place, I would not feel so special and cherished and loved for myself, if I found out my lover was the first love of my Dad's, whose spitting image I am...
As I said, I enjoyed the very good writing (some even poetic phrases in between), but the story and characters were not really interesting to me and hit some sore points with me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2013
There's something a little manic about my love for Nick Nolan's writing. He continues to captivate me with his characters that I, in equal parts, adore and despise. In this follow up to Strings Attached, we get a glimpse inside the life of Arthur, who managed to break my heart -- just completely obliterated it to pieces. Arthur and Carlo and Jeremy travel to Brazil to check on a family investment there. While there, they get mixed up in some messed up shit. And when I say messed up, I mean deliciously, horrifically messed up. In the meantime, Arthur and Jeremy explore their feelings for one another and Carlo goes off to find a sick cousin.
The thing about this book, along with Strings Attached, is there is never a dull moment. Again, I listened to this on audiobook, with the incomparable Luke Daniels as narrator, and I was completely captivated by it. Maybe it gets to be a little much at times, with the over the top antics and the purple prose, but I find it entertaining as hell. But also gut-wrenching and exciting and terrifying and sweet and arousing. All of those things plus more.
There are some books that, when I'm finished, I mourn. I sit there with little grabby hands, wanting another. . .something. . .to take the place of the void that has been left in my heart. This is one of those books, and it is because Nolan creates characters that, love them or hate them (or, more likely, love them and hate them), they leave you changed. And they become a part of you. It's not just a book. It's an experience. An experience I will not soon forget.
Warning: This is not your typical romance. It's not your typical anything. And the ending could really piss you off (though I found it smart and sweet). It's not a feel-good novel. Be warned!!!
The thing about this book, along with Strings Attached, is there is never a dull moment. Again, I listened to this on audiobook, with the incomparable Luke Daniels as narrator, and I was completely captivated by it. Maybe it gets to be a little much at times, with the over the top antics and the purple prose, but I find it entertaining as hell. But also gut-wrenching and exciting and terrifying and sweet and arousing. All of those things plus more.
There are some books that, when I'm finished, I mourn. I sit there with little grabby hands, wanting another. . .something. . .to take the place of the void that has been left in my heart. This is one of those books, and it is because Nolan creates characters that, love them or hate them (or, more likely, love them and hate them), they leave you changed. And they become a part of you. It's not just a book. It's an experience. An experience I will not soon forget.
Warning: This is not your typical romance. It's not your typical anything. And the ending could really piss you off (though I found it smart and sweet). It's not a feel-good novel. Be warned!!!
May 27, 2015
I loved book one, but it took me a while to get to the second book. I'm glad I finally continued this series.
In the beginning I was confused. While I hadn'T 'visited' the characters in a while, I didn't know any of the characters in the Prologue and the setting was foreign. Probably a good thing that I didn't 'know' them and cared for them as characters yet, because even with strangers the events that take place were brutal and upsetting. It kind of sets the stakes very high and shows readers what monsters Fabio and his helper are and what danger awaits for the characters we have closed into our hearts.
Before continuing where we left off with book one, we first learn more about Arthur - one of my very favorite characters and his POV becomes much more important. Weget to see more of Jeremy and Carlo AND more of Jeremy and Arthur, we get betrayal, murder, suspense, action, heartbreak and love. It's like a new fantastic season of your favorite TV show with trly evil characters, characters you love to hate and characters you love, even though they are not perfect and not all their decisions are really smart and proper.
In the end we are left with a bittersweet ending. It seems happy, but our heroes are still paired-off with the wrong people. It's like the season finale with a cliff hanger, but you know things are stiill unfinished and you can't wait to see what is next and hope for things to work out. Onto book 3!!!
In the beginning I was confused. While I hadn'T 'visited' the characters in a while, I didn't know any of the characters in the Prologue and the setting was foreign. Probably a good thing that I didn't 'know' them and cared for them as characters yet, because even with strangers the events that take place were brutal and upsetting. It kind of sets the stakes very high and shows readers what monsters Fabio and his helper are and what danger awaits for the characters we have closed into our hearts.
Before continuing where we left off with book one, we first learn more about Arthur - one of my very favorite characters and his POV becomes much more important. Weget to see more of Jeremy and Carlo AND more of Jeremy and Arthur, we get betrayal, murder, suspense, action, heartbreak and love. It's like a new fantastic season of your favorite TV show with trly evil characters, characters you love to hate and characters you love, even though they are not perfect and not all their decisions are really smart and proper.
In the end we are left with a bittersweet ending. It seems happy, but our heroes are still paired-off with the wrong people. It's like the season finale with a cliff hanger, but you know things are stiill unfinished and you can't wait to see what is next and hope for things to work out. Onto book 3!!!
July 10, 2011
Double Bound is the sequel to the first book Strings Attached where we are introduced to the beautiful young swimming hunk Jeremy Tyler and the rags to riches story of how he ends up living with his very rich Aunt and mysterious Butler, Arthur in a sprawling mansion in Ballena Beach, California.
Double Bound begins with Arthur Blaufee and his early years and how his first relationship with Jeremy's father influences how he feels towards Jeremy. Arthur is a multi faceted character and it is wonderful that Nolan can spend time in this second book filling us in on his background, his disastrous relationship with his own father and how this rebounded in him joining the US Marines.
The story itself revolves around a fated trip to Rio in Brazil by Jeremy, his boyfriend Carlo and Arthur as bodyguard to oversee a high security island resort being part financed by his Aunt Katherine for the super rich worried about terrorism. The resort is being managed by Dom Fabiano "el gig ante" a Brazilian mobster up to his ears in shady dealings and illegal practices. What begins as a carefree vacation mixed with work ends up in a surprise kidnap and a double cross.
The book ends with a few question marks and I do hope Nick Nolan can continue both Jeremy Tyler and Arthur Blaufee's story in a third book.
Double Bound begins with Arthur Blaufee and his early years and how his first relationship with Jeremy's father influences how he feels towards Jeremy. Arthur is a multi faceted character and it is wonderful that Nolan can spend time in this second book filling us in on his background, his disastrous relationship with his own father and how this rebounded in him joining the US Marines.
The story itself revolves around a fated trip to Rio in Brazil by Jeremy, his boyfriend Carlo and Arthur as bodyguard to oversee a high security island resort being part financed by his Aunt Katherine for the super rich worried about terrorism. The resort is being managed by Dom Fabiano "el gig ante" a Brazilian mobster up to his ears in shady dealings and illegal practices. What begins as a carefree vacation mixed with work ends up in a surprise kidnap and a double cross.
The book ends with a few question marks and I do hope Nick Nolan can continue both Jeremy Tyler and Arthur Blaufee's story in a third book.
August 27, 2014
Objectively I felt the story deserved 4 stars for the writing and plot. But personally, I would not rate it as high. I read almost solely for escapism. I'm one of those who wants that HEA / HFN endings. To a certain degree this book gives the reader hope / glimpse into a possibly happy future but not in the traditional sense. On that note, this story was a little too dark for me. I don't want to finish a story being sad or feeling like real life has intruded upon my fairy tale. Yet, the story kept me intrigued. The details of the setting were rich, and I did feel as though I learned some interesting cultural / historical facts within the reading. Overall, I'm glad I read it. I was surprised by the ending with the relationship being a little more resolved than I had expected. The story is definitely more focused on relationships even though the story is fueled by betrayal and intrigue. For those not on or at least not firmly on the HFN bandwagon, I would most definitely recommend. I also feel those who appreciate flawed main characters who find ways to overcome will appreciate this story. If you read m/m for lots of hot sex and/or romance then this is not your book.
April 13, 2010
I like the mystery part of the book,the suspense and unexpected turns were wonderful and you had to turn the page. BUT! The best part of any erotica (c'mon you know this) was lacking for me. His partner was adorable but always had him wondering if he was enough and doubting himself. Murdering his self-esteem most of the time. I have never liked it when the protagonist has to go through hard times, and his JUST KEPT COMING. The entire time I could barely concentrate for thinking of how I wouldn't be able to take the immense crap life had heaped upon my plate, he is far stronger than I. I finally had to stop when the mother kicked them apart...I should probably finish it and thats why I'm disgruntled but honestly my life is sad enough without getting immensely wrapped up in a fictional characters.
September 8, 2016
Title: Double Bound (Tales from Ballenna Beach, #2)
Author: Nick Nolan
Narrator: Luke Daniels
Cover Artist: N/A
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Reviewer: Jay
Genre: Contemporary
Type: Romance
Pairing: Gay
Length: Long Novel (10 hours & 17 minutes)
Heat Rating: ♨♨♨
Book Rating: ★★★★★
Nick Nolan does such a fantastic job with his characters. The characters are real and come across as “normal” individuals where one might expect heroism to prevail. You love, are enraged by, ache for the characters, but for some reason you just can’t hate them. The Tales from Ballena Beach series is more of a continuing story than a series and to get the full picture you should read all three.
Complete Review at WoDF - Double Bound (Tales from Ballenna Beach, #2)
Author: Nick Nolan
Narrator: Luke Daniels
Cover Artist: N/A
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Reviewer: Jay
Genre: Contemporary
Type: Romance
Pairing: Gay
Length: Long Novel (10 hours & 17 minutes)
Heat Rating: ♨♨♨
Book Rating: ★★★★★
Nick Nolan does such a fantastic job with his characters. The characters are real and come across as “normal” individuals where one might expect heroism to prevail. You love, are enraged by, ache for the characters, but for some reason you just can’t hate them. The Tales from Ballena Beach series is more of a continuing story than a series and to get the full picture you should read all three.
Complete Review at WoDF - Double Bound (Tales from Ballenna Beach, #2)
February 25, 2013
Jeremy and Arthur were just as loveable as they were in “Strings Attached.” I connected with Arthur and how he was feeling along with the emotions and anguish. The way his story was told and intertwined with that of Jeremy’s was well written. This was a great book, with an end I did not see coming! The author mentioned he had other endings to the book and I wish he would have chosen one besides the one he had. I would love to see another book with these characters in it!
November 29, 2010
2.5 stars. Ok m/m romantic suspense that was all over the place. This book focused on the butler/bodyguard from the previous book. Unfortunately, especially the closer to the end of this book I got, it felt like the heir (the main character from the previous book) was back to being Pinocchio, with others deciding things for him.
March 17, 2013
I enjoyed this second story about Jeremy and Arthur. The cast of characters played good roles in the story set up here, even if it was fantastical. The Brazilian plot was intriguing and had lots of good twists to it. I look forward to the third in the series!
March 31, 2013
There has to be a book #3!!!! If you read the first book you should read this one. So much drama and really a great storyline. I guess that is how Nick Nolan keeps us in suspense.
April 27, 2013
I liked this book, I didn't understand Arther that well concerning his feelings about Jeremy so I was very happy with how it ended for all. I would like to see all these guys again especially Jeremy.
September 20, 2010
Nick Nolan did great research for this book.
Plus, some sexy writing.
Plus, some sexy writing.
May 5, 2021
This just wasn't really the right book for me. The writing was actually really well done, if a little purple-y at times, but I honestly liked all the stuff about Arthur's life in the beginning best and it slowly went downhill from there. There's also some language that could definitely be considered transphobic, so overall I probably won't be continuing the series (or going back to read the first one), but it wasn't completely awful.
Read
August 3, 2009First of all, I'd like to point out that this book is a very easy read, meaning that the story flows smoothly and it maintains always an high pace. The first chapters are also very time consuming, trying to summarize 20 years of Arthur's life in few time. Arthur's past life is not the main focus of the book, but it shaped the man who he is now, and so it's essential to identify the character. Those first chapters allows also a first time reader to take in hand Double Bound without necessarily having read Strings Attached, like me, but then, at the end of the book, you will probably have the wish to read it, like me, since while this is the story of arthur, the other one is the story of Jeremy, the eighteen years old boy that plays an important role in Double Bound. And it would be probably interesting to see how the author manages a coming of age story, while Double Bond is almost a silver romance: Strings Attached was Nick Nolan first book, and it was a coming of age book... maybe the author grows with his writing? Or maybe it's only that Arthur was so compelling in Strings Attached that the author felt the need to give him his own story?
More than the story itself, that you can have summarized from the blurb, and that I would prefer not to develop more, I would like instead to talk about Arthur; the story has a lot of turn of events, and this contributes to the high pace said above. Enough to say that after all the high and down, Arthur's long and bumping life journey will end with him happy in bed with his lover, and I'm not spoiling anything, since the book starts like that, with Arthur satisfied in bed who goes down the memory lane.
Even if Arthur is a former marine, a former FBI agent and now a well-paid dogsbody who essentially has to protect Jeremy, he is not the hero type. All Arthur's grandeur gestures were made out of love or friendship, he has not a sacred fire inside for honor or patriotism. Arthur is a man who loves, and loved, too much, who can think to end his live when he is down, but that in the end never brings on the thought since he is able to love again. He loved Jeremy's father, Jonathan, and due to his betrayal he joined the Marine Corp; Arthur hoped to find in the Marine the family he hadn't and the comfort of being loved that he had with Jonathan. He did well and he opened his heart again, to Danny. But Danny died, that fathal September 11, and Arthur threw away his soldier life to commemorate Danny's love. And now Arthur is ready to love again, but at this point, it is real love, or only the memory of a lost love? or maybe the wish to finally have that family that he always searched and never found? In a case or the other, it's the proof that Arthur is able to love, and that despite all the time he was burned, he is always ready to love again.
Another thing I noticed in the story plot is that, despite being adventurous and fast paced, every events end in a "normal" way; there are not acts out of heroism, most of the time the decisive man is the one you will not expect, and even in the big action of the evil there is almost always a very small reason; and in the end, the novel closes with hope, and in a romantic way (remember Arthur in bed with his lover), but still in a very "pragmatic" way.
http://elisa-rolle.livejournal.com/70...
More than the story itself, that you can have summarized from the blurb, and that I would prefer not to develop more, I would like instead to talk about Arthur; the story has a lot of turn of events, and this contributes to the high pace said above. Enough to say that after all the high and down, Arthur's long and bumping life journey will end with him happy in bed with his lover, and I'm not spoiling anything, since the book starts like that, with Arthur satisfied in bed who goes down the memory lane.
Even if Arthur is a former marine, a former FBI agent and now a well-paid dogsbody who essentially has to protect Jeremy, he is not the hero type. All Arthur's grandeur gestures were made out of love or friendship, he has not a sacred fire inside for honor or patriotism. Arthur is a man who loves, and loved, too much, who can think to end his live when he is down, but that in the end never brings on the thought since he is able to love again. He loved Jeremy's father, Jonathan, and due to his betrayal he joined the Marine Corp; Arthur hoped to find in the Marine the family he hadn't and the comfort of being loved that he had with Jonathan. He did well and he opened his heart again, to Danny. But Danny died, that fathal September 11, and Arthur threw away his soldier life to commemorate Danny's love. And now Arthur is ready to love again, but at this point, it is real love, or only the memory of a lost love? or maybe the wish to finally have that family that he always searched and never found? In a case or the other, it's the proof that Arthur is able to love, and that despite all the time he was burned, he is always ready to love again.
Another thing I noticed in the story plot is that, despite being adventurous and fast paced, every events end in a "normal" way; there are not acts out of heroism, most of the time the decisive man is the one you will not expect, and even in the big action of the evil there is almost always a very small reason; and in the end, the novel closes with hope, and in a romantic way (remember Arthur in bed with his lover), but still in a very "pragmatic" way.
http://elisa-rolle.livejournal.com/70...
June 17, 2016
This is an awkward follow up to the enjoyable Strings Attached. I liked the decision to focus on Arthur, the loyal - and very attractive - father figure/bodyguard/valet from the first book. Learning more of his life and background provides for some of the most satisfying parts of the book. I was interested in the detail around Brazil, but I'm not in any position to really comment on its accuracy.
But the negatives mostly outweigh the positives here. The characterisation is odd: for much of the book Jeremy is simply an abstract object of desire while his boyfriend, Carlo, suffers most and is reduced to an irritating mewling shrew, purely it seems, to ease the shift in romantic relations told in this tale. But in the third act of action and adventure, these choices are crudely unravelled and reversed so that Jez moves back towards three dimensions and Carlo is reinstated as the thoroughly decent guy you liked from the first book. The problem I have is this doesn't feel like a character development. It feels artificial and forced. In some ways, I almost feel like the author was literally deciding how he felt about the characters as he was writing it, but then needed to restore peace for a convenient ending.
The main romance line (I'm keeping it vague to try and avoid spoilers but most readers of the first book will have an idea of where it's going) is in some ways brave, but in others awkward, and again, a sort of wilful betrayal of what had come before it. But, to his credit, Nolan resolves this plot in a way which actually feels right. So there's that.
And finally, just as in Strings Attached, there is an apparent meta-narrative, tying everything together. But crucially, just as in the first book, this simply doesn't work. The fact that the author spells it out for you at the end makes for mildly interesting reading but ends ultimately with a shrug of the shoulders: so what? If you're going to do this, stick with a theme. Pinocchio in the first book; Brazilian Mythology for the next? Ahhhh.... I see what you're doing here. No. No, I don't.
So I'm filled with snark here, but if you can get past all this, once again you have a fun enough gay adventure story which is never dull. It's just... Well, I wanted more for these characters. And I don't think they've got the treatment they deserve.
But the negatives mostly outweigh the positives here. The characterisation is odd: for much of the book Jeremy is simply an abstract object of desire while his boyfriend, Carlo, suffers most and is reduced to an irritating mewling shrew, purely it seems, to ease the shift in romantic relations told in this tale. But in the third act of action and adventure, these choices are crudely unravelled and reversed so that Jez moves back towards three dimensions and Carlo is reinstated as the thoroughly decent guy you liked from the first book. The problem I have is this doesn't feel like a character development. It feels artificial and forced. In some ways, I almost feel like the author was literally deciding how he felt about the characters as he was writing it, but then needed to restore peace for a convenient ending.
The main romance line (I'm keeping it vague to try and avoid spoilers but most readers of the first book will have an idea of where it's going) is in some ways brave, but in others awkward, and again, a sort of wilful betrayal of what had come before it. But, to his credit, Nolan resolves this plot in a way which actually feels right. So there's that.
And finally, just as in Strings Attached, there is an apparent meta-narrative, tying everything together. But crucially, just as in the first book, this simply doesn't work. The fact that the author spells it out for you at the end makes for mildly interesting reading but ends ultimately with a shrug of the shoulders: so what? If you're going to do this, stick with a theme. Pinocchio in the first book; Brazilian Mythology for the next? Ahhhh.... I see what you're doing here. No. No, I don't.
So I'm filled with snark here, but if you can get past all this, once again you have a fun enough gay adventure story which is never dull. It's just... Well, I wanted more for these characters. And I don't think they've got the treatment they deserve.
December 19, 2013
What an awesome second book! Nick Nolan weaves a very clear and crisp tale of Jeremy trying to grow into his new life after his mother is killed and his uncle tried to kill him and his boyfriend Carlo, but Uncle Bill was the only dying that day. Double Bound let's the reader get to know Arthur on a much more personal level and some of his secrets are shocking. Aunt Kathrine needs them to go to Brazil to check on an investment, they had no idea just how dangerous this trip would be.
One of the things I love about Nick's books are the references he uses that are tied in the real world. The use of another cultures gods and how that affects the story are astounding! And when he writes about the scenery I can actually visually see myself there as if I was watching a movie.
So what kinds of secrets does Arthur have? What happens to the trio when they go to Brazil? How many life changes things will happen to Jeremy? I won't give you that answer, you really need to read these books! I cannot wait for a third book!
One of the things I love about Nick's books are the references he uses that are tied in the real world. The use of another cultures gods and how that affects the story are astounding! And when he writes about the scenery I can actually visually see myself there as if I was watching a movie.
So what kinds of secrets does Arthur have? What happens to the trio when they go to Brazil? How many life changes things will happen to Jeremy? I won't give you that answer, you really need to read these books! I cannot wait for a third book!
June 15, 2014
Breaks Your Heart, Rescues You, And Leaves You Wanting More
This book's opening chapter will scare the hell out of you, break your heart, and give you new insight, perhaps, into the reason why Brazil is such a messed up country. From there you will be transported to Hawaii, Southern California, back to Brazil and back to California on a trip through the lives of Jeremy Tyler and his entourage which you met in Strings Attached, most especially his mentor and protector, Arthur Blaufee, and his now lover Carlo--as well as good old dear Aunt Katherine.
It's an adventure story, a love story, and a lesson in international finance, intrigue and betrayal that will, at the end, leave you hanging with a gasp. Thankfully, author Nolan sets us up for a sequel with more hope than fear, and after all, one can only hope.
This book's opening chapter will scare the hell out of you, break your heart, and give you new insight, perhaps, into the reason why Brazil is such a messed up country. From there you will be transported to Hawaii, Southern California, back to Brazil and back to California on a trip through the lives of Jeremy Tyler and his entourage which you met in Strings Attached, most especially his mentor and protector, Arthur Blaufee, and his now lover Carlo--as well as good old dear Aunt Katherine.
It's an adventure story, a love story, and a lesson in international finance, intrigue and betrayal that will, at the end, leave you hanging with a gasp. Thankfully, author Nolan sets us up for a sequel with more hope than fear, and after all, one can only hope.
December 26, 2014
Breaks Your Heart, Rescues You, And Leaves You Wanting More
This book's opening chapter will scare the hell out of you, break your heart, and give you new insight, perhaps, into the reason why Brazil is such a messed up country. From there you will be transported to Hawaii, Southern California, back to Brazil and back to California on a trip through the lives of Jeremy Tyler and his entourage which you met in Strings Attached, most especially his mentor and protector, Arthur Blaufee, and his now lover Carlo--as well as good old dear Aunt Katherine.
It's an adventure story, a love story, and a lesson in international finance, intrigue and betrayal that will, at the end, leave you hanging with a gasp. Thankfully, author Nolan sets us up for a sequel with more hope than fear, and after all, one can only hope.
This book's opening chapter will scare the hell out of you, break your heart, and give you new insight, perhaps, into the reason why Brazil is such a messed up country. From there you will be transported to Hawaii, Southern California, back to Brazil and back to California on a trip through the lives of Jeremy Tyler and his entourage which you met in Strings Attached, most especially his mentor and protector, Arthur Blaufee, and his now lover Carlo--as well as good old dear Aunt Katherine.
It's an adventure story, a love story, and a lesson in international finance, intrigue and betrayal that will, at the end, leave you hanging with a gasp. Thankfully, author Nolan sets us up for a sequel with more hope than fear, and after all, one can only hope.
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