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To Trust and to Touch
You can watch, but you can’t touch.
Alex performs at the infamous adult club, Kink World. He’s only in it for the money, and he has one rule: no touching. He doesn’t trust anybody that much. However, a chance encounter with a man who is the very epitome of the word safe may change all that. A man who runs a charity for abandoned queer kids, who has a five-year-old daughter, and who is unlike anyone Alex has ever met.
After years of focusing on raising his daughter and running his charity, Sigh’s status quo is shaken up when he meets a man covered in vine tattoos outside his brother's club. The young man stirs a longing he has ignored for far too long. However, he seems unwilling to let anybody in, so Sigh faces an insurmountable challenge to overcome these barriers and find some way to connect.
Will Alex ever let someone touch him? Will Sigh find somebody to fill the emptiness? Will the men find a way to heal together?
Length: 225 pages (52,000 words)
Tropes: age gap, single parent, hurt/comfort
CW: SA, PTSD, unaliving, mature language, content, and violence
Alex performs at the infamous adult club, Kink World. He’s only in it for the money, and he has one rule: no touching. He doesn’t trust anybody that much. However, a chance encounter with a man who is the very epitome of the word safe may change all that. A man who runs a charity for abandoned queer kids, who has a five-year-old daughter, and who is unlike anyone Alex has ever met.
After years of focusing on raising his daughter and running his charity, Sigh’s status quo is shaken up when he meets a man covered in vine tattoos outside his brother's club. The young man stirs a longing he has ignored for far too long. However, he seems unwilling to let anybody in, so Sigh faces an insurmountable challenge to overcome these barriers and find some way to connect.
Will Alex ever let someone touch him? Will Sigh find somebody to fill the emptiness? Will the men find a way to heal together?
Length: 225 pages (52,000 words)
Tropes: age gap, single parent, hurt/comfort
CW: SA, PTSD, unaliving, mature language, content, and violence
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2022
12 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Vivi Anne Hunt
4 books59 followersVivi Anne Hunt writes steamy MM romance books. She loves the tropes age gap and hurt/comfort with a passion, so she reads and writes a lot of those. Proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and the indie author community.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 29, 2024
Check out my full review on my blog.
To Trust and to Touch by Vivi Anne Hunt is a delightful M/M romance that will make you fall in love with these characters, and perhaps relate to them too.
This book is on the darker side of romance but it’s worth every second. I can happily say I binged read this book twice and both times I felt a wave of emotions (happy and sad). Alex and Sigh are two incredible characters that are very relatable, even if we might not relate to their professions. An adult club performer and a man running a charity? They sound like an odd match, but they work. Just you wait and see.
I absolutely loved this book and you can find all of my thoughts on my blog. But, for now, incredible read! It’s a must read romance for M/M romance lovers, people who want a dash of dark theming in their romance, and those who just want to read something relatable in their romances. We can’t all be millionaires but we all do have some trauma stored deep down.
Four out of five stars.
I received this book for free from the author, Vivi Anne Hunt, in exchange for an honest review.
To Trust and to Touch by Vivi Anne Hunt is a delightful M/M romance that will make you fall in love with these characters, and perhaps relate to them too.
This book is on the darker side of romance but it’s worth every second. I can happily say I binged read this book twice and both times I felt a wave of emotions (happy and sad). Alex and Sigh are two incredible characters that are very relatable, even if we might not relate to their professions. An adult club performer and a man running a charity? They sound like an odd match, but they work. Just you wait and see.
I absolutely loved this book and you can find all of my thoughts on my blog. But, for now, incredible read! It’s a must read romance for M/M romance lovers, people who want a dash of dark theming in their romance, and those who just want to read something relatable in their romances. We can’t all be millionaires but we all do have some trauma stored deep down.
Four out of five stars.
I received this book for free from the author, Vivi Anne Hunt, in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2023
(Transparency: This review was commissioned by the author, however this does not at all affect my rating)
This book had SUCH a strong start. The initial conversation between the two love interests was so good. You get a very good sense of who they are individually and it made me super excited to continue on and see how the dynamic would go.
Alex is my kind of character. He’s snarky. He’s annoyed by a lot of people but is soft on the inside. He’s a sex worker. I would want to be Alex’s friend.
Ultimately it unfortunately just didn’t work for me because mostly: it was all SO fast. There wasn’t enough time in this story for the things to progress at a pace that made sense. Sigh asked Alex to move in SO quickly. He offered him a job despite knowing basically nothing about him or his qualifications. His daughters mom came back into the picture after all this time, right when he struck up a relationship with Alex. I was hoping for more in depth conversations about absent mothers but it just was fine.m with everyone so, so quickly. His daughter starts calling Alex her other daddy so quickly. Even the injury Alex had healed so fast, and not just physically but mentally I felt like he didn’t really deal with a lot of repercussions from it which was shocking.
I could feel the love the author has for storytelling and for the characters. Truly, they felt like real people and real problems. I just wish we had spent more time with them and dealt with them in more realistic ways.
I don’t particularly understand why Sigh was involved with the sex club at all if he was just going to act strangely about Alex going back to work there.
There’s some really good themes and ideas here: absent moms (man I’m such a sucker for mommy issues), sex work as a queer man, a romance between two bisexual men, getting couples therapy, dating when you have a child, dating particularly when you are a queer man with a child, the ongoing problem of queer kids being thrown out and needing housing. What an amazing idea, having a main character who runs an organization helping to find housing for queer youth in need. But these ideas just weren’t expanded on in a way that felt satisfying or realistic. Ultimately, this would’ve worked better as a full length novel where we had more time with just… everything. BecaUSe again, that beginning? Stellar chemistry between the two characters right off the bat. I just wanted MORE. More discussion around all of these topics. More diving into what it means to be a sex worker and be in a relationship and be queer. More therapy sessions. More time just getting to know our characters and really hone in on that special something that I felt in the beginning before it all just went so fast.
If you’re looking for a quick read though? This will do!
December 13, 2022
Awful! DNF. Bad writing, choppy and blunt and very very amateurish. And the MC was simply obnoxious . His thoughts held an insult for everybody and their mother. This book smells a lot like slut-shaming and hypocrisy.
December 7, 2022
To Trust and To Touch is another great book by Vivi Anne Hunt. She has the incredible ability to write feel good stories immersed in past trauma, growth and connection.
This book is the story of Alex and Sigh. Alex works at Kink World. Where he pleasures himself while other people are watching him. He has a strict no touch policy, that is even written down in his contract. But one rich customer, Daniel, ignores the rules and refuses to respect Alex' boundaries.
When he storms out one night he meets Sigh. His real name is Cyrill but he prefers Sigh. He is an older man, around 40. And they both are instantly attracted to one another. But it's not just lust. They are able to see inside the other one.
We soon find out that something terrible happened to Alex. We don't find out what happened, until the last few chapters, but it absolutely broke my heart. And Sigh is just the perfect man for Alex. He is kind, generous, respects his boundaries, is careful and doesn't force Alex into anything.
He helps him grow and heal. And Sigh's daughter Emma is a huge part in that as well. She loves Alex and in the end has two daddies who love her to pieces.
I also loved that Sigh has a charity organization in the book called Rainbow Homes. It's an organization that helps youth who are LGTBQ and have no place to go. They give them help and help them search for affordable homes.
Sigh's romantic side gave me a huge smile on my face the entire time. I love their milkshake dates. I love how he, like all parents, has to bribe his daughter to eat healthy. I love how feisty Emma is. How she exactly knows how to play them, and get her way.
I love how the book explores that connection is more then just raw sex. And that that is okay. Overall such a feel good book that I read two days. Would have been one if I started earlier in the day.
A few things did feel a little rushed or not entirely plausible. Like Emma's mother returning, and that that sort of was okay no question asked. While she abandoned her daughter for 5 years. Alex is so passionate and hot headed at times. I was a little surprised he didn't got upset.
Some things happen very quickly. Like Emma calling Alex her daddy very soon. Or how fast Alex healed after the got attacked. My dad recently broke his ribs and that is quite a long journey before you are fully recovered.
But I must say I was able to look over it and just enjoy the story. But a few more chapters could have added a bit more depth and realism to the story.
So overall I am gonna give this heart warming story 4 stars. I really love this book and the author truly has a gift to write relevant, feel good and important stories!
This book is the story of Alex and Sigh. Alex works at Kink World. Where he pleasures himself while other people are watching him. He has a strict no touch policy, that is even written down in his contract. But one rich customer, Daniel, ignores the rules and refuses to respect Alex' boundaries.
When he storms out one night he meets Sigh. His real name is Cyrill but he prefers Sigh. He is an older man, around 40. And they both are instantly attracted to one another. But it's not just lust. They are able to see inside the other one.
We soon find out that something terrible happened to Alex. We don't find out what happened, until the last few chapters, but it absolutely broke my heart. And Sigh is just the perfect man for Alex. He is kind, generous, respects his boundaries, is careful and doesn't force Alex into anything.
He helps him grow and heal. And Sigh's daughter Emma is a huge part in that as well. She loves Alex and in the end has two daddies who love her to pieces.
I also loved that Sigh has a charity organization in the book called Rainbow Homes. It's an organization that helps youth who are LGTBQ and have no place to go. They give them help and help them search for affordable homes.
Sigh's romantic side gave me a huge smile on my face the entire time. I love their milkshake dates. I love how he, like all parents, has to bribe his daughter to eat healthy. I love how feisty Emma is. How she exactly knows how to play them, and get her way.
I love how the book explores that connection is more then just raw sex. And that that is okay. Overall such a feel good book that I read two days. Would have been one if I started earlier in the day.
A few things did feel a little rushed or not entirely plausible. Like Emma's mother returning, and that that sort of was okay no question asked. While she abandoned her daughter for 5 years. Alex is so passionate and hot headed at times. I was a little surprised he didn't got upset.
Some things happen very quickly. Like Emma calling Alex her daddy very soon. Or how fast Alex healed after the got attacked. My dad recently broke his ribs and that is quite a long journey before you are fully recovered.
But I must say I was able to look over it and just enjoy the story. But a few more chapters could have added a bit more depth and realism to the story.
So overall I am gonna give this heart warming story 4 stars. I really love this book and the author truly has a gift to write relevant, feel good and important stories!
January 14, 2023
Great premise: In the aftermath of an especially horrific rape, Alex can't bear to be touched. He works as a barista and also as a performer at a sex club called Kinkworld, where he masturbates for voyeurs. He meets Cyrill, a single parent who for some reason goes by Sigh* and who, with his brother Mason, owns the club. Of course they fall in love.
Unfortunately, multiple plot and characterization problems threw me out of the book over and over.
--Mason runs the club day-to-day, and his security people take a member's side against Alex when the member gets handsy. Uh, if you want to scare off your kinky customers then a good way to do that is to allow unwanted touch. I've never been in a kink club where this behavior wouldn't have resulted in expulsion. Maybe the toucher would get a warning from the dungeon monitors. Maybe.
-- Dave, who is Sigh's best friend, is somehow horrified by the fact that Sigh is romantically interested in a sex worker. I don't even own a sex club, but I would be having words with a friend who took this kind of attitude.
-- Later on, *Sigh* is appalled when Alex proposes to keep his gig at Kinkworld. The narrative doesn't call out the hypocrisy here.
-- Sigh invites Alex to (1) work at his LGBTQ youth organization and (2) move in with him and his 5-year-old daughter without doing any background checks.
-- Alex, for his part, decides right after meeting Sigh that he is probably not a sexual abuser, since he has a young child. Wut.
-- Alex is somehow up and around and not in very much pain a few days after being beaten up so badly that his broken ribs need surgical fixation. If you've had a broken rib, or even badly bruised ribs, you're wincing and screaming right now. #supernaturalhealingpowers
-- Sigh tells Alex that it's okay if they never have sex at all, but a few pages later he's thinking about how he'll try to kiss him pretty soon. For the record, Sigh isn't written as asexual.
-- Once Alex is able to have sex again, which in itself happens with surprising speed, he and Sigh go at it like bunnies. I confess I was skimming by this point but I didn't notice any setbacks happening. Linear recovery FTW.
-- Alex and Sigh's couples therapist praises Alex for not using drugs or "promiscuity" as coping mechanisms. Where to begin -- the whole concept of promiscuity? the idea that, if using sex as a coping mechanism for trauma is bad, doing sex work that consists of masturbating for voyeurs is any different? the notion that being unable to permit any touch at all from anyone is somehow a "better" coping mechanism than drugs or boinking? I guess this isn't exactly a plot problem, but it annoyed me no end.
-- Oh, I almost forgot: although Alex can't tolerate touch of any kind, he somehow is tattooed all over his body, and it's strongly implied that the tattoos are a kind of warning against touching him. On the basis of having a fair number of tattoos myself, I see a logistical problem here.
I was so interested in the premise of this novel. What a disappointment.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC.
----
*This might make sense if his name was Cyrus. Also, why the eccentric spelling of "Cyril"?
Unfortunately, multiple plot and characterization problems threw me out of the book over and over.
--Mason runs the club day-to-day, and his security people take a member's side against Alex when the member gets handsy. Uh, if you want to scare off your kinky customers then a good way to do that is to allow unwanted touch. I've never been in a kink club where this behavior wouldn't have resulted in expulsion. Maybe the toucher would get a warning from the dungeon monitors. Maybe.
-- Dave, who is Sigh's best friend, is somehow horrified by the fact that Sigh is romantically interested in a sex worker. I don't even own a sex club, but I would be having words with a friend who took this kind of attitude.
-- Later on, *Sigh* is appalled when Alex proposes to keep his gig at Kinkworld. The narrative doesn't call out the hypocrisy here.
-- Sigh invites Alex to (1) work at his LGBTQ youth organization and (2) move in with him and his 5-year-old daughter without doing any background checks.
-- Alex, for his part, decides right after meeting Sigh that he is probably not a sexual abuser, since he has a young child. Wut.
-- Alex is somehow up and around and not in very much pain a few days after being beaten up so badly that his broken ribs need surgical fixation. If you've had a broken rib, or even badly bruised ribs, you're wincing and screaming right now. #supernaturalhealingpowers
-- Sigh tells Alex that it's okay if they never have sex at all, but a few pages later he's thinking about how he'll try to kiss him pretty soon. For the record, Sigh isn't written as asexual.
-- Once Alex is able to have sex again, which in itself happens with surprising speed, he and Sigh go at it like bunnies. I confess I was skimming by this point but I didn't notice any setbacks happening. Linear recovery FTW.
-- Alex and Sigh's couples therapist praises Alex for not using drugs or "promiscuity" as coping mechanisms. Where to begin -- the whole concept of promiscuity? the idea that, if using sex as a coping mechanism for trauma is bad, doing sex work that consists of masturbating for voyeurs is any different? the notion that being unable to permit any touch at all from anyone is somehow a "better" coping mechanism than drugs or boinking? I guess this isn't exactly a plot problem, but it annoyed me no end.
-- Oh, I almost forgot: although Alex can't tolerate touch of any kind, he somehow is tattooed all over his body, and it's strongly implied that the tattoos are a kind of warning against touching him. On the basis of having a fair number of tattoos myself, I see a logistical problem here.
I was so interested in the premise of this novel. What a disappointment.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC.
----
*This might make sense if his name was Cyrus. Also, why the eccentric spelling of "Cyril"?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2022
Jak się dwie osoby nie dogadują to wychodzi z tego taka książka. Było trochę fajnych momentów , szczególnie Emma , ale niech mi ktoś wyjaśni jak 40 latek mógł mieć 5 letnie dziecko z tekstem" bo był za młody jak się urodziła ", ja tam stara byłam jak miałam moje dziecię miało 5 lat , a jeszcze 40 nie było. Dogadać się za cholerę nie mogli i leciał foch za fochem. Ogólnie taka sobie. Mogłaby by dużo lepsza.
November 23, 2022
The good
+ Sigh deciding he wanted Alex, and being willing to do anything to be together
+ Sigh's endless patience and reassurances
+ Sigh's romantic side. His romantic gestures were perfect, especially because Alex secretly adored them so much
+ Alex being almost territorial with his possessiveness, and Sigh just eating it right up
+ Alex becoming
+
+ Their first kiss (yes, I mean the one where )
+ The name of the puppy. I snorted out loud
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o I messaged the author regarding a little issue in the advanced copy I read, and they got back to me quickly and kindly, promising to fix the issue
o
The bad
-
- This book contains two instances of miscommunication because interactions were interpreted without knowing the full story. At least there was one on each side, but I personally really don't like this trope
- It was suggested multiple times that working in a sex club or kink club was somehow dirty, or lesser, or gross. Even if Alex did want to keep working at the kink club, why would that be an issue? Sigh should get off his high horse, especially as a co-owner of said kink club...
- Alex made a quite unfortunate statement: "You don't have to treat me like I'm some chick, you know." [Edit: the author fixed this statement]
I enjoyed the connection between Alex and Sigh a lot. Their milkshake dates were the best, and I love how Alex opened up to Sigh more and more. Sigh showering Alex with romantic gestures was amazing, because Alex should know he deserved love too. There were a few things that missed the mark for me, but overall it was an enjoyable read. I would recommend it, but do check out the content warnings!
+ Sigh deciding he wanted Alex, and being willing to do anything to be together
+ Sigh's endless patience and reassurances
+ Sigh's romantic side. His romantic gestures were perfect, especially because Alex secretly adored them so much
+ Alex being almost territorial with his possessiveness, and Sigh just eating it right up
+ Alex becoming
+
+ Their first kiss (yes, I mean the one where )
+ The name of the puppy. I snorted out loud
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o I messaged the author regarding a little issue in the advanced copy I read, and they got back to me quickly and kindly, promising to fix the issue
o
The bad
-
- This book contains two instances of miscommunication because interactions were interpreted without knowing the full story. At least there was one on each side, but I personally really don't like this trope
- It was suggested multiple times that working in a sex club or kink club was somehow dirty, or lesser, or gross. Even if Alex did want to keep working at the kink club, why would that be an issue? Sigh should get off his high horse, especially as a co-owner of said kink club...
- Alex made a quite unfortunate statement: "You don't have to treat me like I'm some chick, you know." [Edit: the author fixed this statement]
I enjoyed the connection between Alex and Sigh a lot. Their milkshake dates were the best, and I love how Alex opened up to Sigh more and more. Sigh showering Alex with romantic gestures was amazing, because Alex should know he deserved love too. There were a few things that missed the mark for me, but overall it was an enjoyable read. I would recommend it, but do check out the content warnings!
December 5, 2022
3 stars
This is a short read, an emotional m/m, age-gap romance between a single dad with a huge heart, and a troubled, traumatised younger man.
Alex is a loner, both by circumstance, and by choice. A young gay man, he experienced a horrific assault which left him deeply traumatised, and ever since he has lived a mostly isolated life, not wanting to be touched by anybody. He performs solo at a gay sex club to help him get by, and he’s not in a good place.
Sigh (nickname for Cyrill) is a 40 year old bisexual man, and a single dad to an adorable 5 year old girl. Having been focussed on his daughter for the last few years, he’s starting to venture out socially again, when he runs into Alex out the front of a club. He’s instantly intrigued by the gorgeous young man, they chat, and when he gets a glimpse of the realities of Alex’s life, he offers him work at his charity foundation, supporting struggling LGTBQ youth.
The two men are attracted to each other, but Sigh can recognise that Alex is not ready for all that he wants to offer. Sigh is a carer, he has a huge heart and just wants to help Alex and make things better, and though Alex’s walls are high and his issues are significant, Sigh is up for the challenge.
Alex’s story is so sad, and I felt for him and all that he had been through. I could understand Sigh wanting to be there for him, and loved how he took his time getting to know Alex and slowly and patiently building trust between them.
Being around Sigh and his daughter, Emma, is an entirely new situation for Alex. He’s never really had a family, yet he fits with them, and finds peace and contentment for the first time in his life.
The story is fast moving, but the romance has the feel of a slow burn, with Sigh and Alex slowly opening up to each other and sharing what they are feeling. Once they do take the step towards more, the romance progresses quickly, and though the feeling are intense, Sigh is measured with everything, working with Alex to overcome his demons and supporting him through his first real relationship.
I enjoyed this book. I was immediately intrigued by these two characters, I liked watching Alex become a part of Sigh and Emma’s lives, and I liked watching them come together. The second part of the book moved a bit fast for me. The relationship feels really full on, really quickly, and the story felt a bit rushed as they worked through those final issues and settled into life together.
Sigh is such a sweetheart, but early in the book there is mention of him exploring and loving “daddies and their boys”. I’ve never read a book with ‘daddy kink’ (and it’s not usually something I’d choose to read), and I’m not even sure if this is what that was? But I wasn’t expecting it, and the mention of it in this book took me by surprise. (In fact – full disclosure - when I read the blurb for the book and it mentioned that Alex ‘performed’ at a sex club, my mind automatically went to him being a musician of some sort (*facepalm*), so there was quite a bit I wasn’t expecting in this book!) But it did make me wonder… did Sigh love Alex for who he is, or because he has some sort of fetish for younger, troubled boys? I prefer to think of it as just a coincidental age gap, but between that and the way their relationship progressed so quickly, I didn’t feel the love story as much as I was hoping.
There’s a great bunch of side characters, and little Emma is adorable and a complete scene stealer, and I enjoyed watching Sigh and Alex work through so many hurdles, both within and external to their relationship, to find their happy ending.
This is a good read, and though I went in a bit naively, I enjoyed the story.
3 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a short read, an emotional m/m, age-gap romance between a single dad with a huge heart, and a troubled, traumatised younger man.
Alex is a loner, both by circumstance, and by choice. A young gay man, he experienced a horrific assault which left him deeply traumatised, and ever since he has lived a mostly isolated life, not wanting to be touched by anybody. He performs solo at a gay sex club to help him get by, and he’s not in a good place.
What must it be like to see life as a fun adventure and not some kind of sadistic nightmare that never ends.
Sigh (nickname for Cyrill) is a 40 year old bisexual man, and a single dad to an adorable 5 year old girl. Having been focussed on his daughter for the last few years, he’s starting to venture out socially again, when he runs into Alex out the front of a club. He’s instantly intrigued by the gorgeous young man, they chat, and when he gets a glimpse of the realities of Alex’s life, he offers him work at his charity foundation, supporting struggling LGTBQ youth.
The two men are attracted to each other, but Sigh can recognise that Alex is not ready for all that he wants to offer. Sigh is a carer, he has a huge heart and just wants to help Alex and make things better, and though Alex’s walls are high and his issues are significant, Sigh is up for the challenge.
…The broken boy whom I just want to embrace and never let anyone close to ever again. I want to keep him away from everything bad in the world, even though I know I can’t, and even though he won’t let me.
Alex’s story is so sad, and I felt for him and all that he had been through. I could understand Sigh wanting to be there for him, and loved how he took his time getting to know Alex and slowly and patiently building trust between them.
I will hold his hand as long as he needs me to, and long after that if he’ll let me.
Being around Sigh and his daughter, Emma, is an entirely new situation for Alex. He’s never really had a family, yet he fits with them, and finds peace and contentment for the first time in his life.
I never wanted this life, but I got it anyway, and now it has changed me.
The story is fast moving, but the romance has the feel of a slow burn, with Sigh and Alex slowly opening up to each other and sharing what they are feeling. Once they do take the step towards more, the romance progresses quickly, and though the feeling are intense, Sigh is measured with everything, working with Alex to overcome his demons and supporting him through his first real relationship.
“Alex, I promise, I’ll help you through this, all right? Please, if you just explain what’s wrong, I can help you.”
“You shouldn’t have to try so hard,” I mutter.
“I want to. For you, I would do anything.”
Well, fuck.
I enjoyed this book. I was immediately intrigued by these two characters, I liked watching Alex become a part of Sigh and Emma’s lives, and I liked watching them come together. The second part of the book moved a bit fast for me. The relationship feels really full on, really quickly, and the story felt a bit rushed as they worked through those final issues and settled into life together.
Sigh is such a sweetheart, but early in the book there is mention of him exploring and loving “daddies and their boys”. I’ve never read a book with ‘daddy kink’ (and it’s not usually something I’d choose to read), and I’m not even sure if this is what that was? But I wasn’t expecting it, and the mention of it in this book took me by surprise. (In fact – full disclosure - when I read the blurb for the book and it mentioned that Alex ‘performed’ at a sex club, my mind automatically went to him being a musician of some sort (*facepalm*), so there was quite a bit I wasn’t expecting in this book!) But it did make me wonder… did Sigh love Alex for who he is, or because he has some sort of fetish for younger, troubled boys? I prefer to think of it as just a coincidental age gap, but between that and the way their relationship progressed so quickly, I didn’t feel the love story as much as I was hoping.
There’s a great bunch of side characters, and little Emma is adorable and a complete scene stealer, and I enjoyed watching Sigh and Alex work through so many hurdles, both within and external to their relationship, to find their happy ending.
“Loving you is the easiest thing I’ve done in my life.”
This is a good read, and though I went in a bit naively, I enjoyed the story.
3 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2022
Alex is twenty-five, quite strained, working at Kink World club, just for the money. Well, that was obvious because he seems to hate it, all that grumbling. Keep attention because he got his reasons.
Alex got no one, only plural jobs to pay the bills. He doesn’t want to be touched, so the contract at the club includes that, no touching.
Meeting the older Sigh shakes up his protected world. Sigh is patient, and kind and gives him the space he needs.
After Alex is attacked, Sigh takes him to his house to stay as long as he wants. Sigh got an amazing five-year-old daughter who thinks the world of Alex.
A lot is happening, in big lines, there are trust issues, a lack of clear communication, and trauma. We got Alex who thinks he’ll never be enough, and Sigh who tries to convince him, whatever Alex can give will always be enough. Alex wants to believe, but it’s not easy at all.
It’s a slow burn, logical, because losing trust in humanity takes a while to gain, if ever.
It was an interesting story, I read it in one sit, it’s not perfect but I really enjoyed it.
The big thing from Alex, needed, in my opinion, more attention after revealing it, it was a serious shocking situation, where the police should get involved. In my opinion, it got not the attention it needed.
The focus of the story was more on Alex his coping, Alex and Sigh their relationship, and Sigh’s family and business.
Still, it was an intense read, captivatingly written, I couldn’t put it down until I finished.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Alex got no one, only plural jobs to pay the bills. He doesn’t want to be touched, so the contract at the club includes that, no touching.
Meeting the older Sigh shakes up his protected world. Sigh is patient, and kind and gives him the space he needs.
After Alex is attacked, Sigh takes him to his house to stay as long as he wants. Sigh got an amazing five-year-old daughter who thinks the world of Alex.
A lot is happening, in big lines, there are trust issues, a lack of clear communication, and trauma. We got Alex who thinks he’ll never be enough, and Sigh who tries to convince him, whatever Alex can give will always be enough. Alex wants to believe, but it’s not easy at all.
It’s a slow burn, logical, because losing trust in humanity takes a while to gain, if ever.
It was an interesting story, I read it in one sit, it’s not perfect but I really enjoyed it.
The big thing from Alex, needed, in my opinion, more attention after revealing it, it was a serious shocking situation, where the police should get involved. In my opinion, it got not the attention it needed.
The focus of the story was more on Alex his coping, Alex and Sigh their relationship, and Sigh’s family and business.
Still, it was an intense read, captivatingly written, I couldn’t put it down until I finished.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
December 10, 2022
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This is a touching portrayal of a guy who has been marred by a horrific event that has altered his life. Leaving him feeling broken and like he may never be normal again.
It’s an intimate story that follows the meeting of Alex and Sigh, and a deep, and immediate, connection that they can’t seem to deny (even when they try). His trauma so consumes Alex that it is often hard for him to see things through a level head, blowing up Sigh’s ‘missteps’ , making them into huge events. It felt real, the unable to see things clearly, the outburst controlled by fear.
But through it all, Sigh remained steady and unrelenting. He was a true romantic who was convinced he could woo his way through most problems, if a milkshake didn’t fix it, that is. He’s a wonderful counterpoint for Alex. Providing love, patience and complete acceptance, while also helping him to find a purpose to drive him. And a certain little girl definitely helps to bring vibrancy to their lives and grounding them.
I admittedly didn’t like Alex in the first couple of chapters, but his layers were quickly shown and became very human and interesting.
It’s an emotional tale, but it has a lot of hope and optimism. Another great story by Vivi Anne.
This is a touching portrayal of a guy who has been marred by a horrific event that has altered his life. Leaving him feeling broken and like he may never be normal again.
It’s an intimate story that follows the meeting of Alex and Sigh, and a deep, and immediate, connection that they can’t seem to deny (even when they try). His trauma so consumes Alex that it is often hard for him to see things through a level head, blowing up Sigh’s ‘missteps’ , making them into huge events. It felt real, the unable to see things clearly, the outburst controlled by fear.
But through it all, Sigh remained steady and unrelenting. He was a true romantic who was convinced he could woo his way through most problems, if a milkshake didn’t fix it, that is. He’s a wonderful counterpoint for Alex. Providing love, patience and complete acceptance, while also helping him to find a purpose to drive him. And a certain little girl definitely helps to bring vibrancy to their lives and grounding them.
I admittedly didn’t like Alex in the first couple of chapters, but his layers were quickly shown and became very human and interesting.
It’s an emotional tale, but it has a lot of hope and optimism. Another great story by Vivi Anne.
December 30, 2022
Thank you Vivvi for letting me read and review an early copy.
A pacy read that I finished in a couple of hours. Quite different from her first novel with cheerier characters.
Alex is a young and rather troubled young man who ends up meeting just the people to help him in Sigh and his rather hilarious daughter Emma who turned out to quickly be a favourite of mine.
The relationship grows steadily through out the story with a few moments of drama.
Personally Alex swears way too much 😂💀 so I've had to drop a star as it got to me in the end but I know other readers may not mind that too much.
A fair warning to folks their is SA and other trigger warnings but not done gratuitously.
A pacy read that I finished in a couple of hours. Quite different from her first novel with cheerier characters.
Alex is a young and rather troubled young man who ends up meeting just the people to help him in Sigh and his rather hilarious daughter Emma who turned out to quickly be a favourite of mine.
The relationship grows steadily through out the story with a few moments of drama.
Personally Alex swears way too much 😂💀 so I've had to drop a star as it got to me in the end but I know other readers may not mind that too much.
A fair warning to folks their is SA and other trigger warnings but not done gratuitously.
November 24, 2022
A traumatized young man and a single father with his own issues brought together by fate and an irrestible attraction. Are they doomed to implode or does love truly conquer all?
A solid plot with plenty of twists to hold the readers attention hut to me its the characters that truly shine. Genuine and authentic with layers of rich complexity. A truly enjoyable read.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
A solid plot with plenty of twists to hold the readers attention hut to me its the characters that truly shine. Genuine and authentic with layers of rich complexity. A truly enjoyable read.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
November 19, 2022
This was a story of real and true intimacy. The writing style was so unique, and the I felt immersed into the thoughts and feelings of the guys was intimate as well. Alex was so real. He was changed from his past Trama, but still strong and quite stubborn. He made strange life choices given everything and that fascinated me. These two were an odd pair in the making and I could not put this book down. Sigh's daughter is adorable, and this book gave me so many feels!
November 17, 2022
Wow this is a deeply emotional book. I was expecting a kinky book but this is a book about a deeply traumatised man who allows himself to be loved by a sweet, caring man. There are deep themes throughout, which may be a trigger, although there is very little sexual action, there is an intimacy throughout. It is a special story that felt like I had a privilege to watch unfold. I will look out for more books from this author.
December 17, 2022
ARC REVIEW
I think the most important thing I want to say after finishing the books is this:
If you feel that you don't like the characters in the first part, continue reading. It gets better and there is a character development for both MCs but most of all, Alex in particular is not likeable and imperfect for a reason, there is an important story being told under the surface.
They don't completely change in the end, they don't suddenly become perfect, but they find their own dimension, what works for them, and they're happy.
I really liked the therapy they have together, the words the therapist uses and what Sigh says too.
And even though initially I didn't like how quickly Sigh involved Alex with Emma without not knowing him enough and no worries about her safety, in the end I liked how they took decisions together because Alex was totally part of the family.
Now the things I didn't like while I was reading, mostly the first half. I leave them at the end because as said above, I had a better feeling by the end.
I decided to read this book because I liked the author's first book.
Content and Trigger Warnings:
by the author:
SA, PTSD, unaliving, mature language, content, and violence
by me:
- drugs abuse (coke) by side character on page, and by mc in the past
- mention of teenager's suicide
- gang rape (past) to mc, rape (past) to side character
- lots of cursing by mc
- past repeated cheating by mc
- some joke about gender, and some joke about flirting with teenage girl
I also want to mention there is a positive mention of Harry Potter, which I never appreciate in LGBTQ books and I wish it was avoided at least in new books due to JKR's beliefs.
I think the most important thing I want to say after finishing the books is this:
If you feel that you don't like the characters in the first part, continue reading. It gets better and there is a character development for both MCs but most of all, Alex in particular is not likeable and imperfect for a reason, there is an important story being told under the surface.
They don't completely change in the end, they don't suddenly become perfect, but they find their own dimension, what works for them, and they're happy.
I really liked the therapy they have together, the words the therapist uses and what Sigh says too.
And even though initially I didn't like how quickly Sigh involved Alex with Emma without not knowing him enough and no worries about her safety, in the end I liked how they took decisions together because Alex was totally part of the family.
Now the things I didn't like while I was reading, mostly the first half. I leave them at the end because as said above, I had a better feeling by the end.
I decided to read this book because I liked the author's first book.
Content and Trigger Warnings:
by the author:
SA, PTSD, unaliving, mature language, content, and violence
by me:
- drugs abuse (coke) by side character on page, and by mc in the past
- mention of teenager's suicide
- gang rape (past) to mc, rape (past) to side character
- lots of cursing by mc
- past repeated cheating by mc
- some joke about gender, and some joke about flirting with teenage girl
I also want to mention there is a positive mention of Harry Potter, which I never appreciate in LGBTQ books and I wish it was avoided at least in new books due to JKR's beliefs.
December 13, 2022
To Trust and To Touch was an enjoyable, at times heartbreaking, emotional rollercoaster of a read.
Good Points:
★ Vivi does not shy away from addressing trauma and healing. If you like hurt/comfort and a patient, nurturing love interest, this book is excellent.
★ I actually liked Alex better than Sigh. He has a lot of depth and, for me, was likable from the start.
★ I enjoyed how the author developed a loving, intimate relationship without much actual on page sex. Considering Alex's background, this was well-done.
★ Bi-sexual rep! Nuanced sexualities.
★ The writing and pacing flowed well. Overall, a sweet slow burn with a lovely ending.
★ Milkshake dates!
Things I didn't care for:
★ The book seemed anti-sex work at times. At one point, Sigh's best friend Dave says, "I don't know if I like this guy for you," in regard to Alex being a sex worker. I guess he's just concerned for Sigh's five year old daughter, but Sigh does own half of the club. Later, Sigh seems annoyed (disappointed?) that Alex is going back to work in the club. On one hand, I get that not everyone wants their boyfriend working in a sex club, however-again-Sigh owns part of the club and at one point enjoyed going there and exploring his sexuality! Even if he's not running it, his attitude seems hypocritical.
★ Alex has some extreme emotional reactions. I totally get this if it's related to his trauma. But it's not really clear whether his actions are related to PTSD, anxiety, or just the way he is. Sigh seems to accept it as just "fighting" or jealousy (which he seems to enjoy). I would have liked to have seen this addressed more in the therapy session or brought up as Sigh's private concerns rather than simply accepting Alex's outbursts as bratty behavior. Or if Alex pondered his feelings after the fact, that could have cleared things up.
★ Personally, I don't care for the miscommunication trope. That happens a few times and I wish, as adults, the two could have talked about it rather than get angry and run away.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and appreciate that Vivi approached these dark topics in a sensitive and caring way. The balance between the dark and the sweet / fluffy was masterfully done. I'm looking forward to more books from them.
Good Points:
★ Vivi does not shy away from addressing trauma and healing. If you like hurt/comfort and a patient, nurturing love interest, this book is excellent.
★ I actually liked Alex better than Sigh. He has a lot of depth and, for me, was likable from the start.
★ I enjoyed how the author developed a loving, intimate relationship without much actual on page sex. Considering Alex's background, this was well-done.
★ Bi-sexual rep! Nuanced sexualities.
★ The writing and pacing flowed well. Overall, a sweet slow burn with a lovely ending.
★ Milkshake dates!
Things I didn't care for:
★ The book seemed anti-sex work at times. At one point, Sigh's best friend Dave says, "I don't know if I like this guy for you," in regard to Alex being a sex worker. I guess he's just concerned for Sigh's five year old daughter, but Sigh does own half of the club. Later, Sigh seems annoyed (disappointed?) that Alex is going back to work in the club. On one hand, I get that not everyone wants their boyfriend working in a sex club, however-again-Sigh owns part of the club and at one point enjoyed going there and exploring his sexuality! Even if he's not running it, his attitude seems hypocritical.
★ Alex has some extreme emotional reactions. I totally get this if it's related to his trauma. But it's not really clear whether his actions are related to PTSD, anxiety, or just the way he is. Sigh seems to accept it as just "fighting" or jealousy (which he seems to enjoy). I would have liked to have seen this addressed more in the therapy session or brought up as Sigh's private concerns rather than simply accepting Alex's outbursts as bratty behavior. Or if Alex pondered his feelings after the fact, that could have cleared things up.
★ Personally, I don't care for the miscommunication trope. That happens a few times and I wish, as adults, the two could have talked about it rather than get angry and run away.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and appreciate that Vivi approached these dark topics in a sensitive and caring way. The balance between the dark and the sweet / fluffy was masterfully done. I'm looking forward to more books from them.
December 4, 2022
*I received a free copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
-Contains spoilers-
TW: SA, PTSD, violence
What I liked:
-I thought it was sweet that Sigh runs an organization like Rainbow Homes. That warmed my dead heart a little.
-I like how patient he was with Alex, knowing Alex was a victim of some kind of trauma.
-Their banter was cute, and the milkshake dates were really wholesome.
-I like how they normalize different types of families with Emma.
-I liked Nat. She was a hoot and a half.
-I liked a honest portrayal of PTSD (well, it can be different for everyone, but I definitely experience flying off the handle for no reason)
Issues:
-I feel like Sigh let someone he barely knew stay with him really quickly, considering he has a child, and Emma called Alex Daddy really quickly too. After not that much time, Alex is watching his kid, cuddling with her, and Sigh thinks nothing of it. Not that Alex ends up being a bad person, but as a parent, I would have dotted my i's and crossed my t's a little more thoroughly. Background check time.
-I felt uncomfortable about some of the healthy eating stuff because I'm sensitive about diet culture especially when it comes to parents and children. I get the value of wanting to give your child nutritional meals, but chill, it's okay if she eats a Poptart. She's 5.
-It takes place I think in America (tbh, brain fog, I forget if a specific city is mentioned) but there are multiple instances of things I don't think Americans say, like wording/phrasings
-It's odd that Sigh is part owner of a sex club but seems to want to rescue Alex from it and kind of looks down on it a little. Just sell your half and run if you hate it.
-Also another reviewer made a good point, you don't like being touched but you have an awful lot of tattoos...
Overall: Very cute story. Cute meet cute? (Did I say cute too many times?) A nice story about a man helping another man find healing after years of living with trauma. Those sorts of people are invaluable, and I'm glad Alex found one who loves him so unconditionally. Wishing Sigh and Alex many happy years together. And many puppies for Emma. Get the kid another puppy.
-Contains spoilers-
TW: SA, PTSD, violence
What I liked:
-I thought it was sweet that Sigh runs an organization like Rainbow Homes. That warmed my dead heart a little.
-I like how patient he was with Alex, knowing Alex was a victim of some kind of trauma.
-Their banter was cute, and the milkshake dates were really wholesome.
-I like how they normalize different types of families with Emma.
-I liked Nat. She was a hoot and a half.
-I liked a honest portrayal of PTSD (well, it can be different for everyone, but I definitely experience flying off the handle for no reason)
Issues:
-I feel like Sigh let someone he barely knew stay with him really quickly, considering he has a child, and Emma called Alex Daddy really quickly too. After not that much time, Alex is watching his kid, cuddling with her, and Sigh thinks nothing of it. Not that Alex ends up being a bad person, but as a parent, I would have dotted my i's and crossed my t's a little more thoroughly. Background check time.
-I felt uncomfortable about some of the healthy eating stuff because I'm sensitive about diet culture especially when it comes to parents and children. I get the value of wanting to give your child nutritional meals, but chill, it's okay if she eats a Poptart. She's 5.
-It takes place I think in America (tbh, brain fog, I forget if a specific city is mentioned) but there are multiple instances of things I don't think Americans say, like wording/phrasings
-It's odd that Sigh is part owner of a sex club but seems to want to rescue Alex from it and kind of looks down on it a little. Just sell your half and run if you hate it.
-Also another reviewer made a good point, you don't like being touched but you have an awful lot of tattoos...
Overall: Very cute story. Cute meet cute? (Did I say cute too many times?) A nice story about a man helping another man find healing after years of living with trauma. Those sorts of people are invaluable, and I'm glad Alex found one who loves him so unconditionally. Wishing Sigh and Alex many happy years together. And many puppies for Emma. Get the kid another puppy.
December 11, 2022
Alex and Sigh ❤️
4 Stars ⭐️
This was a really nice age gap/ trauma/ hurt comfort read, it was a very slow burn romantically speaking however the relationship development was a bit on the faster pace all while being extremely touching and sensitive. Alex's story was a tough one to read when the time came, it puts perspective on exactly why he is the way he is...it was horrifying, so I'd suggest if you have certain triggers please pay attention to the warnings of this book. Now let's talk about Sigh....he was an absolute love of a man, his steadfast presence and patience with Alex was beautiful. I really like these two as a couple, I was with them every step of the way as they fought for their HEA and their sweet little family. I also loved Emma...just adorable, cute kiddos always add so much to stories like this. I would 100% recommend, this is a new to me Author and I was very impressed with this story, I am hoping for another book in this world... it would be interesting to see any of the side characters find love.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4 Stars ⭐️
This was a really nice age gap/ trauma/ hurt comfort read, it was a very slow burn romantically speaking however the relationship development was a bit on the faster pace all while being extremely touching and sensitive. Alex's story was a tough one to read when the time came, it puts perspective on exactly why he is the way he is...it was horrifying, so I'd suggest if you have certain triggers please pay attention to the warnings of this book. Now let's talk about Sigh....he was an absolute love of a man, his steadfast presence and patience with Alex was beautiful. I really like these two as a couple, I was with them every step of the way as they fought for their HEA and their sweet little family. I also loved Emma...just adorable, cute kiddos always add so much to stories like this. I would 100% recommend, this is a new to me Author and I was very impressed with this story, I am hoping for another book in this world... it would be interesting to see any of the side characters find love.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
December 13, 2022
I really appreciated the author, Vivi Anne Hunt, after reading their latest, To Trust and to Touch. I felt they handled a very delicate situation extremely well. So often I read stories where one of the characters suffered a terrible trauma and miraculously they're better by just falling in love with the right partner. Alex, one of the two main characters, the one that suffered thr trauma, took years to cope. Which is in my opinion way more realistic. So the author had more realism in their story which I appreciated it very much.
December 3, 2022
I found this author on Twitter and reached out to receive an ARC of this novel. This is my honest review.
Honestly, when a sex club is mentioned, my mind immediately goes to the gutter haha. This book was much different than I expected. Filled with varied big emotions, an LGBTQ charity, and a tiny mystery in business that I did not expect at all.
I will say that Alex is a downer, they have very low self-esteem - certain scenes made me wanna reach into the book and just shake him. Sigh is a soft daddy that cares so deeply for those in his world that it is all-consuming. Vivi wrote a story that you can submerse yourself in, feeling the emotions of the characters, and the triggers are accurately described so you can know any surprises to watch for.
I enjoyed the story, although a bit annoyed with Alex at times, and I plan to read more written by this author.
Honestly, when a sex club is mentioned, my mind immediately goes to the gutter haha. This book was much different than I expected. Filled with varied big emotions, an LGBTQ charity, and a tiny mystery in business that I did not expect at all.
I will say that Alex is a downer, they have very low self-esteem - certain scenes made me wanna reach into the book and just shake him. Sigh is a soft daddy that cares so deeply for those in his world that it is all-consuming. Vivi wrote a story that you can submerse yourself in, feeling the emotions of the characters, and the triggers are accurately described so you can know any surprises to watch for.
I enjoyed the story, although a bit annoyed with Alex at times, and I plan to read more written by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2022
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
So, I planned to read this book over several days but the characters had other ideas. They grabbed me by the heart strings and refused to let go so I just ran with it.
Sigh and Alex are such a beautiful couple to follow because they aren’t perfect. I normally don’t like the miscommunication trope but the author uses it brilliantly here: it isn’t drawn out, it makes sense because of the characters’ personalities and the way it’s addressed is realistic and sweet.
Alex has his own baggage and it absolutely impacts the relationship but it’s also a beautiful way to show what a supportive partner looks like. Sigh’s baby girl Emma is a preschool bundle of joy that’s the icing on the cake.
These characters will make you feel for them. You want them to face their past, build their future and get their happily ever after. The journey getting there is a priceless one that you’ll want to revisit over and over.
So, I planned to read this book over several days but the characters had other ideas. They grabbed me by the heart strings and refused to let go so I just ran with it.
Sigh and Alex are such a beautiful couple to follow because they aren’t perfect. I normally don’t like the miscommunication trope but the author uses it brilliantly here: it isn’t drawn out, it makes sense because of the characters’ personalities and the way it’s addressed is realistic and sweet.
Alex has his own baggage and it absolutely impacts the relationship but it’s also a beautiful way to show what a supportive partner looks like. Sigh’s baby girl Emma is a preschool bundle of joy that’s the icing on the cake.
These characters will make you feel for them. You want them to face their past, build their future and get their happily ever after. The journey getting there is a priceless one that you’ll want to revisit over and over.
November 28, 2022
To Trust and To Touch was a book that sounded perfect for me. I love books that deal with heavy issues and make you feel, and it sounded like such would be the case with this one. Unfortunately, this was one of those cases where the book did not work for me.
A part of it was the writing style. I know this is a very personal thing, so I’ll keep this as a ‘it was me, not you’ case. I could have overlooked this – I was overlooking it for a while – but there were too many things that were not explored with enough depth. More than that, there were times when people said or did things that did not match up with the healing story it was aiming for. The psychologist scene, for example, really annoyed me. Maybe it’s just because I spent years working with people who’d been in such situations, but I felt such rage with the things that were said. Whatever your thoughts, you are not allowed to say those kinds of things. It just rubbed me the wrong way and added to my annoyance with the rushed feel of the book.
There are clearly many who have loved this, but it did not work for me. It’s mostly a case of “it’s me, not the book”, yet there were also some moments that had me shaking my head in general because they did not reflect the way things should be done.
A part of it was the writing style. I know this is a very personal thing, so I’ll keep this as a ‘it was me, not you’ case. I could have overlooked this – I was overlooking it for a while – but there were too many things that were not explored with enough depth. More than that, there were times when people said or did things that did not match up with the healing story it was aiming for. The psychologist scene, for example, really annoyed me. Maybe it’s just because I spent years working with people who’d been in such situations, but I felt such rage with the things that were said. Whatever your thoughts, you are not allowed to say those kinds of things. It just rubbed me the wrong way and added to my annoyance with the rushed feel of the book.
There are clearly many who have loved this, but it did not work for me. It’s mostly a case of “it’s me, not the book”, yet there were also some moments that had me shaking my head in general because they did not reflect the way things should be done.
December 12, 2022
Do you ever read a book and it is completely not what you're thinking going in? That is the case here with this book for me! And before you jump to thinking I didn't like it - I enjoyed and recommend this book. It was just different than what I was expecting - in a positive way!
Sigh is a single father with too much on his plate - his own business, part ownership of a club, a 5 year old daughter. Alex is a 25 year old with a traumatic event in his past leaving scars that run deep.
The two meet outside a kink club in a chance encounter and their connection grows from there.
These two are like magnets - the pull between them is palpable. It's an undeniable chemistry made unique by Alex's aversion to being touched. This is where I need to explain why my expectations were different than the actual story. Due to their meeting at Kink World and Alex's job there, I was expecting the club to play a much larger role in the story, giving a darker undertone to it. Actually, the club is barely in the book at all, just some mentions and a couple of short scenes. Not a good or bad thing either way - just different than what I expected. And I think the cover itself also made me think the story would be so much more dark and ominous whereas in actuality, the story was quite emotional and beautiful as we watch Sigh's patience be the key to unlocking Alex after 3 years of suffering.
Sigh was a literal "sigh" himself - gorgeously caring and sensitive - he loved Alex from almost the moment he met him. He was a dream come true to Alex - so much so that Alex couldn't let himself believe it. The only moments of the story I didn't love were Alex's temper when he pushed Sigh away so harshly. It wasn't that I didn't understand why, it was that I felt he owed Sigh more of an apology and explanation that he gave most times. I would have liked to see him understanding the effects of his behavior deeper and more remorse from him. But the growth of the 2 MCs emotional and physical relationship was real and heartwarming or heart wrenching, depending on the moment! A truly wonderful read.
Overall, this was a beautiful story and a return-to-life adventure for Alex. His trauma was devastating and it was wonderful to read him find happiness with Sigh. It was truly a beautifully written story with characters that you feel emotions alongside. And Sigh's daughter Emma was a treat - her relationship with Alex was tender and sweet - so well written! This book gets a 4/5 star rating from me and I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Sigh is a single father with too much on his plate - his own business, part ownership of a club, a 5 year old daughter. Alex is a 25 year old with a traumatic event in his past leaving scars that run deep.
The two meet outside a kink club in a chance encounter and their connection grows from there.
These two are like magnets - the pull between them is palpable. It's an undeniable chemistry made unique by Alex's aversion to being touched. This is where I need to explain why my expectations were different than the actual story. Due to their meeting at Kink World and Alex's job there, I was expecting the club to play a much larger role in the story, giving a darker undertone to it. Actually, the club is barely in the book at all, just some mentions and a couple of short scenes. Not a good or bad thing either way - just different than what I expected. And I think the cover itself also made me think the story would be so much more dark and ominous whereas in actuality, the story was quite emotional and beautiful as we watch Sigh's patience be the key to unlocking Alex after 3 years of suffering.
Sigh was a literal "sigh" himself - gorgeously caring and sensitive - he loved Alex from almost the moment he met him. He was a dream come true to Alex - so much so that Alex couldn't let himself believe it. The only moments of the story I didn't love were Alex's temper when he pushed Sigh away so harshly. It wasn't that I didn't understand why, it was that I felt he owed Sigh more of an apology and explanation that he gave most times. I would have liked to see him understanding the effects of his behavior deeper and more remorse from him. But the growth of the 2 MCs emotional and physical relationship was real and heartwarming or heart wrenching, depending on the moment! A truly wonderful read.
Overall, this was a beautiful story and a return-to-life adventure for Alex. His trauma was devastating and it was wonderful to read him find happiness with Sigh. It was truly a beautifully written story with characters that you feel emotions alongside. And Sigh's daughter Emma was a treat - her relationship with Alex was tender and sweet - so well written! This book gets a 4/5 star rating from me and I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
December 8, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book, and all opinions are my own.
Every once in a few months or years, you come across a book and find characters you fall in love with. This was that kind of book for me.
Since I read the author’s first book and loved it, I was excited to read something new from her. And as always, Vivi did not disappoint. Alex and Sigh made me love them and claimed a spot in my heart.
There was so much about Alex that I loved. His story made me cry many times, and I rooted for him from the first chapter. Perhaps it was because I could relate to Alex for many reasons, so it was easier to instantly get invested in his story.
And then he met Sigh, and I knew these two would steal my heart.
There was so much in this book that kept me in my feels. Sigh is extremely easy to love, perhaps because it’s so clear how much he loves his daughter and Alex. He was gentle and assuring, and it melted my heart to see how much he cared about the people he loved.
Following Alex on his journey from hating people’s touch to absolutely falling in love with Sigh and Emma made my year. I read this book during a difficult time in my life, and it made me smile and laugh so much. I cried during the sad parts and squealed during the happy ones. Overall, I loved every single part of it.
It was heart warming and gave me a lot of confidence in love. As someone who is a sucker for romance, many scenes in this book absolutely made me giggle and scream in happiness.
Since my first read, I often find myself going back and re-reading just to fall in love with these two again and again. This is definitely a book I will continue to come back to in the future as well.
Emma was just as easy to love, and I loved how quickly she accepted Alex. I love children so much, so it was amazing to read about Emma and her interactions with Alex and Sigh. I wanna keep her in my pocket forever!
I also loved how the author handled Sigh’s previous relationship and was glad it was not cliche at all. Overall, there is nothing I want to complain about as a reader.
I love how easily Vivi writes these heart-melting scenes, and it’s evident through her writing how much she enjoys what she does. So it was also easier for me to love her characters and immerse myself in this story. I came out of it wanting so much and with a big smile on my face.
For anyone who enjoys hurt comfort, this will be a fantastic read. After reading the author's first book, I started this book with high expectations.
And I was not at all disappointed. I went on an emotional rollercoaster with this one for sure. Reading this novel and following Alex and Sigh on their journey was an absolute pleasure!
Every once in a few months or years, you come across a book and find characters you fall in love with. This was that kind of book for me.
Since I read the author’s first book and loved it, I was excited to read something new from her. And as always, Vivi did not disappoint. Alex and Sigh made me love them and claimed a spot in my heart.
There was so much about Alex that I loved. His story made me cry many times, and I rooted for him from the first chapter. Perhaps it was because I could relate to Alex for many reasons, so it was easier to instantly get invested in his story.
And then he met Sigh, and I knew these two would steal my heart.
There was so much in this book that kept me in my feels. Sigh is extremely easy to love, perhaps because it’s so clear how much he loves his daughter and Alex. He was gentle and assuring, and it melted my heart to see how much he cared about the people he loved.
Following Alex on his journey from hating people’s touch to absolutely falling in love with Sigh and Emma made my year. I read this book during a difficult time in my life, and it made me smile and laugh so much. I cried during the sad parts and squealed during the happy ones. Overall, I loved every single part of it.
It was heart warming and gave me a lot of confidence in love. As someone who is a sucker for romance, many scenes in this book absolutely made me giggle and scream in happiness.
Since my first read, I often find myself going back and re-reading just to fall in love with these two again and again. This is definitely a book I will continue to come back to in the future as well.
Emma was just as easy to love, and I loved how quickly she accepted Alex. I love children so much, so it was amazing to read about Emma and her interactions with Alex and Sigh. I wanna keep her in my pocket forever!
I also loved how the author handled Sigh’s previous relationship and was glad it was not cliche at all. Overall, there is nothing I want to complain about as a reader.
I love how easily Vivi writes these heart-melting scenes, and it’s evident through her writing how much she enjoys what she does. So it was also easier for me to love her characters and immerse myself in this story. I came out of it wanting so much and with a big smile on my face.
For anyone who enjoys hurt comfort, this will be a fantastic read. After reading the author's first book, I started this book with high expectations.
And I was not at all disappointed. I went on an emotional rollercoaster with this one for sure. Reading this novel and following Alex and Sigh on their journey was an absolute pleasure!
December 13, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
To Trust and to Touch is a contemporary, get-together novel from Vivi Anne Hunt. At first blush, the title feels like it reflects two things Alex is trying to re-learn, but I think the “trust” part arguably applies pretty equally to Sigh as well. As far as Alex is concerned, the source and degree of Alex’s trust issues are no real mystery. His trust was broken in the aftermath of a frat party and he has been keeping the whole world almost literally at arm’s length ever since. Clearly, Sigh needs to earn Alex’s trust. Sigh himself doesn’t have trust issues, rather others may rightly have issues trusting him. That said, I felt like there was little to no on-page discussion of how Sigh can earn Alex’s trust when it comes to being exclusive. It seemed a very glaring omission to never really have Alex or Sign reckon with Sigh’s past cheating as they venture into something like a relationship. I never got the impression Sigh ever really addressed why he was unfaithful or how (if) he’s changed. It seemed like I was supposed to just accept that Sigh is older and wiser, which was not a great look for the character in my estimation.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
To Trust and to Touch is a contemporary, get-together novel from Vivi Anne Hunt. At first blush, the title feels like it reflects two things Alex is trying to re-learn, but I think the “trust” part arguably applies pretty equally to Sigh as well. As far as Alex is concerned, the source and degree of Alex’s trust issues are no real mystery. His trust was broken in the aftermath of a frat party and he has been keeping the whole world almost literally at arm’s length ever since. Clearly, Sigh needs to earn Alex’s trust. Sigh himself doesn’t have trust issues, rather others may rightly have issues trusting him. That said, I felt like there was little to no on-page discussion of how Sigh can earn Alex’s trust when it comes to being exclusive. It seemed a very glaring omission to never really have Alex or Sign reckon with Sigh’s past cheating as they venture into something like a relationship. I never got the impression Sigh ever really addressed why he was unfaithful or how (if) he’s changed. It seemed like I was supposed to just accept that Sigh is older and wiser, which was not a great look for the character in my estimation.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
December 13, 2022
It's heartbreaking to see how much one terrible event can change a person's life, and this portrayal does just that. This has left him feeling shattered, as if he will never be whole or normal again.
In this personal account, we follow Alex and Sigh as they try to deny the strong feelings that have developed between them since the moment they first met . Alex's trauma makes it difficult for him to maintain perspective, and he has a tendency to exaggerate the significance of even minor incidents, such as Sigh's mistakes. The inability to think clearly and the temper tantrum tempered by fear both felt very real.
Sigh, however, was unmoved and unflinching throughout. He was a hopeless romantic who believed that, if a milkshake didn't solve the problem, wooing would. He provides an excellent foil for Alex. Giving him unconditional love and acceptance while encouraging him to find a passion for his life. And one particular young girl is unquestionably a source of energy and stability in their lives. It's a sad story, but there's also a lot of optimism and hope. Excellent work by Vivi Anne once again. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
In this personal account, we follow Alex and Sigh as they try to deny the strong feelings that have developed between them since the moment they first met . Alex's trauma makes it difficult for him to maintain perspective, and he has a tendency to exaggerate the significance of even minor incidents, such as Sigh's mistakes. The inability to think clearly and the temper tantrum tempered by fear both felt very real.
Sigh, however, was unmoved and unflinching throughout. He was a hopeless romantic who believed that, if a milkshake didn't solve the problem, wooing would. He provides an excellent foil for Alex. Giving him unconditional love and acceptance while encouraging him to find a passion for his life. And one particular young girl is unquestionably a source of energy and stability in their lives. It's a sad story, but there's also a lot of optimism and hope. Excellent work by Vivi Anne once again. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
December 13, 2022
This is a very heartbreaking journey, but love and patience help the healing. Sigh/Cyrill is part owner of a kink club run by his brother. Sigh/Cyrill also runs Rainbow House a place to help people who are on the streets or need housing assistance. He also has a 5 year old daughter Emma. Alex works at the club for his brother one day a week and also Starbucks. Alex and Sigh first meet outside the kink club and become friends. Sigh’s best friend is Dave a total goof, who babysits sometimes. This book tells about trauma suffered by people on the streets, or even in places they should be safe. It shows how some can be helped and others can’t. It shows love for friends, family and everyone can make things better.
December 13, 2022
This is the first story I’ve read by this author. This story really pulled at my heart. Alex has not had things go in his favor and his daily life just gets worse. He just wants to do his jobs and be left alone. But that doesn’t happen. When he is forced to make it known he isn’t open for anything, one customer just can’t take no. It is while Alex is trying to calm down, he meets Sigh. So much unexpected comes out about Sigh. He has his own past he faces and has become almost too good to be true. When these two meet something just causes an instant attraction between them. The path they take to getting to know each other and the road to opening up and become more than friends made it impossible for me to put this story down. This is an author I will have to find out more about.
December 13, 2022
This is my first book from this author, and I absolutely loved it. The relationship between the characters develops so slowly, but the emotional connection is so much better than just the physicality of two bodies colliding. Sigh is so patient, at times to Alex's dismay. The trauma that Alex has muddled his way through brings him a greater understanding of what Sigh does with his charity, and leads the two of them to develop a strong emotional connection over a physical one. The story is so well-written, emotional, and sweet. I will be going back and reading Kai's Healing Smiles now, and will keep my eye open for the next book by this author.
November 19, 2022
I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would. It was nothing like I expected based on the Blurb.
It was a fast, well written story. It kept me engaged from start to finish.
I loved all of the characters introduced, especially Sighs daughter, Emma. She was adorable.
If felt a little superficial in the beginning, like more time needed to be spent on building the connection between the characters. For me, it felt a little instant and I couldn't connect with what was drawing Sigh and Alex to each other at first. However, the further in you get - it starts to become believable and you can see the connection between the two.
The spice is low, however the intimacy is high.
I don't want to give the story away, but the spice being low makes perfect sense and you'll understand when you read it. It was more about building a friendship and trust within the relationship.
Overall I enjoyed this, and look forward to seeing what this author will release in the future.
It was a fast, well written story. It kept me engaged from start to finish.
I loved all of the characters introduced, especially Sighs daughter, Emma. She was adorable.
If felt a little superficial in the beginning, like more time needed to be spent on building the connection between the characters. For me, it felt a little instant and I couldn't connect with what was drawing Sigh and Alex to each other at first. However, the further in you get - it starts to become believable and you can see the connection between the two.
The spice is low, however the intimacy is high.
I don't want to give the story away, but the spice being low makes perfect sense and you'll understand when you read it. It was more about building a friendship and trust within the relationship.
Overall I enjoyed this, and look forward to seeing what this author will release in the future.
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