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Handle With Care
Despite all these years apart and knowing my best friend is straight, my feelings for him haven’t changed. Sometimes, I wish I wasn’t so broken, maybe then I could speak my truth.
Starting over was never going to be easy. I’d spent over a decade ruining my life, and the whole point of returning to Cresson Point was to finally make a genuine attempt to fix everything I’d screwed up. Years of alcohol, drugs, and…other things would haunt me forever, but I was clean and sober now, and this was the first real chance I’d given myself.
It didn’t take long to realize just how hard it was going to be. Panic attacks, people tiptoeing around me…temptation everywhere. They say yesterday’s pain is today’s strength, and I had to figure out how to live my life while facing the demons of my past. That included a few surprises, like running into Owen. Oh God, Owen! There were so many secrets, but he had always been strong, my safe haven, and maybe this was my chance to finally make things right. My feelings for my straight, former best friend hadn’t changed, but why was he so determined to have me back in his life?
Suddenly, getting my life back on track felt even more important. If anyone besides my siblings deserved to see me at my best, it was Owen.
All I could do was try…day by day.
Despite the secrets, the heartache, the pain, and so many missed opportunities. Will Robin be able to overcome his demons? Can he recapture his friendship with Owen, and will there ever be a chance of…more?
***
This is a slow-burn, bisexual, second chances romance with a friends-to-lovers storyline and, of course, a happy ending.
Starting over was never going to be easy. I’d spent over a decade ruining my life, and the whole point of returning to Cresson Point was to finally make a genuine attempt to fix everything I’d screwed up. Years of alcohol, drugs, and…other things would haunt me forever, but I was clean and sober now, and this was the first real chance I’d given myself.
It didn’t take long to realize just how hard it was going to be. Panic attacks, people tiptoeing around me…temptation everywhere. They say yesterday’s pain is today’s strength, and I had to figure out how to live my life while facing the demons of my past. That included a few surprises, like running into Owen. Oh God, Owen! There were so many secrets, but he had always been strong, my safe haven, and maybe this was my chance to finally make things right. My feelings for my straight, former best friend hadn’t changed, but why was he so determined to have me back in his life?
Suddenly, getting my life back on track felt even more important. If anyone besides my siblings deserved to see me at my best, it was Owen.
All I could do was try…day by day.
Despite the secrets, the heartache, the pain, and so many missed opportunities. Will Robin be able to overcome his demons? Can he recapture his friendship with Owen, and will there ever be a chance of…more?
***
This is a slow-burn, bisexual, second chances romance with a friends-to-lovers storyline and, of course, a happy ending.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2022
146 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Romeo Alexander
93 books642 followersRomeo Alexander lives in Michigan, USA, with his dog and two cats. As a certified night owl, coffee and a wicked sense of humor keep him going most days, as does playing with flavors in the kitchen.
As a proud gay man, Romeo doesn't just write characters—he breathes life into them, infusing them with real-world trials, tribulations, and triumphant love stories. He doesn't just believe in love; he champions it, weaving narratives that prove love's healing power time and again.
Ready for some heart-melting, tear-jerking, and smile-inducing stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page? Dive into Romeo Alexander's world where love always finds a way. Sign up for his newsletter to be the first to know about his latest literary adventures and grab some freebies along the way! https://romeoalexander.com/newsletter
As a proud gay man, Romeo doesn't just write characters—he breathes life into them, infusing them with real-world trials, tribulations, and triumphant love stories. He doesn't just believe in love; he champions it, weaving narratives that prove love's healing power time and again.
Ready for some heart-melting, tear-jerking, and smile-inducing stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page? Dive into Romeo Alexander's world where love always finds a way. Sign up for his newsletter to be the first to know about his latest literary adventures and grab some freebies along the way! https://romeoalexander.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 23, 2026
POSSIBLE TRIGGER WARNINGS: Severe Depression, Alcoholism & Abuse
Despite all these years apart and knowing my best friend is straight, my feelings for him haven’t changed. Sometimes, I wish I wasn’t so broken, maybe then I could speak my truth.
Please be aware that this is an extremely emotional story and not always an easy read. It may be too much for some readers, so be sure to read the book description with the warnings, as well as the possible "triggers".
Robin was coming home; something he thought he would never do but he was coming to stay with his younger brother Able, his brother's boyfriend Kameron, and Dean, Abel's 8-year-old son...Robin's nephew that he had never met. Robin's and his brother's childhood had been a living, breathing nightmare. Their parents, especially their father, who refuses to die in spite of what we readers may wish, were nothing to "write home to mother about". His mother left years ago, and his father was an abusive, angry and completely intolerable, drunk. As the oldest he took care of his sister and brother, who you will meet in the previous books. Throughout his childhood, Robin had a "bestie", his friend Owen who he was secretly in love with. Owen was... or at least thought he was, straight... so he never told anyone how he also felt. Owen had left Cresson Point at 17 when he joined the Army, leaving Robin behind.
Robin started out searching for an escape from his life with alcohol and drugs when he was very young, so it was no big surprise that everything went downhill from there. In spite of his drinking, he always made sure that his younger brother and sister were taken care of, though they didn't have very much. Soon the drugs and the alcohol took over his entire life, and needless to say; he was a total mess. Things slightly improved when he had been alcohol and drug free for almost 2 years, and he was going back home hoping to restart his life. One night, shortly after his return, found him in a local night club, not to drink but just for the company...then a panic attack ended with a fight in the alleyway with the club's bouncer and the police were called. Robin was shocked when he saw that the police officer that answered the call was none other than his best friend Owen. Owen wants his friend back and between them they promise to just take one day at a time and take things slow... just get to know one another again.
This is a story about trauma, abuse and addiction but also about friendship and family. Your heart will break for Robin and for what life had handed him and all the reasons why. In spite of all his difficulties, we got to watch Robin grow and come into the man that he became by at the end of the story...but it seemed that it took forever to get there. I again will warn you that some of the subjects are depressing and could produce problems for some readers. However, I found this, in spite of the subject matter, to be another fantastic read from Romeo Alexander...but I would expect nothing less from this author!
Despite all these years apart and knowing my best friend is straight, my feelings for him haven’t changed. Sometimes, I wish I wasn’t so broken, maybe then I could speak my truth.
Please be aware that this is an extremely emotional story and not always an easy read. It may be too much for some readers, so be sure to read the book description with the warnings, as well as the possible "triggers".
Robin was coming home; something he thought he would never do but he was coming to stay with his younger brother Able, his brother's boyfriend Kameron, and Dean, Abel's 8-year-old son...Robin's nephew that he had never met. Robin's and his brother's childhood had been a living, breathing nightmare. Their parents, especially their father, who refuses to die in spite of what we readers may wish, were nothing to "write home to mother about". His mother left years ago, and his father was an abusive, angry and completely intolerable, drunk. As the oldest he took care of his sister and brother, who you will meet in the previous books. Throughout his childhood, Robin had a "bestie", his friend Owen who he was secretly in love with. Owen was... or at least thought he was, straight... so he never told anyone how he also felt. Owen had left Cresson Point at 17 when he joined the Army, leaving Robin behind.
Robin started out searching for an escape from his life with alcohol and drugs when he was very young, so it was no big surprise that everything went downhill from there. In spite of his drinking, he always made sure that his younger brother and sister were taken care of, though they didn't have very much. Soon the drugs and the alcohol took over his entire life, and needless to say; he was a total mess. Things slightly improved when he had been alcohol and drug free for almost 2 years, and he was going back home hoping to restart his life. One night, shortly after his return, found him in a local night club, not to drink but just for the company...then a panic attack ended with a fight in the alleyway with the club's bouncer and the police were called. Robin was shocked when he saw that the police officer that answered the call was none other than his best friend Owen. Owen wants his friend back and between them they promise to just take one day at a time and take things slow... just get to know one another again.
This is a story about trauma, abuse and addiction but also about friendship and family. Your heart will break for Robin and for what life had handed him and all the reasons why. In spite of all his difficulties, we got to watch Robin grow and come into the man that he became by at the end of the story...but it seemed that it took forever to get there. I again will warn you that some of the subjects are depressing and could produce problems for some readers. However, I found this, in spite of the subject matter, to be another fantastic read from Romeo Alexander...but I would expect nothing less from this author!
August 20, 2022
The good
+ Robin having Abel's support (and Kam's, but not in the way he wishes)
+ Kevin
+ Owen being an incredibly solid rock for Robin to lean on
+ Owen's honesty
+ Dean's acceptance of Robin
+ The kids at the youth center. Especially Robbie
+ Owen's promise he would drag Robin back if he ever ran again
+ When they finally confessed their feelings!
+ Robin's honesty about his past, and how it would impact their relationship
+ Owen's denial that it would cause a rift in their relationship, and promising to be patient
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Apparently, Robin's brother already has a book. I didn't know this, and I felt like I sometimes missed some essential backstory. Like why they would invest money in that piece of shit father
The bad
- I think Owen should have told Robin before they started their relationship. Yes, it made it easier for him to relate to Robin, but it could also be Robin's downfall. It was essential information to have in this situation
- They couldn't have sex right from the start of their relationship. But when they did, they immediately went all-in. Why? It felt like Robin's anxiety was pushed to the max for no real reason. They could have spread out their exploration with all kinds of other things (handjobs, frotting, anal play without penetration for example). There was also zero discussion about who would bottom, while I thought that was Robin's biggest trigger. Maybe switching it up would have made it easier for him. I would at least have preferred a little conversation on why that wasn't an option
This book was not an easy read. Robin's past (and present) is full of demons, and a journey like his is never simple. I loved Owen and the way he never treated Robin with kid gloves. Their relationship was sweet, and their lifelong friendship made them strong. I would probably recommend this book, but make sure you're in the right headspace for Robin's story.
+ Robin having Abel's support (and Kam's, but not in the way he wishes)
+ Kevin
+ Owen being an incredibly solid rock for Robin to lean on
+ Owen's honesty
+ Dean's acceptance of Robin
+ The kids at the youth center. Especially Robbie
+ Owen's promise he would drag Robin back if he ever ran again
+ When they finally confessed their feelings!
+ Robin's honesty about his past, and how it would impact their relationship
+ Owen's denial that it would cause a rift in their relationship, and promising to be patient
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Apparently, Robin's brother already has a book. I didn't know this, and I felt like I sometimes missed some essential backstory. Like why they would invest money in that piece of shit father
The bad
- I think Owen should have told Robin before they started their relationship. Yes, it made it easier for him to relate to Robin, but it could also be Robin's downfall. It was essential information to have in this situation
- They couldn't have sex right from the start of their relationship. But when they did, they immediately went all-in. Why? It felt like Robin's anxiety was pushed to the max for no real reason. They could have spread out their exploration with all kinds of other things (handjobs, frotting, anal play without penetration for example). There was also zero discussion about who would bottom, while I thought that was Robin's biggest trigger. Maybe switching it up would have made it easier for him. I would at least have preferred a little conversation on why that wasn't an option
This book was not an easy read. Robin's past (and present) is full of demons, and a journey like his is never simple. I loved Owen and the way he never treated Robin with kid gloves. Their relationship was sweet, and their lifelong friendship made them strong. I would probably recommend this book, but make sure you're in the right headspace for Robin's story.
March 28, 2023
Mogą być spoilery - z góry uprzedzam...
Trudna, emocjonalna podróż po postodwykowym świecie i próbie ułożenia sobie w nim życia.
Day by day... Little by little... Piece by piece...
Nie wiem, jak to jest być na odwyku - i mam nadzieję, że nigdy się nie dowiem. Nie wiem, jak to jest, kiedy z każdej strony atakują Cię pokusy, szepcząc, że to łatwe - jedna pięćdziesiątka czy jedna działka pozwoliłaby znowu zapomnieć, kiedy wszystko jest zbyt wyraziste, kiedy wszystko Cię przytłacza, kiedy jest wokół Ciebie za dużo bodźców. Nie wiem, jak to jest, kiedy od prawie 20 lat ataki paniki dopadają Cię w najmniej oczekiwanym momencie. Nie wiem, jak to jest próbować się ogarnąć w świecie, którego tak naprawdę nie znasz, bo całe swoje dorosłe życie - po wyjechaniu z rodzinnego miasta w wieku 18 lat - przemieszczałeś się z jednego miejsca do drugiego i byłeś albo nachalny, albo naćpany, albo sprzedawałeś się za kolejną działkę.
Ba, zacząłeś się tak naprawdę sprzedawać w wieku 15 lat, by zapewnić jedzenie, prąd, lekarstwa czy choćby nowe ubrania dla rodzeństwa, kiedy stare się rozpadały. Twoja matka dawno się zwinęła z tego domu, twój ojciec to przemocowy alkoholik, który ma gdzieś swoją trójkę dzieci i który nie zawaha się uderzyć na odlew czy złamać któremuś z Was nosa czy ręki. Jad i nienawiść do Was sączy się z niego równie łatwo jak woda z przeciekającego kranu. Jedzenie kupuje, kiedy sobie jakoś o tym przypomni - bez Ciebie wszyscy pewnie skonaliby z głodu w ciemny, zimnym domu. Próbujesz przytulać, pocieszać, rozśmieszać, opiekować się - a najśmieszniejsze chyba w tym wszystkim jest to, że jesteś z całej trójki najmniejszy, najłagodniejszy i najbardziej wrażliwy. Ale ty Ty podejmujesz najtrudniejsze decyzje, bo kochasz swoje rodzeństwo z całego serca, bezwarunkowo i nieskończenie. Jedyną osobą, która może im dorównać pod tym względem jest Owen - Twój najlepszy i jedyny przyjaciel, którego znasz od 6 roku życia, który okazuje się być Twoją pierwszą i jedyną miłością. Nie, żebyś mu o tym powiedział - boisz się nawet wspomnieć, że jesteś gejem, bo wydaje Ci się, że możesz go stracić. Niepotrzebnie...
Autor świetnie pokazał całą walkę Robina - kiedy po entym odwyku sponsorowanym za każdym razem przez rodzeństwo, w końcu mu się udało. Wszystko wydaje się niezmiernie wiarygodne - przynajmniej z mojego punktu widzenia, czyli osoby, która nie ma bladego pojęcia, jak jego zmaganie się z uzależnieniami powinno wyglądać. Ale przecież, nawet jeżeli się nie wie z doświadczenia, jak pewne rzeczy można przeżywać, to jednak czysty ludzki zdrowy rozum oraz jakaś ogólna wiedza podpowiadają, że coś w opisie jest nie tak, jak powinno, że coś nie gra, że kropki się nie łączą. Tutaj ani razu dzwonek alarmowy mi nie zadzwonił.
Świetnym zabiegiem również jest jeden POV - Owena dostajemy tylko w epilogu. Ale to pozwala zobaczyć oczami Robina, jak wszystko jest trudne - jakie ma wątpliwości, obawy, lęki, pokusy. Jak usiłuje trwać. Jak odnajduje powoli chęć do życia i jego cel, a nie tylko wegetuje. Jak nikogo nie oskarża o swoje wybory - w końcu tylko on je podejmował. Bo łatwo byłoby zrzucić odpowiedzialność na kogoś innego i mówić: to nie ja jestem winien, tylko okoliczności, pan X czy pan Y, rodzina, w której się urodziłem, czy cokolwiek innego. Nie, Robin przyjmuje pełną odpowiedzialność za to, jak potoczyło się jego życie. Jego POV jest tak poprowadzony, że naprawdę poznajemy również Owena, pomimo, iż nie siedzimy w jego głowie. Nie przeszkadzały również wrzucone raz na jakiś czas retrospekcje - powiedziałabym nawet, że tym razem były potrzebne (tak, wiem, nie cierpię ich generalnie, ale potrafię przyznać, kiedy robią dobrze historii - a to jest właśnie ten przypadek😁).
Tak naprawdę jeszcze drugie tyle mogłabym napisać o Owenie, który również szturmem mnie podbił i dorzucić jeszcze o Kamie, bracie Robina, którego znamy z pierwszego tomu, a który też jest ważną, choć drugoplanową tutaj postacią, ale wtedy ten komentarz byłby już nie po prostu długi, ale zarąbiście długi. Nie wiem nawet, jakim cudem tyle wyszło 👀
To historia o dobrych naprawdę ludziach, którzy mieli zdecydowanie pod górkę w życiu. Którzy podejmowali wybory, które w danej chwili wydawały im się najlepsze, a rzeczywistość to weryfikowała. Którzy wywalczyli sobie prawo zarówno do wszelkiego rodzaju miłości, jak i do dobrego, choć pełnego wybojów życia.
Czy historia Robina i Owena miała wady? Pewnie. Ale tak świetnie mi się czytało, nie mogłam się oderwać od książki, że nie mam zamiaru ich wyliczać. Nie warto, bo nie wpływają - przynajmniej na mój - odbiór historii.
Bez wahania - pełna piąteczka 💙
Trudna, emocjonalna podróż po postodwykowym świecie i próbie ułożenia sobie w nim życia.
Day by day... Little by little... Piece by piece...
Nie wiem, jak to jest być na odwyku - i mam nadzieję, że nigdy się nie dowiem. Nie wiem, jak to jest, kiedy z każdej strony atakują Cię pokusy, szepcząc, że to łatwe - jedna pięćdziesiątka czy jedna działka pozwoliłaby znowu zapomnieć, kiedy wszystko jest zbyt wyraziste, kiedy wszystko Cię przytłacza, kiedy jest wokół Ciebie za dużo bodźców. Nie wiem, jak to jest, kiedy od prawie 20 lat ataki paniki dopadają Cię w najmniej oczekiwanym momencie. Nie wiem, jak to jest próbować się ogarnąć w świecie, którego tak naprawdę nie znasz, bo całe swoje dorosłe życie - po wyjechaniu z rodzinnego miasta w wieku 18 lat - przemieszczałeś się z jednego miejsca do drugiego i byłeś albo nachalny, albo naćpany, albo sprzedawałeś się za kolejną działkę.
Ba, zacząłeś się tak naprawdę sprzedawać w wieku 15 lat, by zapewnić jedzenie, prąd, lekarstwa czy choćby nowe ubrania dla rodzeństwa, kiedy stare się rozpadały. Twoja matka dawno się zwinęła z tego domu, twój ojciec to przemocowy alkoholik, który ma gdzieś swoją trójkę dzieci i który nie zawaha się uderzyć na odlew czy złamać któremuś z Was nosa czy ręki. Jad i nienawiść do Was sączy się z niego równie łatwo jak woda z przeciekającego kranu. Jedzenie kupuje, kiedy sobie jakoś o tym przypomni - bez Ciebie wszyscy pewnie skonaliby z głodu w ciemny, zimnym domu. Próbujesz przytulać, pocieszać, rozśmieszać, opiekować się - a najśmieszniejsze chyba w tym wszystkim jest to, że jesteś z całej trójki najmniejszy, najłagodniejszy i najbardziej wrażliwy. Ale ty Ty podejmujesz najtrudniejsze decyzje, bo kochasz swoje rodzeństwo z całego serca, bezwarunkowo i nieskończenie. Jedyną osobą, która może im dorównać pod tym względem jest Owen - Twój najlepszy i jedyny przyjaciel, którego znasz od 6 roku życia, który okazuje się być Twoją pierwszą i jedyną miłością. Nie, żebyś mu o tym powiedział - boisz się nawet wspomnieć, że jesteś gejem, bo wydaje Ci się, że możesz go stracić. Niepotrzebnie...
Autor świetnie pokazał całą walkę Robina - kiedy po entym odwyku sponsorowanym za każdym razem przez rodzeństwo, w końcu mu się udało. Wszystko wydaje się niezmiernie wiarygodne - przynajmniej z mojego punktu widzenia, czyli osoby, która nie ma bladego pojęcia, jak jego zmaganie się z uzależnieniami powinno wyglądać. Ale przecież, nawet jeżeli się nie wie z doświadczenia, jak pewne rzeczy można przeżywać, to jednak czysty ludzki zdrowy rozum oraz jakaś ogólna wiedza podpowiadają, że coś w opisie jest nie tak, jak powinno, że coś nie gra, że kropki się nie łączą. Tutaj ani razu dzwonek alarmowy mi nie zadzwonił.
Świetnym zabiegiem również jest jeden POV - Owena dostajemy tylko w epilogu. Ale to pozwala zobaczyć oczami Robina, jak wszystko jest trudne - jakie ma wątpliwości, obawy, lęki, pokusy. Jak usiłuje trwać. Jak odnajduje powoli chęć do życia i jego cel, a nie tylko wegetuje. Jak nikogo nie oskarża o swoje wybory - w końcu tylko on je podejmował. Bo łatwo byłoby zrzucić odpowiedzialność na kogoś innego i mówić: to nie ja jestem winien, tylko okoliczności, pan X czy pan Y, rodzina, w której się urodziłem, czy cokolwiek innego. Nie, Robin przyjmuje pełną odpowiedzialność za to, jak potoczyło się jego życie. Jego POV jest tak poprowadzony, że naprawdę poznajemy również Owena, pomimo, iż nie siedzimy w jego głowie. Nie przeszkadzały również wrzucone raz na jakiś czas retrospekcje - powiedziałabym nawet, że tym razem były potrzebne (tak, wiem, nie cierpię ich generalnie, ale potrafię przyznać, kiedy robią dobrze historii - a to jest właśnie ten przypadek😁).
Tak naprawdę jeszcze drugie tyle mogłabym napisać o Owenie, który również szturmem mnie podbił i dorzucić jeszcze o Kamie, bracie Robina, którego znamy z pierwszego tomu, a który też jest ważną, choć drugoplanową tutaj postacią, ale wtedy ten komentarz byłby już nie po prostu długi, ale zarąbiście długi. Nie wiem nawet, jakim cudem tyle wyszło 👀
To historia o dobrych naprawdę ludziach, którzy mieli zdecydowanie pod górkę w życiu. Którzy podejmowali wybory, które w danej chwili wydawały im się najlepsze, a rzeczywistość to weryfikowała. Którzy wywalczyli sobie prawo zarówno do wszelkiego rodzaju miłości, jak i do dobrego, choć pełnego wybojów życia.
Czy historia Robina i Owena miała wady? Pewnie. Ale tak świetnie mi się czytało, nie mogłam się oderwać od książki, że nie mam zamiaru ich wyliczać. Nie warto, bo nie wpływają - przynajmniej na mój - odbiór historii.
Bez wahania - pełna piąteczka 💙
October 17, 2022
Cresson Point.
Robin has come home after visiting his sister, Olena and her family, to now be with his brother, Kameron, his partner, Abel, and his son Dean. He's been invited to stay, to give him support and safety.
Robin, 30s, on cover, smaller, blonde
and looks tired, is rehabbing nearly two years now from drugs and alcohol, hoping to start over and be successful in his struggles.
Owen, 36, dark hair, big and muscled, straight,
a cop after his Army stint, is Robin's straight BFF, always his safe place when younger.
Kameron, Olena and Robin lived in a home from hell in their childhood and survived. Robin had the hardest time recovering from that time with their drunk father and his beatings. His siblings don't know the extent of what he did to protect them and feed them, plus taking care of them both. Truths will be told, eventually. We get wonderful flashbacks that help us understand what his memories tell us.
It's a daily struggle, but he meets his oldest friend, gets work, fights with his brother, and keeps on trying to get through the days. He's doing better than he thinks.
Owen is a godsend, helping him, understanding, and accepting him as he is. The brother is negative and untrusting, which makes their time together awkward.
Owen and Robin hang out, tales are told, and past examined. Owen doesn't judge, just gives him a place to be himself, no strings.
Months down the road, we have more truths come out, Robin is helping at the LGBTQ Center, also, and a dangerous situation lands him in the hospital,
with Owen and his brother by his side.
Much more is going on as each person has deep thoughts, and Owen's secrets are out, too.
Their relationship takes awhile to bloom, and we get to see how these two men belong together.
Their are super sexy in their scenes,
and we want the best for them. They will make it, because it's them against the world, and they take life a day by day.
ENJOY !
=======
Robin has come home after visiting his sister, Olena and her family, to now be with his brother, Kameron, his partner, Abel, and his son Dean. He's been invited to stay, to give him support and safety.
Robin, 30s, on cover, smaller, blonde
and looks tired, is rehabbing nearly two years now from drugs and alcohol, hoping to start over and be successful in his struggles.
Owen, 36, dark hair, big and muscled, straight,
a cop after his Army stint, is Robin's straight BFF, always his safe place when younger.
Kameron, Olena and Robin lived in a home from hell in their childhood and survived. Robin had the hardest time recovering from that time with their drunk father and his beatings. His siblings don't know the extent of what he did to protect them and feed them, plus taking care of them both. Truths will be told, eventually. We get wonderful flashbacks that help us understand what his memories tell us.
It's a daily struggle, but he meets his oldest friend, gets work, fights with his brother, and keeps on trying to get through the days. He's doing better than he thinks.
Owen is a godsend, helping him, understanding, and accepting him as he is. The brother is negative and untrusting, which makes their time together awkward.
Owen and Robin hang out, tales are told, and past examined. Owen doesn't judge, just gives him a place to be himself, no strings.
Months down the road, we have more truths come out, Robin is helping at the LGBTQ Center, also, and a dangerous situation lands him in the hospital,
with Owen and his brother by his side. Much more is going on as each person has deep thoughts, and Owen's secrets are out, too.
Their relationship takes awhile to bloom, and we get to see how these two men belong together.
Their are super sexy in their scenes,
and we want the best for them. They will make it, because it's them against the world, and they take life a day by day.
ENJOY !
=======
August 11, 2022
Moving
What a lovely, moving story. Plot was good, and though this subject can be depressing, this celebrated the milestones. The characters were easy to relate to, and that always say the most to me in a book.
What a lovely, moving story. Plot was good, and though this subject can be depressing, this celebrated the milestones. The characters were easy to relate to, and that always say the most to me in a book.
August 26, 2022
Robin had such an emotional journey. Hard fought. He had practically raised his siblings and with his best friends moral support. When Owen left for the military, Robin declined big time, partying and making bad choices. One night Robin has a panic attack, and the police are called, Owen is the officer. The reconnect, taking things slowly. Overall, a fantastic story! Well written with fantastic pacing!.
July 6, 2023
Paperback review
Reading this the second time on Paperback was amazing, because I could read all Owen's words under a new light, knowing now what he was thinking.
kindle review here Handle With Care
Reading this the second time on Paperback was amazing, because I could read all Owen's words under a new light, knowing now what he was thinking.
kindle review here Handle With Care
Read
August 5, 2022dnf
November 14, 2025
The intro felt a bit too indulgent in rehashing Kameron and Abel's story. I think more focus should've been put on Robin since it felt more like he was reacting to the existing couple rather than establishing his own presence.
There was too much telling going on in the first 20%, particularly when Robin was riding in Owen's police car and he went on a long internal monologue about Owen and his personality. Why didn't we just get more examples of Owen's protective nature as opposed to being told he was? And again, the weird focus on Kameron and Abel took what little space was left from Robin. It felt like Robin was being defined by his interactions with his brother as opposed to being an individual that had agency and was supposed to be the MC.
And it just kept on happening. Robin watching Kameron and Abel arguing because Kameron was having a breakdown. I get taking care of an untrustworthy addict of a brother would be stressful, but GOD DAMN could Robin not get the focus on his book?
And uh ok, Owen was giving off VERY VERY large red flags. It's not romantic to grab someone's arm and forcibly reveal scars that Robin was hiding to make a point. It wasn't romantic to mean mug a guy you'd just basically claimed ownership over (also gross) as he was scared for his fucking life getting out of the car.
I couldn't buy into Robin and Owen's supposed best friendship. There just wasn't enough there to tell me these two had a history (which is wild considering the previous book did a very good job selling Kameron and Abel's past). In what seems to be an overcorrection, this book barely has any meaningful conversations between the MCs whereas the last one had too much.
The whole "everybody knows Robin and Owen are attracted to one another" schtick was funny the first time, then it just got tedious because it was so obvious. Same deal with the "everyone talks about Robin is outside the room as if he can't hear them" and the "strangers magically talk to Robin despite supposedly being guarded because he's somehow a very easy person to open up to"
I couldn't believe that Dane, one of Robin's first drug sources and pimps, was stupid enough to physically assault Robin out in public. I mean, he'd been presumably conducting his illegal business this entire time so you'd assume he would be more covert and aware of ways to not be caught red handed.
Kameron and Robin's argument was believable, though it felt weird that there was such strong conflict between an MC and a side character when there was comparatively little between the main pair. Idk why this story made the romance between Robin and Owen so fluffy and pushed all the conflict to be between Robin and Kameron when it could've been reversed to emphasize the actual romance and made Robin and Owen's love hard fought instead of Kameron and Robin's familial bond. Also, way to prove Kameron right. By Robin immediately choosing to go to a bat after their fight, he really wasn't doing himself any favors.
Robin starting off the bar chapter saying it was a bad idea (I mean obviously) was fine, but the fact that he stayed there for three hours wasn't. I mean, bruh, he had all the power to leave if he wasn't having a good time, but he didn't?
Also wtf was up with Owen randomly turning out to be an alcoholic? And wtf was up with that whole "I don't want you to fall off the wagon but I'm leaving these vodka shots right in front of you" thing? There's trusting someone to make the right choice but that was incredibly idiotic to do for someone who clearly struggled with his sobriety. People fall off the wagon, yeah, but leaving literal drinks in front of someone who struggled with them isn't them falling off the wagon, it's them being shoved to the edge. I have no clue what this scene was supposed to say because it was just a freaking mess.
I read the conclusion just to finish off this story, but I was not a fan. Between the lack of focus on Robin at the start, the weird choice to make Robin and Kameron's relationship be the source of conflict instead of Robin and Owen, and the baffling story choices (Robin going to bars all the time, dim-witted drug dealer, the last minute revelation of Owen's alcoholism, etc.) I just could not enjoy this book. 1.5 stars rounded up.
There was too much telling going on in the first 20%, particularly when Robin was riding in Owen's police car and he went on a long internal monologue about Owen and his personality. Why didn't we just get more examples of Owen's protective nature as opposed to being told he was? And again, the weird focus on Kameron and Abel took what little space was left from Robin. It felt like Robin was being defined by his interactions with his brother as opposed to being an individual that had agency and was supposed to be the MC.
And it just kept on happening. Robin watching Kameron and Abel arguing because Kameron was having a breakdown. I get taking care of an untrustworthy addict of a brother would be stressful, but GOD DAMN could Robin not get the focus on his book?
And uh ok, Owen was giving off VERY VERY large red flags. It's not romantic to grab someone's arm and forcibly reveal scars that Robin was hiding to make a point. It wasn't romantic to mean mug a guy you'd just basically claimed ownership over (also gross) as he was scared for his fucking life getting out of the car.
I couldn't buy into Robin and Owen's supposed best friendship. There just wasn't enough there to tell me these two had a history (which is wild considering the previous book did a very good job selling Kameron and Abel's past). In what seems to be an overcorrection, this book barely has any meaningful conversations between the MCs whereas the last one had too much.
The whole "everybody knows Robin and Owen are attracted to one another" schtick was funny the first time, then it just got tedious because it was so obvious. Same deal with the "everyone talks about Robin is outside the room as if he can't hear them" and the "strangers magically talk to Robin despite supposedly being guarded because he's somehow a very easy person to open up to"
I couldn't believe that Dane, one of Robin's first drug sources and pimps, was stupid enough to physically assault Robin out in public. I mean, he'd been presumably conducting his illegal business this entire time so you'd assume he would be more covert and aware of ways to not be caught red handed.
Kameron and Robin's argument was believable, though it felt weird that there was such strong conflict between an MC and a side character when there was comparatively little between the main pair. Idk why this story made the romance between Robin and Owen so fluffy and pushed all the conflict to be between Robin and Kameron when it could've been reversed to emphasize the actual romance and made Robin and Owen's love hard fought instead of Kameron and Robin's familial bond. Also, way to prove Kameron right. By Robin immediately choosing to go to a bat after their fight, he really wasn't doing himself any favors.
Robin starting off the bar chapter saying it was a bad idea (I mean obviously) was fine, but the fact that he stayed there for three hours wasn't. I mean, bruh, he had all the power to leave if he wasn't having a good time, but he didn't?
Also wtf was up with Owen randomly turning out to be an alcoholic? And wtf was up with that whole "I don't want you to fall off the wagon but I'm leaving these vodka shots right in front of you" thing? There's trusting someone to make the right choice but that was incredibly idiotic to do for someone who clearly struggled with his sobriety. People fall off the wagon, yeah, but leaving literal drinks in front of someone who struggled with them isn't them falling off the wagon, it's them being shoved to the edge. I have no clue what this scene was supposed to say because it was just a freaking mess.
I read the conclusion just to finish off this story, but I was not a fan. Between the lack of focus on Robin at the start, the weird choice to make Robin and Kameron's relationship be the source of conflict instead of Robin and Owen, and the baffling story choices (Robin going to bars all the time, dim-witted drug dealer, the last minute revelation of Owen's alcoholism, etc.) I just could not enjoy this book. 1.5 stars rounded up.
August 5, 2022
Wow so emotional a really good book
Robin was coming home to cresson point. Something he never thought he would do but he was coming to stay with his younger brother, his boyfriend Abel and his son Dean. Robin had not had the best upbringing. His mother runaway his dad was abusive and A drunk so as the oldest he took care of his sister & brother. Thankfully he had his best friend Owen who he was secretly in love with that. Owen was straight so he never said anything and at the age of 17 he went off and join the army leaving Robin behind. Robin started partaking in alcohol and drugs at a young age and everything went rapidly downhill from there. He always made sure his brother and sister were provided for that as he got older the drugs took over and life was then just a huge mess but he had been sober drug-free for nearly 2 years and he was back hoping to regain his life. But one night when he went out to a club just for the atmosphere he had a panic attack which the bouncers thought was him coming off bad drugs and it ended up with a fight near the alleyway and police called. but Robin got the shock of his life when the policeman that walked up to them was none other than his best mate Owen . Robin was so embarrassed that he would think now that he was on drugs again but it seemed Owen had changed to. Owen wanted his friend back and between them they promised to take one day at a time. Taking things slowly and just getting to know each other again .
To say I was an emotional wreck with this book was an understatement I honestly broke my heart for Robin when you hear something things he had been through and why. I think I would’ve gladly kissed Owen‘s feet as a thank you for the way that he treated Robin. The thing is his brother treated him like a piece of glass and if he did anything wrong or said the wrong thing Robin would shatter going straight back to the drugs. Where as Owen said it as it was. It was an absolute pleasure to watch Robin grow and come into the fine young man that he is at the end of this book and he really wouldnt have done that without Owen. I found the relationship between Robin and Dean very sweet. As well as with Abel. My heart broke for Robbins brother at times because you could tell he just wanted his brother back but really didn’t know how to do it for the best. I would happily re read this book right now I enjoyed it that much. Another fantastic read from Romeo.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Robin was coming home to cresson point. Something he never thought he would do but he was coming to stay with his younger brother, his boyfriend Abel and his son Dean. Robin had not had the best upbringing. His mother runaway his dad was abusive and A drunk so as the oldest he took care of his sister & brother. Thankfully he had his best friend Owen who he was secretly in love with that. Owen was straight so he never said anything and at the age of 17 he went off and join the army leaving Robin behind. Robin started partaking in alcohol and drugs at a young age and everything went rapidly downhill from there. He always made sure his brother and sister were provided for that as he got older the drugs took over and life was then just a huge mess but he had been sober drug-free for nearly 2 years and he was back hoping to regain his life. But one night when he went out to a club just for the atmosphere he had a panic attack which the bouncers thought was him coming off bad drugs and it ended up with a fight near the alleyway and police called. but Robin got the shock of his life when the policeman that walked up to them was none other than his best mate Owen . Robin was so embarrassed that he would think now that he was on drugs again but it seemed Owen had changed to. Owen wanted his friend back and between them they promised to take one day at a time. Taking things slowly and just getting to know each other again .
To say I was an emotional wreck with this book was an understatement I honestly broke my heart for Robin when you hear something things he had been through and why. I think I would’ve gladly kissed Owen‘s feet as a thank you for the way that he treated Robin. The thing is his brother treated him like a piece of glass and if he did anything wrong or said the wrong thing Robin would shatter going straight back to the drugs. Where as Owen said it as it was. It was an absolute pleasure to watch Robin grow and come into the fine young man that he is at the end of this book and he really wouldnt have done that without Owen. I found the relationship between Robin and Dean very sweet. As well as with Abel. My heart broke for Robbins brother at times because you could tell he just wanted his brother back but really didn’t know how to do it for the best. I would happily re read this book right now I enjoyed it that much. Another fantastic read from Romeo.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2022
This book pulled on my heartstrings so much, I really felt for Robin, he'd been through so much, put himself through so much that it's incredible he came out the otherside as well as he did, albeit broken in many ways, he is far stronger than he believes.
I liked Owen, Robin's best friend from when he was young, who Robin has been in love with for years never knowing that his feelings were reciprocated. Robin did things as a teenager he shouldn't have had to do in order to help support his sister and brother and this led him to believe he wasn't deserving of love or Owen which led him down a track of addiction for a long time, destroying himself and others in the process.
Owen has been through his own struggles and when Robin returns to town, he's not going to let him leave him again. I liked how they got to know each other again, learning about each other and relearning how to feel comfortable with their friendship again. I loved how Owen could see the real Robin, the strong man who had an affinity with troubled teens, I loved how he believed in him and had his back until he could learn to believe in himself again. It was an emotional journey for them both, but worth it.
I liked his brother Kameron, but I felt he made things harder for Robin than he needed to and definitely harder than Robin should have had to deal with as he was trying to put his life back together. I loved Kameron's partner Abel and Abel's young son Dean who was a bright spark in Robin's life, what a beautiful young boy he was. Abel I felt was really there for Robin, willing to give him his freedom whilst giving him guidelines that they expected him to work with while they were supporting him, he also treated him as an adult and gave him respect, something Kameron didn't do.
A look at trauma, abuse and addiction as well as friendship and family. A really good read. I'll be reading If This Gets Out next, Abel and Kameron's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked Owen, Robin's best friend from when he was young, who Robin has been in love with for years never knowing that his feelings were reciprocated. Robin did things as a teenager he shouldn't have had to do in order to help support his sister and brother and this led him to believe he wasn't deserving of love or Owen which led him down a track of addiction for a long time, destroying himself and others in the process.
Owen has been through his own struggles and when Robin returns to town, he's not going to let him leave him again. I liked how they got to know each other again, learning about each other and relearning how to feel comfortable with their friendship again. I loved how Owen could see the real Robin, the strong man who had an affinity with troubled teens, I loved how he believed in him and had his back until he could learn to believe in himself again. It was an emotional journey for them both, but worth it.
I liked his brother Kameron, but I felt he made things harder for Robin than he needed to and definitely harder than Robin should have had to deal with as he was trying to put his life back together. I loved Kameron's partner Abel and Abel's young son Dean who was a bright spark in Robin's life, what a beautiful young boy he was. Abel I felt was really there for Robin, willing to give him his freedom whilst giving him guidelines that they expected him to work with while they were supporting him, he also treated him as an adult and gave him respect, something Kameron didn't do.
A look at trauma, abuse and addiction as well as friendship and family. A really good read. I'll be reading If This Gets Out next, Abel and Kameron's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2023
Kindle edition review
🫂Hurt - comfort
🫂Childhood friends to lovers
🫂Childhood trauma
🫂Addiction and recovery, prostitution
🫂Slow burn
🫂Size difference
Robin's story is sad and complex, but written in a very delicate way.
The main characters are all victims, survivors and saviours at the same time.
Robin survived parental abuse, abandonment, neglect, and finally addiction and prostitution.
Owen has his own past that will only revealed later (the books is written in Robin's pov)
He's amazing. I fell in love with Owen the moment he reappeared in Robin's life and he spoke for the first time. His charisma and personality, calm, maturity and wisdom. And he also went through things practically alone.
The other important piece of the story is Kameron. My heart broke for both him and Robin several times, for their misunderstandings, or rather for the inability to express how they really feel about each other beyond the fears they're stuck in. I love Kameron with all my heart and never stopped understanding him and wanted to hug him, but he made mistakes here as well as Robin.
But in the end, their fraternal bond is not breakable.
I have to be honest, for long parts of the book I was distracted from the romance because I was anxious about the issues with Kameron, annoyed by all the people blaming him, and I was really looking forward to them talking for real, alone.
Personal note:
However I was also a bit jealous of the strong bond among the three siblings and how they feel the same about their parents, because in reality, that's not always the case. Different siblings can have a different experience of their childhood and sometimes take the parents sides against their siblings.
So in spite of Kameron's and Robin's misunderstandings, they're still lucky to have someone who understands their reasons and have their back.
🫂Hurt - comfort
🫂Childhood friends to lovers
🫂Childhood trauma
🫂Addiction and recovery, prostitution
🫂Slow burn
🫂Size difference
Robin's story is sad and complex, but written in a very delicate way.
The main characters are all victims, survivors and saviours at the same time.
Robin survived parental abuse, abandonment, neglect, and finally addiction and prostitution.
Owen has his own past that will only revealed later (the books is written in Robin's pov)
He's amazing. I fell in love with Owen the moment he reappeared in Robin's life and he spoke for the first time. His charisma and personality, calm, maturity and wisdom. And he also went through things practically alone.
The other important piece of the story is Kameron. My heart broke for both him and Robin several times, for their misunderstandings, or rather for the inability to express how they really feel about each other beyond the fears they're stuck in. I love Kameron with all my heart and never stopped understanding him and wanted to hug him, but he made mistakes here as well as Robin.
But in the end, their fraternal bond is not breakable.
I have to be honest, for long parts of the book I was distracted from the romance because I was anxious about the issues with Kameron, annoyed by all the people blaming him, and I was really looking forward to them talking for real, alone.
Personal note:
However I was also a bit jealous of the strong bond among the three siblings and how they feel the same about their parents, because in reality, that's not always the case. Different siblings can have a different experience of their childhood and sometimes take the parents sides against their siblings.
So in spite of Kameron's and Robin's misunderstandings, they're still lucky to have someone who understands their reasons and have their back.
August 4, 2022
Robin and Owen . . .
No one can put the characters into the reader’s heart like this author. Right from the start, we can feel what Robin has gone through and how his sobriety of over a year is such an encouragement to him. It is so easy to fall back on bad habits when life feels overwhelming. So those who can rise above it deserve a ton of respect and love. There is much truth in the story the author tells. Yet so much hope that with the right incentive and support, they can pull out of the misery and be welcomed back to a new life. Addiction never leaves a person. But it can be managed and being loved can be a sturdy buffer of protection.
In this book, Robin is on his way back to Cresson Point to perhaps fix whatever was fixable from his past. He runs into Owen, his straight best friend that he still has strong feelings for. He wonders why Owen was willing and determined to have him back in his life. And if nothing else, it gave him a goal to shoot for in presenting himself in a new light now, back on track and working at being the best he can be for those he loves. Both Robin and Owen do have secrets. Will they be ready to open up to each other? Will being there for each other bring them even closer than before? Will Owen finally be able to tell Robin that he loves him?
Grab your copy and enjoy another really awesome story. The author puts you in a world that lets you really see the characters and feel everything they are going through. It isn’t always easy, but it does offer hope. You won’t want to miss this one!
No one can put the characters into the reader’s heart like this author. Right from the start, we can feel what Robin has gone through and how his sobriety of over a year is such an encouragement to him. It is so easy to fall back on bad habits when life feels overwhelming. So those who can rise above it deserve a ton of respect and love. There is much truth in the story the author tells. Yet so much hope that with the right incentive and support, they can pull out of the misery and be welcomed back to a new life. Addiction never leaves a person. But it can be managed and being loved can be a sturdy buffer of protection.
In this book, Robin is on his way back to Cresson Point to perhaps fix whatever was fixable from his past. He runs into Owen, his straight best friend that he still has strong feelings for. He wonders why Owen was willing and determined to have him back in his life. And if nothing else, it gave him a goal to shoot for in presenting himself in a new light now, back on track and working at being the best he can be for those he loves. Both Robin and Owen do have secrets. Will they be ready to open up to each other? Will being there for each other bring them even closer than before? Will Owen finally be able to tell Robin that he loves him?
Grab your copy and enjoy another really awesome story. The author puts you in a world that lets you really see the characters and feel everything they are going through. It isn’t always easy, but it does offer hope. You won’t want to miss this one!
February 11, 2024
Part two of the Cresson Point stories from Romeo Alexander, this is the story of Kameron's older brother that has been lost in the world of addiction for many years.
Finally, Robin, drags himself into rehab, on his own volition. Yes, this isn't' the first time he has done this, but by the time he leaves his sister, Oleana's house to go to live with Kameron--he has een sober for a year and a half--the longest period ever.
Kameron, the therapist, loves his brother, but only keeps waiting for the proverbial other shoe to drop and Robin ends up drunk, drugged out and selling himself on the streets for those addictive substances.
But, there is Owen. Robin's best friend from the age of six. Owen, the cop. Owen, huge, massive man who always protected Robin till he went off to the army. Robin lost himself with the loss of his best "straight" friend that he was totally in love with.
Owen and Robin found solace in each other and Owen ran the youth center in the crappy part of town that Robin and he had grown up in. They worked in that Youth Center, Owen knew that Robin was always a giving, loving man and the teens there talked to him easier than Owen.
It took most of the book, but that was how it needed to be for Owen and Robin to finally come together and for Kameron to finally understand and change his attitude towards his addict brother.
Hard some times to read the horrors of Robin's life, but somehow like Robin, Alexander is gentle and loving in handling the trauma within the pages of Handle With Care.
Finally, Robin, drags himself into rehab, on his own volition. Yes, this isn't' the first time he has done this, but by the time he leaves his sister, Oleana's house to go to live with Kameron--he has een sober for a year and a half--the longest period ever.
Kameron, the therapist, loves his brother, but only keeps waiting for the proverbial other shoe to drop and Robin ends up drunk, drugged out and selling himself on the streets for those addictive substances.
But, there is Owen. Robin's best friend from the age of six. Owen, the cop. Owen, huge, massive man who always protected Robin till he went off to the army. Robin lost himself with the loss of his best "straight" friend that he was totally in love with.
Owen and Robin found solace in each other and Owen ran the youth center in the crappy part of town that Robin and he had grown up in. They worked in that Youth Center, Owen knew that Robin was always a giving, loving man and the teens there talked to him easier than Owen.
It took most of the book, but that was how it needed to be for Owen and Robin to finally come together and for Kameron to finally understand and change his attitude towards his addict brother.
Hard some times to read the horrors of Robin's life, but somehow like Robin, Alexander is gentle and loving in handling the trauma within the pages of Handle With Care.
September 12, 2022
Deeply Developed & Well Worth It
This is the sequel to "If This Gets Out," in which ex-Army psychologist Kameron comes home as out-and-proud to the Oregon town of Cresson Point and falls in love with Abel, a bisexual widower with a precocious 7-year-old son. Abel is a scion of the town's founders and planning to run for public office, ably assisted by his PA Peter, who is also gay but makes sure everything, and everyone, is on the same page.
In that book we got a whole lot of information about Kameron's childhood in which he and his sister were raised by Robin, their older brother who tried to protect them from the violent outbursts of their alcoholic and abusive father. There were many references to Robin having disappeared when he came of age but it was well known that he became an alcoholic and drug addict wherever he wound up.
That background is important to understand this book, which is Robin's story, because Kameron and Abel and Peter and several other people provide impetus and encouragement to Robin when he suddenly comes home, sober and determined to get himself useful.
That he is smaller than the average man (he's on the cover, which is a bit stylistic) and not exactly discreet when it comes to fending off unwanted comments or advances leads to an altercation outside a gay bar which is broken up by a very large cop who rescues Robin and then wedges his way back into Robin's life.
"Back into Robin's life?" Well, the cop is Owen, who was Robin's best friend from grade school until he vanished and whom Robin has always loved but is wary of getting back close to him because, after all, Owen is straight.
That's all of the plot you need to know because from there you get a deeply disturbing history of Robin's life and a gradual revelation of Owen's, while Kameron, Abel and Peter flit in and out.
This is a worthy sequel and an excellent bridge to "The Man Who Set Me Free," the next in the series in which Peter takes his turn at love.
So far author Romeo Alexander has once again proven he is at the top of the list of must-read MM authors.
This is the sequel to "If This Gets Out," in which ex-Army psychologist Kameron comes home as out-and-proud to the Oregon town of Cresson Point and falls in love with Abel, a bisexual widower with a precocious 7-year-old son. Abel is a scion of the town's founders and planning to run for public office, ably assisted by his PA Peter, who is also gay but makes sure everything, and everyone, is on the same page.
In that book we got a whole lot of information about Kameron's childhood in which he and his sister were raised by Robin, their older brother who tried to protect them from the violent outbursts of their alcoholic and abusive father. There were many references to Robin having disappeared when he came of age but it was well known that he became an alcoholic and drug addict wherever he wound up.
That background is important to understand this book, which is Robin's story, because Kameron and Abel and Peter and several other people provide impetus and encouragement to Robin when he suddenly comes home, sober and determined to get himself useful.
That he is smaller than the average man (he's on the cover, which is a bit stylistic) and not exactly discreet when it comes to fending off unwanted comments or advances leads to an altercation outside a gay bar which is broken up by a very large cop who rescues Robin and then wedges his way back into Robin's life.
"Back into Robin's life?" Well, the cop is Owen, who was Robin's best friend from grade school until he vanished and whom Robin has always loved but is wary of getting back close to him because, after all, Owen is straight.
That's all of the plot you need to know because from there you get a deeply disturbing history of Robin's life and a gradual revelation of Owen's, while Kameron, Abel and Peter flit in and out.
This is a worthy sequel and an excellent bridge to "The Man Who Set Me Free," the next in the series in which Peter takes his turn at love.
So far author Romeo Alexander has once again proven he is at the top of the list of must-read MM authors.
August 3, 2022
DAY BY DAY.... PIECE BY PIECE....
If you enjoyed If This Get's Out then you will enjoy Kameron's older brother Robin's story although it is much darker and does have trigger warnings but can be read as a stand-alone!
We get a deeper insight into Robin's past as a rent boy and addict in order to support his siblings since the age of fifteen and also his history with his one true love Owen Briggs- childhood best friend who he meets fifteen years later....
"No matter what happens, Robby, it's gonna be you and me, alright? It doesn't matter if we have to be apart for a little while or a long time. It's always gonna end with you and me. you got that?"
"I hope so, Owen, I really do."
It was a sweet, endearing and heart wrenching story that touched all the topics of abuse, prostitution, addiction, making the right choices and most important patience, love and trust!
"There is no one in the world I trust more than you. That was true when we were kids, it was true when we were apart, and it's true now."
Be forewarned it is a tear-jerker with lots of banter, angst a twist or two and of course do not forget the steam!
I look forward to Peter's story with baited breath!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you enjoyed If This Get's Out then you will enjoy Kameron's older brother Robin's story although it is much darker and does have trigger warnings but can be read as a stand-alone!
We get a deeper insight into Robin's past as a rent boy and addict in order to support his siblings since the age of fifteen and also his history with his one true love Owen Briggs- childhood best friend who he meets fifteen years later....
"No matter what happens, Robby, it's gonna be you and me, alright? It doesn't matter if we have to be apart for a little while or a long time. It's always gonna end with you and me. you got that?"
"I hope so, Owen, I really do."
It was a sweet, endearing and heart wrenching story that touched all the topics of abuse, prostitution, addiction, making the right choices and most important patience, love and trust!
"There is no one in the world I trust more than you. That was true when we were kids, it was true when we were apart, and it's true now."
Be forewarned it is a tear-jerker with lots of banter, angst a twist or two and of course do not forget the steam!
I look forward to Peter's story with baited breath!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2022
I could not put this book down! First time reading this author and I really enjoyed the storytelling for these characters.
There are some difficult things in this story which can be triggering for some and definitely review those before reading but I thought the author handled Robin’s addiction very carefully as well as the roles of those around him like his brother Kameron. I haven’t had the opportunity to read Kameron’s story before reading Robin and Owen’s (but it’s definitely going on my TBR list!).
From the very beginning you are pulling for Robin’s character. He’s been hurt so much by his past and his decisions. He’s trying to find his way out of everything and bouncing around. His relationship with his brother seems easy but there’s an underlying tension to it of mistrust and betrayal. And you wonder if Robin will find his footing until he runs into Owen, his old best friend. Reading their story unfold was great and Owen’s character was really well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are some difficult things in this story which can be triggering for some and definitely review those before reading but I thought the author handled Robin’s addiction very carefully as well as the roles of those around him like his brother Kameron. I haven’t had the opportunity to read Kameron’s story before reading Robin and Owen’s (but it’s definitely going on my TBR list!).
From the very beginning you are pulling for Robin’s character. He’s been hurt so much by his past and his decisions. He’s trying to find his way out of everything and bouncing around. His relationship with his brother seems easy but there’s an underlying tension to it of mistrust and betrayal. And you wonder if Robin will find his footing until he runs into Owen, his old best friend. Reading their story unfold was great and Owen’s character was really well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2022
This is the 2nd book in this series. It is a standalone and can be read without reading the 1st one. The characters in the 1st book do make many appearances in this one, plus the 1st book was wonderful too!
This story is a friends to lover romance with angst. Robin has decided to come back to his home town after he has gone to rehab. He is trying his best to stay away from alcohol, drugs and make a better future for himself. He does suffer from anxiety from his past childhood dealing with an abusive and alcoholic father. Robin runs into his best friend Owen who he hasn't seen since he left home some 10 plus years ago. Not only do they rekindle their friendship but find out each of them is in love with one another. Robin learns that Owen has also had a somewhat troubling time when Robin left his home town years ago. The two of them decide to take things slow and find out that true love is worth fighting for. Guaranteed HEA
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is a friends to lover romance with angst. Robin has decided to come back to his home town after he has gone to rehab. He is trying his best to stay away from alcohol, drugs and make a better future for himself. He does suffer from anxiety from his past childhood dealing with an abusive and alcoholic father. Robin runs into his best friend Owen who he hasn't seen since he left home some 10 plus years ago. Not only do they rekindle their friendship but find out each of them is in love with one another. Robin learns that Owen has also had a somewhat troubling time when Robin left his home town years ago. The two of them decide to take things slow and find out that true love is worth fighting for. Guaranteed HEA
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2022
This author's characters are unforgettable. From the beginning, we can feel what Robin has gone through and how his sobriety encourages him. When overwhelmed, it's easy to lapse into negative habits. Those who persevere deserve respect and love.
In this novel, Robin returns to Cresson Point to mend his past. He sees Owen, his heterosexual best buddy he still loves. When Owen came back into his life, he wondered why he was so eager to have him back in it. To put it simply, it gave him something to aim at while he was trying to put himself back on the right track and be the best he could be for the people he cared about. Until now, Owen has remained silent about his feelings for Robin. They both have secrets. Will they share? Will their support bring them closer? Will Owen say he loves Robin?
Enjoy another great story. The author lets you see and feel what the characters are going through. It's not easy, but it's hopeful. Don't miss this!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this novel, Robin returns to Cresson Point to mend his past. He sees Owen, his heterosexual best buddy he still loves. When Owen came back into his life, he wondered why he was so eager to have him back in it. To put it simply, it gave him something to aim at while he was trying to put himself back on the right track and be the best he could be for the people he cared about. Until now, Owen has remained silent about his feelings for Robin. They both have secrets. Will they share? Will their support bring them closer? Will Owen say he loves Robin?
Enjoy another great story. The author lets you see and feel what the characters are going through. It's not easy, but it's hopeful. Don't miss this!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2022
This book can be read as a standalone, but it’s worth knowing that Robin is Kameron from If This Get’s Out’s brother, and reading the books in sequence provides a bit more depth and context. There’s plenty of emotion in this story, lots of deeply felt feelings, baggage, and history to work through. It’s definitely a good idea to take note of the content warnings before starting. There were a lot of things to appreciate about this story— it’s well written, and all of the characters are interesting. The relationship between Owen and Robin feels like something good for them both. And, of course, there’s Robin, who’s the focus of the story and whose experiences and their effects on him are woven into the core of his contemporary journey. 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2022
This is one book that's sure to tug at the reader's heart strings: such an emotional read.
A bi-sexual discovery for these two MM. Robin has a lot of baggage encumbered on his shoulders but he's afraid to let his bestie Owen relieve him of even a little bit of that weight. Owen carries his own baggage but finally differences are gotten around making their love a winning combo for both. The inclusion of secondary characters Kameron and Abel, from Book #1 "If This Gets Out" makes for a good progression of these two men. There are the intense topics of anxiety, depression, and both physical and emotional abuse addressed within. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A bi-sexual discovery for these two MM. Robin has a lot of baggage encumbered on his shoulders but he's afraid to let his bestie Owen relieve him of even a little bit of that weight. Owen carries his own baggage but finally differences are gotten around making their love a winning combo for both. The inclusion of secondary characters Kameron and Abel, from Book #1 "If This Gets Out" makes for a good progression of these two men. There are the intense topics of anxiety, depression, and both physical and emotional abuse addressed within. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2022
Pleasantly surprised to realize that Robin is Kameron's brother from If this Gets Out! I was happy to see that this story also included a lot of time with Kameron and Abel too! Yes, this is a romance with Robin and Owen, but it is truly Robin's story. It is totally a standalone romance but it a great connection. This a longer and heavier on the emotions book. I appreciated that Robin's addiction was very realistically represented. Robin had to conquer his past and present himself. The love of Owen and his family could help heal but it did not cure the addiction. It is a slow burn as we learn about Robin's past and all the triggers in his life. If you are looking for something more emotional and real this one is a good read! You will hurt and overcome along with Robin.
August 4, 2022
This book is amazing! This is the story of Owen and Robin, two men who have been friends since the age of six. Their journey will be a difficult one as they will each deal with addiction in the years that life will separate them. I love the way Robin fights for himself once he makes the decision to finally get sober. Owen is a bright spot in his life with a secret of his own that will be very helpful when Robin feels at his weakest. Their determination to be there for each other through thick and thin is the perfect example of what true friendship is all about and the fact that they find love together in the end makes this book an amazing and definite must read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2022
This is a great story and the best I have read this year! I was crying for the first four chapters and had to take a break. I came back at chapter five and still wanted to hold Robin in my arms until he could face his fears and triumphs! Having Owen back in his life is a Godsend because he is coming from a place of tough love and not pity. His fierce love and protectiveness is what Robin needs to stand on his own. The narrative by the author made me think of getting caught up but being able to break free. My hat is off to you because this was cathartic! Pick up a copy and trust me you will not regret it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2022
Robin did many things to pay bills, get food for them, and clothes because father wouldn’t care for them just abused them. Loved his best friend he met in elementary school, first his sister leaves, then his younger brother, then Owen. He went on a downward spiral with drugs, alcohol, and sex took him quite a few years but he got clean. Lived with his sister’s family but the came back home to live with his brother but didn’t change his attitude towards Robin. Met Owen during a bad panic attack and they were taking it day by day but it worked for them. Good book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2022
One day at a time! This story elevates Romeo's writing to a new level. The emotional span of the heights and depths of addiction and recovery are displayed with sensitivity and dignity. This is a story of self realization, acceptance, forgiveness and temptation. This is a 360 of accepting faults, seeking help, redemption, temptation and moving forward. Fantastic characters. Great support structures. Excellent story theme. Robin's journey is hard, but wonderful when he accepts he is not alone. There are ups and downs and Owen, Robin's bestie is there with him. Excellent story. Works your heart and totally worth it! Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2022
I have not words for this book. Robin and Owen story was not an road for Robin but I admire Robin for his strength. Robin has been through so much already but thanks to new and old friends, Robin has the support he needs to be with the one man he has always loved. I truly enjoyed the new heavier topics that Mr. Romeo is currently writing and this book is no different; it tears my heart apart but the HEA is so worth the book hangover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2022
I loved this book. I felt a punch to the gut reading it, and while I did not want it to end, I also really wanted to find a happy ending. Of all the book boyfriends, this one, I wanted something good to happen too. Robin was such a real character for me that his trials were visceral and painful, and you could empathize with his actions and reactions. All the characters had such trauma dealt to them that you could only wish the best for all of them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 14, 2022
Robin comes from a troubled past, and is trying to do the right thing now. Robin has been in loasve with his best friend for a long time. Robin has come back to town to try and put his life on a better path. Owen left at eighteen to join the army, he came home to become a police officer after. He is still helping out at the youth center as much as he can. Will the past come back to haunt them?? Will Robin find what he is looking for???.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2022
This book is an emotional journey of healing, forgiveness and new beginnings. The story is so full of feelings that’s it’s impossible not to be fully invested as great characters fill the pages. The dialogue at the end of chapter 5 between Dean and Robin had me in tears. The entire book is a heartfelt experience that I strongly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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