What do you think?
Rate this book
Seaspray
Winslow Birkel is a sweet young man in his first relationship. But his boyfriend, the charming and fiery Chad Loveless, has become increasingly abusive to the point where Winslow fears for his life.
Everything changes in a single night when Winslow, fleeing yet another epic fight, goes out to a local bar and finds a sympathetic ear in a new friend, Darryn Maxwell. But when he comes home, Chad’s waiting. He’s got it in for Winslow, whom he wrongly accuses of being unfaithful.
The stormy night sends Winslow off on a journey to escape. The last thing he recalls is skidding off the road and into the river. When he awakens, he’s mysteriously in the charming seaside town of Seaspray, where people are warm and welcoming, yet their appearances and disappearances are all too inexplicable.
Back home, Darryn wonders what’s happened to the new guy he met during his first outing to the local gay bar, the Q. Darryn knows Winslow’s been abused, but he also feels he’s quickly fallen in love with Winslow.
Can Winslow and Darryn decipher their respective mysteries? Is it possible for them to reunite? Is Chad still lurking and plotting to make sure Winslow never loves anyone else? The answers to these questions await you in Seaspray, where you may, or may not, ever leave.
Everything changes in a single night when Winslow, fleeing yet another epic fight, goes out to a local bar and finds a sympathetic ear in a new friend, Darryn Maxwell. But when he comes home, Chad’s waiting. He’s got it in for Winslow, whom he wrongly accuses of being unfaithful.
The stormy night sends Winslow off on a journey to escape. The last thing he recalls is skidding off the road and into the river. When he awakens, he’s mysteriously in the charming seaside town of Seaspray, where people are warm and welcoming, yet their appearances and disappearances are all too inexplicable.
Back home, Darryn wonders what’s happened to the new guy he met during his first outing to the local gay bar, the Q. Darryn knows Winslow’s been abused, but he also feels he’s quickly fallen in love with Winslow.
Can Winslow and Darryn decipher their respective mysteries? Is it possible for them to reunite? Is Chad still lurking and plotting to make sure Winslow never loves anyone else? The answers to these questions await you in Seaspray, where you may, or may not, ever leave.
209 pages, ebook
First published July 12, 2022
3 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Rick R. Reed
118 books1,048 followersReal Men. True Love.
Rick R. Reed is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than sixty works of published fiction, spanning genres such as horror, psychological suspense and love stories. He is a Lambda Literary Award finalist and a multiple Rainbow Award winner.
Entertainment Weekly has described his work as “heartrending and sensitive.” Lambda Literary has called him: “A writer that doesn’t disappoint…”
Find him at www.rickrreedreality.blogspot.com. Rick lives in Palm Springs, CA, with his two rescue dogs, Kodi and Joaquin.
Rick R. Reed is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than sixty works of published fiction, spanning genres such as horror, psychological suspense and love stories. He is a Lambda Literary Award finalist and a multiple Rainbow Award winner.
Entertainment Weekly has described his work as “heartrending and sensitive.” Lambda Literary has called him: “A writer that doesn’t disappoint…”
Find him at www.rickrreedreality.blogspot.com. Rick lives in Palm Springs, CA, with his two rescue dogs, Kodi and Joaquin.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 2, 2023
Seaspray is just as beautifully written as all of Rick R. Reed's novels. Poignant, emotional, and very heartfelt, these are very powerful characters!
I enjoyed the audio edition of Seaspray which is narrated by David Allen Vargo who delivers a marvelous performance. This is a large and varied cast, and Vargo has created a unique and appropriate voice for each of them.
an audiobook copy of Seaspray was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
I enjoyed the audio edition of Seaspray which is narrated by David Allen Vargo who delivers a marvelous performance. This is a large and varied cast, and Vargo has created a unique and appropriate voice for each of them.
an audiobook copy of Seaspray was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
July 8, 2022
2.5 stars
The main problem I had with Seaspray is that the blurb led me to expect the book to be something it is not. It describes a young man, Winslow Birkel, leaving his abusive boyfriend, running the car off the road and into the river and then waking up in a mysterious but friendly seaside town with little to no recollection of how he got there. I was intrigued by ithe description and eagerly jumped in – but after the first few chapters which describe Winslow’s arrival in Seaspray, how he’s befriended by Frankie, an older lady living in a big house by the sea, and some flashes of memory that come to him of the events prior to his arrival, it became a real slog.
The structure is a bit confusing, too, with some past events delineated by the use of italics, but others, such as the first meeting between Winston and his love interest, Darryn, in the same font as the rest of the book, which meant I didn’t immediately realise that I was reading something set in a different place and in a different timeline. I expected the following chapter to explain or continue their story, but instead it’s about a woman named Julie I actually wondered if somehow this chapter had been transplanted from another book by mistake. (Later, there are chapters from the PoVs of other characters, too.)
But I persevered, by now getting an idea of exactly what and where Seaspray was and thinking that as it was a short book and I’d requested it for review, I might as well finish it. Things pick up a bit around the two-thirds mark when we finally learn the truth about Seaspray and Winston realises he has a decision to make – but while I liked the ideas here, I honestly couldn’t connect with the story or the characters. This is the first book by Rick R. Reed I’ve read, and it probably wasn’t a good place to start; the writing is solid, but there’s a lot of description – I’m sorry, but I skimmed a lot of it looking for story progression – and the romance is non-existent. Winslow meets Darryn on the night of Darryn’s very first visit to a gay bar, they hang out, they talk and enjoy each other’s company – but that’s pretty much the only time they spend together. There’s no relationship development whatsoever; they decide they love each other based on that one encounter.
Had I had different expectations going in, I might have enjoyed Seaspray more. It tackles some difficult themes – drug addiction, domestic abuse – and has some pertinent things to say about the power of love and how it provides strength and hope. But being brutally honest, it wasn’t the book I expected or wanted to be reading, and I while there were parts of it I liked, I can’t say I enjoyed it all that much overall.
The main problem I had with Seaspray is that the blurb led me to expect the book to be something it is not. It describes a young man, Winslow Birkel, leaving his abusive boyfriend, running the car off the road and into the river and then waking up in a mysterious but friendly seaside town with little to no recollection of how he got there. I was intrigued by ithe description and eagerly jumped in – but after the first few chapters which describe Winslow’s arrival in Seaspray, how he’s befriended by Frankie, an older lady living in a big house by the sea, and some flashes of memory that come to him of the events prior to his arrival, it became a real slog.
The structure is a bit confusing, too, with some past events delineated by the use of italics, but others, such as the first meeting between Winston and his love interest, Darryn, in the same font as the rest of the book, which meant I didn’t immediately realise that I was reading something set in a different place and in a different timeline. I expected the following chapter to explain or continue their story, but instead it’s about a woman named Julie I actually wondered if somehow this chapter had been transplanted from another book by mistake. (Later, there are chapters from the PoVs of other characters, too.)
But I persevered, by now getting an idea of exactly what and where Seaspray was and thinking that as it was a short book and I’d requested it for review, I might as well finish it. Things pick up a bit around the two-thirds mark when we finally learn the truth about Seaspray and Winston realises he has a decision to make – but while I liked the ideas here, I honestly couldn’t connect with the story or the characters. This is the first book by Rick R. Reed I’ve read, and it probably wasn’t a good place to start; the writing is solid, but there’s a lot of description – I’m sorry, but I skimmed a lot of it looking for story progression – and the romance is non-existent. Winslow meets Darryn on the night of Darryn’s very first visit to a gay bar, they hang out, they talk and enjoy each other’s company – but that’s pretty much the only time they spend together. There’s no relationship development whatsoever; they decide they love each other based on that one encounter.
Had I had different expectations going in, I might have enjoyed Seaspray more. It tackles some difficult themes – drug addiction, domestic abuse – and has some pertinent things to say about the power of love and how it provides strength and hope. But being brutally honest, it wasn’t the book I expected or wanted to be reading, and I while there were parts of it I liked, I can’t say I enjoyed it all that much overall.
July 12, 2022
When reading stories from Rick R. Reed, you really have to pay attention because the multiple POVs can get a little confusing but it is always worth it in the end. Seaspray is another great story that will have you wondering how it will all end up but you'll be glad when you get there.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
July 12, 2022
Like so many of Rick Reed’s books, this took me on an emotional journey that I enjoyed from beginning to end. There’s a bit of mystery and trauma from Winslow’s abusive relationship, but still hope and healing. I don’t want to give away too much of the story because it’s one you need to read to experience and enjoy.
July 12, 2022
So, I think it's fair to give a warning to readers expecting a paranormal romance novel…Seaspray is not that. The love story between Winslow and Darryn is a backdrop for Winslow's battle to find his inner strength and his personal growth and Darryn's first forays into a relationship. In truth, there's not much romance in the book at all. What we do get is a glimpse at a fantastical world that's as charming as it is temporary…a place of learning and understanding, and some emotional character development.
These guys, and the cast of side characters in Seaspray, are very engaging. Yes, there's probably a bit of a need to suspend disbelief at how quickly the MCs instinctively trust each other, but the bond is clear. We have met them before in one of the vignettes in The Q (all of the events of their meeting each other are repeated here so you don't have to have read it) and their segment really spoke to me, so I was glad that Winslow and Darryn got a book of their own.
There are trigger warnings for drug use/addiction (neither of the MCs, though) and domestic abuse on the page but these themes, along with the rich descriptions of the town of Seaspray and both Darryn and Winslow's personal journeys, make this a very human, emotional story. I guess that's one of the things I like most about this author - his diversity - from snapshots of all humanity in The Q, to some pretty dark thrillers - and Seaspray again shows a different, more mysteriously philosophical element to the writing. It's a great read...4*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
These guys, and the cast of side characters in Seaspray, are very engaging. Yes, there's probably a bit of a need to suspend disbelief at how quickly the MCs instinctively trust each other, but the bond is clear. We have met them before in one of the vignettes in The Q (all of the events of their meeting each other are repeated here so you don't have to have read it) and their segment really spoke to me, so I was glad that Winslow and Darryn got a book of their own.
There are trigger warnings for drug use/addiction (neither of the MCs, though) and domestic abuse on the page but these themes, along with the rich descriptions of the town of Seaspray and both Darryn and Winslow's personal journeys, make this a very human, emotional story. I guess that's one of the things I like most about this author - his diversity - from snapshots of all humanity in The Q, to some pretty dark thrillers - and Seaspray again shows a different, more mysteriously philosophical element to the writing. It's a great read...4*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
July 11, 2022
4 Stars
*** ARC provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
I enjoyed this one.
Rick Reed is an author who can write, sometimes the book works for me and other times it doesn’t, so I am picky to which of his books I pick up. This one was well done.
Told from multiple POV’s I wasn’t sure at the start if this one would work, but the multiple POV’s helped understand each person’s motives and how their lives had shaped who they were.
I loved Winslow and his journey of self-discovery. Life had taken a curve that he never planned on and he was basically stuck, in trying to escape his abuser he ends up in Seaspray. I liked the idea of the town, (I did pick what was happening pretty early but that did not take away from my enjoyment) The towns people were lovely especially the happy nanna type Frankie who guided Winslow in his time at the town.
Darryn I had more of a time connecting to. I liked his character well enough I just didn’t buy the massive leaps of faith he had throughout the book, the first lending his car to a man he had just met and the other of giving up everything, his studies and job to move across country with the same man after only knowing him a short time. Even his mother didn’t have a problem with the last bit and that didn’t feel right to me. I did like the relationship between him and his mother. His mother while loud and at times overbearing came at it from a place of love and when tested she rose to the occasion and stood and learnt from her son.
It was overall an enjoyable Sunday afternoon’s read
*** ARC provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
I enjoyed this one.
Rick Reed is an author who can write, sometimes the book works for me and other times it doesn’t, so I am picky to which of his books I pick up. This one was well done.
Told from multiple POV’s I wasn’t sure at the start if this one would work, but the multiple POV’s helped understand each person’s motives and how their lives had shaped who they were.
I loved Winslow and his journey of self-discovery. Life had taken a curve that he never planned on and he was basically stuck, in trying to escape his abuser he ends up in Seaspray. I liked the idea of the town, (I did pick what was happening pretty early but that did not take away from my enjoyment) The towns people were lovely especially the happy nanna type Frankie who guided Winslow in his time at the town.
Darryn I had more of a time connecting to. I liked his character well enough I just didn’t buy the massive leaps of faith he had throughout the book, the first lending his car to a man he had just met and the other of giving up everything, his studies and job to move across country with the same man after only knowing him a short time. Even his mother didn’t have a problem with the last bit and that didn’t feel right to me. I did like the relationship between him and his mother. His mother while loud and at times overbearing came at it from a place of love and when tested she rose to the occasion and stood and learnt from her son.
It was overall an enjoyable Sunday afternoon’s read
July 12, 2022
This was one gobsmacking and haunting story for me which I certainly did not expect! It also was very, very, very well written. In a way, it reminded me of “The Shack”. I’m still pondering how I felt after finishing that book over the weekend. I was reminded how I was feeling about “Seaspray” the town. Honestly, I thought it was a real town and had been trying to find it on Google Maps but if I had continued to read some more, I’d understand why it’s not there. There’s a trigger of domestic violence in the book but it will help you understand why Seaspray was written.
The story starts with a domestic violence act toward Winslow by his partner, Chad while it was raining outside. From this point forward, it’s each individual’s point of view as the story proceeded. Winslow ends up in “Seaspray” and found a wonderful friendship with the kooky old lady who rents a small cabin for free. There, we come to learn more about Winslow and the guy, Darryl, who he met at the bar prior to the confrontation between Wilson and Chad. Such a haunting but wonderful read. Pick up the book to find out more about Seaspray, Winslow, and Darryl!
The story starts with a domestic violence act toward Winslow by his partner, Chad while it was raining outside. From this point forward, it’s each individual’s point of view as the story proceeded. Winslow ends up in “Seaspray” and found a wonderful friendship with the kooky old lady who rents a small cabin for free. There, we come to learn more about Winslow and the guy, Darryl, who he met at the bar prior to the confrontation between Wilson and Chad. Such a haunting but wonderful read. Pick up the book to find out more about Seaspray, Winslow, and Darryl!
July 20, 2022
Reviewed for Love Bytes – 4.5 hearts
Running from abuse, Winslow finds himself in the sea, then in the town of Seaspray. However, as he’d never visited the coast, he didn’t know how he got there. All he knew was that the people were friendly, and he was free of pain. Was Seaspray real or imagined?
Oh my. Seaspray is a beautiful yet heartbreaking story that was different, superbly written and left me willing to believe that something else was out there.
The story is told in the first person, past tense, from multiple viewpoints. The manuscript is also split into two books – why? I’m not sure, but what they hey. Some readers baulk at more than a couple of perspectives. However, in this book, they are right to be there as it gives credence that Seaspray is a magical place instead of a figment of the imagination.
Abuse is a huge factor in this story, although other tragedies form part of the tale. Instances of abuse are swift yet no less impactful as they are skillfully written, as are the main characters' backgrounds. Two come from abusive households, and one is highly religious. However, all three adopt different adult perspectives. To say more, will give spoilers, which I won’t do. Given the subject, I was thankful for the non-explicit sexual content – it was unnecessary or needed.
Winslow and Darryn are lovely people. As Winslow is in an abusive relationship, he backs off from the lovely Darryn. Darryn isn’t out to his parents but knows a good person when he meets one – hence, there is a touch of instalove when he meets Winslow. Sometimes people just click. The wider cast gives a lovely depth to this story, proving that among tragedy, learning, acceptance, and beautiful things can happen.
Regarding Seaspray, Frankie is that all-knowing guide with a smidge of whacky. She’s a pure delight, although some may see her as a mass of frustration. She doesn’t preach. She points you in the direction of the answers.
This novel isn’t full of traditional over-dramatic gestures. Yes, there is heartbreak, violence, and tragedy, but while reading, there is also a great serenity. There were many areas where I shed tears – the good kind. So as part of my recommendation for reading Seaspray, I would suggest a box of tissues and a packet of cookies, or for those British readers – it’s Jaffa cake time.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
Running from abuse, Winslow finds himself in the sea, then in the town of Seaspray. However, as he’d never visited the coast, he didn’t know how he got there. All he knew was that the people were friendly, and he was free of pain. Was Seaspray real or imagined?
Oh my. Seaspray is a beautiful yet heartbreaking story that was different, superbly written and left me willing to believe that something else was out there.
The story is told in the first person, past tense, from multiple viewpoints. The manuscript is also split into two books – why? I’m not sure, but what they hey. Some readers baulk at more than a couple of perspectives. However, in this book, they are right to be there as it gives credence that Seaspray is a magical place instead of a figment of the imagination.
Abuse is a huge factor in this story, although other tragedies form part of the tale. Instances of abuse are swift yet no less impactful as they are skillfully written, as are the main characters' backgrounds. Two come from abusive households, and one is highly religious. However, all three adopt different adult perspectives. To say more, will give spoilers, which I won’t do. Given the subject, I was thankful for the non-explicit sexual content – it was unnecessary or needed.
Winslow and Darryn are lovely people. As Winslow is in an abusive relationship, he backs off from the lovely Darryn. Darryn isn’t out to his parents but knows a good person when he meets one – hence, there is a touch of instalove when he meets Winslow. Sometimes people just click. The wider cast gives a lovely depth to this story, proving that among tragedy, learning, acceptance, and beautiful things can happen.
Regarding Seaspray, Frankie is that all-knowing guide with a smidge of whacky. She’s a pure delight, although some may see her as a mass of frustration. She doesn’t preach. She points you in the direction of the answers.
This novel isn’t full of traditional over-dramatic gestures. Yes, there is heartbreak, violence, and tragedy, but while reading, there is also a great serenity. There were many areas where I shed tears – the good kind. So as part of my recommendation for reading Seaspray, I would suggest a box of tissues and a packet of cookies, or for those British readers – it’s Jaffa cake time.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
August 1, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This story has multiple viewpoints, with Winslow, Darryn, Chad, and others who come and go from Seaspray in ways that help the reader learn what Seaspray represents. This isn’t a romance; it’s more a supernatural fiction story with romantic elements. Most of the story centers on Winslow as a character, but the main theme is the survival of domestic abuse and how domestic abuse is a cycle of violence that requires interruption for both victims and abusers to stop the cycle.
I loved that Seaspray was a mystery, in part, as Winslow’s story unfolded. It helped me to feel engaged with Winslow’s journey of self-discovery, to learn bit by bit how he got to Seaspray and how–and what it even meant—to leave it.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This story has multiple viewpoints, with Winslow, Darryn, Chad, and others who come and go from Seaspray in ways that help the reader learn what Seaspray represents. This isn’t a romance; it’s more a supernatural fiction story with romantic elements. Most of the story centers on Winslow as a character, but the main theme is the survival of domestic abuse and how domestic abuse is a cycle of violence that requires interruption for both victims and abusers to stop the cycle.
I loved that Seaspray was a mystery, in part, as Winslow’s story unfolded. It helped me to feel engaged with Winslow’s journey of self-discovery, to learn bit by bit how he got to Seaspray and how–and what it even meant—to leave it.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
July 17, 2022
Seaspray is a magical place that will leave you wondering if it’s real, a dream, or merely a figment of one very overactive imagination. Regardless of what it is, it’s a place I’d love to visit, maybe even sit and have a cup of tea and conversation with Frankie.
If you’re looking for a typical gay romance, this isn’t it. It’s more of a story of personal growth for Winslow and his realizing that the life he had before was just a stepping stone to the one he’s meant to have. A painful stepping stone, but one that gave him strength and courage to move on to where he’s supposed to be.
I love the ending and epilogue.
If you read this, pay close attention to pretty much everything. What may seem insignificant might turn out to be quite significant later.
A fantastic book that I’ll be rereading soon.
Full review can be found at -
If you’re looking for a typical gay romance, this isn’t it. It’s more of a story of personal growth for Winslow and his realizing that the life he had before was just a stepping stone to the one he’s meant to have. A painful stepping stone, but one that gave him strength and courage to move on to where he’s supposed to be.
I love the ending and epilogue.
If you read this, pay close attention to pretty much everything. What may seem insignificant might turn out to be quite significant later.
A fantastic book that I’ll be rereading soon.
Full review can be found at -
June 26, 2022
Comfort, peace & second chances: loved it!
4.5🌟 stars
This is one of Reed's more philosophical stories and it brings in disparate characters that have one thing in common. Can't say what that is or I will give the story away. But it's sad and comforting at the same time. I am really a dyed in the wool fan of Reed's writing: so diverse that I never really know where his next story will take me.
Winslow, a young man in an abusive relationship in a rural area near the Ohio River, is the main character. Through flashbacks we learn just how low his lover Chad will go. Darryn, a young man who suddenly appears in Winslow's life, seems the caring, generous antithesis to Chad, but the big question is whether Darryn and Winslow can realistically have a joint future. If you read Reed's The Q as I did when it was published a year or two ago you may remember Winslow, Chad and Darryn and be really uplifted by this continuation of their story.
Emotion, not steam, and relationships of all sorts, including traumatic childhood memories of love and abuse, anchor this novel which offers its own magical take on confronting fear and death.
I went from confused initially to fascination and acceptance of Winslow's odyssey and the characters who deeply influence his life. My takeaway: I loved joining him on the journey.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the story; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4.5🌟 stars
This is one of Reed's more philosophical stories and it brings in disparate characters that have one thing in common. Can't say what that is or I will give the story away. But it's sad and comforting at the same time. I am really a dyed in the wool fan of Reed's writing: so diverse that I never really know where his next story will take me.
Winslow, a young man in an abusive relationship in a rural area near the Ohio River, is the main character. Through flashbacks we learn just how low his lover Chad will go. Darryn, a young man who suddenly appears in Winslow's life, seems the caring, generous antithesis to Chad, but the big question is whether Darryn and Winslow can realistically have a joint future. If you read Reed's The Q as I did when it was published a year or two ago you may remember Winslow, Chad and Darryn and be really uplifted by this continuation of their story.
Emotion, not steam, and relationships of all sorts, including traumatic childhood memories of love and abuse, anchor this novel which offers its own magical take on confronting fear and death.
I went from confused initially to fascination and acceptance of Winslow's odyssey and the characters who deeply influence his life. My takeaway: I loved joining him on the journey.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the story; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
July 13, 2022
What a completely unique story. I loved how all the characters good and bad unfolded to create a very special romance. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 14, 2022
This book is not what you think at least after the blurb...
I really like the story... a road to heal for Wilson...
Maybe I want more romance.. but in the end is perfect in this way...
if you want paranormal is not the right book, but the story is intriguing
thanks GRR for the copy...
I really like the story... a road to heal for Wilson...
Maybe I want more romance.. but in the end is perfect in this way...
if you want paranormal is not the right book, but the story is intriguing
thanks GRR for the copy...
July 15, 2022
Such a beautifully written book and a beautiful story. Seaspray is heavy on the fantasy and the romance is a secondary aspect.
March 25, 2023
Thank you so much to GRR for this beautiful audiobook!
This is a really beautiful story about a broken down man finding a way to put himself back together.
I would describe this book as a mysterious fantasy with romantic elements. The story is centered around Winslow, who’s had a traumatic life and after one fateful and horrible night, his life changed forever. He wakes up in a town he doesn’t recognize, having no idea how he got there. But he’s hopeful that he has found a place to heal and be at peace.
Several wonderful characters come into Winslow’s orbit. All of them have an effect on him and help him along his healing path.
There is a lot of emotion in this story: grief, trauma, regret, joy, hope, possibility, strength. Winslow’s journey is hard at times and very happy at others.
I know this is a vague review, but there are plot points that would completely spoil the story, so I’m leaving those out on purpose.
I definitely recommend this one!
This is a really beautiful story about a broken down man finding a way to put himself back together.
I would describe this book as a mysterious fantasy with romantic elements. The story is centered around Winslow, who’s had a traumatic life and after one fateful and horrible night, his life changed forever. He wakes up in a town he doesn’t recognize, having no idea how he got there. But he’s hopeful that he has found a place to heal and be at peace.
Several wonderful characters come into Winslow’s orbit. All of them have an effect on him and help him along his healing path.
There is a lot of emotion in this story: grief, trauma, regret, joy, hope, possibility, strength. Winslow’s journey is hard at times and very happy at others.
I know this is a vague review, but there are plot points that would completely spoil the story, so I’m leaving those out on purpose.
I definitely recommend this one!
July 11, 2022
Seaspray is a love story, but it is not a romance, even though the ending is solidly in the "happy for now" column. It's certainly not a steamy one, so if that's what you're looking for, you'll want to look elsewhere. But if, like me, you're a fan of beautiful writing, compelling characters, and an interesting plot, you should give it a try. As with much of Rick Reed's work, I'd put Seaspray into the queer literature category. I devoured it in less than a day.
If you read The Q, this story is a spinoff from it, following two of the characters introduced in that fascinating and entertaining book centered around the patrons of a gay bar in the foothills of the Appalachians. I was excited to see Winslow and Darryl get a story, as their vignette was one of the most compelling from The Q.
If you didn't read it, no worries, you can read this book as a standalone, as Seaspray deftly switches between present and past. The present is rather mysterious; that's part of the charm of the story.
But while there is plenty of charm, there's also some disturbing domestic violence, fairly graphic in places, so if that's a trigger for you, you may want to give this story a pass. It didn't trigger me, but then it's rare that a book does, so I'm not a good gauge. The story includes addiction and some on-page drug use, though not from the two main characters.
I loved the way this book unfolded, taking me on a journey with the characters, materializing into a poignant but hopeful love story. I highly recommend it!
If you read The Q, this story is a spinoff from it, following two of the characters introduced in that fascinating and entertaining book centered around the patrons of a gay bar in the foothills of the Appalachians. I was excited to see Winslow and Darryl get a story, as their vignette was one of the most compelling from The Q.
If you didn't read it, no worries, you can read this book as a standalone, as Seaspray deftly switches between present and past. The present is rather mysterious; that's part of the charm of the story.
But while there is plenty of charm, there's also some disturbing domestic violence, fairly graphic in places, so if that's a trigger for you, you may want to give this story a pass. It didn't trigger me, but then it's rare that a book does, so I'm not a good gauge. The story includes addiction and some on-page drug use, though not from the two main characters.
I loved the way this book unfolded, taking me on a journey with the characters, materializing into a poignant but hopeful love story. I highly recommend it!
July 10, 2022
Haunting, M/M story – but it’s much more
Oddly, the blurb gives the reader more about the scenario than immediately gleaned from the beginning of the book. From the start I couldn’t decipher if this was taking place in a dream, a coma, or even heaven. Great reading, no matter. See what you think…
The main character around whom this story revolves is Winslow Birkel who at 27yo has an epiphany. He’s tired of being abused by his boyfriend Chad. Winslow’s world changes one night and we get to go along for his “reincarnation.” There are many other characters and their mini-stories, like Julia, Jaime, Frankie, Grace, and of course Winslow’s eventual love interest: 21yo Darryn. Any attempted explanation of this book will spoil it. This is a must-read if you like to ponder what happens next…
This is amazing reading. Well-written and fascinating. I cried so much at Julia’s story as well as others. Don’t look for steam but lots of passion in the broadest sense. I wish there had been a warning. Some scenes could be shocking. Non-explicit love story but that is secondary to its real message. Loved. This. Book! I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews.
Oddly, the blurb gives the reader more about the scenario than immediately gleaned from the beginning of the book. From the start I couldn’t decipher if this was taking place in a dream, a coma, or even heaven. Great reading, no matter. See what you think…
The main character around whom this story revolves is Winslow Birkel who at 27yo has an epiphany. He’s tired of being abused by his boyfriend Chad. Winslow’s world changes one night and we get to go along for his “reincarnation.” There are many other characters and their mini-stories, like Julia, Jaime, Frankie, Grace, and of course Winslow’s eventual love interest: 21yo Darryn. Any attempted explanation of this book will spoil it. This is a must-read if you like to ponder what happens next…
This is amazing reading. Well-written and fascinating. I cried so much at Julia’s story as well as others. Don’t look for steam but lots of passion in the broadest sense. I wish there had been a warning. Some scenes could be shocking. Non-explicit love story but that is secondary to its real message. Loved. This. Book! I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews.
July 14, 2022
Wow….thats all i can think to say at this moment. I am at a loss for words….just wow. This was such an amazing book!!!! I just don’t even have words. This was such a different book than ANYTHING I have read in a long time. This was such a well written book and it kept me right on the edge on my seat the whole time I was reading. I just could not put this book down! I was absolutely in love with the small town of Seaspray and I so wish I could go there! I dont think I would ever want to leave. This book does start with a domestic violence act towards Winslow by his partner, Chad. From that point on the story is told in multiple points of view on the events that followed this. I don’t want to give anything away because it was such an amazing read and it is definitely worth picking up! I would for sure read this book again!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 1st Person Multi POV
Standalone or series: Standalone
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 1st Person Multi POV
Standalone or series: Standalone
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
March 30, 2023
3.5 Stars
This was a hard one for me to rate and review. There were some parts I found myself really enjoying, and then other parts I felt dragged a bit.
Told from several characters' points of view, I found I actually enjoyed this even though I didn't know how some of them fitted together at first, I even liked having the one chapter near the end from Winslow's abusive boyfriend, or ex-boyfriend as he is by then.
The romance is only a tiny part of this story, the main story is about domestic abuse, the cycle of domestic abuse, and surviving and being strong enough to walk away. There is also of course Seaspray itself, the mystical town where it seems people go while they deal with whatever it is they need to deal with before either passing on or returning to their lives. I enjoyed the connections that were woven into the story by ending up in the town of Seaspray.
Overall the narrator did a good job, I'm not sure about the sound effects and music that was played throughout, I found that a little off-putting for the most part.
This was a hard one for me to rate and review. There were some parts I found myself really enjoying, and then other parts I felt dragged a bit.
Told from several characters' points of view, I found I actually enjoyed this even though I didn't know how some of them fitted together at first, I even liked having the one chapter near the end from Winslow's abusive boyfriend, or ex-boyfriend as he is by then.
The romance is only a tiny part of this story, the main story is about domestic abuse, the cycle of domestic abuse, and surviving and being strong enough to walk away. There is also of course Seaspray itself, the mystical town where it seems people go while they deal with whatever it is they need to deal with before either passing on or returning to their lives. I enjoyed the connections that were woven into the story by ending up in the town of Seaspray.
Overall the narrator did a good job, I'm not sure about the sound effects and music that was played throughout, I found that a little off-putting for the most part.
March 19, 2023
2.5 / 5 ⭐️‘s
“Seaspray” by Rick R. Reed
The author's descriptive style of writing creates vivid imagery, which transports the reader to the quaint coastal town of Seaspray, Oregon. Through the eyes of protagonist Winslow, we witness the beauty of the town's beach and its surroundings, the charm of its people, and the peacefulness of life in this idyllic town.
However, while the book's descriptive nature was impressive, I found the narration style to be a letdown. The story is about someone that is escaping domestic abuse but the background noises and music in the audiobook version were distracting and often cheesy. It took away from the story and made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the characters and their experiences.
This ARC audiobook was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
“Seaspray” by Rick R. Reed
The author's descriptive style of writing creates vivid imagery, which transports the reader to the quaint coastal town of Seaspray, Oregon. Through the eyes of protagonist Winslow, we witness the beauty of the town's beach and its surroundings, the charm of its people, and the peacefulness of life in this idyllic town.
However, while the book's descriptive nature was impressive, I found the narration style to be a letdown. The story is about someone that is escaping domestic abuse but the background noises and music in the audiobook version were distracting and often cheesy. It took away from the story and made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the characters and their experiences.
This ARC audiobook was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2022
I picked this book up because the blurb I read suggested a mystery and it intrigued me. It’s a poignant tale with a main theme of domestic abuse and the devastation it can cause.
It’s also a love story but I wouldn’t call it a romance. It’s more along the lines of the power of love and how it can provide hope and strength.
It’s somber in tone but not angsty.
The story moved forward whilst showing a series of flashbacks that enabled us and the characters to establish what was going on. I read it in one afternoon and it kept my interest enough to keep the pages turning.
It’s also a love story but I wouldn’t call it a romance. It’s more along the lines of the power of love and how it can provide hope and strength.
It’s somber in tone but not angsty.
The story moved forward whilst showing a series of flashbacks that enabled us and the characters to establish what was going on. I read it in one afternoon and it kept my interest enough to keep the pages turning.
July 7, 2022
This is not a linear story per se - the blurb hints at some of the back-and-forth that the narrative has. Nothing seems to be happening at some points, but a lot happens at others, with questions as to what is memory, what is fantasy, what is reality. The blurb covers the basic plot - Winslow escapes Chad and finds himself somewhere else. Darryn is interested, and concerned, after they meet. It definitely has a time-out-of-time feel to it that I found myself immersed in. A one-sitting read for me (pulled a late night and everything), it’s stuck with me for days after. I enjoyed the way it made my mind stretch a bit and kept me wondering how it would all come together.
July 13, 2022
This is the story of Darren and Winslow. I have read Rick R Reed before but none of the other books touched me as this one did. I love this story - it is written wonderfully creative with amazing main and secondary characters. This story takes you on a journey that is surprisingly happy and sad at the same time. Loved the town and wished for such a place a few times. Definitely recommended.
I received this book as an Arc and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
I received this book as an Arc and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
July 13, 2022
A powerful story about the effects of domestic violence on one man from his male partner. Life is getting increasingly more dangerous in this life for him. He will meet another man but he is accused of cheating. He will run away and the next thing he will know, he is in a new town. Will he be safe now? What about the guy from the bar. Will he get his happy ending? See if his life gets much better and safer for him
March 31, 2023
Narrator David Allen Vargo delivers a spell-binding performance about self-acceptance, patience, forgiveness and hope. These characters are endearing. The storyline premise is unique and is beautifully written. This story touches on the realm of a dimension of self discovery in the time of almost death. I love the additional touches of audio voice and music to accompany the narration. It enhances the listening experience.
July 12, 2022
I love how Winslow and Darryn's story turns out. Their story is a lot of twists and turns that may seem confusing at first, but I found that I could not stop reading. I had a strong desire to see how the pieces all fit together. It's a beautifully written story but also shows some of the ugliness unfortunately so common in today's world. This author is among my favorites. The stories he writes are unique and memorable.
July 19, 2022
This was an interesting concept for a book and beautifully written but similar to another book I have read by another author. So, while there were differences, I could not help comparing the two.
I did enjoy this one and love this author. This book was quirky enough to keep my interest and I will pick it up again.
I did enjoy this one and love this author. This book was quirky enough to keep my interest and I will pick it up again.
July 21, 2022
This was so different from what I was expecting.
I went in thinking this had paranormal elements in the storyline, however this is a more emotional story.
It deals with a more psychological approach and a man's evolution on his path of self journey.
I actually loved the author's portrayal and the characters and the storyline
I went in thinking this had paranormal elements in the storyline, however this is a more emotional story.
It deals with a more psychological approach and a man's evolution on his path of self journey.
I actually loved the author's portrayal and the characters and the storyline
June 23, 2022
What an interesting take on the in between. It was definitely a one of a kind and I really appreciated the storyline.
July 15, 2022
This definitely a different book from the ones I’ve read. The story of am abused partner and a new life at Seaspray and a boy coming out of his shell in the lgbtq+ community. It’s quirky and a but fantastical but sweet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews