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Foxes
an alternate cover edition can be found here
When Dashiel’s body is found dumped on an East London wasteland, his best friend Danny sets out to find the killer. But Danny finds interaction difficult and must keep his world small in order to survive. By day he lives in an abandoned swimming pool and fixes electrical devices to trade for supplies, but by night, alone, he hunts sharks a reckless search for dangerous men who prey on the vulnerable.
A chance meeting with an American boy selling himself on the streets throws this lonely existence into disarray. Micky is troubled, fragile, and Danny feels a desperate need to protect him. Though from what, he doesn't know. As Danny discovers more about Micky, he realises that what Micky needs saving from is the one thing Danny has no idea how to fight.
To save Micky, Danny must risk expanding his world and face something that scares him more than any shark ever could: trusting he will be accepted for who he is. If a freezing winter on the streets, a sadistic doctor, and three thousand miles don't tear them apart first, that is.
When Dashiel’s body is found dumped on an East London wasteland, his best friend Danny sets out to find the killer. But Danny finds interaction difficult and must keep his world small in order to survive. By day he lives in an abandoned swimming pool and fixes electrical devices to trade for supplies, but by night, alone, he hunts sharks a reckless search for dangerous men who prey on the vulnerable.
A chance meeting with an American boy selling himself on the streets throws this lonely existence into disarray. Micky is troubled, fragile, and Danny feels a desperate need to protect him. Though from what, he doesn't know. As Danny discovers more about Micky, he realises that what Micky needs saving from is the one thing Danny has no idea how to fight.
To save Micky, Danny must risk expanding his world and face something that scares him more than any shark ever could: trusting he will be accepted for who he is. If a freezing winter on the streets, a sadistic doctor, and three thousand miles don't tear them apart first, that is.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2016
71 people are currently reading
2889 people want to read
About the author
Suki Fleet
33 books683 followersAbout the author:
Suki Fleet is an award winning author, a prolific Reader (though less prolific than they'd like), and a lover of angst, romance and unexpected love stories.
They write lyrical stories about memorable characters and believe everyone should have a chance at a happy ending.
Their first novel This is Not a Love Story won Best Gay Debut in the 2014 Rainbow Awards, and was a finalist in the 2015 Lambda Awards. Their novel Foxes won Best Gay Young Adult in the 2016 Rainbow Awards.
If you’d like to offer your support and buy Suki Fleet a coffee you can do that here: https://ko-fi.com/sukifleet
If you would like info on upcoming releases and the occasional free story, please sign up to Suki’s newsletter: https://sukifleet.wordpress.com/newsl...
If you’re interested in reading first drafts of Suki’s new stories, or reading stories that are no longer available or cuts that can’t be published on Amazon, and other extras, please consider signing up to Suki’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/sukifleet
Suki Fleet is an award winning author, a prolific Reader (though less prolific than they'd like), and a lover of angst, romance and unexpected love stories.
They write lyrical stories about memorable characters and believe everyone should have a chance at a happy ending.
Their first novel This is Not a Love Story won Best Gay Debut in the 2014 Rainbow Awards, and was a finalist in the 2015 Lambda Awards. Their novel Foxes won Best Gay Young Adult in the 2016 Rainbow Awards.
If you’d like to offer your support and buy Suki Fleet a coffee you can do that here: https://ko-fi.com/sukifleet
If you would like info on upcoming releases and the occasional free story, please sign up to Suki’s newsletter: https://sukifleet.wordpress.com/newsl...
If you’re interested in reading first drafts of Suki’s new stories, or reading stories that are no longer available or cuts that can’t be published on Amazon, and other extras, please consider signing up to Suki’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/sukifleet
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
March 29, 2016
FIVE HEARTS--My first published Suki Fleet. I've been Fleeted.
I needed time to recover...regroup...gather the thoughts swirling inside because there are plenty. I'll probably gush out my feels because I have been torn asunder, then dragged through glass, left bleeding, cringing with each breath by words. Words that were pieced together by a wordsmith, a craftsman. Knew this from the first chapter, from the first few paragraphs.
This book is art.
You see that rating? Suki Fleet earned every heart. (Even if mine ended up bruised in the long run)
If this review does nothing else, just know:
1 - Suki Fleet is super talented. (I mean she caught my eye with a flash fic and left me hooked.) I knew that if I got my hands on a novel, I was going to be proved right. And I was. Run to her books. This is quality. Remember her name.
2 - This is one of the best stories of 2016 (Yes, already.) I have a third of this book highlighted.
Sometimes you read a book and you know it's good for entertainment purposes, but it's not going to leave an impression.
This book...did.
I'm still thinking about Danny. I know a Danny, actually more than one. Maybe you do too. It was good to see that this author gave a character with a disability the dignity they deserve. The same can be said for Micky. Two damaged souls with baggage some backs can't carry yet they keep going, they continue living. It's a struggle and the reader gets to experience that struggle rather eloquently in Foxes.
I think some readers might not like some of the outcomes. (Yes, there is a HEA) I think Danny might test some of the boundaries for a few readers as a consenting main character while having mental health disorders. (He is well aware at all times)
The angst is thick. I heard about the author's writing style prior to going in, but I didn't know how deep Suki Fleet can cut.
Look at Fleet consume me with her angst for days. And she'll keep going too. *gulps*
If I had to summarize Foxes's plot: think beauty and the beast (sort of) in modern day destitute side of London. Impoverished teens are selling themselves for survive, while a killer is on the loose and a scarred homeless teen with a number of disorders tries to saves lives including the most beautiful American rent boy he has ever clapped his eyes on. All while he battles his inner demons.
Danny would be a psychologist's dream (or nightmare). But he is one of the best frigging characters I've read in a while. Told entirely in his 1st POV, we see the world through his eyes. How people treat him due to his disability, his face. We learn through bits and pieces how Danny came to be. The author gives it out slowly, love that. He's so mysterious, our champion. He keeps his world small and at the moment, it is filled with finding his best friend Dashiel's murderer. He can't keep the words inside, his head gets too full. So he writes them down. People mistake his silence for stupidity but he's so far from it. Danny also knows how to fix things, especially mechanical things. Through this skill, he meets Micky, the skinny cross dressing blonde prostitute American who makes his heart beat really fast.
Micky doesn't make fun of Danny like some of the other street kids do. He takes time to learn his quirks and habits. Danny goes hunting for bad guys aka "sharks" at night, trying to protecting a world everyone seemed to turn their back on and ignore. And with his anxieties and hardships, pain and grief...he ignores the love, the hope that springs from his friendship with Micky.
Reading their friendship blossom was beautiful. It was tentative in the beginning because Danny doesn't get a lot of people who seem him for who he is. Who better to understand a damaged man other than a fellow damaged man? Micky's was the Louisville slugger on the angst barrel. The romance when it got full steam was powerful. So much so, I didn't even want to read a kiss between them at first. I thought it would mess up the pureness of it all. Inexperienced versus experienced themes can vary. But Fleet handled it well and did not cheapen the romance in the least. Their love was like...the bathtub.
Given freely, full of good intention and signifying their strong bond. This is definitely new adult, though the main characters were in their late teens. Don't let their age stop you. they have had a rough life and more adult experiences than a lot of people. So the intensity of their bond was 100% believable.
Danny, the fox, his coming of age was slow going. And at times, he reads like a martyr, the scarred hero that seems to have a lot of bad happen & he does a lot of good in return. It's just his character, his nature. He reminded me of the unlikely hero from "Brute" sometimes.
Foxes are so integral to who Danny is. And reading him coming into his own and realizing some things about himself even when it hurt, especially when it hurt...oh how I love him more.
The suspense in Foxes was all about the sharks and shark hunting. There are so many bad people in the world. And the culmination of the suspense arc was a little surprising. But it made me think and actually agree...with the villain. Hm...
There were two parts that felt unfinished to me. It was answered and I know if it were tied up in a pretty bow I'd have probably called it out for being wrapped up too neatly: Milo and Dollman. Being as the story is totally from Danny's point of view, those questions would be unanswered and should be (keeping to character)....but I still wish I knew. Call it reader being greedy. And it wouldn't have hurt to see the interim moments before the last two chapters. But again, it's Danny's story so, it's not necessary but it wouldn't have hurt. Because...greedy.
I don't want to give away this plot, but the story hurts so good. The characterizations are really done well. The angst is super heavy, some parts made me stop so I could get a break but I had to go back in to see how it would play out. I came to care for the characters Micky and Danny and just about all of the secondary characters. Ms. Fleet shines a flashlight on the gritty underbelly of a world a lot of people tend to ignore - teens selling their bodies and souls.
Suki Fleet brought a realistic hope without getting into the Disney lane. I'll end this review with this quote:
The story isn't perfect, but neither is life. What this story is, is amazing. Can't rate it any less than five.
If you think you can handle the subject matter, please try this book.
Don't be like me, who is just now reading this underrated talent that is Suki Fleet.
A copy provided for an honest review.
I needed time to recover...regroup...gather the thoughts swirling inside because there are plenty. I'll probably gush out my feels because I have been torn asunder, then dragged through glass, left bleeding, cringing with each breath by words. Words that were pieced together by a wordsmith, a craftsman. Knew this from the first chapter, from the first few paragraphs.
This book is art.
You see that rating? Suki Fleet earned every heart. (Even if mine ended up bruised in the long run)
If this review does nothing else, just know:
1 - Suki Fleet is super talented. (I mean she caught my eye with a flash fic and left me hooked.) I knew that if I got my hands on a novel, I was going to be proved right. And I was. Run to her books. This is quality. Remember her name.
2 - This is one of the best stories of 2016 (Yes, already.) I have a third of this book highlighted.
Sometimes you read a book and you know it's good for entertainment purposes, but it's not going to leave an impression.
This book...did.
I'm still thinking about Danny. I know a Danny, actually more than one. Maybe you do too. It was good to see that this author gave a character with a disability the dignity they deserve. The same can be said for Micky. Two damaged souls with baggage some backs can't carry yet they keep going, they continue living. It's a struggle and the reader gets to experience that struggle rather eloquently in Foxes.
I think some readers might not like some of the outcomes. (Yes, there is a HEA) I think Danny might test some of the boundaries for a few readers as a consenting main character while having mental health disorders. (He is well aware at all times)
The angst is thick. I heard about the author's writing style prior to going in, but I didn't know how deep Suki Fleet can cut.
Look at Fleet consume me with her angst for days. And she'll keep going too. *gulps*
If I had to summarize Foxes's plot: think beauty and the beast (sort of) in modern day destitute side of London. Impoverished teens are selling themselves for survive, while a killer is on the loose and a scarred homeless teen with a number of disorders tries to saves lives including the most beautiful American rent boy he has ever clapped his eyes on. All while he battles his inner demons.
Danny would be a psychologist's dream (or nightmare). But he is one of the best frigging characters I've read in a while. Told entirely in his 1st POV, we see the world through his eyes. How people treat him due to his disability, his face. We learn through bits and pieces how Danny came to be. The author gives it out slowly, love that. He's so mysterious, our champion. He keeps his world small and at the moment, it is filled with finding his best friend Dashiel's murderer. He can't keep the words inside, his head gets too full. So he writes them down. People mistake his silence for stupidity but he's so far from it. Danny also knows how to fix things, especially mechanical things. Through this skill, he meets Micky, the skinny cross dressing blonde prostitute American who makes his heart beat really fast.
How am I supposed to relax? It's an impossible situation. If this is falling in love, it's impossibly beautiful, and when that person is so sweet and kind it hurts in the best way, but because you know they can never return those feelings you have to try and hide the intensity of it. And this is intense.
Micky doesn't make fun of Danny like some of the other street kids do. He takes time to learn his quirks and habits. Danny goes hunting for bad guys aka "sharks" at night, trying to protecting a world everyone seemed to turn their back on and ignore. And with his anxieties and hardships, pain and grief...he ignores the love, the hope that springs from his friendship with Micky.
"--having smooth, unscarred skin does not make you beautiful. Shining the brightest light in the dark does, though."
Reading their friendship blossom was beautiful. It was tentative in the beginning because Danny doesn't get a lot of people who seem him for who he is. Who better to understand a damaged man other than a fellow damaged man? Micky's was the Louisville slugger on the angst barrel. The romance when it got full steam was powerful. So much so, I didn't even want to read a kiss between them at first. I thought it would mess up the pureness of it all. Inexperienced versus experienced themes can vary. But Fleet handled it well and did not cheapen the romance in the least. Their love was like...the bathtub.
Given freely, full of good intention and signifying their strong bond. This is definitely new adult, though the main characters were in their late teens. Don't let their age stop you. they have had a rough life and more adult experiences than a lot of people. So the intensity of their bond was 100% believable.
Danny, the fox, his coming of age was slow going. And at times, he reads like a martyr, the scarred hero that seems to have a lot of bad happen & he does a lot of good in return. It's just his character, his nature. He reminded me of the unlikely hero from "Brute" sometimes.
Foxes are so integral to who Danny is. And reading him coming into his own and realizing some things about himself even when it hurt, especially when it hurt...oh how I love him more.
The suspense in Foxes was all about the sharks and shark hunting. There are so many bad people in the world. And the culmination of the suspense arc was a little surprising. But it made me think and actually agree...with the villain. Hm...
There were two parts that felt unfinished to me. It was answered and I know if it were tied up in a pretty bow I'd have probably called it out for being wrapped up too neatly: Milo and Dollman. Being as the story is totally from Danny's point of view, those questions would be unanswered and should be (keeping to character)....but I still wish I knew. Call it reader being greedy. And it wouldn't have hurt to see the interim moments before the last two chapters. But again, it's Danny's story so, it's not necessary but it wouldn't have hurt. Because...greedy.
I don't want to give away this plot, but the story hurts so good. The characterizations are really done well. The angst is super heavy, some parts made me stop so I could get a break but I had to go back in to see how it would play out. I came to care for the characters Micky and Danny and just about all of the secondary characters. Ms. Fleet shines a flashlight on the gritty underbelly of a world a lot of people tend to ignore - teens selling their bodies and souls.
Suki Fleet brought a realistic hope without getting into the Disney lane. I'll end this review with this quote:
Because we're not our pasts--because we're more than that. We have to be. Don't we?
The story isn't perfect, but neither is life. What this story is, is amazing. Can't rate it any less than five.
If you think you can handle the subject matter, please try this book.
Don't be like me, who is just now reading this underrated talent that is Suki Fleet.
A copy provided for an honest review.
February 1, 2020
UPDATE
***just as amazing today as it was 4 years ago**
If you've not heard of Suki Fleet, I wouldn't be terribly surprised. I believe she is under-celebrated and this is such a shame. Let's celebrate her a moment, shall we?
*tosses glittery confetti*
She has a superpower...she gives impressive life to her characters. A true master at creating deeply powerful connections between the reader and her character. Her stories become very personal and reading is an intimate exchange; I take a piece of the tale and the story takes a piece of me. I have great respect for her superpower, it totally rocks.
There are many wonderful things to love about Foxes, but my absolute favorite would simply be Danny. Danny deserves countless things but love is at the top of the list. Being loved is something that he hasn't gotten enough of. I wish to help change that. My heart is bursting with Danny-love and I hope you give him a chance to demonstrate why you should will love him too. I don't imagine it will take long. He is extremely lovable.
Danny lives in London. He is homeless, orphaned, marred with significant scars, and carries an enormous heart in his chest. He is also my hero. His best friend (only friend) was his everything and his murder a few weeks prior has shattered Danny. The only reason he finds the strength to get up each day is because he has made it his life mission to avenge Dashiel. All that matters to him is investigating possible suspects, or 'sharks'. Then he meets a beautiful boy that consumes his thoughts. He scolds himself for losing focus but sometimes you have no choice but to follow to the stars. Micky is radiant, so bright that Danny is afraid to look yet he can't look away. He could never have such a brilliant boy but his heart won't listen to him.
What's to like: Quality new adult with a bit of steam. If you prefer a little heat with your young love you will appreciate the innocent discoveries these two share. Micky might sell his body on the streets but he is the first to admit, he's not very good as what he does. Sadly, he was out of options and his fly-by-the-seat-of-his-pants impulse forced him into hotpants. He left his old life behind and turning back is not going to happen...ever. Danny is a natural protector. Perhaps since he did not have anyone protecting him, he is driven to help others in need. Micky is drawn to his hidden warrior qualities and sees straight through Danny's barriers. Danny is a man with few words but lucky for him, he doesn't require words to communicate with Micky. Micky can read his mind, heart and soul. The allure they share is mutual. Micky clings to Danny and for the first time ever, considers fighting his own demons. However, the shark hunter can't defeat these sharks. Micky is the only one who can but what if it's too late? Some damage cannot be undone.
What's to love: Incredibly touching young men will warm your heart. My heart feels lighter & bigger because of Danny. Micky's significance is no less profound. He gives Danny something he has never had before and for that, I adore him. Danny is different and most certainly, special. I enjoyed how Fleet did not slap labels or put Danny into any boxes or notches in the spectrum. He has his limits but we all do. Micky reminds him that despite his struggles he possesses far more important strengths. He has superpowers too.
The potency of emotional pull is astounding. It begins as an unhurried float down the river. Soon the current is pulling you along at greater speeds and before long the massive waves crash from all sides. The last twenty percent of the story was INTENSE. By the end I was buzzing and exhausted. It was glorious. There are riches in our lives that have no monetary value. These are always the most valuable but occasionally we forget their importance. We all should be so lucky to know what is vital for happiness. Danny and Micky know but will life grant them the opportunity to have and hold what they want more than anything? Hope is beautiful. Danny is beautiful. He speaks simple profound wisdom and I thank Suki for allowing me to know him. The sky is bright, endless and awaiting your gaze. Danny has found a way to take the lid off the sky and it's amazing to witness.
Beware of: The pace. It begins with a leisurely introduction to Danny and his unfortunate situation. Despite the crap deck of cards life has dealt Danny, he makes the best of it. He has discovered very few things are true necessities in life. Even things most of us perceive as a necessity, are actually comforts that can become optional. Safety. This is one thing that is nonnegotiable. He will sacrifice a soft bed and a hot meal for the security of being safe. He has survived the unthinkable without a helping hand from anyone. Most people make assumptions about him and he's found it's easier to let them. Living on the streets can break a person and it nearly broke my heart reading about these teens struggling to survive. I should also mention that Danny tells us his story and though first person is not for everyone, I was extremely grateful for the time I had in Danny's head.
This book is for: The emotional book junkie. Life can be cruel and unfair and if you can handle an up close and personal view at homeless youth with the promise of sparkling smiles and stars at the end, I imagine this is the book for you. Give Danny my love would you?
Book UNfunk
***just as amazing today as it was 4 years ago**
If you've not heard of Suki Fleet, I wouldn't be terribly surprised. I believe she is under-celebrated and this is such a shame. Let's celebrate her a moment, shall we?
*tosses glittery confetti*
She has a superpower...she gives impressive life to her characters. A true master at creating deeply powerful connections between the reader and her character. Her stories become very personal and reading is an intimate exchange; I take a piece of the tale and the story takes a piece of me. I have great respect for her superpower, it totally rocks.
There are many wonderful things to love about Foxes, but my absolute favorite would simply be Danny. Danny deserves countless things but love is at the top of the list. Being loved is something that he hasn't gotten enough of. I wish to help change that. My heart is bursting with Danny-love and I hope you give him a chance to demonstrate why you should will love him too. I don't imagine it will take long. He is extremely lovable.
Danny lives in London. He is homeless, orphaned, marred with significant scars, and carries an enormous heart in his chest. He is also my hero. His best friend (only friend) was his everything and his murder a few weeks prior has shattered Danny. The only reason he finds the strength to get up each day is because he has made it his life mission to avenge Dashiel. All that matters to him is investigating possible suspects, or 'sharks'. Then he meets a beautiful boy that consumes his thoughts. He scolds himself for losing focus but sometimes you have no choice but to follow to the stars. Micky is radiant, so bright that Danny is afraid to look yet he can't look away. He could never have such a brilliant boy but his heart won't listen to him.
What's to like: Quality new adult with a bit of steam. If you prefer a little heat with your young love you will appreciate the innocent discoveries these two share. Micky might sell his body on the streets but he is the first to admit, he's not very good as what he does. Sadly, he was out of options and his fly-by-the-seat-of-his-pants impulse forced him into hotpants. He left his old life behind and turning back is not going to happen...ever. Danny is a natural protector. Perhaps since he did not have anyone protecting him, he is driven to help others in need. Micky is drawn to his hidden warrior qualities and sees straight through Danny's barriers. Danny is a man with few words but lucky for him, he doesn't require words to communicate with Micky. Micky can read his mind, heart and soul. The allure they share is mutual. Micky clings to Danny and for the first time ever, considers fighting his own demons. However, the shark hunter can't defeat these sharks. Micky is the only one who can but what if it's too late? Some damage cannot be undone.
What's to love: Incredibly touching young men will warm your heart. My heart feels lighter & bigger because of Danny. Micky's significance is no less profound. He gives Danny something he has never had before and for that, I adore him. Danny is different and most certainly, special. I enjoyed how Fleet did not slap labels or put Danny into any boxes or notches in the spectrum. He has his limits but we all do. Micky reminds him that despite his struggles he possesses far more important strengths. He has superpowers too.
The potency of emotional pull is astounding. It begins as an unhurried float down the river. Soon the current is pulling you along at greater speeds and before long the massive waves crash from all sides. The last twenty percent of the story was INTENSE. By the end I was buzzing and exhausted. It was glorious. There are riches in our lives that have no monetary value. These are always the most valuable but occasionally we forget their importance. We all should be so lucky to know what is vital for happiness. Danny and Micky know but will life grant them the opportunity to have and hold what they want more than anything? Hope is beautiful. Danny is beautiful. He speaks simple profound wisdom and I thank Suki for allowing me to know him. The sky is bright, endless and awaiting your gaze. Danny has found a way to take the lid off the sky and it's amazing to witness.
Beware of: The pace. It begins with a leisurely introduction to Danny and his unfortunate situation. Despite the crap deck of cards life has dealt Danny, he makes the best of it. He has discovered very few things are true necessities in life. Even things most of us perceive as a necessity, are actually comforts that can become optional. Safety. This is one thing that is nonnegotiable. He will sacrifice a soft bed and a hot meal for the security of being safe. He has survived the unthinkable without a helping hand from anyone. Most people make assumptions about him and he's found it's easier to let them. Living on the streets can break a person and it nearly broke my heart reading about these teens struggling to survive. I should also mention that Danny tells us his story and though first person is not for everyone, I was extremely grateful for the time I had in Danny's head.
This book is for: The emotional book junkie. Life can be cruel and unfair and if you can handle an up close and personal view at homeless youth with the promise of sparkling smiles and stars at the end, I imagine this is the book for you. Give Danny my love would you?
Book UNfunk
Read
June 28, 2020Update 28th June:
Foxes is currently on sale at 0.99 on Amazon^^
Update 24th November:
Foxes has now been re released on Amazon. It'll be on KU for 3 months and then it'll be released more widely. Content-wise, I wanted to make Micky being genderfluid clearer, but other than that, it's the same. Thanks for reading^^
***
The longer my stories are the angstier they tend to get. This one is pretty long...:P fair warning, I hope!
(Under 30K they're basically fluff :P)
Danny is possibly my favourite character I've ever written.
And this is probably a strange author's note, but I really wanted the second chapter to be entitled 'Hey Micky you're so fine, you're so fine you blow my mind, hey Micky, hey Micky' from the song by Toni Basil, but unfortunately song lyrics can't be included. I still hear it when I think of Micky though. It's his theme song.
Also, I'm in love with this cover (it's AngstyG, how could it not be awesome!!).
I will do a giveaway on my blog nearer the release date (8th February!) :)
I hope you enjoy the story^^
Foxes is currently on sale at 0.99 on Amazon^^
Update 24th November:
Foxes has now been re released on Amazon. It'll be on KU for 3 months and then it'll be released more widely. Content-wise, I wanted to make Micky being genderfluid clearer, but other than that, it's the same. Thanks for reading^^
***
The longer my stories are the angstier they tend to get. This one is pretty long...:P fair warning, I hope!
(Under 30K they're basically fluff :P)
Danny is possibly my favourite character I've ever written.
And this is probably a strange author's note, but I really wanted the second chapter to be entitled 'Hey Micky you're so fine, you're so fine you blow my mind, hey Micky, hey Micky' from the song by Toni Basil, but unfortunately song lyrics can't be included. I still hear it when I think of Micky though. It's his theme song.
Also, I'm in love with this cover (it's AngstyG, how could it not be awesome!!).
I will do a giveaway on my blog nearer the release date (8th February!) :)
I hope you enjoy the story^^
June 27, 2023
✰ 5 stars ✰
"For a moment it feels as if he can see right through me, as if I’m made of glass and every lie I tell is written out for him to read. It makes me sad, as sad as I’ve ever been, because I wish things were different. I wish it with everything in me—the thought sharp as a spear in my heart.
I don’t normally let myself think like this, but right now I’d give anything, absolutely anything, to look ordinary. For him to look at me and see an ordinary boy looking back at him. I wouldn’t ask to be beautiful."
I was not mentally prepared for the emotional whirlwind of feels I would experience when I began Foxes, my first go at Suki Fleet book. It does not hold back it's punches for hitting you where it's going to hurt the most in your heart - I always want to feel something for the characters in a novel; and this one delivered in more ways than I could have have ever expected.
Our narrator is Danny, an 18-year-old homeless boy, who wanders the streets of London, with his own personal struggle of protecting the street walkers from the hands of the vicious shark waters they often fall into. After the mysterious death of his dear best friend, Dashiel, he's even more determined to track down anyone who might lead him to the truth; it's not easy - especially how most people treat him with disdain and contempt, due to his disfigured appearance and lack of social skills. But, one night, he meets a boy, a beautiful boy, Micky - who doesn't regard him with scorn or ridicule, rather with such kindness and care, that makes Danny foolishly hope if not determinedly deny, that there might actually be someone out there who could love him just the way he was.
This book was everything I didn't know I was missing out on. I admit, the beginning was a tad slow, as I kept waiting for that moment when you'll see the chemistry spark; and when it did, it just kept lighting up and lighting up, that my heart was just bursting with so much love and protectiveness and just trying to climb into the pages and hold Danny, keep him safe. 🫂
Not from danger (even though he faced his fair share of it), but from his feelings - from his insecurities, from his refusal to believe that he deserves to have good things, from his heartbreak of losing his best friend and not knowing what happened to him, from falling in love with a beautiful boy that he didn't feel worthy to have. This poor wonderful boy felt so much in his heart, so empathetic for others' pain, that his kindness made me ashamed of how I didn't have the heart of gold he had. 😢
“How did you find me?” he whispers in this choked-up voice. I don’t think he’s talking about last night. He reaches out and squeezes my fingers, and this crazy spark of warmth swirls around my chest like an errant firework racing through the sky."
And Micky, ah, there's so much mystery behind him, so much Danny had the chance to discover, and the hurt/comfort they shared as their friendship slowly grew, tugged at my heartstrings each and every time. How he wanted to help Danny, coax him out of his shell, but never push him, because he respected his boundaries, how much he just cared for him, too. That Danny shined more than anyone else he had ever met - that made him believe that there was some good in this world.
“I’ve not been through the shit you’ve been through, Danny. No one I love has died. But I do know that having smooth, unscarred skin does not make you beautiful. Shining like the brightest light in the dark does, though. And you light up everything. You light me up. I’m falling in love with you.”
They both have their own inner demons that they have to fight - that challenge them every day; but, somehow, they overcome it, together, and take a step further into a happiness that could be their own. Is it fate or destiny that they both discovered each other on the silent cold streets of London? Who's to say? All I know, is that it culminated into a beautiful, tender, raw love that was entirely their own - that they made it their own, that they so very much deserved. 💕💕💕
“Your heartbeat is going crazy,” he whispers, after a while.
I let out a strangled laugh. What an understatement. My heart has gone fucking supernova.
There is no way I can stop what I’m feeling, no going back from this, no shield in the entirety of the universe that can protect a heart from love."
Suki Fleet's writing - I could wax praise about how masterfully she crafts her words to evoke such feeling in your heart, and it still wouldn't be enough. Again, it does start off a bit slow and there were a few lingering plotlines that weren't completely tied up or didn't get their full culmination, mainly Dashiel's death and the mystery behind Dollman, one of the primal suspects for Danny's shark suspicions. Yet, it didn't take away the raw beauty of this story. Every time, Danny tried so hard to help someone else, I wanted to hug him and say 'It'll be okay'. You'll feel that fierce protectiveness overwhelm you, as the story progresses, as he learns the truths, as he allows himself to love.
The bittersweet irony in this title left me bawling - when that final reveal happened - there was such a mystery to Danny's appearance that niggled at me throughout the book. And, when it was finally revealed, I teared up so bad - I had to stop and just think and re-read that bit, because it really broke me. 😭😭 The foxes are an integral part to the story, metaphorically and literally - and it just tied it up so heartbreakingly so.
"Because we're not our pasts--because we're more than that. We have to be. Don't we?"
Danny's story will stay in my heart for quite awhile - it's not a perfect one, but it's a beautifully poignant one. It's definitely convinced me to check out more of Suki Fleet's other works, when the time arises. If you're ever in a mood for a melancholy, wistful read with a beautiful hopeful finish, the kind of book that makes you really feel, then definitely give this a shot. I promise you - the journey is slow and hard, but the payoff is so very worth it. 💓💓
"I might stop someone getting hurt, if only by letting them know they have a choice.
Life has teeth, all we can do is try not to get bitten.
“It’s going to be okay,” I whisper.
“Kiss me and make it a promise,” he whispers back before pressing his lips to mine."
"For a moment it feels as if he can see right through me, as if I’m made of glass and every lie I tell is written out for him to read. It makes me sad, as sad as I’ve ever been, because I wish things were different. I wish it with everything in me—the thought sharp as a spear in my heart.
I don’t normally let myself think like this, but right now I’d give anything, absolutely anything, to look ordinary. For him to look at me and see an ordinary boy looking back at him. I wouldn’t ask to be beautiful."
I was not mentally prepared for the emotional whirlwind of feels I would experience when I began Foxes, my first go at Suki Fleet book. It does not hold back it's punches for hitting you where it's going to hurt the most in your heart - I always want to feel something for the characters in a novel; and this one delivered in more ways than I could have have ever expected.
Our narrator is Danny, an 18-year-old homeless boy, who wanders the streets of London, with his own personal struggle of protecting the street walkers from the hands of the vicious shark waters they often fall into. After the mysterious death of his dear best friend, Dashiel, he's even more determined to track down anyone who might lead him to the truth; it's not easy - especially how most people treat him with disdain and contempt, due to his disfigured appearance and lack of social skills. But, one night, he meets a boy, a beautiful boy, Micky - who doesn't regard him with scorn or ridicule, rather with such kindness and care, that makes Danny foolishly hope if not determinedly deny, that there might actually be someone out there who could love him just the way he was.
This book was everything I didn't know I was missing out on. I admit, the beginning was a tad slow, as I kept waiting for that moment when you'll see the chemistry spark; and when it did, it just kept lighting up and lighting up, that my heart was just bursting with so much love and protectiveness and just trying to climb into the pages and hold Danny, keep him safe. 🫂
Not from danger (even though he faced his fair share of it), but from his feelings - from his insecurities, from his refusal to believe that he deserves to have good things, from his heartbreak of losing his best friend and not knowing what happened to him, from falling in love with a beautiful boy that he didn't feel worthy to have. This poor wonderful boy felt so much in his heart, so empathetic for others' pain, that his kindness made me ashamed of how I didn't have the heart of gold he had. 😢
“How did you find me?” he whispers in this choked-up voice. I don’t think he’s talking about last night. He reaches out and squeezes my fingers, and this crazy spark of warmth swirls around my chest like an errant firework racing through the sky."
And Micky, ah, there's so much mystery behind him, so much Danny had the chance to discover, and the hurt/comfort they shared as their friendship slowly grew, tugged at my heartstrings each and every time. How he wanted to help Danny, coax him out of his shell, but never push him, because he respected his boundaries, how much he just cared for him, too. That Danny shined more than anyone else he had ever met - that made him believe that there was some good in this world.
“I’ve not been through the shit you’ve been through, Danny. No one I love has died. But I do know that having smooth, unscarred skin does not make you beautiful. Shining like the brightest light in the dark does, though. And you light up everything. You light me up. I’m falling in love with you.”
They both have their own inner demons that they have to fight - that challenge them every day; but, somehow, they overcome it, together, and take a step further into a happiness that could be their own. Is it fate or destiny that they both discovered each other on the silent cold streets of London? Who's to say? All I know, is that it culminated into a beautiful, tender, raw love that was entirely their own - that they made it their own, that they so very much deserved. 💕💕💕
“Your heartbeat is going crazy,” he whispers, after a while.
I let out a strangled laugh. What an understatement. My heart has gone fucking supernova.
There is no way I can stop what I’m feeling, no going back from this, no shield in the entirety of the universe that can protect a heart from love."
Suki Fleet's writing - I could wax praise about how masterfully she crafts her words to evoke such feeling in your heart, and it still wouldn't be enough. Again, it does start off a bit slow and there were a few lingering plotlines that weren't completely tied up or didn't get their full culmination, mainly Dashiel's death and the mystery behind Dollman, one of the primal suspects for Danny's shark suspicions. Yet, it didn't take away the raw beauty of this story. Every time, Danny tried so hard to help someone else, I wanted to hug him and say 'It'll be okay'. You'll feel that fierce protectiveness overwhelm you, as the story progresses, as he learns the truths, as he allows himself to love.
The bittersweet irony in this title left me bawling - when that final reveal happened - there was such a mystery to Danny's appearance that niggled at me throughout the book. And, when it was finally revealed, I teared up so bad - I had to stop and just think and re-read that bit, because it really broke me. 😭😭 The foxes are an integral part to the story, metaphorically and literally - and it just tied it up so heartbreakingly so.
"Because we're not our pasts--because we're more than that. We have to be. Don't we?"
Danny's story will stay in my heart for quite awhile - it's not a perfect one, but it's a beautifully poignant one. It's definitely convinced me to check out more of Suki Fleet's other works, when the time arises. If you're ever in a mood for a melancholy, wistful read with a beautiful hopeful finish, the kind of book that makes you really feel, then definitely give this a shot. I promise you - the journey is slow and hard, but the payoff is so very worth it. 💓💓
"I might stop someone getting hurt, if only by letting them know they have a choice.
Life has teeth, all we can do is try not to get bitten.
“It’s going to be okay,” I whisper.
“Kiss me and make it a promise,” he whispers back before pressing his lips to mine."
February 26, 2016
I’ve finished reading this for a while but I’ve been putting on hold my review – because really what can you say?
Completely. And. Utterly. Speechless.
Well, not entirely. But you know how it is with really good books, right? As a reviewer, you kind of want to make sure that you’re giving it justice.
But yeah, Suki Fleet does it again. And again, and again, and again.
I wish things were different. I wish it with everything in me – the thought sharp as a spear in my heart. I don’t normally let myself think like this, but right now, I’d give anything, absolutely anything, to look ordinary. For him to look at me and see an ordinary boy looking back at him. I wouldn’t ask to be beautiful.
Even going over this line now gives me goosebumps and breaks my heart into smithereens. Danny. Possibly the most precious of all main characters I’ve ever come across with. Just for Danny alone, I’m already giving this book 5 stars. Because really, how can someone not be captivated by Danny? How can someone not be affected by Danny’s character? Self-deprecating and insecure but pure and kind Danny.
When I started reading the book, I thought, “Not another London rent boy story.” While the setting for Foxes is similar in so many respects with This is Not a Love Story, they can’t really be compared with one another. Both of which are beautiful books in their own right. Well, the Suki Fleet magic will always be there for all her books, but that’s kind of a given.
I won’t lie. This is a slow-paced book. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. It made me appreciate every word, thought process, character, and outcome. This book slowly burned me with The Feels.
Yet I still wish I had a mask – I could be the superhero pretending he’s hiding his identity when really he’s just hiding who he is.
I love the superhero analogy injected all throughout the book. To Danny, wearing that mask means being able to hide. But what he doesn’t know is just by being himself, he already embodies the true essence of being a hero.
But I do know that having smooth, unscarred skin does not make you beautiful. Shining like the brightest light in the dark does, though. And you light up everything. You light me up.
Not all superheroes wear capes. But the real superheroes? They’re the ones who are able to touch and change other people’s lives simply by being there.
Read this, folks. It’s not an easy book to read, sure, but it’s also one of the most beautiful books out there, which kind of makes it all worth it.
June 30, 2016
Ok.
My.
Heart.
Is.
Not.
My.
Own.
Anymore.
Sometimes I think giving a knife to Suki to let her stab me would be more merciful.
But I’ve learnt to say yes.
Early on I learnt saying yes was the key.
When I began in the hospital, one day I skipped my classes to stay at long operation. The first cut took place at 10am and it dragged on and on until 5pm. Too many hours open to the outside world. Too many hours asleep.
It was an ampuloma, which is a tumor in the ampulla of Vater, the ending part of the duct that connects the gallbladder and the pancreas to the duodenum. The doctors had no idea whether it was benign or not, but as survival rates are generally low, they didn’t want to take any chances and give it time to spread. They’d study it in the laboratory afterwards. The intervention was not for weaklings: they planned to take out the gallbladder, half of the pancreas, half of the stomach and part of the intestine. Then they had to join it all together in a way that that kept the function of the system. It’s called pancreatoduodenectomy, Whipple procedure for friends.
After long hours standing up and with a backache forming after a long time bending trying to see something, there was a pause, in which I was invited to a sandwich. Iberian ham sandwich, no less. Then the surgeon told me if I wanted to “wash myself” (AKA, prepare to enter the “sterile zone” in the operation room). I was tired, I was hurting and I was excited.
So I said yes.
I put two caps (one alone can’t tame my hair) and a mask on my face, I removed my watch and cleaned my hands up to my elbows once and again, once and again, once and again, as the protocol demands, under the supervision of one of the doctors. Then I pushed the door with my butt with my hands up and got inside the room, where a nurse opened a sterile coat for me to get into and asked my glove size (which found out was a 6,5).
I was ready.
When I was inside the “forbidden area” for the first time ever, I wasn’t able to control myself.
I touched everything.
The stomach, the intestines, the pancreas, the aorta, the cava, the liver, the spleen. The gallbladder was already missing.
It was all warm.
I don’t know what I expected, but not that. I was used to human bodies, but they were cold ones. Corpses. I used to get into the dissection room with a coat under my lab coat. Because that place was freezing cold.
It was colder than the outside world.
And after long hours studying the corpses, my hands ended up kind of dead, too. Once I was the closest person in a dissection class, and I had to hold pieces of muscle and skin apart to let the plastic surgeon work. I saw it like nobody else did. But my hands were dead after two hours in that same position, with only latex as a barrier between my skin and the ice.
So when I touched an alive body from the inside for the first time ever, my fingers found a warmth that struck me like a lighting bolt.
That’s when I reached for the diaphragm. And touched a beating heart for the first time. Or better said, I felt it throught that thin muscle. It’s as close as I’ve gotten to touch a heart, anyway. The cardiac surgeons didn’t let me get this close.
Maybe they thought I was crazy but they didn’t let that to show on their faces. Or on their eyes, because that’s all you can see of their expressions in such a place. I “helped” vacuuming blood and holding scissors and using them when necessary. When they finished, they let me use the stapler. It’s like a gun, made for idiots, and I fired again and again every time the assistant surgeon told me. The ending part is the most important part for anaesthetists, as it’s when the patient is waking up. And the patient did stir. I felt his arm on my back. I almost broke the ceiling with my head due to the shock. The anaesthetists told him to calm down and grabbed his arm. the assistant doctor told me to hurry up and so I did. I kept firing and firing and firing.
Like a madwoman.
Like a shark?
Do not worry, waking up during a surgery is kind of “usual”. But remembering afterwards and feeling pain is not. Too many drugs in the system. And if they do, there is a curtain between the face and the rest of the body. To avoid the patient from remembering the worst.
I did see the patient after that. A week later, the assistant doctor led me to his room. He was sitting already, and he was doing fine. I saw the big wound that crossed his abdomen like a half-moon.
Like a shark bite.
I smiled at him.
I did say yes many times after that.
Sometimes, no, quite often, I imagine Suki Fleet like this. I imagine I’m in the operation room, but this time I’m the protagonist. I’m laying on the table. The surgery is long, and in one moment I wake up. There is no curtain to hide my body from myself, and there is no one there to tell me to calm down and grab my hand. It’s empty and freezing cold. The table is freezing cold. The air is freezing cold. Lights blind me. And I feel pain somewhere that shouldn’t be hurting at all. Somewhere I can’t identify at first. Strangely enough, I’m not eager to make it stop.
It’s my heart.
That’s when I realize I’m not alone. There is indeed someone in this room. It’s this little cute doll with enormous eyes. She has that innocent look plastered on her face. A peaceful expression I can’t find comforting at all. Like the Pietà in the Vatican. And that’s when I realize what’s going on. She’s holding a knife in her little hands. She’s small but she’s over me, looking down at me, and she’s caressing my insides with that knife. I’m so awed I can’t react, so I keep looking at up her.
And then she asks me if I want more.
I say yes.
That angelic face is Suki Fleet’s, and I’m kind of open for her. In the truest sense of the word. And I’m sure she’s not sorry, that’s she’s enjoying herself a lot. Touching my insides, my every organ, and then putting the hand over my diaphragm to feel my heart beneath beating at an alarming rate.
The place that hurts the most.
And then she asks me if I want more.
And as the sucker I am, I say yes.
I should feel sick, but I keep asking for more and more and more.
There is no other way to describe it. I’m not that good with words. Or at least, as good as I’d like to be. I feel I’m in a room full of water and that I’m drowning in such intense emotions, I’m touching some kind of wicked but beautiful heaven with the tips of my fingers.
Which are no longer cold.
Un cachito de cielo.
Because my blood is driving with so much force and vitality, it’s reaching all the corners of my soul.
No, this is not the best book I’ve read of hers. But it’s not the worst. I don’t have any specific ranking of her books. The limits get blurred in my mind.
I did find lots of parallelisms with This is Not a Love Story. Sometimes I felt I was reading the same thing when the limits got even more blurred. But for some stupid reason, I don’t get upset at that. I know it’s lame, but I can read books like this one all the time. It’s not that I’m a monotonous person, in fact I get bored easily with books if they get too repetitive. I’m impatient and want things to happen for a reason. Repetition doesn’t suit me. However, this all feels like a universe with brilliant supernovas sharing space and filling the emptiness with warmth and light.
I feel every book of Suki is a supernova.
And that her universe is amazing.
*****
It was not perfect though. These were my issues:
1) It takes a while to feel the real pull of the story. It’s not that it’s uninteresting, but I felt the first half of the book dragged a little too much. Which doesn’t mean I didn’t like it. I expected more “garra”, a more effective hook.
2) The ending is too rushed and too idyllic. This is not a Love Story ending is much more real, and more beautiful, IMO.
3) I never felt myself pulled wholly into the story. Don’t take this wrong, I loved the book to pieces, but I felt more “intoxicated” with other books by the author.
4) The book is too similar to This is not a Love Story:
5) Arizona is indeed a foreign word, at least non-English. I always assumed it has a Spanish origin because it’s obvious for us Native speakers: “Árida Zona, Arizona”, but then I found out there is also a Basque theory (Haritz Ona) and a Native American theory, from the O’odham language (alĭ ṣonak). This is what Wikipedia says.
6) There are hormones in the head, too. The hypothalamus and the hypophisis secrete hormones and are in the head. In fact, many hormonal responses in the body begin here, in these two "glands", and they also receive feedback from the peripheral organs in which they perform their function, such as the adrenals or the testicles.
7) There are things left unsolved. The blurb mentions a "sadistic doctor" and "three thousand miles" and in the end none of these things were important in the story. It was kind of anticlimatic. Why is Dollman ever mentioned? Why does he ? Is he really a ?
So, which is the strongest aspect?
I loved how Micky’s and Danny’s issues are portrayed. I seriously liked this part the most. I think that’s what the author is really good at. Characters, she knows how to give them breath, how to give them life, how to give them an aura so powerful they become unforgettable. And how poignant their relationship is in the middle of all that shit they go through. I love that in her.
*****
My.
Heart.
Is.
Not.
My.
Own.
Anymore.
Sometimes I think giving a knife to Suki to let her stab me would be more merciful.
But I’ve learnt to say yes.
Early on I learnt saying yes was the key.
When I began in the hospital, one day I skipped my classes to stay at long operation. The first cut took place at 10am and it dragged on and on until 5pm. Too many hours open to the outside world. Too many hours asleep.
It was an ampuloma, which is a tumor in the ampulla of Vater, the ending part of the duct that connects the gallbladder and the pancreas to the duodenum. The doctors had no idea whether it was benign or not, but as survival rates are generally low, they didn’t want to take any chances and give it time to spread. They’d study it in the laboratory afterwards. The intervention was not for weaklings: they planned to take out the gallbladder, half of the pancreas, half of the stomach and part of the intestine. Then they had to join it all together in a way that that kept the function of the system. It’s called pancreatoduodenectomy, Whipple procedure for friends.
After long hours standing up and with a backache forming after a long time bending trying to see something, there was a pause, in which I was invited to a sandwich. Iberian ham sandwich, no less. Then the surgeon told me if I wanted to “wash myself” (AKA, prepare to enter the “sterile zone” in the operation room). I was tired, I was hurting and I was excited.
So I said yes.
I put two caps (one alone can’t tame my hair) and a mask on my face, I removed my watch and cleaned my hands up to my elbows once and again, once and again, once and again, as the protocol demands, under the supervision of one of the doctors. Then I pushed the door with my butt with my hands up and got inside the room, where a nurse opened a sterile coat for me to get into and asked my glove size (which found out was a 6,5).
I was ready.
When I was inside the “forbidden area” for the first time ever, I wasn’t able to control myself.
I touched everything.
The stomach, the intestines, the pancreas, the aorta, the cava, the liver, the spleen. The gallbladder was already missing.
It was all warm.
I don’t know what I expected, but not that. I was used to human bodies, but they were cold ones. Corpses. I used to get into the dissection room with a coat under my lab coat. Because that place was freezing cold.
It was colder than the outside world.
And after long hours studying the corpses, my hands ended up kind of dead, too. Once I was the closest person in a dissection class, and I had to hold pieces of muscle and skin apart to let the plastic surgeon work. I saw it like nobody else did. But my hands were dead after two hours in that same position, with only latex as a barrier between my skin and the ice.
So when I touched an alive body from the inside for the first time ever, my fingers found a warmth that struck me like a lighting bolt.
That’s when I reached for the diaphragm. And touched a beating heart for the first time. Or better said, I felt it throught that thin muscle. It’s as close as I’ve gotten to touch a heart, anyway. The cardiac surgeons didn’t let me get this close.
Maybe they thought I was crazy but they didn’t let that to show on their faces. Or on their eyes, because that’s all you can see of their expressions in such a place. I “helped” vacuuming blood and holding scissors and using them when necessary. When they finished, they let me use the stapler. It’s like a gun, made for idiots, and I fired again and again every time the assistant surgeon told me. The ending part is the most important part for anaesthetists, as it’s when the patient is waking up. And the patient did stir. I felt his arm on my back. I almost broke the ceiling with my head due to the shock. The anaesthetists told him to calm down and grabbed his arm. the assistant doctor told me to hurry up and so I did. I kept firing and firing and firing.
Like a madwoman.
Like a shark?
Do not worry, waking up during a surgery is kind of “usual”. But remembering afterwards and feeling pain is not. Too many drugs in the system. And if they do, there is a curtain between the face and the rest of the body. To avoid the patient from remembering the worst.
I did see the patient after that. A week later, the assistant doctor led me to his room. He was sitting already, and he was doing fine. I saw the big wound that crossed his abdomen like a half-moon.
Like a shark bite.
I smiled at him.
I did say yes many times after that.
Sometimes, no, quite often, I imagine Suki Fleet like this. I imagine I’m in the operation room, but this time I’m the protagonist. I’m laying on the table. The surgery is long, and in one moment I wake up. There is no curtain to hide my body from myself, and there is no one there to tell me to calm down and grab my hand. It’s empty and freezing cold. The table is freezing cold. The air is freezing cold. Lights blind me. And I feel pain somewhere that shouldn’t be hurting at all. Somewhere I can’t identify at first. Strangely enough, I’m not eager to make it stop.
It’s my heart.
That’s when I realize I’m not alone. There is indeed someone in this room. It’s this little cute doll with enormous eyes. She has that innocent look plastered on her face. A peaceful expression I can’t find comforting at all. Like the Pietà in the Vatican. And that’s when I realize what’s going on. She’s holding a knife in her little hands. She’s small but she’s over me, looking down at me, and she’s caressing my insides with that knife. I’m so awed I can’t react, so I keep looking at up her.
And then she asks me if I want more.
I say yes.
That angelic face is Suki Fleet’s, and I’m kind of open for her. In the truest sense of the word. And I’m sure she’s not sorry, that’s she’s enjoying herself a lot. Touching my insides, my every organ, and then putting the hand over my diaphragm to feel my heart beneath beating at an alarming rate.
The place that hurts the most.
And then she asks me if I want more.
And as the sucker I am, I say yes.
I should feel sick, but I keep asking for more and more and more.
There is no other way to describe it. I’m not that good with words. Or at least, as good as I’d like to be. I feel I’m in a room full of water and that I’m drowning in such intense emotions, I’m touching some kind of wicked but beautiful heaven with the tips of my fingers.
Which are no longer cold.
Un cachito de cielo.
Because my blood is driving with so much force and vitality, it’s reaching all the corners of my soul.
No, this is not the best book I’ve read of hers. But it’s not the worst. I don’t have any specific ranking of her books. The limits get blurred in my mind.
I did find lots of parallelisms with This is Not a Love Story. Sometimes I felt I was reading the same thing when the limits got even more blurred. But for some stupid reason, I don’t get upset at that. I know it’s lame, but I can read books like this one all the time. It’s not that I’m a monotonous person, in fact I get bored easily with books if they get too repetitive. I’m impatient and want things to happen for a reason. Repetition doesn’t suit me. However, this all feels like a universe with brilliant supernovas sharing space and filling the emptiness with warmth and light.
I feel every book of Suki is a supernova.
And that her universe is amazing.
*****
It was not perfect though. These were my issues:
1) It takes a while to feel the real pull of the story. It’s not that it’s uninteresting, but I felt the first half of the book dragged a little too much. Which doesn’t mean I didn’t like it. I expected more “garra”, a more effective hook.
2) The ending is too rushed and too idyllic. This is not a Love Story ending is much more real, and more beautiful, IMO.
3) I never felt myself pulled wholly into the story. Don’t take this wrong, I loved the book to pieces, but I felt more “intoxicated” with other books by the author.
4) The book is too similar to This is not a Love Story:
5) Arizona is indeed a foreign word, at least non-English. I always assumed it has a Spanish origin because it’s obvious for us Native speakers: “Árida Zona, Arizona”, but then I found out there is also a Basque theory (Haritz Ona) and a Native American theory, from the O’odham language (alĭ ṣonak). This is what Wikipedia says.
6) There are hormones in the head, too. The hypothalamus and the hypophisis secrete hormones and are in the head. In fact, many hormonal responses in the body begin here, in these two "glands", and they also receive feedback from the peripheral organs in which they perform their function, such as the adrenals or the testicles.
7) There are things left unsolved. The blurb mentions a "sadistic doctor" and "three thousand miles" and in the end none of these things were important in the story. It was kind of anticlimatic. Why is Dollman ever mentioned? Why does he ? Is he really a ?
So, which is the strongest aspect?
I loved how Micky’s and Danny’s issues are portrayed. I seriously liked this part the most. I think that’s what the author is really good at. Characters, she knows how to give them breath, how to give them life, how to give them an aura so powerful they become unforgettable. And how poignant their relationship is in the middle of all that shit they go through. I love that in her.
*****
September 15, 2017
He perdido la cuenta de las veces que lo he releído, Danny es siempre a quien recurro cuando mi mente da muchas vueltas. Cada vez que lo releo me parece más y más bonito, más y más especial.
-----------
So so so beautiful... Danny is one of the most beautiful characters that I´ve ever read. Well written, emotional, I´ve spent the whole book crying with sadness and happiness, a lot of feelings. Please, read it.
Nunca escribo en inglés en las reviews, es una forma de reivindicar mi idioma, pero esta vez me apetecía poner una o dos frases para que me entendiera más gente porque me resulta muy difícil comprender cómo con tanta mediocridad publicada una escritora como Suki Fleet no es más leída.
Llevaba meses con este libro en mi punto de mira, pero la historia de un chico sin hogar que vive como puede y con muchas cicatrices externas e internas y un rentboy me resultaba tan dura que parecía que nunca llegaba el momento. Gracias a la crítica de unos de mis contactos aquí (Mónica ;)) al final me animé, y que acertada decisión.
Después de leer una historia tan bonita y tan bellamente escrita siento mucho pudor a la hora de decir yo algo, nunca podría hacerle justicia. La autora nos envuelve en una atmósfera triste, dura, con personajes muy rotos, tanto los protagonistas como los que le rodean, pero de una forma muy emotiva consigue que veamos rayos de Sol y esperanza donde parece que no cabe ninguna. Y todo ello con muchísima elegancia, sin caer nunca en el morbo, en la provocación fácil, la autora te provoca, pero lo hace dirigiéndose a tu corazón con el corazón de los personajes. Muy hermoso.
Hay algún error en la trama, pero creo que solo las freakies de los detalles se darán cuenta (como yo, qué cruz), pero no le quita ningún mérito al libro. No puedo dejar de insistir en que leáis la historia de Micky y Danny, es duro, pero la belleza gana con mucho. Y Danny, qué personaje más maravilloso.
Leedlo.
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So so so beautiful... Danny is one of the most beautiful characters that I´ve ever read. Well written, emotional, I´ve spent the whole book crying with sadness and happiness, a lot of feelings. Please, read it.
Nunca escribo en inglés en las reviews, es una forma de reivindicar mi idioma, pero esta vez me apetecía poner una o dos frases para que me entendiera más gente porque me resulta muy difícil comprender cómo con tanta mediocridad publicada una escritora como Suki Fleet no es más leída.
Llevaba meses con este libro en mi punto de mira, pero la historia de un chico sin hogar que vive como puede y con muchas cicatrices externas e internas y un rentboy me resultaba tan dura que parecía que nunca llegaba el momento. Gracias a la crítica de unos de mis contactos aquí (Mónica ;)) al final me animé, y que acertada decisión.
Después de leer una historia tan bonita y tan bellamente escrita siento mucho pudor a la hora de decir yo algo, nunca podría hacerle justicia. La autora nos envuelve en una atmósfera triste, dura, con personajes muy rotos, tanto los protagonistas como los que le rodean, pero de una forma muy emotiva consigue que veamos rayos de Sol y esperanza donde parece que no cabe ninguna. Y todo ello con muchísima elegancia, sin caer nunca en el morbo, en la provocación fácil, la autora te provoca, pero lo hace dirigiéndose a tu corazón con el corazón de los personajes. Muy hermoso.
Hay algún error en la trama, pero creo que solo las freakies de los detalles se darán cuenta (como yo, qué cruz), pero no le quita ningún mérito al libro. No puedo dejar de insistir en que leáis la historia de Micky y Danny, es duro, pero la belleza gana con mucho. Y Danny, qué personaje más maravilloso.
Leedlo.
September 20, 2021
We're taking up the entire pavement, but there's no one around. Only stars above. All the stars. All the bright and dying lights burning through the dark. There is no lid on the sky tonight. It's endless. Forever.
foxes is my first from this author and i swear it wouldn't be the last. we follow danny known as the 'shark hunter' exploring the night streets of London looking for the 'shark' who killed his bestfriend, dashiel. dashiel along with the other barely legal teens are prostitutes in this story. One night as danny walks down the London streets he meets with a new face, a new rent boy: an american named micky. to put it simply, this is a story of danny being torn in half between his quest finding dashiel's killer and his blooming connection with micky.
Never say you're stupid just because you find some things hard. I never want you to use that word. Everyone finds some things hard. You're clever in so many ways other people aren't-in ways that matter the most. Your heart is fucking big.
i'm giving foxes 5 stars for now but i might revert it to 4 stars later on. if you're reading this review after a long time and my rating is still the same it means it finally solidified its 5 stars rating in my head. this book definitely moved me in so many ways. i experienced a lot of roller coaster of emotions following danny and micky's day to day life. both mcs got their own personal baggage so in a way they try to accommodate all that especially danny. especially danny. i love how this person is struggling by himself but still find a way to help and comfort those people around him. for the secondary characters - milo, donna, dieter, diana, the flower lady, & vinny - are all amazing too even if they did some questionable things. flawed and layered characters.
"You're beautiful", I write, while he's still holding on to my hand. The words come out all spidery and crooked. "You glitter like no one else. Like stars are inside you."
as for the mystery part, i feel conflicted with how it was resolved in the end. i feel like dashiel deserved so much more than that. i kinda vibed with it still but not fully. i was shocked with the twist though so a win.
We made it.
those three little words above are so much better than the i love yous in my opinion. after everything these beloved mcs went through, they fucking made it in the end.
March 10, 2020
There is no reason for me to give this book anything less than five stars.
It is original, emotional, moving and insightful. It brings characters to life that most of us will never have the opportunity to meet.
In the midst of a murder mystery we are introduced to characters who suffer from mental illness. Characters that are living and working on the streets. Characters that have unimaginable empathy for others.
Carefully weaving through this minefield plot, Fleet gifts us with a poignant love story to melt our hearts.
Five humongous stars!
It is original, emotional, moving and insightful. It brings characters to life that most of us will never have the opportunity to meet.
In the midst of a murder mystery we are introduced to characters who suffer from mental illness. Characters that are living and working on the streets. Characters that have unimaginable empathy for others.
Carefully weaving through this minefield plot, Fleet gifts us with a poignant love story to melt our hearts.
Five humongous stars!
September 19, 2016
Many thanks to my cyber momma Karen for holding my hand while reading this piece of awesomeness and helping me survive the raw intensity this book is made of.
Oh. My. God. This book is now among my all-time favorites and it will remain there until the day I die. Dramatic much you say? I say READ THIS BOOK!!!
I finished this book last night at 3 a.m. although I had to get up 4 hours later. I just couldn’t put it down. It consumed me, captivated me, tore me apart, and put me back together. I’m still reeling from all the feelings this book evoked in me. It was a confusing mix of horror and laughter, pain and joy, angst and elation. And so much crying...
I know I cannot do this book justice with whatever I write because this novel is a piece of art. From the first paragraph, I was mesmerized by Suki Fleet’s writing. She created something beautiful and poetic out of simple words without making it appear as if she tried too hard. I never highlighted so many sentences in a book ever before.
Danny… I think I never read about a character I loved so freakin’ much and he alone deserves 5 stars! He’s awesome, beautiful, strong, sweet, brave, caring, kind, smart as a whip, determined, selfless… I could go on and on. Unfortunately, he doesn’t see himself that way at first and we get to experience his transformation from a shunned, self-conscious, shy, mocked, guilt-ridden outcast to the boy he’s meant to be.
I wanted to take him home, keep him safe, and protect him from all the evil in the world. But as it turned out he never needed me. He just needed Micky to recognize all the wonderful traits in himself that make him a shining light in the dark, to learn how to believe in himself.
Micky is broken too. Struggling with his past and forced into this life on the streets of London because he saw no other options of how to survive.
Both boys have to battle their inner demons, their pain and grief, and throughout it all, they develop a close friendship that slowly morphs into love. The build-up is tentative, pure, and powerful .
This was an intense, raw, heart-breaking read and I highly recommend it for everyone who wants to experience a kaleidoscope of emotions while reading a book.
Oh. My. God. This book is now among my all-time favorites and it will remain there until the day I die. Dramatic much you say? I say READ THIS BOOK!!!
I finished this book last night at 3 a.m. although I had to get up 4 hours later. I just couldn’t put it down. It consumed me, captivated me, tore me apart, and put me back together. I’m still reeling from all the feelings this book evoked in me. It was a confusing mix of horror and laughter, pain and joy, angst and elation. And so much crying...
I know I cannot do this book justice with whatever I write because this novel is a piece of art. From the first paragraph, I was mesmerized by Suki Fleet’s writing. She created something beautiful and poetic out of simple words without making it appear as if she tried too hard. I never highlighted so many sentences in a book ever before.
Danny… I think I never read about a character I loved so freakin’ much and he alone deserves 5 stars! He’s awesome, beautiful, strong, sweet, brave, caring, kind, smart as a whip, determined, selfless… I could go on and on. Unfortunately, he doesn’t see himself that way at first and we get to experience his transformation from a shunned, self-conscious, shy, mocked, guilt-ridden outcast to the boy he’s meant to be.
I wanted to take him home, keep him safe, and protect him from all the evil in the world. But as it turned out he never needed me. He just needed Micky to recognize all the wonderful traits in himself that make him a shining light in the dark, to learn how to believe in himself.
Micky is broken too. Struggling with his past and forced into this life on the streets of London because he saw no other options of how to survive.
Both boys have to battle their inner demons, their pain and grief, and throughout it all, they develop a close friendship that slowly morphs into love. The build-up is tentative, pure, and powerful .
This was an intense, raw, heart-breaking read and I highly recommend it for everyone who wants to experience a kaleidoscope of emotions while reading a book.
February 8, 2016
4.5 stars
Suki Fleet scares the crap out of me.
She is wildly talented, for one.
Her characters get under my skin for another.
And she tends to write about boys who have a really REALLY rough life, just trying to make the best of the hands they've been dealt. And that...hurts.
When it comes to books, I have a weak heart. And I tend to shy away from anything that will damage it. But then I'm reminded...the best books help put it back together...to heal my heart.
Foxes did this. It healed me.
It's about a boy, Danny, who's found a way to survive on the streets of London, by fixing odds and ends, by being kind to others, and mostly by keeping his life very small. Until his best friend is found dead and he sets off to avenge his murder. Thing about this book is...Suki Fleet manages to make this plot, one that should be hyped with action, suspense, background music and "dun dun duuuuunnnnn"...into something very quiet and gentle.
The story starts slowly and the pace barely picks up for the first half. But it's perfectly set so that the reader gets to know and understand Danny. There are no in-your-face revelations...but little by little things are revealed about this very special young man. And boom...you realize you're in love. Well, at least that's what happened with me. I fell in love with Danny.
Enter Mickey...the boy you know has secrets waiting to be exposed. The boy you're hoping will be good to Danny and love him the way he deserves. And man, when the truth starts to come out? I was pretty much edge-of-my-seat reading for the remainder of the book...begging the author to make it all ok.
The story doesn't end the way I had anticipated, but it ended just as I would have hoped. Possibly a little too lucky, a little too perfect, a little too rushed even. I would have loved to savor just a little bit more of Danny and Mickey in a safe place.
Still...I think the choices it took Danny to get there to his HEA, those were the real nuggets of this book. Where my heart felt full and where those hurt spots began to stitch themselves up.
And Danny is still with me. I can't shake him from my brain. I've been rereading little parts here and there. I'm not quite ready to let him go...
May 4, 2018
This is an atmospheric book about a young man who is living on the streets, hiding his scarred face behind his long hair, tracking down the users, the "sharks", who circle the young men and women selling themselves on the London street scene. He's hunting for the man who murdered a rent-boy friend of his, with no clues to go on except that Dashiel talked about "sharks" and was wary of certain men. When Danny lost Dashiel, he lost his one trusted positive connection to other people, the only person who knew him beyond the Loki scars and silence. The hunt is a way for him to keep on going.
Then he meets Micky, a femme American boy who's barely surviving the London winter. Micky awakens both Danny's protective instincts and his desire, but Danny's only going to let one of those show. Taking care of Micky, and in him, finding a friend who doesn't care about his scars or his past but who embraces who Danny is now, opens up Danny's life.
Not that he thinks it can last. There's still a killer out there, the sharks still circle and Micky may have to keep tricking to survive. Danny hopes that his safe squat and the food and money he can earn fixing broken and stolen phones will be enough for both of them. But even if he can protect Micky, there are still the other girls and boys he's coming to know better, out getting into strange cars, and going off with strange men. And there's still Dashiel, whose life and death haunt him. He can't let go without knowing the truth.
Taking care of Micky isn't easy either. Micky is fragile in ways he hides under his shiny persona. He's not physically strong. Danny's been managing fine on his own for a while, but there may come a time when he's not enough. He may have to go looking for help, for both of them to survive.
I liked the path this book took to a happy ending. There are open threads. Not all the bad guys get what's coming to them. Not all the lost boys and girls are saved off the street. But for Danny and Micky, after all the pain, it was sweet to see them find a way forward.
Then he meets Micky, a femme American boy who's barely surviving the London winter. Micky awakens both Danny's protective instincts and his desire, but Danny's only going to let one of those show. Taking care of Micky, and in him, finding a friend who doesn't care about his scars or his past but who embraces who Danny is now, opens up Danny's life.
Not that he thinks it can last. There's still a killer out there, the sharks still circle and Micky may have to keep tricking to survive. Danny hopes that his safe squat and the food and money he can earn fixing broken and stolen phones will be enough for both of them. But even if he can protect Micky, there are still the other girls and boys he's coming to know better, out getting into strange cars, and going off with strange men. And there's still Dashiel, whose life and death haunt him. He can't let go without knowing the truth.
Taking care of Micky isn't easy either. Micky is fragile in ways he hides under his shiny persona. He's not physically strong. Danny's been managing fine on his own for a while, but there may come a time when he's not enough. He may have to go looking for help, for both of them to survive.
I liked the path this book took to a happy ending. There are open threads. Not all the bad guys get what's coming to them. Not all the lost boys and girls are saved off the street. But for Danny and Micky, after all the pain, it was sweet to see them find a way forward.
January 30, 2019
You can rest assured that any novel by Suki Fleet will first smash your heart into a thousand little pieces and then patch it together with a faint thread of hope and happiness.
The moving and wonderful Foxes is no different.
Danny - emotionally and physically scarred - exists on the fringes of society. He lives in an abandoned swimming pool, a sort of protective shell where he nestles up shielded by a pile of blankets and a series of strong padlocks. Still grieving for the obscure death of his best friend Dashiel, he spends his time hunting for 'sharks', night predators who abuse and take advantage of the boys and girls who live and work on the streets. His daily routine, conducted under the strict rule of avoiding long-term planning, is shattered when he collides with Micky, a skinny American kid with a mysterious and troubled past.
I loved how Suki portrays her characters with a few unforgettable touches - Micky glitters from inside out, his chatty attitude is at the same time endearing and deeply worrying because it hides a fragility and exposure that may ultimately cost him his life. Danny, constantly trying to make himself small and inconspicuous, pretends to be strong and on top of things but it's just appearance and his existence is as adrift as Micky's.
Throughout the novel, it's really painful to observe Danny and Micky as they struggle through personal problems, unexpected threats and painful revelations and the pain is made even more heartbreaking by the strength of their love and by the inevitability of their choices.
Angst and sadness, though, are never an end in themselves, there's no voyeuristic attitude in the book or the simply detached chronicle of setback after setback. The harsh and difficult aspects of Danny and Micky's lives are instrumental in their growth as individuals and in the confirmation of their steadfast commitment to each other.
As usual with Suki's books, the writing is just phenomenal - she writes with flawless precision and never shies away from what can be raw and painful. At the same time, the sentimentality in her stories is so believable because it's an undeniable fact and not a sugar-coated fairytale. Love can be a redeemer but it doesn't magically wipe out Danny's difficulties with social interactions and Micky's self-destructive tendencies - this makes their relationship even more poignant and honest and the two MCs completely believable and so easy to root for.
A wintery and snowy London is conjured up with great effectiveness - its frozen detachment contrasted by the warmth and safety provided by Danny's nest.
Love, persistence, trust and some secret superhero powers - these are the elements that make this novel so unforgettable.
Highly recommended.
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The moving and wonderful Foxes is no different.
Danny - emotionally and physically scarred - exists on the fringes of society. He lives in an abandoned swimming pool, a sort of protective shell where he nestles up shielded by a pile of blankets and a series of strong padlocks. Still grieving for the obscure death of his best friend Dashiel, he spends his time hunting for 'sharks', night predators who abuse and take advantage of the boys and girls who live and work on the streets. His daily routine, conducted under the strict rule of avoiding long-term planning, is shattered when he collides with Micky, a skinny American kid with a mysterious and troubled past.
I loved how Suki portrays her characters with a few unforgettable touches - Micky glitters from inside out, his chatty attitude is at the same time endearing and deeply worrying because it hides a fragility and exposure that may ultimately cost him his life. Danny, constantly trying to make himself small and inconspicuous, pretends to be strong and on top of things but it's just appearance and his existence is as adrift as Micky's.
Throughout the novel, it's really painful to observe Danny and Micky as they struggle through personal problems, unexpected threats and painful revelations and the pain is made even more heartbreaking by the strength of their love and by the inevitability of their choices.
Angst and sadness, though, are never an end in themselves, there's no voyeuristic attitude in the book or the simply detached chronicle of setback after setback. The harsh and difficult aspects of Danny and Micky's lives are instrumental in their growth as individuals and in the confirmation of their steadfast commitment to each other.
As usual with Suki's books, the writing is just phenomenal - she writes with flawless precision and never shies away from what can be raw and painful. At the same time, the sentimentality in her stories is so believable because it's an undeniable fact and not a sugar-coated fairytale. Love can be a redeemer but it doesn't magically wipe out Danny's difficulties with social interactions and Micky's self-destructive tendencies - this makes their relationship even more poignant and honest and the two MCs completely believable and so easy to root for.
A wintery and snowy London is conjured up with great effectiveness - its frozen detachment contrasted by the warmth and safety provided by Danny's nest.
Love, persistence, trust and some secret superhero powers - these are the elements that make this novel so unforgettable.
Highly recommended.
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February 13, 2016
I have a really hard time reviewing books that I love. I don't know why that is. Maybe I'm afraid I won't do it justice. Whatever the cause, I'm sitting here with a blank screen trying to figure out what to say about this book that will encourage people to read it. Because you should. In fact, you should read all of Suki Fleet's books.
I LOVED this book. I loved Danny and Micky. Their story was beautiful, intense, raw, heartbreaking, amazing. Danny is definitely one of my favorite characters. I loved watching his confidence grow and watching him fall in love. One of my favorite reads this year!
I LOVED this book. I loved Danny and Micky. Their story was beautiful, intense, raw, heartbreaking, amazing. Danny is definitely one of my favorite characters. I loved watching his confidence grow and watching him fall in love. One of my favorite reads this year!
January 27, 2019
4,5 stars
May 20, 2016
Este libro es como encontrar una flor entre el barro... Hermoso.
April 29, 2016
5 stars
"You don't have to be more. You're everything."
Danny is a damaged boy with a pure heart. With no family, he's made a home for himself on the streets. His face and body are badly scarred. His mind doesn't work the way he wants it to. And he's never expected much of a future.
"I guess I always knew it wasn't worth wondering about."
He survives life on the streets by being a fixer. He fixes phones. He fixes things at a few restaurants and stores in exchange for the simple goods he needs to survive.
"Really though, I like fixing stuff because I discovered I could bring something broken back to life."
But there are things he can't fix. He can't change the way he looks. And he couldn't save his best friend Dashiel who dies shortly before this story begins. He's sure it's one of the "sharks" who's responsible for Dashiel's death. The sharks are those who prey on London's young prostitutes. So he spends his nights shark hunting, determined to try and fix this somehow. To protect others from Dashiel's fate.
It's on one of these nights that Danny meets Micky. Micky's a young and beautiful boy selling his body to survive. He has a light that pulls at Danny. Danny's almost immediate physical attraction to Micky is intense and it's the first time he's felt like this about anyone.
"He picks up my phone, turns it upside down, and strokes it gently. He looks at it as though it's something precious. I watch him through my hair. An electric charge is running through my body, up and down my spine, fingertip to fingertip, a complete circuit with nowhere to discharge itself."
Despite his life on the streets, Micky has an innocence to him that Danny wants to protect. Unlike himself, Danny knows that Micky doesn't belong on the streets and that he deserves a real future. Micky also seems to be one of the few people who really sees Danny and not his scars.
"It's as though he doesn't see me like everyone else sees me. And because he makes my heart beat faster and I have this urge to follow him around and make sure he's safe, I am absolutely terrified. I don't want my heart to feel like broken glass anymore. Caring about someone is too terrifying."
So Danny works to save Micky just like he works to save so many others on the streets. But he doesn't expect love from Micky.
This was a story that was heartbreaking at times yet very hopeful. The love and bond that grows between Danny and Micky was beautiful and pure. As with any Suki Fleet story, the writing was lovely and evocative and it pulled me into Danny's head and his world from the first page. I think it's my favourite Suki Fleet simply because of how much she made me care for Danny. He doesn't think he deserves much in life, but in truth he deserves everything.
"You don't have to be more. You're everything."
Danny is a damaged boy with a pure heart. With no family, he's made a home for himself on the streets. His face and body are badly scarred. His mind doesn't work the way he wants it to. And he's never expected much of a future.
"I guess I always knew it wasn't worth wondering about."
He survives life on the streets by being a fixer. He fixes phones. He fixes things at a few restaurants and stores in exchange for the simple goods he needs to survive.
"Really though, I like fixing stuff because I discovered I could bring something broken back to life."
But there are things he can't fix. He can't change the way he looks. And he couldn't save his best friend Dashiel who dies shortly before this story begins. He's sure it's one of the "sharks" who's responsible for Dashiel's death. The sharks are those who prey on London's young prostitutes. So he spends his nights shark hunting, determined to try and fix this somehow. To protect others from Dashiel's fate.
It's on one of these nights that Danny meets Micky. Micky's a young and beautiful boy selling his body to survive. He has a light that pulls at Danny. Danny's almost immediate physical attraction to Micky is intense and it's the first time he's felt like this about anyone.
"He picks up my phone, turns it upside down, and strokes it gently. He looks at it as though it's something precious. I watch him through my hair. An electric charge is running through my body, up and down my spine, fingertip to fingertip, a complete circuit with nowhere to discharge itself."
Despite his life on the streets, Micky has an innocence to him that Danny wants to protect. Unlike himself, Danny knows that Micky doesn't belong on the streets and that he deserves a real future. Micky also seems to be one of the few people who really sees Danny and not his scars.
"It's as though he doesn't see me like everyone else sees me. And because he makes my heart beat faster and I have this urge to follow him around and make sure he's safe, I am absolutely terrified. I don't want my heart to feel like broken glass anymore. Caring about someone is too terrifying."
So Danny works to save Micky just like he works to save so many others on the streets. But he doesn't expect love from Micky.
This was a story that was heartbreaking at times yet very hopeful. The love and bond that grows between Danny and Micky was beautiful and pure. As with any Suki Fleet story, the writing was lovely and evocative and it pulled me into Danny's head and his world from the first page. I think it's my favourite Suki Fleet simply because of how much she made me care for Danny. He doesn't think he deserves much in life, but in truth he deserves everything.
May 21, 2023
I have been putting off writing this review for ages because I don't think I can put into words how much I loved this.
The story is about Danny, a homeless guy living in London. His friend Dashiel was just murdered and hes trying to find out who did it. Dashiel was a sex worker who worked on the streets, so Danny spends his nights walking about the popular areas where people wait to be picked up, and keeps an eye out for anyone suspicious. One night he comes across a friend of Dashiels at one of the popular spots, and hes with a new guy called Micky. Micky's phone is broken so Danny gets asked to fix it because that's one of the few things he does for money. And this is how their story starts.
This is my first Suki Fleet book and I was in awe of how amazing their writing is. I highlight so many quotes and absolutely fell in love with how they described things. I spent the last quarter of this book with tears streaming down my face(happy and sad tears), I haven't cried so hard over a book in so long. This does have a happy ending, but it is a hard won one.
Please read this book it is so worth all the emotions!!
The story is about Danny, a homeless guy living in London. His friend Dashiel was just murdered and hes trying to find out who did it. Dashiel was a sex worker who worked on the streets, so Danny spends his nights walking about the popular areas where people wait to be picked up, and keeps an eye out for anyone suspicious. One night he comes across a friend of Dashiels at one of the popular spots, and hes with a new guy called Micky. Micky's phone is broken so Danny gets asked to fix it because that's one of the few things he does for money. And this is how their story starts.
This is my first Suki Fleet book and I was in awe of how amazing their writing is. I highlight so many quotes and absolutely fell in love with how they described things. I spent the last quarter of this book with tears streaming down my face(happy and sad tears), I haven't cried so hard over a book in so long. This does have a happy ending, but it is a hard won one.
Please read this book it is so worth all the emotions!!
November 29, 2016
ALL. THE. FEELS.
Una de las mejores lecturas del año.
Se lo recomiendo al mundo entero.
Una de las mejores lecturas del año.
Se lo recomiendo al mundo entero.
January 12, 2022
Had I known what this story was about, I doubt I would have read it. This story simply crushed me and made me wish I had Bezos kind of money to save everyone living on the streets.
The writing is gloriously beautiful but overly filled with symbolism. Like other YA novels that are rich in depth, this story had a magical feel to it. It’s very ANGSTY. It deals with some heavy subjects like Its young men and women selling themselves on the streets, while men in fancy cars pick them up and then throw them out afterwards.
Danny has facial and upper body scars. We aren’t told until the end how he received them. It’s one of the most ridiculous OTT explainations I’ve ever read.
LOTS OF SPOILERS UNDER TAG
Most of the book Danny is looking for the killer his best friend, so huge percentage of this story is a murder mystery. While that mystery is eventually solved, we never get a resolution on the creepy Dollman. He just up and disappears?
Recommended if you like ANGSTY MM teen romances with a little heat and SOBBING. A beautifully written story, that wrenched my heart out. Ends with a HFN.
The writing is gloriously beautiful but overly filled with symbolism. Like other YA novels that are rich in depth, this story had a magical feel to it. It’s very ANGSTY. It deals with some heavy subjects like Its young men and women selling themselves on the streets, while men in fancy cars pick them up and then throw them out afterwards.
They wait in the cold for someone to touch them in ways they don’t want to be touched.The depth of emotions in this story is seriously off the charts.
Danny has facial and upper body scars. We aren’t told until the end how he received them. It’s one of the most ridiculous OTT explainations I’ve ever read.
Even though I want it so badly, I will never be normal. I will never have a normal face that someone is going to look at and like.This story is vague about a lot of things, which I believe is on purpose. You won’t know specifically how old these boys are, yet knowing that Micky has to emancipate from his parents tells me he is underage.
LOTS OF SPOILERS UNDER TAG
Most of the book Danny is looking for the killer his best friend, so huge percentage of this story is a murder mystery. While that mystery is eventually solved, we never get a resolution on the creepy Dollman. He just up and disappears?
Recommended if you like ANGSTY MM teen romances with a little heat and SOBBING. A beautifully written story, that wrenched my heart out. Ends with a HFN.
September 3, 2016
Such a beautiful story - really highlights the other side of life that most of us have never experienced. Friendship, persistence and love ... The key message in this story. Live in the moment and find your joy no matter how small
August 7, 2016
*sniffles*
Be the change you want to see in the world.
Read
February 9, 2016Can’t lifetimes be measured in heartbeats? The faster a heart goes, the less time you have?
If the above is true, must be close to death then after reading this. I can’t stop my heart from beating so fast it hurts. It hurts. I hurt and yet the hurt is a complete comfort.
There is a theme with Suki’s books; the ever plentiful absence of parental figures, the absence of speech either voluntary or not and there is the over whelming theme of boys doing things for survival that most of us don’t think about. There is this void with her characters but it’s the fortitude of not giving up that makes the void fill and spill over with hope.
The big thing about Suki and her books is you get immersed in them. From the first word and a dip of your ill formed pinky toe, you think you are testing the waters of the world she creates, when in reality, you’ve already jumped in with both feet. You’ve jumped in and didn’t realize it until your chest becomes so tight because you haven’t come up for air. You’ve held your breath and let the gorgeous misty words fill your chest as you blissfully drown in the context of the story.
I want to tell you all about this story but I don’t know how to. It’s heartbreaking and hopeful. It’s angsty and amazing. This book, is everything and there are things I think I caught on to more because of myself or maybe because the author is like me?
Maybe she is like me because what I also loved is the sneaky way the author sneaks songs into the book. I guess, if you don’t know them you wouldn’t notice them but just like a song by The Smiths got tossed into TiNaLS, there are songs from The Cure in this that shredded my already stomped on heart. I mean, come on! If Only Tonight We Could Sleep and Pictures of You. Smith and Fleet as a duo of angst? One does not survive unscathed, I promise you.
If I had a single wish right now, it would be for someone to hold on to, or for someone to hold on to me. Not because they feel obliged to, or because they have to, but because they want to, because they want me.
Danny. What has happened to him? OMG. This kid, from the first page I wanted to hug and cuddle him until he gave in and hugged me back. I want to give Danny all the warmth, all the warm showers and flowers and food and a cool room to sleep deep under warm blankets. I want to give him a room full of things that need to be fixed, not because he needs them as trade but because it’s what he does. I want him to look at himself with as much want and love as he deserves and I want him to accept it. To accept that he is beautiful because of who he is and how he loves and protects those who matter… even when they ask why he doesn’t give up.
OMG! This book, it hurt me so damn good.
Micky, good lord this kid. I got him and his want to help people but inability to deal with it. I really get it because I am the same way. I get that it’s too much at times to just be yourself and deal with your own issues but taking on the issues of others, it’s crushing to the soul. But Micky is beautiful, sparkly and everything that a boy like Danny needs but what is going on with them? How will they make this new fragile thing called love work?
These boys. This story, it was amazing but it’s Suki Fleet so it’s what I expect. The layers of story and character are achingly peeled away until you are raw. You can’t help but feel what these characters go through as you read their story. This isn’t just story- it’s an entire universe of bright skies, of tumbling warm feelings and emotions so big, they can’t be contained to one continent. It’s so ridiculously gorgeous that I can’t tell you enough how much I loved reading it.
Fragile things, every single one of them. Lives are so terrifyingly easy to break. And yet, I love every single second. If I didn’t love it, it wouldn’t hurt so much.
Yeah… that.
Read my Foxes inspired intimate interview with Suki Fleet on Music and Books, here:
November 18, 2016
No sé por qué GR me borra la review de este libro y es uno de mis favoritos, así que la posteo otra vez y la tendré repetida :S.
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So so so beautiful... Danny is one of the most beautiful characters that I´ve ever read. Well written, emotional, I´ve spent the whole book crying with sadness and happiness, a lot of feelings. Please, read it.
Nunca escribo en inglés en las reviews, es una forma de reivindicar mi idioma, pero esta vez me apetecía poner una o dos frases para que me entendiera más gente porque me resulta muy difícil comprender cómo con tanta mediocridad publicada una escritora como Suki Fleet no es más leída.
Llevaba meses con este libro en mi punto de mira, pero la historia de un chico sin hogar que vive como puede y con muchas cicatrices externas e internas y un rentboy me resultaba tan dura que parecía que nunca llegaba el momento. Gracias a la crítica de unos de mis contactos aquí (Mónica ;)) al final me animé, y que acertada decisión.
Después de leer una historia tan bonita y tan bellamente escrita siento mucho pudor a la hora de decir yo algo, nunca podría hacerle justicia. La autora nos envuelve en una atmósfera triste, dura, con personajes muy rotos, tanto los protagonistas como los que le rodean, pero de una forma muy emotiva consigue que veamos rayos de Sol y esperanza donde parece que no cabe ninguna. Y todo ello con muchísima elegancia, sin caer nunca en el morbo, en la provocación fácil, la autora te provoca, pero lo hace dirigiéndose a tu corazón con el corazón de los personajes. Muy hermoso.
Hay algún error en la trama, pero creo que solo las freakies de los detalles se darán cuenta (como yo, qué cruz), pero no le quita ningún mérito al libro. No puedo dejar de insistir en que leáis la historia de Micky y Danny, es duro, pero la belleza gana con mucho. Y Danny, qué personaje más maravilloso.
Leedlo.
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So so so beautiful... Danny is one of the most beautiful characters that I´ve ever read. Well written, emotional, I´ve spent the whole book crying with sadness and happiness, a lot of feelings. Please, read it.
Nunca escribo en inglés en las reviews, es una forma de reivindicar mi idioma, pero esta vez me apetecía poner una o dos frases para que me entendiera más gente porque me resulta muy difícil comprender cómo con tanta mediocridad publicada una escritora como Suki Fleet no es más leída.
Llevaba meses con este libro en mi punto de mira, pero la historia de un chico sin hogar que vive como puede y con muchas cicatrices externas e internas y un rentboy me resultaba tan dura que parecía que nunca llegaba el momento. Gracias a la crítica de unos de mis contactos aquí (Mónica ;)) al final me animé, y que acertada decisión.
Después de leer una historia tan bonita y tan bellamente escrita siento mucho pudor a la hora de decir yo algo, nunca podría hacerle justicia. La autora nos envuelve en una atmósfera triste, dura, con personajes muy rotos, tanto los protagonistas como los que le rodean, pero de una forma muy emotiva consigue que veamos rayos de Sol y esperanza donde parece que no cabe ninguna. Y todo ello con muchísima elegancia, sin caer nunca en el morbo, en la provocación fácil, la autora te provoca, pero lo hace dirigiéndose a tu corazón con el corazón de los personajes. Muy hermoso.
Hay algún error en la trama, pero creo que solo las freakies de los detalles se darán cuenta (como yo, qué cruz), pero no le quita ningún mérito al libro. No puedo dejar de insistir en que leáis la historia de Micky y Danny, es duro, pero la belleza gana con mucho. Y Danny, qué personaje más maravilloso.
Leedlo.
November 25, 2016
After Elsa's insistence on read this book, i finally gave it a try and She's right, this book is really beautiful.
Suki Fleet writes in such a flawless sentimentality it leaves you both sad and hopeful. All the characters are well developed, and Danny is one of the most beautiful characters i've read so far. Here's an example of a respectful representation of a neuroatypical person. Also, Fleet deals with the whole homeless theme in a realistic way you don't usually find in books. Nothing is sugar coated nor is solved with magic, the romance is slow and sweet, and it takes time for the characters to reach their HEA, however in the process, the reader find himself worried how are they going to find happiness.
Worthy read :)
Suki Fleet writes in such a flawless sentimentality it leaves you both sad and hopeful. All the characters are well developed, and Danny is one of the most beautiful characters i've read so far. Here's an example of a respectful representation of a neuroatypical person. Also, Fleet deals with the whole homeless theme in a realistic way you don't usually find in books. Nothing is sugar coated nor is solved with magic, the romance is slow and sweet, and it takes time for the characters to reach their HEA, however in the process, the reader find himself worried how are they going to find happiness.
Worthy read :)
June 10, 2016
Maravilloso.
Suki escribe tan bien, y transmite tanto...
Y sus personajes inspiran tanta ternura... (todos, los secundarios también)
No alcanzo a expresarlo bien, además estoy aún resacosa y melancólica, sólo decir que este libro es una preciosidad y que adoro a Micky y a Danny y quiero que sean felices por siempre jamás.
Suki escribe tan bien, y transmite tanto...
Y sus personajes inspiran tanta ternura... (todos, los secundarios también)
No alcanzo a expresarlo bien, además estoy aún resacosa y melancólica, sólo decir que este libro es una preciosidad y que adoro a Micky y a Danny y quiero que sean felices por siempre jamás.
April 5, 2016
Amazing. Phenomenal writing. It's so good, I'm jealous.
Danny could be in twenty other novels, and I'd be happy to read each and every one.
Slow love is best love, IMO.
Full review to come.
Danny could be in twenty other novels, and I'd be happy to read each and every one.
Slow love is best love, IMO.
Full review to come.
August 5, 2016
Wow Wow Wow!!!
Danny, oh dear me...
I think Danny is the most beautiful, selfless, purest, kindest main character I ever had the
pleasure of reading about.
He is homeless, "faceless" and alone, but he is okay with that, with having nothing, as long as he can
help others, he is surviving in order to do just that. Help!
Then, when he meets Micky and god, did they where just the thing the other one needed.
I was so afraid to start Foxes because so many reviews said it highly angsty and sad.
I can't fault them of course, it is melancholic and harsh, but it is also so full of beauty and hope.
Last but defenetly not least- the writing!
Amazing writing. Touchingly beautiful and cleverly done.
My first by Suki Fleet but certainly not the last.
Read it people!!!
Danny, oh dear me...
I think Danny is the most beautiful, selfless, purest, kindest main character I ever had the
pleasure of reading about.
He is homeless, "faceless" and alone, but he is okay with that, with having nothing, as long as he can
help others, he is surviving in order to do just that. Help!
Then, when he meets Micky and god, did they where just the thing the other one needed.
I was so afraid to start Foxes because so many reviews said it highly angsty and sad.
I can't fault them of course, it is melancholic and harsh, but it is also so full of beauty and hope.
Last but defenetly not least- the writing!
Amazing writing. Touchingly beautiful and cleverly done.
My first by Suki Fleet but certainly not the last.
Read it people!!!
June 26, 2020
This book was simply beautiful. Stunning and haunting, it lingered on my mind way after I've finished reading it. Suki can smash my heart and I will welcome it with open arms .
I'll try to write a longer review later, but for now this is all I can say: I loved it!
I'll try to write a longer review later, but for now this is all I can say: I loved it!
February 1, 2017
I read this on holiday, because I'd heard that it was highly emotional, and cry inducing. So I thought dark UK mornings might be the wrong backdrop. I don't think that it would have made any difference where I read it to be honest.
What Suki Fleet does so well is take a really tragic situation, with damaged characters and make it hopeful, positive and in the way to healing, without losing the edge.
I think at times writing a really good balanced romance must be like walking a tightrope, especially if your books are on the grittier scale. If your characters are homeless, or have metal health issues or are sex workers, to give them a happy life, or the start of one, in the timescales that are 'usual' in romance can easily become way too easy, or the characters start to behave like different people. And if the ending is too realistic then the genre requirement of that ending would not be attained.
Suki Fleet walks the line, not always perfectly (but who wants perfection) but always bravely and always in keeping with the characters.
Second time around, better than the first, delicate and hopeful, reading Danny open up and start to feel again is one of the best reading experiences.
So, I cried, I smiled, I laughed, I was anxious, I cried again and I was hopeful, then I was happy. I don't know what else you can want from a romance.
What Suki Fleet does so well is take a really tragic situation, with damaged characters and make it hopeful, positive and in the way to healing, without losing the edge.
I think at times writing a really good balanced romance must be like walking a tightrope, especially if your books are on the grittier scale. If your characters are homeless, or have metal health issues or are sex workers, to give them a happy life, or the start of one, in the timescales that are 'usual' in romance can easily become way too easy, or the characters start to behave like different people. And if the ending is too realistic then the genre requirement of that ending would not be attained.
Suki Fleet walks the line, not always perfectly (but who wants perfection) but always bravely and always in keeping with the characters.
Second time around, better than the first, delicate and hopeful, reading Danny open up and start to feel again is one of the best reading experiences.
So, I cried, I smiled, I laughed, I was anxious, I cried again and I was hopeful, then I was happy. I don't know what else you can want from a romance.
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