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Wingstead #0.5
Almost Gone
A public humiliation of epic proportions, love and deception crowds Toby in the aftermath of his high school graduation.
Toby
This wasn't how I wanted things to pan out. I loved him, and I wanted a better story for us. I wish the incident at graduation never happened.
Now, everyone has seen of me -- one I wish they hadn't -- and so I ran.
At least I can have comfort in the knowledge my best friend will support me.
Daniel
I chased after him. I don't remember making the decision, but my feet just led me to be near him, to comfort him.
I'm just as scared though -- I don't want anyone to know I'm the other person in the photo. I don't want people to know I am gay.
My plan in life is to follow in the status quo, to be liked and being outed now would ruin everything. I need to protect my reputation and yet, I need to protect my lover's naivety.
There's no other choice but to follow through with the instructions of my lover's best friend, or as how I see him: my blackmailer.
Toby
This wasn't how I wanted things to pan out. I loved him, and I wanted a better story for us. I wish the incident at graduation never happened.
Now, everyone has seen of me -- one I wish they hadn't -- and so I ran.
At least I can have comfort in the knowledge my best friend will support me.
Daniel
I chased after him. I don't remember making the decision, but my feet just led me to be near him, to comfort him.
I'm just as scared though -- I don't want anyone to know I'm the other person in the photo. I don't want people to know I am gay.
My plan in life is to follow in the status quo, to be liked and being outed now would ruin everything. I need to protect my reputation and yet, I need to protect my lover's naivety.
There's no other choice but to follow through with the instructions of my lover's best friend, or as how I see him: my blackmailer.
91 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2022
3 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 26, 2022
I was here for the premise of the book, and I kept thinking their ending will be sweet after going through all that, and it does end with an HFN. But then I learned that book one is actually about Toby and someone else. So I’ve become invested in Toby and Daniel, but now I’m supposed to drop Daniel. In truth, it makes it difficult for me to get excited to read it.
There was also a lot of toxicity in this story. I mean A LOT. Everyone was horrible, the bad guys never learned anything, in fact, they were rewarded for their behaviour. And watching manipulative people win makes me angry.
Sometimes those intense emotions make the ending even sweeter, but the fact this couple apparently doesn’t survive leaves me disappointed.
I want to try something else by this author, just because I didn’t click with one story doesn’t mean I won’t love the others.
There was also a lot of toxicity in this story. I mean A LOT. Everyone was horrible, the bad guys never learned anything, in fact, they were rewarded for their behaviour. And watching manipulative people win makes me angry.
Sometimes those intense emotions make the ending even sweeter, but the fact this couple apparently doesn’t survive leaves me disappointed.
I want to try something else by this author, just because I didn’t click with one story doesn’t mean I won’t love the others.
December 28, 2022
Toby and Daniel are closeted secret boyfriends in Wyoming. They are Valedictorian and Salutatorian of their high school, and during graduation, pictures of them "together" surface, with only Toby's face visible. Fleeing in shame, Toby doesn't know who to trust. He knows who took the pictures, but doesn't think Daniel would actually do that.
Daniel is just as shocked as Toby, but knows who is responsible. Damon, Toby's alleged best friend. Daniel hesitates to tell Toby, especially since he played a part in it.
Great concept, but the execution is a little lacking. The obvious villain in the story suffers zero consequence, and actually gets rewarded for their actions. Toby is too wishy washy to stand up for what's right, and Daniel, while undeniably scared to come out of the closet, this is Wyoming, takes too long to do what's right. Then there are the editing issues. One moment Toby is going to Utah State University, then the next chapter it's Wyoming State. Things like that pull me out of the story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Daniel is just as shocked as Toby, but knows who is responsible. Damon, Toby's alleged best friend. Daniel hesitates to tell Toby, especially since he played a part in it.
Great concept, but the execution is a little lacking. The obvious villain in the story suffers zero consequence, and actually gets rewarded for their actions. Toby is too wishy washy to stand up for what's right, and Daniel, while undeniably scared to come out of the closet, this is Wyoming, takes too long to do what's right. Then there are the editing issues. One moment Toby is going to Utah State University, then the next chapter it's Wyoming State. Things like that pull me out of the story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2022
A new to me author. I’ve signed up to read an ARC of the next in this series and wanted to start with this book. Glad I did. Full of angst, but finished with a HFN of sorts!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2024
Caleb Marks' novella 'Almost Gone' delves into themes of acceptance, honesty, and integrity, weaving a touching narrative that resonates deeply. The story unfolds with a familiar yet compelling tone reminiscent of a high school drama series. The protagonist, Toby, finds himself thrust into the spotlight in the most humiliating manner possible when he is outed, prompting him and his clandestine boyfriend, Daniel, to embark on a mission to uncover the source of the leaked photo.
Central to the narrative is the enigmatic character of Damon, a figure whose ambiguous loyalties add an intriguing layer of complexity to the plot. However, at times, the story becomes muddled, perhaps due to the close proximity of Daniel and Damon to the events at hand. Their similar names, both starting with 'D,' may occasionally lead to confusion regarding their roles in the unfolding drama.
'Almost Gone' serves as a prequel to Marks' debut novel, 'Letting Him In,' introducing readers to the Wingstead Series with a promise of more to come. As a newcomer to Marks' work, I found myself immersed in his signature style characterized by high levels of angst and tension. Readers should brace themselves for emotionally charged storylines that tug at the heartstrings and keep them on the edge of their seats.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Central to the narrative is the enigmatic character of Damon, a figure whose ambiguous loyalties add an intriguing layer of complexity to the plot. However, at times, the story becomes muddled, perhaps due to the close proximity of Daniel and Damon to the events at hand. Their similar names, both starting with 'D,' may occasionally lead to confusion regarding their roles in the unfolding drama.
'Almost Gone' serves as a prequel to Marks' debut novel, 'Letting Him In,' introducing readers to the Wingstead Series with a promise of more to come. As a newcomer to Marks' work, I found myself immersed in his signature style characterized by high levels of angst and tension. Readers should brace themselves for emotionally charged storylines that tug at the heartstrings and keep them on the edge of their seats.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2022
Really didn't understand where the author was going with this
I have an arc of the first book in the series that I was looking forward to, but now I'm completely conflicted. This prequel was completely unsatisfying and one hundred and twenty percent not an HEA, nor even a HFN.
The blurb tells you about Toby and his boyfriend Daniel, and mentions his best friend Damon. It wasn't clear from conversations in the book that Toby had actually come out because the narrative was not definitive and too hard to tell but it implied he'd had a choice but I didn't read it as that at all. Daniel was deep in the closet and seemingly had no intentions of coming out until he'd left home but I doubted he would even then. Damon could have been a long time friend to Toby or someone who only took an interest in the last year, again from different parts of the book. I was so confused.
Damon was nasty and vindictive to both Toby and Daniel, for no other reason than they both had more than him. He was a blackmailer, and he never wavered from that. He was two-faced throughout, a bare-faced liar, spiteful with a huge chip on his shoulder. He willingly ruined Toby's life then made himself out to be the good guy, the martyr. What he did at the beginning and then how he carried on making things worse was disgusting. He suffered no consequences for his actions, when he should have had a criminal record, and actually ended up better off for his heinous actions.
Toby was a good person, but so weak. He believed Damon over Daniel, but also let Daniel call the shots in their relationship. I wanted him to tell to go fuck themselves and find people who would value him, not want to use him or hide him.
I also can do nothing but condemn the actions of Daniel's parents. Once they knew Daniel's part in the events would never come out, they didn't have any qualms in letting him keep quiet and suffering no consequences either.
No one in this story took responsibility for their own actions except Toby, who basically took responsibility for everyone's else's actions.
I couldn't believe it when I read the blurb of Letting Him In and realised that Toby and Damon had stayed best friends for ten years after the events of this prequel. I am seriously considering giving back word on the ARC now, because WTF?
Everything about this story drove me up the wall, and I'm still up there, trying to calm down.
I have an arc of the first book in the series that I was looking forward to, but now I'm completely conflicted. This prequel was completely unsatisfying and one hundred and twenty percent not an HEA, nor even a HFN.
The blurb tells you about Toby and his boyfriend Daniel, and mentions his best friend Damon. It wasn't clear from conversations in the book that Toby had actually come out because the narrative was not definitive and too hard to tell but it implied he'd had a choice but I didn't read it as that at all. Daniel was deep in the closet and seemingly had no intentions of coming out until he'd left home but I doubted he would even then. Damon could have been a long time friend to Toby or someone who only took an interest in the last year, again from different parts of the book. I was so confused.
Damon was nasty and vindictive to both Toby and Daniel, for no other reason than they both had more than him. He was a blackmailer, and he never wavered from that. He was two-faced throughout, a bare-faced liar, spiteful with a huge chip on his shoulder. He willingly ruined Toby's life then made himself out to be the good guy, the martyr. What he did at the beginning and then how he carried on making things worse was disgusting. He suffered no consequences for his actions, when he should have had a criminal record, and actually ended up better off for his heinous actions.
Toby was a good person, but so weak. He believed Damon over Daniel, but also let Daniel call the shots in their relationship. I wanted him to tell to go fuck themselves and find people who would value him, not want to use him or hide him.
I also can do nothing but condemn the actions of Daniel's parents. Once they knew Daniel's part in the events would never come out, they didn't have any qualms in letting him keep quiet and suffering no consequences either.
No one in this story took responsibility for their own actions except Toby, who basically took responsibility for everyone's else's actions.
I couldn't believe it when I read the blurb of Letting Him In and realised that Toby and Damon had stayed best friends for ten years after the events of this prequel. I am seriously considering giving back word on the ARC now, because WTF?
Everything about this story drove me up the wall, and I'm still up there, trying to calm down.
January 15, 2025
This review was brutal to write because I liked how it started soooo much.... (exhale)
2.5 ⭐️
I received an ARC edition of this book from BookSprout in exchange for an honest review after the book had been published in 2022, (January 2025). You can get your copy today currently as an E-book or Paperback Printed Edition on Amazon.
The 91-page prequel novella of the Wingstead Series by Caleb Marks is a cautionary tale of teenagers in high school of the sexually digital-age. Beginning after the act and the incident at Toby and Daniel's graduation ceremony, where Toby's picture of him in a compromising position is shown on the big screen, outing him, and making him flee. Daniel, a track star also in the closet and terrified to come out in general, let alone after the controversy attempts to support while protecting himself. Who could have done this to them, and why. There are so many secrets.
The plot was intriguing and the real world reality of what it's like to have explicit pictures of you as a teenager leaked out, and how the aftermath is catastrophic with charges and schools dropping you, and public reputation ruined by a blackmailer.
I wouldn't call this a romance. It's more of an MM Dark Contemporary Fiction because the romance was constantly in jeopardy and the topics were written in a style that put the aftermath in the spotlight over their love story. The spice was not even 1/5🌶. Actions happened in very minor detail or off page and only mentioned, which is a given since they just graduated HS and could still be 17 years old.
THE LAYOUT & CONTINUITY: The execution was very scattered and inconsistent. Whole parts needed to either be reworked or moved to another part of the novella. The drama with Toby in the middle of who and what to believe was like whiplash in a car accident that didn't stop.
I don't know if I'm personally convinced yet to read the next in the series that also stars Toby, however, I read the first 2 sentences in a sneak peek and was straight dumbfounded on how we got to that point with without reading more.
2.5 ⭐️
I received an ARC edition of this book from BookSprout in exchange for an honest review after the book had been published in 2022, (January 2025). You can get your copy today currently as an E-book or Paperback Printed Edition on Amazon.
The 91-page prequel novella of the Wingstead Series by Caleb Marks is a cautionary tale of teenagers in high school of the sexually digital-age. Beginning after the act and the incident at Toby and Daniel's graduation ceremony, where Toby's picture of him in a compromising position is shown on the big screen, outing him, and making him flee. Daniel, a track star also in the closet and terrified to come out in general, let alone after the controversy attempts to support while protecting himself. Who could have done this to them, and why. There are so many secrets.
The plot was intriguing and the real world reality of what it's like to have explicit pictures of you as a teenager leaked out, and how the aftermath is catastrophic with charges and schools dropping you, and public reputation ruined by a blackmailer.
I wouldn't call this a romance. It's more of an MM Dark Contemporary Fiction because the romance was constantly in jeopardy and the topics were written in a style that put the aftermath in the spotlight over their love story. The spice was not even 1/5🌶. Actions happened in very minor detail or off page and only mentioned, which is a given since they just graduated HS and could still be 17 years old.
THE LAYOUT & CONTINUITY: The execution was very scattered and inconsistent. Whole parts needed to either be reworked or moved to another part of the novella. The drama with Toby in the middle of who and what to believe was like whiplash in a car accident that didn't stop.
I don't know if I'm personally convinced yet to read the next in the series that also stars Toby, however, I read the first 2 sentences in a sneak peek and was straight dumbfounded on how we got to that point with without reading more.
March 23, 2025
Some books don’t just tell a story—they make you feel every heartbeat, every moment of hope and heartbreak, as if you’re living it yourself. Almost Gone by Caleb Marks is one of those rare, unforgettable reads that lingers in your soul long after the final page.
From the very beginning, I was captivated by the emotional depth of this novel. Marks has an incredible way of weaving raw, honest emotions into every sentence, making the characters feel real and their struggles deeply personal. The protagonist’s journey through loss, love, and self-discovery is one that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they were holding on to something—or someone—who was slipping away.
What makes Almost Gone so special is its delicate balance between pain and hope. There are moments that break your heart, moments that heal it, and moments that remind you just how precious every fleeting second can be. The relationships in this book, whether romantic, familial, or friendships, are written with such tenderness and authenticity that you can’t help but become deeply invested in them.
Marks’ writing is both poetic and powerful, painting vivid emotions that pull you in and refuse to let go. By the time I reached the end, I felt as though I had lived through something profoundly moving—something that made me appreciate the beauty in both the presence and absence of those we love.
If you’re looking for a book that will grip your heart, make you reflect on love and loss, and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the fragile beauty of life, Almost Gone is an absolute must-read. Caleb Marks has created something truly special, and I know this story will stay with me for a long time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A deeply moving, beautifully written novel that reminds us that even in loss, love never truly fades.
From the very beginning, I was captivated by the emotional depth of this novel. Marks has an incredible way of weaving raw, honest emotions into every sentence, making the characters feel real and their struggles deeply personal. The protagonist’s journey through loss, love, and self-discovery is one that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they were holding on to something—or someone—who was slipping away.
What makes Almost Gone so special is its delicate balance between pain and hope. There are moments that break your heart, moments that heal it, and moments that remind you just how precious every fleeting second can be. The relationships in this book, whether romantic, familial, or friendships, are written with such tenderness and authenticity that you can’t help but become deeply invested in them.
Marks’ writing is both poetic and powerful, painting vivid emotions that pull you in and refuse to let go. By the time I reached the end, I felt as though I had lived through something profoundly moving—something that made me appreciate the beauty in both the presence and absence of those we love.
If you’re looking for a book that will grip your heart, make you reflect on love and loss, and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the fragile beauty of life, Almost Gone is an absolute must-read. Caleb Marks has created something truly special, and I know this story will stay with me for a long time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A deeply moving, beautifully written novel that reminds us that even in loss, love never truly fades.
November 17, 2023
I'm usually not into short stories as I enjoy longer novels with a slow burn, rich in character development, and intricate storylines. However, this book was a delightful surprise.
It is captivating, engaging, and definitely worth reading. The author skillfully blends drama, conflicting emotions, love, friendship, betrayal, sacrifice, and hurt into a short but utterly engaging narrative.
Recommended for: anyone who enjoys well-crafted stories that are fast-paced yet full of drama, angst, and complexity without being too dark.
The characters in this story are a standout feature. They are complex, flawed, and relatable, bringing a sense of authenticity to the plot. Their flaws are portrayed in a way that makes them feel incredibly real and tangible.
Despite the novel's short length, it evokes a strong emotional response. I found myself completely absorbed, reading it from start to finish in one sitting.
The ending, mixture of HEA and a 'Happy For Now' conclusion, aligns seamlessly with the story's tone, providing a satisfying yet somehow open-ended finale.
In summary, this novel is a remarkable tale that deals with serious issues at a fast pace. Yet it's far from shallow, with well-defined and described characters. The story profoundly and emotionally resonates, making it a memorable read and demonstrating that impactful storytelling isn't confined exclusively to lengthy novels.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is captivating, engaging, and definitely worth reading. The author skillfully blends drama, conflicting emotions, love, friendship, betrayal, sacrifice, and hurt into a short but utterly engaging narrative.
Recommended for: anyone who enjoys well-crafted stories that are fast-paced yet full of drama, angst, and complexity without being too dark.
The characters in this story are a standout feature. They are complex, flawed, and relatable, bringing a sense of authenticity to the plot. Their flaws are portrayed in a way that makes them feel incredibly real and tangible.
Despite the novel's short length, it evokes a strong emotional response. I found myself completely absorbed, reading it from start to finish in one sitting.
The ending, mixture of HEA and a 'Happy For Now' conclusion, aligns seamlessly with the story's tone, providing a satisfying yet somehow open-ended finale.
In summary, this novel is a remarkable tale that deals with serious issues at a fast pace. Yet it's far from shallow, with well-defined and described characters. The story profoundly and emotionally resonates, making it a memorable read and demonstrating that impactful storytelling isn't confined exclusively to lengthy novels.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2024
Boy, can this writer put feelings into words that are visceral and universal.
Toby's homosexuality is not only made public during graduation, but an actual love scene also plays out on the big screen for all and sundered and his face is the only one displayed. I can't imagine the humiliation as an adult but as a high school teen, even worse. Especially one who is most likely to be valedictorian and has early acceptance to Harvard? This type of bullying, for lack of a harsher word, is sole crushing.
We have two other MMCs, Daniel, the lover who does care for Toby but is terrified about coming out and Damon, his best friend who does everything in his power to get between the couple. The how and why's this plays out is explained and resolution is had that is more realistic and HEA for all.
Through it all, the author's writing ensures the reader is right along with the characters motivations, fears and actions. For such a short story, that is impressive.
Toby as a character is a sweet soul trying to do the best for all but at times comes across too passive. And I had a very hard time understanding why someone like Toby would hold onto an old obligation when someone new in his life has so obviously proven the same consideration.
This story acts as prelude to the Wingstead Series where Toby's story continues. I am disappointed that a particular character does not appear to be included.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Toby's homosexuality is not only made public during graduation, but an actual love scene also plays out on the big screen for all and sundered and his face is the only one displayed. I can't imagine the humiliation as an adult but as a high school teen, even worse. Especially one who is most likely to be valedictorian and has early acceptance to Harvard? This type of bullying, for lack of a harsher word, is sole crushing.
We have two other MMCs, Daniel, the lover who does care for Toby but is terrified about coming out and Damon, his best friend who does everything in his power to get between the couple. The how and why's this plays out is explained and resolution is had that is more realistic and HEA for all.
Through it all, the author's writing ensures the reader is right along with the characters motivations, fears and actions. For such a short story, that is impressive.
Toby as a character is a sweet soul trying to do the best for all but at times comes across too passive. And I had a very hard time understanding why someone like Toby would hold onto an old obligation when someone new in his life has so obviously proven the same consideration.
This story acts as prelude to the Wingstead Series where Toby's story continues. I am disappointed that a particular character does not appear to be included.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2025
I wanted to like this book. It started out strong, throwing us right into the action. I was on tenterhooks wondering how this would resolve and to see if the two male leads could find their way back to each other, only to grow more and more disenchanted and then utterly disappointed in the underwhelming ending. And worse, the very next page is an excerpt of the next book in the series, at which point I find out it’s set 10 years in the future and Toby is being set up with a completely new character, not Daniel. Oh, and the character who was hinted at maybe getting a redemption arc even though he absolutely didn’t deserve one? Yeah, he’s dead. So what was even the point of this prequel then? I almost wish it had a bittersweet ending, because at least then it wouldn’t come like a kick in the teeth to find out that this love story was just a setup to the actual love story.
And maybe I could have been okay with this if the story wasn’t so toxic. I didn’t like any of the characters, and it went far beyond just being young, dumb kids making impulsive choices. I don’t even want to read the next book in the series now because two of the characters return in it and I’m so done with them. And the worst part of it was how there was no justice in the end. The bad guys got rewarded, not punished, which sucks.
Overall, was disappointed in this book, and not sure if I would continue the series. If this series sounds interesting to you, do yourself a favor and skip this book, just go straight to book 1.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And maybe I could have been okay with this if the story wasn’t so toxic. I didn’t like any of the characters, and it went far beyond just being young, dumb kids making impulsive choices. I don’t even want to read the next book in the series now because two of the characters return in it and I’m so done with them. And the worst part of it was how there was no justice in the end. The bad guys got rewarded, not punished, which sucks.
Overall, was disappointed in this book, and not sure if I would continue the series. If this series sounds interesting to you, do yourself a favor and skip this book, just go straight to book 1.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2024
Almost Gone by Caleb Marks is an emotionally charged novella that blends coming-of-age, romance, and high school drama into a gripping narrative. Set in a small town, the story follows Toby and Daniel, two recent high school graduates whose secret relationship is exposed during a public scandal. The fallout is swift and brutal, with Toby fleeing from the humiliation and Daniel struggling to maintain his image while dealing with his own fear of being outed.
Toby’s vulnerability and Daniel’s internal conflict are at the heart of the story, creating a tense dynamic between the desire to protect oneself and the need for love and acceptance. The added layer of blackmail from Toby’s best friend heightens the stakes, pushing both characters to confront difficult truths about themselves and their relationship.
The novella is fast-paced and filled with raw emotion, capturing the pain, confusion, and passion that come with young love and the fear of being exposed. With moments of steamy intimacy and tender comfort, the story offers a satisfying journey for readers who enjoy hurt/comfort and coming-out romances. The promise of a happily-ever-after ending adds a hopeful note to the intense, small-town drama.
Perfect for readers seeking a quick, heartfelt read with relatable struggles and authentic characters, Almost Gone delivers a powerful, memorable story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Toby’s vulnerability and Daniel’s internal conflict are at the heart of the story, creating a tense dynamic between the desire to protect oneself and the need for love and acceptance. The added layer of blackmail from Toby’s best friend heightens the stakes, pushing both characters to confront difficult truths about themselves and their relationship.
The novella is fast-paced and filled with raw emotion, capturing the pain, confusion, and passion that come with young love and the fear of being exposed. With moments of steamy intimacy and tender comfort, the story offers a satisfying journey for readers who enjoy hurt/comfort and coming-out romances. The promise of a happily-ever-after ending adds a hopeful note to the intense, small-town drama.
Perfect for readers seeking a quick, heartfelt read with relatable struggles and authentic characters, Almost Gone delivers a powerful, memorable story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2023
this book was 3 stars…up until i finished it and learned that Toby and Dan don’t even get a HFN and that book one in the Wingsted series is about Toby and a whole other man.
Why even write about Dan and all these plans they made together if you’re just going to replace him with a whole new man who is DIRECTLY related to the man who ruined Tobys life in this book.
also the blurb for the next book praises Damon for being such a good friend when he literally was the scum of the EARTH!!! He was absolutely horrible to Toby but let’s go ahead and make him seem like a saint “he’s been my family and is my only family” okay sure what about your dad and step mom? i’m sorry your underage nude posting bestie is not your family no matter what the author wants us to believe.
I feel like the author could have skipped this book entirely, all the characters SUCKED major donkey butt. There was absolutely no communication, Toby didn’t know how to stand up for himself, Damon literally got no consequences for using revenge porn and potentially ruining Toby and Dans lives. Toby was just as toxic as the other two and it was pointless for this to be written, the author wasted good time and energy writing this when he could have put the energy into Toby and Mac in the first place.
Why even write about Dan and all these plans they made together if you’re just going to replace him with a whole new man who is DIRECTLY related to the man who ruined Tobys life in this book.
also the blurb for the next book praises Damon for being such a good friend when he literally was the scum of the EARTH!!! He was absolutely horrible to Toby but let’s go ahead and make him seem like a saint “he’s been my family and is my only family” okay sure what about your dad and step mom? i’m sorry your underage nude posting bestie is not your family no matter what the author wants us to believe.
I feel like the author could have skipped this book entirely, all the characters SUCKED major donkey butt. There was absolutely no communication, Toby didn’t know how to stand up for himself, Damon literally got no consequences for using revenge porn and potentially ruining Toby and Dans lives. Toby was just as toxic as the other two and it was pointless for this to be written, the author wasted good time and energy writing this when he could have put the energy into Toby and Mac in the first place.
May 5, 2024
I’m excited to see where Toby and Daniels life’s lead
This is a great little read about a gay couple who ready love one another but when a friend meddles with their lives, everyone is hurt
On the day of their graduation Toby was giving his farewell speech as valedictorian when on a screen behind him that should of shown pictures of student’s graduating instead shown pictures of him with his lover at a private moment together. Toby is humiliated as his family is there to see him graduate. But who put the pictures up? His first thought was Daniel.
Daniel is his boyfriend who is in the closet. Daniel is very scared about coming out and is hurt when Toby asks if he did it. Daniel says no but he is hiding something from Toby.
So where do they go now??
Wow I was holding my breath for a lot of this book. My heart really went out Toby he didn’t know what was happening . My heart went out for Daniel because he really loved Toby. I don’t want to give away the plot so all I’m going to say this book has got me excited for the next book where we find out what happened to Toby and Daniel.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a great little read about a gay couple who ready love one another but when a friend meddles with their lives, everyone is hurt
On the day of their graduation Toby was giving his farewell speech as valedictorian when on a screen behind him that should of shown pictures of student’s graduating instead shown pictures of him with his lover at a private moment together. Toby is humiliated as his family is there to see him graduate. But who put the pictures up? His first thought was Daniel.
Daniel is his boyfriend who is in the closet. Daniel is very scared about coming out and is hurt when Toby asks if he did it. Daniel says no but he is hiding something from Toby.
So where do they go now??
Wow I was holding my breath for a lot of this book. My heart really went out Toby he didn’t know what was happening . My heart went out for Daniel because he really loved Toby. I don’t want to give away the plot so all I’m going to say this book has got me excited for the next book where we find out what happened to Toby and Daniel.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2023
Toby & Daniel: Short prequel to the Wingstead series. The blurb states it is an HEA but it is more of a HFN as the next book in the series is about Toby and his deceased best friend's, brother Mac. There was a lot going on in this prequel, Toby infuriated me by only believing Damon's side of things. Daniel needed to get his act together and fess up and Damon...don't even get me started on Damon. Pretty sure he's a sociopath. I'm still not sure what exactly happened, Damon was either innocent like Toby believed or he's such a good liar, I'm left wondering if I've judged him too harshly. I read the beginning of the next book in series at the end of the prequel, haven't decided if I am going to read it. If I do, it will be because curiosity will have got the best of me...maybe I'll find some of my answers.
September 24, 2025
From the first sentence I was hooked I felt every bit of pain and confusion from Toby after a very public humiliation at his high school graduation his world comes crashing down. Daniel is just as devastated at what has happened and runs after Toby but he doesn’t want anyone to know it’s him in the photo with him. Damon toby’s “best friend” I really don’t understand him but I think he knows what a big mistake he made and I don’t understand why Toby sacrificed what he did for Damon. I’m away to read the next book but I kinda was invested in Toby and Daniel so I hope there is some clarification in the next book to what happened as I know the love interest is someone other than Daniel. Overall a really good story in my opinion I loved it really had my emotions going and I couldn’t put it down.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2023
Daniel and Toby are high school seniors about to graduate when a picture with the two of them in a compromising position gets circulated among their peers. Toby is the valedictorian and after being publicly humiliated, he runs from the shame, thinking it was Daniel behind it. But it was another so-called friend. The book ends on a HFN.
This book was ok. It was full of angst and teenaged drama, and all the sucky stuff people have to deal with immature individuals in high school. The MC's have a good connection, but as young as they are, they do not have a strong foundation on which a relationship can be built, hence the HFN. It was a good read and I am looking forward to the next in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was ok. It was full of angst and teenaged drama, and all the sucky stuff people have to deal with immature individuals in high school. The MC's have a good connection, but as young as they are, they do not have a strong foundation on which a relationship can be built, hence the HFN. It was a good read and I am looking forward to the next in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 7, 2022
Caleb Marks is a new author for me and he will be one I'll be following very, very closely. 'Almost Gone' is an amazing story of Toby who was publicly humiliated at his graduation in the worst possible way. Not only in front of friends but also family, not to mention his grandmother. A video shown isn't the one he put together, even though he's in the starring role. But not only is the humiliation just through his high school - but it has far reaching repercussions many years down track. I couldn't wait to find out who was responsible. Several boys came to mind but I think each of them is too easy to spot. It has to be someone in the background, but who?
Highly recommend this author.
Highly recommend this author.
October 27, 2022
DANIEL AND TOBY (A VERY ANGSTY STORY)
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Daniel and Toby are two gay high school seniors that are graduating. A picture of them in a compromising position that only shows Toby’s face has Toby doubting everything between him and Daniel. Enter Damon, another senior who doesn’t have the grades to graduate and is blackmailing the closeted Daniel into doing things that he doesn’t want to do. This story touches the anxiety in Daniel and leaves Toby doubting him because he won’t come out of the closet. A very angsty teenage story that keeps the reading wanting to find out what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Daniel and Toby are two gay high school seniors that are graduating. A picture of them in a compromising position that only shows Toby’s face has Toby doubting everything between him and Daniel. Enter Damon, another senior who doesn’t have the grades to graduate and is blackmailing the closeted Daniel into doing things that he doesn’t want to do. This story touches the anxiety in Daniel and leaves Toby doubting him because he won’t come out of the closet. A very angsty teenage story that keeps the reading wanting to find out what happens next.
November 8, 2022
Toby faces a humiliating experience at graduation, one he is blamed for but for which he holds no responsibility. This event has a dramatic effect on his life, his boyfriend’s life, and that of his best friend. It involves issues of truth, trust, friendship, manipulation, and heartache, and a willingness to stand up for another, even when that support may not be deserved. Toby needs to make hard choices but does them while thinking of others. I felt for Toby, Daniel and Damon in the situation and how each accepted responsibility and the outcomes for their choices at the end.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2022
I am not a fan of high school romances. I want my fictional lovers to be mature adults. Marks makes his characters so vibrant, he almost overcomes this. Yes, they have all the ambivalence of a teenager, but they are also facing significant adult issues. Perhaps I dislike teenage romances because they bring back bad memories from high school: manipulation, false friends, people who want to be steadfast but just aren't strong enough, and the feeling that you are the only person who feels so alone. Marks captures all of these. It is done with style and compassion.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2022
I don’t usually like angsty high school romances, but this one started very strong and kept me interested until the end. The story of the relationship between Toby, Daniel, and Damian is rich and complex. I didn’t love how they fail to communicate well or clearly, but that is completely realistic for high school students and particularly given each of their backgrounds which is surprisingly well developed through this prequel. This story ends in a heartbreakingly sweet way, and I can’t wait to read the first story in the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2024
Being publicly humiliated during your graduation is not top on anyone's agenda, but that's what Toby faces when pictures of him in a compromising position are projected for all to see. His boyfriend had taken the pictures for his personal use but his face is out of frame. Daniel is still not out and this is part of the problem. Damon is a manipulative friend who has managed to use Daniel to get Tobey's access to the IT room. Daniel sees Damon for who he is, while Toby isn't sure who to trust. Working things out with college acceptance in the balance is complicated. Toby deserves better, Daniel deserves better, even Damon deserves better.
May 21, 2023
All throughout this book, I felt anguish anger. Caleb Marks did a great job of making me feel that. I felt it from the beginning and until the story's end. I could feel every emotional high and low. I had to keep reminding myself that the MCs are high school teenagers. As this is a prequel, the story ends without resolution or HFN. In spite of all this, I enjoyed the story. What remains to be seen is how it picks up in the sequel. After reading this book, you'll want to get that sequel. I'm hooked!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 16, 2022
New author and his first book. I quickly became hooked on this story. Good first book from Caleb. I’m looking forward to more books in this series. This book is about first loves with the guys graduating high school ready to go to College, contains some angst.
I feel a bit awkward as I can’t remember how I learned of Caleb. I think it was a freebie from him via bookfunnel. Give him a try I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
I feel a bit awkward as I can’t remember how I learned of Caleb. I think it was a freebie from him via bookfunnel. Give him a try I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
October 23, 2022
This book! I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. Toby was valedictorian at his school, but when he is publicly humiliated at his graduation in front of his friends and family, he runs. His secret lover Daniel tells him he didn't show the sexually explicit photos and promises to find out who was behind it. This book went by so quick and I can't wait until the next one. This is a new author to me and I look forward to reading more. 4 stars.
November 6, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book,can’t wait to read the next book,,,There is a lot going on in book one boy a very smart boy Toby has a secret and his name is Daniel but there is also someone else trying to interfere Damon is trying to look after himself and trying to get out of this town we’re his dad is a major gambler that is putting them more in debt there is a lot of anger ,humiliations,tears,lies,half truths,,and a lot of secrets
June 24, 2023
Toby is outed at graduation and is unable to handle it because the one he loves is still hiding. Dan is unsure how everyone will treat him so he hides his feelings. Damon is upset and trying to get all the attention so he pulls a trick and everything goes down hill. Will Toby find out the truth???? Will Dan finally do the right thing??.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2025
Almost Gone is a pulse-pounding ride packed with high stakes, emotional depth, and twists that keep you guessing. With a story that walks the razor’s edge between hope and despair, this book proves that sometimes, the most powerful journeys are the ones where time is running out. A must-read for those who love suspense with heart!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2023
Contains: high school, manipulating, photos public leak, humiliating in front of everyone, closet boyfriend, coming out, drama.
I gave it 3 stars, especially because I absolutely loath manipulate, lie, and publicly humiliate, trashing people live for your own selfish live. Argh. I thought it was an hfn, but then the chapter for the next book was there, and Daniel seemed to have disappeared. Nice short story to pass the time, but it's not my favorite. It's too heavy at my taste.
I gave it 3 stars, especially because I absolutely loath manipulate, lie, and publicly humiliate, trashing people live for your own selfish live. Argh. I thought it was an hfn, but then the chapter for the next book was there, and Daniel seemed to have disappeared. Nice short story to pass the time, but it's not my favorite. It's too heavy at my taste.
March 3, 2023
I liked the premise, but I HATED how the villain won in the end. Damon was awful- a manipulative blackmailer who committed a sex offense, and damn Toby kept listening to him and not his boyfriend. Then I read the synopsis for the next book in the series and find NO Daniel, instead the love interest is the abusers brother. No thank you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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