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Stolid
It's illegal to be eighteen and a gay man in 1983 in the UK - well if you're planning to have sex before you're 21.
Stolid is a man who remembers being young and doesn't tell even his best friends his real name because he has the ambition to be Stolid - calm and showing little emotion.
But when he grows older and tragedy strikes the world becomes too much. One evening he runs away, hitchhikes and is picked up by a man who claims to know him. He's taken to an empty place at night. He can escape but chooses not to. The stranger's motives are obscure but it tuns out Stolid is his own worst enemy. The man convinces Stolid he does know him as they exchange memories and the evening grows mysterious.
Buy now to find out if Stolid survives the night!
Extracts from many 5* reviews. AVERAGE RATING 4.7.!!
*The story is told through flashbacks and was a relaxing read. We see what being gay was like back in the early days. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy low action, easy reads.
*Who is Stolid?
Does Stolid even know himself?
A mysterious stranger may hold the answer as he takes Stolid on a voyage through memories, both joyous and painful.
Author Aaron D. Key takes the reader on an emotionally relatable journey of love, life and death. Filling the mind with vivid imagery, Aaron weaves a beautiful and poignant tale of facing the past to find one’s self.
*When I read this book, I had not read the previous books in The Wheel of Eight, but I enjoyed it. It is easy to understand and has different characters with real personalities, and while I did not love Stolid as a character on every page, I did like what the narrative presented. Is different, interesting, and a good read.
*Complex story of three men and one woman trying to make their lives meaningful through their search for love, the inevitable fickleness of desire, and despite the damages caused by self hate and the prejudices of society towards whoever stand out as different. The structure of the book in two back and forth periods gives it a clarity so the reader doesn’t get too lost in the story (even if, like the characters themselves, we do get lost at times). Finished in three days, it’ll stay with me.
* I found this book quite fascinating. To see how Damon Ich's life would have been if he had lived on Earth. It makes sense of Damon Ich even more especially the gardener's tale. I've been following Aaron Key's blog with extracts from Book 5 (Timon) so it's satisfying to see how these characters developed and became part of Stolid's life.
I loved the way this story is all about how the characters interrelate and not so much about action but it still manages to holds the interest with drama and tension.
It would stand alone as a tale for people who don't like fantasy but also adds to the fantasy series so very much
*The story is full of heartbreak, mystery and suspense."
(This book can be enjoyed without the rest of the series as it is self-contained, although it adds to the series.)
Stolid is a man who remembers being young and doesn't tell even his best friends his real name because he has the ambition to be Stolid - calm and showing little emotion.
But when he grows older and tragedy strikes the world becomes too much. One evening he runs away, hitchhikes and is picked up by a man who claims to know him. He's taken to an empty place at night. He can escape but chooses not to. The stranger's motives are obscure but it tuns out Stolid is his own worst enemy. The man convinces Stolid he does know him as they exchange memories and the evening grows mysterious.
Buy now to find out if Stolid survives the night!
Extracts from many 5* reviews. AVERAGE RATING 4.7.!!
*The story is told through flashbacks and was a relaxing read. We see what being gay was like back in the early days. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy low action, easy reads.
*Who is Stolid?
Does Stolid even know himself?
A mysterious stranger may hold the answer as he takes Stolid on a voyage through memories, both joyous and painful.
Author Aaron D. Key takes the reader on an emotionally relatable journey of love, life and death. Filling the mind with vivid imagery, Aaron weaves a beautiful and poignant tale of facing the past to find one’s self.
*When I read this book, I had not read the previous books in The Wheel of Eight, but I enjoyed it. It is easy to understand and has different characters with real personalities, and while I did not love Stolid as a character on every page, I did like what the narrative presented. Is different, interesting, and a good read.
*Complex story of three men and one woman trying to make their lives meaningful through their search for love, the inevitable fickleness of desire, and despite the damages caused by self hate and the prejudices of society towards whoever stand out as different. The structure of the book in two back and forth periods gives it a clarity so the reader doesn’t get too lost in the story (even if, like the characters themselves, we do get lost at times). Finished in three days, it’ll stay with me.
* I found this book quite fascinating. To see how Damon Ich's life would have been if he had lived on Earth. It makes sense of Damon Ich even more especially the gardener's tale. I've been following Aaron Key's blog with extracts from Book 5 (Timon) so it's satisfying to see how these characters developed and became part of Stolid's life.
I loved the way this story is all about how the characters interrelate and not so much about action but it still manages to holds the interest with drama and tension.
It would stand alone as a tale for people who don't like fantasy but also adds to the fantasy series so very much
*The story is full of heartbreak, mystery and suspense."
(This book can be enjoyed without the rest of the series as it is self-contained, although it adds to the series.)
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 17, 2022
5 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 13, 2022
I really enjoyed STOLID, an excellent literary novel that chronicles a man’s relationships and his eventual journey towards self-acceptance. We meet up with Stolid outside in the rain when he meets a mysterious young man hitchhiking and accepts a ride to London. Over the course of the novel, which visits different timelines, we see different people and relationships that have been important in Stolid’s life. I particularly enjoyed the chapters with Joseph and the troubled relationship Joseph had with his father, as well as their slow-burn attraction, the relationship with Johnathan, and all the interesting scenes they shared. Timothy and Lizzie were interesting characters as well. Lots of drama, past exes and entanglements twist this story together into a clever narrative as the story drives towards the end and Stolid ultimately questions who the man he met at the beginning of the book is and for what purpose he picked him up in his car. The answers are definitely worth finding out! 5/5 stars.
June 17, 2024
The way the novel delves into Stolid's relationships and his journey towards self-acceptance its such a compelling read. The mix of different timelines and the intricate connections between characters added so much depth to the story. The way the plot weaves together drama, past relationships, and mysterious encounters it’s a real page-turner! It's fantastic that the book evoked such a range of emotions, from warmth to happiness to intrigue. The author's detailed writing style that immerses you in the scenes and settings really makes the reading experience come alive. It's wonderful when a book can transport you so vividly into its world!
January 4, 2025
This review was written in partnership with Booktasters!
George R.R. Martin once wrote: "A reader lives a thousand lives..." While I honestly don't know if I've even come close to reading 1,000 different books in my lifetime, I can state definitively that I've not encountered a life and a story as unique as that of Stolid.
For starters, Aaron D. Key's use of language creates a world that has a haunting, futuristic appeal. In Stolid's world, it's almost as if the only store that exists is White House, Black Market and every house has the oddly-shaped, definitely uncomfortable furniture that is also black and white and very sterile feeling.
However, the true magic of this book is its depth and the questions it forces us to consider. For example: Who are we at our cores? Why must we put on a mask to appease the "Crowd of Man?" Can we not accept ourselves as we really are? Stolid attempts to answer some of these himself: "understanding my own insignificance brought me comfort...I had no reason to hate myself and to seek contentment." We are likewise forced to draw our own conclusions about ourselves.
Further, Aaron D. Key forces us to reckon with the concepts of being alone vs. lonely. Key writes in Stolid: "It's not healthy to be too much alone. It's human nature to want solitude yet it's perverted as everything is, by the need for civilisation." For Stolid, being alone versus being lonely carries much higher stakes. His life depends on his ability to remain alone at times which in turn forces him into denying himself human connection and creating a sense of loneliness for fear of being exposed.
I've truly been fortunate to know myself and not be forced into a position to constantly hide who I am. As such, my experience in life is far different from that of Stolid. Despite this and although fictional, this book remains a powerful reminder and insight into how others grapple with their own reality. For those who might struggle with the existential questions posed by Stolid, if nothing else, Aaron D. Key has shown us a window into one of the most key things to our existence today: the need for empathy.
George R.R. Martin once wrote: "A reader lives a thousand lives..." While I honestly don't know if I've even come close to reading 1,000 different books in my lifetime, I can state definitively that I've not encountered a life and a story as unique as that of Stolid.
For starters, Aaron D. Key's use of language creates a world that has a haunting, futuristic appeal. In Stolid's world, it's almost as if the only store that exists is White House, Black Market and every house has the oddly-shaped, definitely uncomfortable furniture that is also black and white and very sterile feeling.
However, the true magic of this book is its depth and the questions it forces us to consider. For example: Who are we at our cores? Why must we put on a mask to appease the "Crowd of Man?" Can we not accept ourselves as we really are? Stolid attempts to answer some of these himself: "understanding my own insignificance brought me comfort...I had no reason to hate myself and to seek contentment." We are likewise forced to draw our own conclusions about ourselves.
Further, Aaron D. Key forces us to reckon with the concepts of being alone vs. lonely. Key writes in Stolid: "It's not healthy to be too much alone. It's human nature to want solitude yet it's perverted as everything is, by the need for civilisation." For Stolid, being alone versus being lonely carries much higher stakes. His life depends on his ability to remain alone at times which in turn forces him into denying himself human connection and creating a sense of loneliness for fear of being exposed.
I've truly been fortunate to know myself and not be forced into a position to constantly hide who I am. As such, my experience in life is far different from that of Stolid. Despite this and although fictional, this book remains a powerful reminder and insight into how others grapple with their own reality. For those who might struggle with the existential questions posed by Stolid, if nothing else, Aaron D. Key has shown us a window into one of the most key things to our existence today: the need for empathy.
December 7, 2024
I found the eponymous Stolid to be a romance that simply touched my heart. The novel had elements of a modern Gothic novel which is not a simple undertaking. The dreamlike successive events of the narrative added to a Gothic structure while at the same time containing a realist content belonging to the present day social novel. The literary prose style of Aaron D. Key I found added greatly to its appeal. The writer's use of simile, metaphor, analogy and personification covered the natural world ably as it did the problematic and social world we all live in.
September 24, 2022
Stolid by Aaron D Key begins with a man thumbing a lift in the torrential rain, a young man pulls over, and the rain-drenched Stolid gets in the car, believing he has a lift to London. Stolid is lulled to sleep by the warmth. When he wakes up, the vehicle is parked in a layby on a quiet lane. The young driver tells Stolid that he knows him and only went out that evening to find him. Stolid's story is then told through flashbacks of his life.
Stolid had two relationships with older men. He was sleeping rough when Joseph offered him a place to stay. Stolid realises he has romantic feelings for Joseph; sadly, the relationship does not last Joseph and Stolid have too many insecurities about their sexuality. Stolid meets Jonathan things are looking up for Stolid. He has passed his exams and has been offered the two jobs he has interviewed for. So what has led to him being out in the pouring rain and accepting a lift from a strange young man? Moreover, does Stolid learn who the young man is?
Aaron D Key is a very talented writer. I love his descriptions which are almost poetic at times, e.g. page seventy-three, " I walked between the houses to the sewered stream where a fatted moon's reflection split into a moving picture of stained glass punched with light". I particularly liked that sex in the relationships was hinted at, and the reader is left to imagine what happened. I thought the ending was fantastic; it had a real twist which I had not expected. I am delighted that this book is part of a series, and I look forward to reading the next one.
The only thing I disliked was that although the flashbacks worked well, I got slightly lost in places because the sentences were so wordy.
I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. There are a couple of editing mistakes, but Stolid by Aaron D Key is beautifully written, and the plot is well thought out.
I recommend this book to adult readers, especially lovers of romance, particularly gay men trying to come to terms with their feelings. It would also be an excellent read for people who enjoy a good mystery with a difference. Because this is about men having relationships with men, I do not think it would appeal to readers with particular religious convictions.
I'd like to thank Aaron D Key for a free Kindle copy of the book in exchange for my impartial review. You can see more f my reviews on my blog : https://redmakesmyheartsing.blogspot....
Stolid had two relationships with older men. He was sleeping rough when Joseph offered him a place to stay. Stolid realises he has romantic feelings for Joseph; sadly, the relationship does not last Joseph and Stolid have too many insecurities about their sexuality. Stolid meets Jonathan things are looking up for Stolid. He has passed his exams and has been offered the two jobs he has interviewed for. So what has led to him being out in the pouring rain and accepting a lift from a strange young man? Moreover, does Stolid learn who the young man is?
Aaron D Key is a very talented writer. I love his descriptions which are almost poetic at times, e.g. page seventy-three, " I walked between the houses to the sewered stream where a fatted moon's reflection split into a moving picture of stained glass punched with light". I particularly liked that sex in the relationships was hinted at, and the reader is left to imagine what happened. I thought the ending was fantastic; it had a real twist which I had not expected. I am delighted that this book is part of a series, and I look forward to reading the next one.
The only thing I disliked was that although the flashbacks worked well, I got slightly lost in places because the sentences were so wordy.
I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. There are a couple of editing mistakes, but Stolid by Aaron D Key is beautifully written, and the plot is well thought out.
I recommend this book to adult readers, especially lovers of romance, particularly gay men trying to come to terms with their feelings. It would also be an excellent read for people who enjoy a good mystery with a difference. Because this is about men having relationships with men, I do not think it would appeal to readers with particular religious convictions.
I'd like to thank Aaron D Key for a free Kindle copy of the book in exchange for my impartial review. You can see more f my reviews on my blog : https://redmakesmyheartsing.blogspot....
June 4, 2022
Complex story of three men and one woman trying to make their lives meaningful through their search for love, the inevitable fickleness of desire, and despite the damages caused by self hate and the prejudices of society towards whoever stand out as different. The structure of the book in two back and forth periods gives it a clarity so the reader doesn't get too lost in the story (even if, like the characters themselves, we do get lost at times). Finished in three days, it'll stay with me.
July 15, 2024
Review posted on my blog The Writer's Library.
I admit, I usually have reservations about jumping in the middle of a book series without knowing any of the established background from previous installments. However, when I read that Aaron D. Key’s Stolid is intended to work as both part of a series and standalone story, I thought it would be interesting to give it a try.
Once I started, I found what I feel to be an interesting idea that I wish I connected with more. I feel like I just didn’t understand the main character’s motives and had difficulty connecting with him and the plot. This isn’t because of him alone, however. I’ll discuss this issue more in the writing section.
Before I go any further, let’s look at what the story is about.
Summary
We open to a man named Stolid hitching a ride with a mysterious cab driver on a rainy night. As Stolid settles in, however, something about the driver seems off. Stolid feels he has seen him before. When the two begin talking, Stolid realizes that the driver is even more mysterious than he thought, as the man claims to know everything about his passenger and his life.
Will Stolid be able to find out who this man is and what he wants?
Thoughts
I have a lot to mull over here. Honestly, the opening to the story is easy to be hooked by and I like the setting in the present timeline a lot. There is a melancholy tone in the present that I find very interesting, and it made me want to know what would come next in the story. The setting created a mood that kept me intrigued and looking for more information on what exactly Stolid’s conversation with the driver meant.
However, when the narrative jumped back into the past, that’s when the story started to lose me. Stolid meets so many characters whose motives were a total mystery to me. This made it difficult for me to know whom to trust and who was likable. It’s not that I actually dislike the characters, but rather that their actions made it difficult for me to decide whether they were good people or not.
That said, let’s discuss some of the characters in more detail.
Characters
Stolid
I find the introduction to Stolid rather interesting. His meeting with the mysterious driver sets up both an intriguing mystery while also helping the reader to learn how he’s grown after the events of his past. Seeing him move through the events of the narrative not knowing what he wants or whom to trust and then reflect on it all afterward with the driver provided a contrast between the two timelines that I liked quite a bit.
Watching him try to find what he wants for himself in the narrative involving his past is easy to sympathize with. The balancing act set up between what he feels is best for himself versus what others say is best for him gave me a lot to think about because the narrative is not up front about some of the reasons for the decisions he makes.
Anyway, I think that’s all I have on Stolid. Let’s look at one more character before we move on.
The driver
The amount of time I spent trying to decipher this man’s identity left my head spinning, but I honestly think he’s one of the most interesting characters in the entire narrative. How he would know so much about Stolid’s past without Stolid remembering for certain if they’d met before left me suspicious and invested in the mystery being built. I kept asking myself about the driver’s identity and I was trying to place him into the past narrative, only for the questions to keep coming as more was revealed in the story.
His actions and knowledge of Stolid’s life are the best part of the present timeline. His behavior and knowledge to the point where he was able to just sit by and listen as Stolid recounted his life made me want to know about him. The fact that he was so tight-lipped on his own motives gave him a threatening presence that turned mysterious as the story continued to unfold. He is probably my favorite character because of this aspect of his persona.
With all that said, I think it’s time to move on from the characters. Let’s discuss the story’s structure next.
Structure
The structure is used to meld the past and present timelines in this story, providing the narrative with the backdrop that I find so intriguing. Seeing how Stolid in the present day looks back on the past and tries to piece together how it connects with the present was the best part of the story for me, because I found myself with a lot of questions about the implications of the story being set up this way. It is also interesting to see the difference between Stolid’s actions in the past versus the present.
That said, with an interesting setup, it is important that the payoff hits home. The narrative didn’t grab me with the payoff because of both who the driver ended up being in the end and how the writing flowed. It did not come together in the way I had hoped. I kept thinking the story was going to take a different route with the ending than what ultimately happened.
That said, I think that’s all I have on the structure. Let’s move on to the writing.
Writing
So, I’ll admit that the prose in this book flew over my head in a lot of places. The word choice often made it difficult for me to figure out what exactly was being communicated because of how introspective it got. Introspection by itself is not a negative thing, but I think in a story like this (even if the story is more character-driven than plot-driven) the plot needs to give the characters more support and the reader needs to know and understand their motives and what they mean for the story.
The prose being so heavy left me feeling like I was missing something, like there was just something I didn’t get even when I was trying so hard to understand. The word choice is rather advanced and complex and, along with the heavy introspection in the story thanks to the main character, I felt like I was having to try too hard. I have no issues with more complex writing styles, but something is needed to show the implications of the text. Because the characters’ actions are as much a mystery to me as the prose, very little of the narrative connected for me and I am disappointed in having to admit that.
Well, I think I’ve covered everything. Let’s close this out.
Conclusion
I wish I’d liked this more. I just feel it isn’t for me, though. I see the setup for an intriguing story here, but I think the writing is just too deep. While I don’t think this is a bad story by any means, it was just one I ultimately couldn’t connect with.
For this reason, I will be giving the story two stars.
I admit, I usually have reservations about jumping in the middle of a book series without knowing any of the established background from previous installments. However, when I read that Aaron D. Key’s Stolid is intended to work as both part of a series and standalone story, I thought it would be interesting to give it a try.
Once I started, I found what I feel to be an interesting idea that I wish I connected with more. I feel like I just didn’t understand the main character’s motives and had difficulty connecting with him and the plot. This isn’t because of him alone, however. I’ll discuss this issue more in the writing section.
Before I go any further, let’s look at what the story is about.
Summary
We open to a man named Stolid hitching a ride with a mysterious cab driver on a rainy night. As Stolid settles in, however, something about the driver seems off. Stolid feels he has seen him before. When the two begin talking, Stolid realizes that the driver is even more mysterious than he thought, as the man claims to know everything about his passenger and his life.
Will Stolid be able to find out who this man is and what he wants?
Thoughts
I have a lot to mull over here. Honestly, the opening to the story is easy to be hooked by and I like the setting in the present timeline a lot. There is a melancholy tone in the present that I find very interesting, and it made me want to know what would come next in the story. The setting created a mood that kept me intrigued and looking for more information on what exactly Stolid’s conversation with the driver meant.
However, when the narrative jumped back into the past, that’s when the story started to lose me. Stolid meets so many characters whose motives were a total mystery to me. This made it difficult for me to know whom to trust and who was likable. It’s not that I actually dislike the characters, but rather that their actions made it difficult for me to decide whether they were good people or not.
That said, let’s discuss some of the characters in more detail.
Characters
Stolid
I find the introduction to Stolid rather interesting. His meeting with the mysterious driver sets up both an intriguing mystery while also helping the reader to learn how he’s grown after the events of his past. Seeing him move through the events of the narrative not knowing what he wants or whom to trust and then reflect on it all afterward with the driver provided a contrast between the two timelines that I liked quite a bit.
Watching him try to find what he wants for himself in the narrative involving his past is easy to sympathize with. The balancing act set up between what he feels is best for himself versus what others say is best for him gave me a lot to think about because the narrative is not up front about some of the reasons for the decisions he makes.
Anyway, I think that’s all I have on Stolid. Let’s look at one more character before we move on.
The driver
The amount of time I spent trying to decipher this man’s identity left my head spinning, but I honestly think he’s one of the most interesting characters in the entire narrative. How he would know so much about Stolid’s past without Stolid remembering for certain if they’d met before left me suspicious and invested in the mystery being built. I kept asking myself about the driver’s identity and I was trying to place him into the past narrative, only for the questions to keep coming as more was revealed in the story.
His actions and knowledge of Stolid’s life are the best part of the present timeline. His behavior and knowledge to the point where he was able to just sit by and listen as Stolid recounted his life made me want to know about him. The fact that he was so tight-lipped on his own motives gave him a threatening presence that turned mysterious as the story continued to unfold. He is probably my favorite character because of this aspect of his persona.
With all that said, I think it’s time to move on from the characters. Let’s discuss the story’s structure next.
Structure
The structure is used to meld the past and present timelines in this story, providing the narrative with the backdrop that I find so intriguing. Seeing how Stolid in the present day looks back on the past and tries to piece together how it connects with the present was the best part of the story for me, because I found myself with a lot of questions about the implications of the story being set up this way. It is also interesting to see the difference between Stolid’s actions in the past versus the present.
That said, with an interesting setup, it is important that the payoff hits home. The narrative didn’t grab me with the payoff because of both who the driver ended up being in the end and how the writing flowed. It did not come together in the way I had hoped. I kept thinking the story was going to take a different route with the ending than what ultimately happened.
That said, I think that’s all I have on the structure. Let’s move on to the writing.
Writing
So, I’ll admit that the prose in this book flew over my head in a lot of places. The word choice often made it difficult for me to figure out what exactly was being communicated because of how introspective it got. Introspection by itself is not a negative thing, but I think in a story like this (even if the story is more character-driven than plot-driven) the plot needs to give the characters more support and the reader needs to know and understand their motives and what they mean for the story.
The prose being so heavy left me feeling like I was missing something, like there was just something I didn’t get even when I was trying so hard to understand. The word choice is rather advanced and complex and, along with the heavy introspection in the story thanks to the main character, I felt like I was having to try too hard. I have no issues with more complex writing styles, but something is needed to show the implications of the text. Because the characters’ actions are as much a mystery to me as the prose, very little of the narrative connected for me and I am disappointed in having to admit that.
Well, I think I’ve covered everything. Let’s close this out.
Conclusion
I wish I’d liked this more. I just feel it isn’t for me, though. I see the setup for an intriguing story here, but I think the writing is just too deep. While I don’t think this is a bad story by any means, it was just one I ultimately couldn’t connect with.
For this reason, I will be giving the story two stars.
July 25, 2024
Stolid Review…🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟A beautiful book…. I loved getting to know Stolid throughout the timeline which chronicles his life weaving in and out of relationships.
The relationship with Joseph was my favourite. I felt like I was moving in time with them. There seemed to be an instant attraction between them albeit slow moving.
They seemed to hold back a lot which made them interesting and I yearned to get to know them!
This book kept me intrigued the whole way, mysterious characters that enter Stolid’s life had me worried and anxious, as he delves into finding himself and fighting off feelings and self acceptance.
I read it in three sittings and couldn’t put it down at times, the pull of finding out how somethings pan out was too strong. I yearned to find the happy and emotional endings throughout!
It’s a book that will stay with me for a long time 💛
I hadn’t read any other books in the series, I’ll be sure to pick them up!
The relationship with Joseph was my favourite. I felt like I was moving in time with them. There seemed to be an instant attraction between them albeit slow moving.
They seemed to hold back a lot which made them interesting and I yearned to get to know them!
This book kept me intrigued the whole way, mysterious characters that enter Stolid’s life had me worried and anxious, as he delves into finding himself and fighting off feelings and self acceptance.
I read it in three sittings and couldn’t put it down at times, the pull of finding out how somethings pan out was too strong. I yearned to find the happy and emotional endings throughout!
It’s a book that will stay with me for a long time 💛
I hadn’t read any other books in the series, I’ll be sure to pick them up!
September 17, 2022
amazing read
In Stolid, you come across a young man who finds himself being picked up from the side of the road. The stranger who picks him up looks vaguely familiar to him and wants to know Stolid’s life story. This story has such a good plot, that I could not put it down. And the big question for me was who is he talking too?
Stolid was a great read and I recommend anyone who loves a good twisted ending to read this book. I promise you, it will have you hooked until the very last page. From Stolid’s major events that happened in his life, too the elephant in the room; who is Stolid talking too? This book was divine and kept my interest to the very end!
In Stolid, you come across a young man who finds himself being picked up from the side of the road. The stranger who picks him up looks vaguely familiar to him and wants to know Stolid’s life story. This story has such a good plot, that I could not put it down. And the big question for me was who is he talking too?
Stolid was a great read and I recommend anyone who loves a good twisted ending to read this book. I promise you, it will have you hooked until the very last page. From Stolid’s major events that happened in his life, too the elephant in the room; who is Stolid talking too? This book was divine and kept my interest to the very end!
February 20, 2025
Stolid is an exceptional book about a young
man's relationships and his way to
self-acceptance.
The story begins with Stolid being picked
up by a stranger
Thanks to this man, we get to know Stolids
past...all the different people and
relationships that have been important in
his life.
This book has a great and compelling plot
It's a page turner until the end. All the
characters are well written (even the ones
you won't like). I recommend anyone
who loves a good twisted ending to read
this book.
man's relationships and his way to
self-acceptance.
The story begins with Stolid being picked
up by a stranger
Thanks to this man, we get to know Stolids
past...all the different people and
relationships that have been important in
his life.
This book has a great and compelling plot
It's a page turner until the end. All the
characters are well written (even the ones
you won't like). I recommend anyone
who loves a good twisted ending to read
this book.
August 6, 2024
Stolid is unusual – in an excellent, non-conforming manner. Key weaves a captivating narrative such that every line, holds you bound in the same ether of eager curiosity that had our main character following David; despite his reservations, to the end.
The author’s style of wafting between a recount of past events to a layout of present circumstances in a coherent nexus adds the spice to what is already a tantalizing, mouth-watering broth.
The despondency of Stolid's introspection gets so infectious as the book progresses, the reader is drawn into the same haunting depression that dogged his life -with little bursts of sunshine quickly hidden behind storm clouds as if, like he has denied Stolid, Key intends to deny his audience any lasting corporeal bliss. You’re at the edge of your seat, nails digging into the frame, brows furrowed in confused understanding, heart pounding as each new page breaks you down only to have its successor build you up again so you can be broken down some more by what comes next!
One of the beauties of this book for me is how it starts to blur into a more poetic style as it goes further; I love literature that makes me question the lines of reality and sanity, and drowning in Stolid, I begin to feel myself slip into a similar state of confusion and madness that I have judged Stolid for. I ponder, "what is, and what is not?", "what makes sense, and what doesn't?"
Melancholy, I dare say is a more adept provoker of emotions and nexus than rainbows and bright laughter, and Key possesses a mastery of them which he has not spared a pinch of in this absolute masterpiece! Love is a powerful force, but a more powerful force which we often times do not give credence to nor acknowledge as we should is the devastating sense of loss and oblivion-plunging despair that follows the exit of a love we have learned to give our entirety to; that, in my opinion, is the tragedy of Stolid. Life and living are easy when we know that the world thinks so lowly of us -and are comfortable in that knowledge, as well as in the worthlessness and inconsequentiality of our being. To find a reason to hope, to think a tad more of ourself, to open up to a greater possibility; to reach for that silver lining that we hitherto regarded as illusion, only to have it snatched away right as we shatter our walls and feel shatters us in irreparable ways, such that we're left the worse than when we lived in our blissful ignorance of life's pleasures.
Key's descriptive style builds concrete structures of his words, so that you read about hills overlooking seas like you're standing there with the salty air on your lips. There's a pastoral aura to the words, as if one is reading ancient history from an old desk in an old library, living in the old England that the timeline mirrors.
His use of literary devices is uncanny, I especially found one paradox most beautiful; "...but I was not a violent person. The thought of violence made me angry enough to wish to kill." This made me scream!
At the end of the tortuous journey Stolid embarks on that night, we find the clarity that has burdened -yet evaded- us. Stolid comes face to face with himself, with himself at his worst, and like the biblical depiction of Jacob wrestling God's angel, overcomes and emerges all the better for it.
What a spectacular denouement to a devastating theatrical rollercoaster! I, without pause, recommend this to anyone who considers themself a subscriber to the bending of literary status-quo. Cheers.
The author’s style of wafting between a recount of past events to a layout of present circumstances in a coherent nexus adds the spice to what is already a tantalizing, mouth-watering broth.
The despondency of Stolid's introspection gets so infectious as the book progresses, the reader is drawn into the same haunting depression that dogged his life -with little bursts of sunshine quickly hidden behind storm clouds as if, like he has denied Stolid, Key intends to deny his audience any lasting corporeal bliss. You’re at the edge of your seat, nails digging into the frame, brows furrowed in confused understanding, heart pounding as each new page breaks you down only to have its successor build you up again so you can be broken down some more by what comes next!
One of the beauties of this book for me is how it starts to blur into a more poetic style as it goes further; I love literature that makes me question the lines of reality and sanity, and drowning in Stolid, I begin to feel myself slip into a similar state of confusion and madness that I have judged Stolid for. I ponder, "what is, and what is not?", "what makes sense, and what doesn't?"
Melancholy, I dare say is a more adept provoker of emotions and nexus than rainbows and bright laughter, and Key possesses a mastery of them which he has not spared a pinch of in this absolute masterpiece! Love is a powerful force, but a more powerful force which we often times do not give credence to nor acknowledge as we should is the devastating sense of loss and oblivion-plunging despair that follows the exit of a love we have learned to give our entirety to; that, in my opinion, is the tragedy of Stolid. Life and living are easy when we know that the world thinks so lowly of us -and are comfortable in that knowledge, as well as in the worthlessness and inconsequentiality of our being. To find a reason to hope, to think a tad more of ourself, to open up to a greater possibility; to reach for that silver lining that we hitherto regarded as illusion, only to have it snatched away right as we shatter our walls and feel shatters us in irreparable ways, such that we're left the worse than when we lived in our blissful ignorance of life's pleasures.
Key's descriptive style builds concrete structures of his words, so that you read about hills overlooking seas like you're standing there with the salty air on your lips. There's a pastoral aura to the words, as if one is reading ancient history from an old desk in an old library, living in the old England that the timeline mirrors.
His use of literary devices is uncanny, I especially found one paradox most beautiful; "...but I was not a violent person. The thought of violence made me angry enough to wish to kill." This made me scream!
At the end of the tortuous journey Stolid embarks on that night, we find the clarity that has burdened -yet evaded- us. Stolid comes face to face with himself, with himself at his worst, and like the biblical depiction of Jacob wrestling God's angel, overcomes and emerges all the better for it.
What a spectacular denouement to a devastating theatrical rollercoaster! I, without pause, recommend this to anyone who considers themself a subscriber to the bending of literary status-quo. Cheers.
November 25, 2025
"The waves breaking on the cliffs below me were in a language so ancient that I didn't know its name and yet the voices reminded me of a thousand half-truths."
A one-of-a-kind literary romance that follows a man as he relates his journey through early adulthood to a stranger.
Mixing raw, unfiltered emotions, with often painfully relatable everyday moments, one can't help getting sucked into Stolid's yearning for belonging.
The narrative follows a similar introspective theme as the second half of book 2 in the series (Damon Ich), but delved much deeper into the psyche of the main character.
Stolid, as a narrator, has an entertaining and engaging point of view. His youth shines through his calm exterior. While he appears balanced, his inner turmoil is worked though in poetic, philosophical, and sometimes dark scenes.
Switching between the present and the past was a little confusing, but thankfully book one in the series (Herai), which had two timelines to follow, had prepared me in a way.
It's possible that the author has an intricate overarching plot that weaves all the books in the series together.
It was eye-opening to read an LGBTQ+ romance set in a time when one had to stay closeted because of the law. It's easy to forget the struggles of those who came before us in terms of civil rights.
I do wish there was a little more context regarding the place and time the book is set in. However, I cannot fault the author's setting descriptions and internal dialogue. When reading about weather changes, I saw, heard, and felt them; when Stolid visited places for the first time, I felt his apprehension.
As with the first two books in the series, the nature descriptions are spectacular - definitely my favourite parts of the book. Aaron D. Key is clearly skilled in world-building in both a fantasy and real-world setting.
Apart from Stolid and his lovers, there aren't too many characters in the book. Those included, expose parts of Stolid's personality and psyche. Some characters have complicated connections with each other, which gets a bit messy - an accurate metaphor for real life.
I did have a slight moral dilemma regarding Stolid's age. Would it have been different if he was an 18 year old woman in these relationships? A touchy subject that would possibly be interpreted differently by each reader.
Stolid and the stranger have cryptic conversations throughout the book, to the point that I could not guess at their relationship, nor how the end would play out. The conclusion is unexpected, punchy, and skillfully written.
Recommended to fans of literary fiction, like works by Jane Austen, as well as introspective works like the short stories of Paul Bowles.
Many thanks to Booktasters and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A one-of-a-kind literary romance that follows a man as he relates his journey through early adulthood to a stranger.
Mixing raw, unfiltered emotions, with often painfully relatable everyday moments, one can't help getting sucked into Stolid's yearning for belonging.
The narrative follows a similar introspective theme as the second half of book 2 in the series (Damon Ich), but delved much deeper into the psyche of the main character.
Stolid, as a narrator, has an entertaining and engaging point of view. His youth shines through his calm exterior. While he appears balanced, his inner turmoil is worked though in poetic, philosophical, and sometimes dark scenes.
Switching between the present and the past was a little confusing, but thankfully book one in the series (Herai), which had two timelines to follow, had prepared me in a way.
It's possible that the author has an intricate overarching plot that weaves all the books in the series together.
It was eye-opening to read an LGBTQ+ romance set in a time when one had to stay closeted because of the law. It's easy to forget the struggles of those who came before us in terms of civil rights.
I do wish there was a little more context regarding the place and time the book is set in. However, I cannot fault the author's setting descriptions and internal dialogue. When reading about weather changes, I saw, heard, and felt them; when Stolid visited places for the first time, I felt his apprehension.
As with the first two books in the series, the nature descriptions are spectacular - definitely my favourite parts of the book. Aaron D. Key is clearly skilled in world-building in both a fantasy and real-world setting.
Apart from Stolid and his lovers, there aren't too many characters in the book. Those included, expose parts of Stolid's personality and psyche. Some characters have complicated connections with each other, which gets a bit messy - an accurate metaphor for real life.
I did have a slight moral dilemma regarding Stolid's age. Would it have been different if he was an 18 year old woman in these relationships? A touchy subject that would possibly be interpreted differently by each reader.
Stolid and the stranger have cryptic conversations throughout the book, to the point that I could not guess at their relationship, nor how the end would play out. The conclusion is unexpected, punchy, and skillfully written.
Recommended to fans of literary fiction, like works by Jane Austen, as well as introspective works like the short stories of Paul Bowles.
Many thanks to Booktasters and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2024
Stolid by Aaron D. Key explores the life of a man who goes by the name Stolid, striving to embody calmness and emotional restraint. Set in 1983 UK, where it is illegal for a gay man under 21 to engage in sexual activity, the novel delves into Stolid's relationships and his journey towards self-acceptance. After a life of turmoil, Stolid hitchhikes one rainy evening and meets a mysterious driver who claims to know him. Through flashbacks, the story unravels Stolid's past relationships and the significant moments that have shaped his life.
Stolid offers a unique premise, focusing on themes of identity, societal prejudice, and the quest for love. The narrative structure, alternating between past and present, adds depth to Stolid's character and his experiences. The flashbacks effectively highlight the key relationships in Stolid's life, particularly with Joseph and Jonathan, portraying the complexities and insecurities they face.
The writing is detailed and poetic, immersing the reader in vivid scenes. However, the prose can be overly complex, making it challenging to follow the plot at times. The introspective nature of the writing, while insightful, occasionally hinders the narrative's flow, leaving some aspects feeling disconnected.
The mysterious driver serves as an engaging element, keeping the reader invested and questioning his true identity and motives. This suspense adds a layer of intrigue to the story, though the eventual payoff may not fully satisfy all readers.
Overall, Stolid is a thought-provoking novel with rich descriptions and emotional depth. However, the heavy prose and introspective style may not appeal to everyone, making it a solid but not exceptional read.
Stolid offers a unique premise, focusing on themes of identity, societal prejudice, and the quest for love. The narrative structure, alternating between past and present, adds depth to Stolid's character and his experiences. The flashbacks effectively highlight the key relationships in Stolid's life, particularly with Joseph and Jonathan, portraying the complexities and insecurities they face.
The writing is detailed and poetic, immersing the reader in vivid scenes. However, the prose can be overly complex, making it challenging to follow the plot at times. The introspective nature of the writing, while insightful, occasionally hinders the narrative's flow, leaving some aspects feeling disconnected.
The mysterious driver serves as an engaging element, keeping the reader invested and questioning his true identity and motives. This suspense adds a layer of intrigue to the story, though the eventual payoff may not fully satisfy all readers.
Overall, Stolid is a thought-provoking novel with rich descriptions and emotional depth. However, the heavy prose and introspective style may not appeal to everyone, making it a solid but not exceptional read.
July 10, 2024
3.5/5
It was a fascinating reading.
In this book, we follow Stolid on his self-acceptance journey. We meet his past lovers and all the trouble and growth they have brought him.
Among the things I liked, was the character of Stolid. I think of him as a really genuine person, naive in a lot of aspects, but curious and afraid of answers. For example, his sexuality and how he deals with it. Also, I liked the complex relationship between Johnathon, Timonthy, Lizzie and Stolid. All the emotions, the feelings and the drama between them were interesting and compelling.
The narrative was clever and even poetic at times; it had a good cadence and rhythm although the flashbacks were a little messy for me, I got lost at times, and it was a little confusing at first. Also, I would have liked if there was more focus in the historical context, considering the homosexuality theme.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed Stolid's memoir a lot, and the end was fantastic.
It was a fascinating reading.
In this book, we follow Stolid on his self-acceptance journey. We meet his past lovers and all the trouble and growth they have brought him.
Among the things I liked, was the character of Stolid. I think of him as a really genuine person, naive in a lot of aspects, but curious and afraid of answers. For example, his sexuality and how he deals with it. Also, I liked the complex relationship between Johnathon, Timonthy, Lizzie and Stolid. All the emotions, the feelings and the drama between them were interesting and compelling.
The narrative was clever and even poetic at times; it had a good cadence and rhythm although the flashbacks were a little messy for me, I got lost at times, and it was a little confusing at first. Also, I would have liked if there was more focus in the historical context, considering the homosexuality theme.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed Stolid's memoir a lot, and the end was fantastic.
June 9, 2025
Stolid by Aaron D. Key is a powerful story set in the 1980s about a man named Stolid who is trying to understand himself and his place in the world. The book explores his journey through love, loneliness, and finding self-acceptance, especially as he faces prejudice for being gay.
The story begins with a mysterious ride in the rain and unfolds through flashbacks, showing key relationships that shaped Stolid’s life. The author uses deep, emotional language and vivid descriptions that make the story feel real and moving. Some parts might be confusing due to the jumps in time and complex sentences, but the message remains strong.
This book is recommended for adult readers who enjoy emotional, thought-provoking stories with LGBTQ+ themes. The story touches on important topics like identity, love, and isolation. It’s beautifully written and leaves you thinking even after you finish reading.
The story begins with a mysterious ride in the rain and unfolds through flashbacks, showing key relationships that shaped Stolid’s life. The author uses deep, emotional language and vivid descriptions that make the story feel real and moving. Some parts might be confusing due to the jumps in time and complex sentences, but the message remains strong.
This book is recommended for adult readers who enjoy emotional, thought-provoking stories with LGBTQ+ themes. The story touches on important topics like identity, love, and isolation. It’s beautifully written and leaves you thinking even after you finish reading.
June 8, 2022
If you've read Herai and Damon Ich, Stolid may seem like a departure from the previous volumes in the Wheel of Eight. But not everything is as it seems, and this feels like the beginning of a new thread that Aaron Key will eventually weave into the larger picture.
One cold, rainy night, a man who calls himself Stolid is picked up while hitchhiking by a young, oddly familiar stranger. Stolid can't place him, but before he knows it, the man has taken him far off the beaten path, then encourages Stolid to tell him of his past. While Stolid recounts his story of love, loss, and the trials of being a gay man discovering himself in 1980s England, the mystery of his strange companion's identity deepens, culminating in a satisfying conclusion.
(Want more? Aaron's offering teasers of book 5, which concerns many of the characters introduced in Stolid, on his blog: aarondkey.com.)
One cold, rainy night, a man who calls himself Stolid is picked up while hitchhiking by a young, oddly familiar stranger. Stolid can't place him, but before he knows it, the man has taken him far off the beaten path, then encourages Stolid to tell him of his past. While Stolid recounts his story of love, loss, and the trials of being a gay man discovering himself in 1980s England, the mystery of his strange companion's identity deepens, culminating in a satisfying conclusion.
(Want more? Aaron's offering teasers of book 5, which concerns many of the characters introduced in Stolid, on his blog: aarondkey.com.)
September 16, 2022
Stolid by Aaron D. Key is the third installment to the wheel of Eight series. Not having read the first three books in the series, the story of Stolid can be read as a stand alone. The story follows a young man who goes by the name Stolid who runs away from his home and comes across a mysterious individual who offers him a ride and states that they know him. Although Stolid does not recall ever meeting them he attempts to figure out how they have crossed paths before and begins to exchanges past experiences, while attempting to recall his memories of when he could have possibly met this mysterious individual.
A very thought provoking complex read with a personal journey filled with queer characters trying to navigate in a world that would not let them love openly.
I was hoping that there would be more drama revolving around the UK illegalization of homosexuality, and how the main character would struggle through more political injustices rather than personal romantic drama.
Although it had a beautiful well written inner monologue for the main character at times it felt overly drawn on and personally I would have enjoyed more of a worldly struggle along with the personal strife.
Reccomended for advanced readers who are open to and enjoy reading the personal battles and romantic strifes of a gay man.
A very thought provoking complex read with a personal journey filled with queer characters trying to navigate in a world that would not let them love openly.
I was hoping that there would be more drama revolving around the UK illegalization of homosexuality, and how the main character would struggle through more political injustices rather than personal romantic drama.
Although it had a beautiful well written inner monologue for the main character at times it felt overly drawn on and personally I would have enjoyed more of a worldly struggle along with the personal strife.
Reccomended for advanced readers who are open to and enjoy reading the personal battles and romantic strifes of a gay man.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2024
Stolid by Aaron D. Key is a thought-provoking exploration of resilience and the human psyche under pressure. The novel centers on Jack Nolan, a man who prides himself on being unshakeable, or “stolid,” in the face of life’s adversities. As Jack encounters a series of intense personal and professional challenges, Key deftly peels back his protagonist’s layers, revealing the emotional toll hidden beneath his stoic facade. Key’s writing is both introspective and raw, inviting readers to question the cost of emotional suppression and what it means to truly confront one’s vulnerabilities. Although at times heavy, Stolid is a rewarding journey for those drawn to deep character studies and explorations of inner strength.
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February 10, 2025Stolid contains beautifully descriptive writing, constantly painting pictures not just with the visual sense but also the other sense as well. It feels immersive, which is my favorite part of the book. However, at times, the nonlinear plot and sometimes vague and alternating conversations with the quick switching of scenes between the past and present made it a challenging read for me. While the themes are powerful and the plot remains interesting, the storytelling can feel confusing at times. Recommended for readers who enjoy literary fiction with a reflective, abstract style and people who might be interested in a story set in the 1980s in the UK from the perspective of a teen as he navigates a lot of internal struggles, having gone through loss and love.
February 20, 2025
This is the third book in the Wheel of Eight series by this author. I've read the previous two books in this series, and this one felt different. The story didn't seem related to the previous two books, and the world portrayed here seemed to come to life differently. I also felt that I connected more deeply with the characters.
This was beautifully written, and at the start, I was beguiled by both the narrator, and the young man. Both characters seemed ambiguous to me, and I somehow felt as though I already knew them. It was an odd feeling, but not unpleasant.
The story of Stolid also made me think about the complexity of love and how it can't be easily explained. It didn't take long to read, but it was a unique and special story.
This was beautifully written, and at the start, I was beguiled by both the narrator, and the young man. Both characters seemed ambiguous to me, and I somehow felt as though I already knew them. It was an odd feeling, but not unpleasant.
The story of Stolid also made me think about the complexity of love and how it can't be easily explained. It didn't take long to read, but it was a unique and special story.
November 29, 2024
I really liked the general premise of this, and I liked the flashbacks into his life experiences. I feel like what hindered my full enjoyment of this was that it was really slow in some places and might have dragged a bit. But I really liked the writing, I enjoyed the mystery of who the other man was (even though it go on my nerves sometimes, because dude just say who you are. (I'm glad my initial suspicion turned out to be right)), and I loved the ending.
I should say that I still maintain Jonathon (and those his friends) wasn't good for him at all, and I wish he left.
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
I should say that I still maintain Jonathon (and those his friends) wasn't good for him at all, and I wish he left.
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2024
What a book man!
It's not easy to be a gay man in 1981.
And he runs away from home and if he survived the night is the main story. In which different time travel. And timelines are there.
What I loved about this book is its narrative style. Very calm and composing style. Very distinctive voice. And the building of characters is too good.
The emotional weight throughout the book is good. But the anticipation of readers catches it with it.
And description of very different timelines is good
Overall very good attempt.
It's not easy to be a gay man in 1981.
And he runs away from home and if he survived the night is the main story. In which different time travel. And timelines are there.
What I loved about this book is its narrative style. Very calm and composing style. Very distinctive voice. And the building of characters is too good.
The emotional weight throughout the book is good. But the anticipation of readers catches it with it.
And description of very different timelines is good
Overall very good attempt.
August 21, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much.. the writing style is so poetic and philosophical.. the characters are so deep and interesting , I liked the complexity of Lizzie .. the love story between Jonathan and stolid was frustrating and beautiful, and realistic , just like how many people/our lovers in real life disappoint us . The revealing of who was “the young man” in the end of the story was shocking .. it’s a beautiful story of accepting oneself and not running away from it .. I really enjoyed this one definitely 5 stars
September 20, 2022
Read book 2 earlier this year and it was fantastic. When I saw this book was out, I had to pick it up.
It has a slow pace, and it's more of a bildungsroman (The writing kind of reminded me of 'A Little Life'). There is a significant focus on the characters and their development.
I wish there were more to the ending, but I guess I'll have to wait a bit. I wrote a more thorough review that I will post later on.
It has a slow pace, and it's more of a bildungsroman (The writing kind of reminded me of 'A Little Life'). There is a significant focus on the characters and their development.
I wish there were more to the ending, but I guess I'll have to wait a bit. I wrote a more thorough review that I will post later on.
February 28, 2025
A curious read
This book tells the story of Stolid, a character who seems to be lacking the desire to maintain a solid relationship as he drifts through life from one sexual encounter to another. I found it difficult to read as I struggled to relate to the character, although some parts were well written in the descriptive sense, but the main character remained an enigma to me. Others may find this fascinating, but unfortunately it just wasn’t my cup of tea..
This book tells the story of Stolid, a character who seems to be lacking the desire to maintain a solid relationship as he drifts through life from one sexual encounter to another. I found it difficult to read as I struggled to relate to the character, although some parts were well written in the descriptive sense, but the main character remained an enigma to me. Others may find this fascinating, but unfortunately it just wasn’t my cup of tea..
July 11, 2022
I previously read and reviewed Damon Ich, but this book fellt like a
new excellent story. I enjoyed the thread and the characters of the book
very much, as well as the cover. I hope there will be new books of
Aaron D. Key soon.
If you like to read wonderful literary novels, don't hesitate to take this
book about Stolid.
Without no doubt I want to give Stolid a 5 star rating!
new excellent story. I enjoyed the thread and the characters of the book
very much, as well as the cover. I hope there will be new books of
Aaron D. Key soon.
If you like to read wonderful literary novels, don't hesitate to take this
book about Stolid.
Without no doubt I want to give Stolid a 5 star rating!
September 9, 2024
Human psychology is extremely complicated but it doesn't mean that our thought process or our spiritual feelings aren't fluid or we have fixed identities. It's super hard to sometimes find our true identity. This book touches some sensitive topics which may not be relevant or interesting for wider audience but still shows how complex the human nature and experiences can be.
November 15, 2024
This whole book is about a gay guy... Stolid
Nowadays even it's little bit normal to be a gay but that time it was sin..
That young boy struggle and adventure..
Whose life changed after a plot.. It was little unexpected and thriller for me.. Adventures past and story twist which gonna make you stay..
I am pretty sure if you start the story you are not gonna take it down.. Like me
Nowadays even it's little bit normal to be a gay but that time it was sin..
That young boy struggle and adventure..
Whose life changed after a plot.. It was little unexpected and thriller for me.. Adventures past and story twist which gonna make you stay..
I am pretty sure if you start the story you are not gonna take it down.. Like me
November 22, 2024
A heart-warming tale that should be read by people who love romance novels. Its story is rich in characters, emotions, conflicts, and plot-twists.
November 25, 2024
𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝 - 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧.
But when he grows older, and tragedy strikes the world becomes too much. One evening he runs away, hitchhikes, and is picked up by a man who claims to know him. He's taken to an empty place at night. He can escape but chooses not to.
The stranger's motives are obscure, but it turns out Stolid is his own worst enemy. The man convinces Stolid he does know him as they exchange memories, and the evening grows mysterious.
Stolid by Aaron D Key begins with a man thumbing a lift in the torrential rain, a young man pulls over, and the rain-drenched Stolid gets in the car, believing he has a lift to London.
Stolid is lulled to sleep by the warmth. When he wakes up, the vehicle is parked in a layby on a quiet lane. The young driver tells Stolid that he knows him and only went out that evening to find him. Stolid's story is then told through flashbacks of his life.
Stolid had two relationships with older men. He was sleeping rough when Joseph offered him a place to stay. Stolid realizes he has romantic feelings for Joseph; sadly, the relationship does not last Joseph and Stolid have too many insecurities about their sexuality.
Stolid meets Jonathan things are looking up for Stolid. He has passed his exams and has been offered the two jobs he has interviewed for. So, what has led to him being out in the pouring rain and accepting a lift from a strange young man? Moreover, does Stolid learn who the young man is?
Aaron D Key is a very talented writer. I love his descriptions which are almost poetic at times, e.g. page seventy-three, " I walked between the houses to the sewer stream where a fatted moon's reflection split into a moving picture of stained glass punched with light".
I enjoyed STOLID, an excellent literary novel that chronicles a man’s relationships and his eventual journey toward self-acceptance. We meet up with Stolid outside in the rain when he meets a mysterious young man hitchhiking and accepts a ride to London.
Throughout the novel, which visits different timelines, we see different people and relationships that have been important in Stolid’s life.
I particularly enjoyed the chapters with Joseph and the troubled relationship Joseph had with his father, as well as their slow-burn attraction, the relationship with Johnathan, and all the interesting scenes they shared.
Timothy and Lizzie were interesting characters as well. Lots of drama, past exes, and entanglements twist this story together into a clever narrative as the story drives towards the end, and Stolid ultimately questions who the man he met at the beginning of the book is and for what purpose he picked him up in his car.
But when he grows older, and tragedy strikes the world becomes too much. One evening he runs away, hitchhikes, and is picked up by a man who claims to know him. He's taken to an empty place at night. He can escape but chooses not to.
The stranger's motives are obscure, but it turns out Stolid is his own worst enemy. The man convinces Stolid he does know him as they exchange memories, and the evening grows mysterious.
Stolid by Aaron D Key begins with a man thumbing a lift in the torrential rain, a young man pulls over, and the rain-drenched Stolid gets in the car, believing he has a lift to London.
Stolid is lulled to sleep by the warmth. When he wakes up, the vehicle is parked in a layby on a quiet lane. The young driver tells Stolid that he knows him and only went out that evening to find him. Stolid's story is then told through flashbacks of his life.
Stolid had two relationships with older men. He was sleeping rough when Joseph offered him a place to stay. Stolid realizes he has romantic feelings for Joseph; sadly, the relationship does not last Joseph and Stolid have too many insecurities about their sexuality.
Stolid meets Jonathan things are looking up for Stolid. He has passed his exams and has been offered the two jobs he has interviewed for. So, what has led to him being out in the pouring rain and accepting a lift from a strange young man? Moreover, does Stolid learn who the young man is?
Aaron D Key is a very talented writer. I love his descriptions which are almost poetic at times, e.g. page seventy-three, " I walked between the houses to the sewer stream where a fatted moon's reflection split into a moving picture of stained glass punched with light".
I enjoyed STOLID, an excellent literary novel that chronicles a man’s relationships and his eventual journey toward self-acceptance. We meet up with Stolid outside in the rain when he meets a mysterious young man hitchhiking and accepts a ride to London.
Throughout the novel, which visits different timelines, we see different people and relationships that have been important in Stolid’s life.
I particularly enjoyed the chapters with Joseph and the troubled relationship Joseph had with his father, as well as their slow-burn attraction, the relationship with Johnathan, and all the interesting scenes they shared.
Timothy and Lizzie were interesting characters as well. Lots of drama, past exes, and entanglements twist this story together into a clever narrative as the story drives towards the end, and Stolid ultimately questions who the man he met at the beginning of the book is and for what purpose he picked him up in his car.
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