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Talker #2
Talker's Redemption
Sequel to TalkerTalker Book 2Tate Walker's past is too painful to just disappear, even if his dream boy, Brian Cooper, is there to hold his hand. Brian does his best, but Talker—always good at avoiding his own pain—is having a hard time facing the truth about what happened when he trusted the wrong man at the wrong time. When that truth resurfaces and lands Brian in the hospital, Talker is forced to make a choice. He can either confront every demon in his fragile, bleeding heart, or he can let Brian take the heat for him, just like he has from the beginning. But even Talker knows you don't leave your dream boy alone and undefended when he just saved your life, and he’ll have to find the strength to take care of Brian when Brian needs him the most.
92 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2011
13 people are currently reading
609 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lane
203 books3,487 followersAmy Lane dodges an EDJ, mothers four children, and writes the occasional book. She, her brood, and her beloved mate, Mack, live in a crumbling mortgage in Citrus Heights, California, which is riddled with spiders, cats, and more than its share of fancy and weirdness. Feel free to visit her at www.greenshill.com orwww.writerslane.blogspot.com, where she will ride the buzz of receiving your e-mail until her head swells and she can no longer leave the house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
April 16, 2022
spoilers in the content warning:
well, i didn't enjoy this one as much as the first book in the series. it was a lot heavier in tone and content and also just... not as good? i like Amy Lane most of the time but this veered a little too close to misery porn for me. i don't mind angst or drama or w/e, but i also need a little bit of sweetness with the bitter at the same time. this book just reveled a little too much in the darker aspects of the first novella for my own personal taste and wasn't fun to read. i have hope the third book will be a better experience for me.
3 stars.
well, i didn't enjoy this one as much as the first book in the series. it was a lot heavier in tone and content and also just... not as good? i like Amy Lane most of the time but this veered a little too close to misery porn for me. i don't mind angst or drama or w/e, but i also need a little bit of sweetness with the bitter at the same time. this book just reveled a little too much in the darker aspects of the first novella for my own personal taste and wasn't fun to read. i have hope the third book will be a better experience for me.
3 stars.
February 4, 2011
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I'm trying to do a joke about something very serious....because if I don't do it I'll never stop crying.
The first book is all about Brian feelings and his point of view was amazing
Now the second is cruel... It's Tate, aka Talker time to tell his story, and it's all about that.... The courage to go on, when you are down and thinking is time to give up you must look around, and find something that will give you courage... To live and to love.
Perfect book. Seems impossible but it's better than the first. Can I give it more than 5 stars?
April 10, 2013
4.25*
Ok, I thought the first one was sad and a heartstrings-tugger ( is that a word?) anyway, I was wrong, that was nothing compared to this one.
Talker is finally (forced) to really work through the trauma and pain and despair from book 1 and then as if that wasn't enough, evil incarnate comes back again to wreak even more destruction on Talker and Brian.
Like the first book, it is told alternating between the here and now and the past.
*sniff* book three better be worth it, I want a huge payoff for all this.
Oh, and I speak from experience male rats do have HUGE balls, it's scary, but they really don't do well alone, Talker and Brian need to get Harry a buddy.
Ok, I thought the first one was sad and a heartstrings-tugger ( is that a word?) anyway, I was wrong, that was nothing compared to this one.
Talker is finally (forced) to really work through the trauma and pain and despair from book 1 and then as if that wasn't enough, evil incarnate comes back again to wreak even more destruction on Talker and Brian.
Like the first book, it is told alternating between the here and now and the past.
*sniff* book three better be worth it, I want a huge payoff for all this.
Oh, and I speak from experience male rats do have HUGE balls, it's scary, but they really don't do well alone, Talker and Brian need to get Harry a buddy.
September 18, 2017
Okaaaay, this just upped the ante.
*sniff*
I thought my heart was hurting before but I had no idea what was coming....
Talker's past collides with his fragile future.
Brian pays the price.
Talker must dig deep and find strength he doesn't know he has...but when it comes to Brian he will do ANYTHING.
Damn.
This was hard but worth it.
Book 3? Yes please!
*sniff*
I thought my heart was hurting before but I had no idea what was coming....
Talker's past collides with his fragile future.
Brian pays the price.
Talker must dig deep and find strength he doesn't know he has...but when it comes to Brian he will do ANYTHING.
Damn.
This was hard but worth it.
Book 3? Yes please!
January 19, 2011
4.5 stars
Talker was one of the strongest and the most beautiful stories from the pen of Amy Lane that I have read so far. The first book tells the story from Brian's point of view (using 3rd person writing) as he falls in love with Talker and desperately tries to save him ...
This second book, in alternate, tells the story from Talker's point-of-view, six months into their relationship. Brian is trying to help Talker to deal with his Worst. Date. Ever (Talker's way to talk about his date-rape with Trevor) by seeing a shrink. When Brian is hurt by Trevor and his goons, Talker finds himself struggling to deal with the fact that he was raped in order to save Brian's from possibility of criminal charge.
It is as powerful as the first one. Here, we hear the voice of Talker; not from Brian's perspective but directly from himself. We know what he is thinking. We know what he is feeling. He is an amazing human being, broken a couple of times, struggling with the aftermath of the rape (though he couldn't say it at first), and survives because he wants to love for Brian, the only person in the world he loves. When Talker must remembers the rape and finally admits it to other people, my heart breaks for him. Rape is rape, a situation where one person's control is completely taken, and it doesn't matter whether the victim is female or male, it's traumatic. So it's painful to read about ... and I cannot help to shed tears for Talker.
The switching writing style from past to present might annoy few readers -- but I have no problem at all with it. I'm completely pulled in ... the ending is so worthy.
PS: There's a lovely "mute" character in here that also steals my heart, eventhough we only know this character from how Talker talks about it. It's a pet rat :)
Talker was one of the strongest and the most beautiful stories from the pen of Amy Lane that I have read so far. The first book tells the story from Brian's point of view (using 3rd person writing) as he falls in love with Talker and desperately tries to save him ...
This second book, in alternate, tells the story from Talker's point-of-view, six months into their relationship. Brian is trying to help Talker to deal with his Worst. Date. Ever (Talker's way to talk about his date-rape with Trevor) by seeing a shrink. When Brian is hurt by Trevor and his goons, Talker finds himself struggling to deal with the fact that he was raped in order to save Brian's from possibility of criminal charge.
It is as powerful as the first one. Here, we hear the voice of Talker; not from Brian's perspective but directly from himself. We know what he is thinking. We know what he is feeling. He is an amazing human being, broken a couple of times, struggling with the aftermath of the rape (though he couldn't say it at first), and survives because he wants to love for Brian, the only person in the world he loves. When Talker must remembers the rape and finally admits it to other people, my heart breaks for him. Rape is rape, a situation where one person's control is completely taken, and it doesn't matter whether the victim is female or male, it's traumatic. So it's painful to read about ... and I cannot help to shed tears for Talker.
The switching writing style from past to present might annoy few readers -- but I have no problem at all with it. I'm completely pulled in ... the ending is so worthy.
PS: There's a lovely "mute" character in here that also steals my heart, eventhough we only know this character from how Talker talks about it. It's a pet rat :)
March 17, 2011
Wow. I really loved this book.
It was great seeing Talker's side of things from what happened in the first book, Talker. Actually, I take that back, it's not really Talker's side of things from the events that happened in Talker it's much more of the aftereffects of what Talker went through. The consequences of a decision Brian made in the previous book and how it comes and bites him in the ass leaving Talker to go through a boat load of emotional trauma because of it on top of the emotional trauma from months before. But while he goes through that, he figures out he's not alone in the world and he doesn't just have Brian in the world anymore. He has a bunch of people that love and care about him now and that knowledge helps him do something that ultimately saves Brian from trouble.
The writing style of this one compared to Talker is completely different and I think it's because the previous book is solely in Brian's POV while this one is in Talker's. Brian and Talker are two different people and I rather enjoyed seeing the thought processes Talker went through, how he copes with everything, the songs he always has playing in his head and the flashbacks were nowhere near as annoying as most flashbacks are.
Overall, this was a great story. I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read more of these two because they are two of my favorite characters. Definitely recommended.
Oh, and if you haven't read the first book yet, I would read both of them back to back because while I loved this book, I think I would have loved it even more if I had the first book fresh in my mind. Although, Ms. Lane does a good job of subtly restating what happened in Talker I still think I should have reread it just to remember the smaller details.
It was great seeing Talker's side of things from what happened in the first book, Talker. Actually, I take that back, it's not really Talker's side of things from the events that happened in Talker it's much more of the aftereffects of what Talker went through. The consequences of a decision Brian made in the previous book and how it comes and bites him in the ass leaving Talker to go through a boat load of emotional trauma because of it on top of the emotional trauma from months before. But while he goes through that, he figures out he's not alone in the world and he doesn't just have Brian in the world anymore. He has a bunch of people that love and care about him now and that knowledge helps him do something that ultimately saves Brian from trouble.
The writing style of this one compared to Talker is completely different and I think it's because the previous book is solely in Brian's POV while this one is in Talker's. Brian and Talker are two different people and I rather enjoyed seeing the thought processes Talker went through, how he copes with everything, the songs he always has playing in his head and the flashbacks were nowhere near as annoying as most flashbacks are.
Overall, this was a great story. I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read more of these two because they are two of my favorite characters. Definitely recommended.
Oh, and if you haven't read the first book yet, I would read both of them back to back because while I loved this book, I think I would have loved it even more if I had the first book fresh in my mind. Although, Ms. Lane does a good job of subtly restating what happened in Talker I still think I should have reread it just to remember the smaller details.
June 4, 2015
Good lord that was painful. Painful but needed and just ugh and ouch.
Damn you Amy Lane with all your deep emotions.
I have no real words for a review so I'll just leave this here because it sums up this book for me...
Damn you Amy Lane with all your deep emotions.
I have no real words for a review so I'll just leave this here because it sums up this book for me...
“You love Brian, Tate?”
"More than anything,”
“Even your pride? Even your pain? Are sure you really love him?”
“I’d die for him!”
“Good. I’m glad to hear it. Now would you tell the truth for him?”
January 28, 2011
4.5 stars
Talker’s Redemption is a stunning sequel to the wonderfully moving and emotional Talker. This sequel has all the charm and heart wrenching intensity of the first book and although can be read on its own, I wouldn’t recommend. Definitely read the first book from Brian’s point of view and then pick this up from Talker’s perspective. Lane delivers another engaging, well written, and absorbing story that you don’t want to end. Once again I wish this had been combined with the original Talker to deliver a full sized novel that I could really sink into but I do adore these men with their flaws and strengths anyway.
The sequel continues the same non-linear pattern as the original book. Here the flashbacks are a therapy session between Talker, Brian, and their doctor. In that session Talker is attempting to talk about the night he was raped, an event that Talker can’t even say and still feels enormous guilt about. This session is shown in italics and in the past mixes with present day events. One night after work Talker and Brian get into a fight with Talker’s rapist, Trevor, and Brian is badly hurt. The story switches between the therapy session and the current events as Talker must search for strength he doesn’t think he possesses.
While Brian was the real star of the first book, here the hidden depths of Talker are explored. The twitchy, easily freaked out, scared mentality of Talker comes through in the writing as his thoughts – and subsequently the story – jump around somewhat chaotically. Talker mixes the therapy session with the events going on and shows how they mirror his thoughts and emotions. Coming through a terrible ordeal like a rape, Talker has a lot of guilt and mixed emotion. He wonders if it was his fault, he thinks he didn’t do enough to stop it, and he clings to the strength Brian offers and feels guilty about needing it.
Talker is an easy character to like and sympathize with. He’s so broken, scared, and yet devoted to Brian that you can’t help but adore him. Yet it’s his strength and courage that shine through. When Talker is at his lowest, his weakest, he never gives up and never gives in. He fights to protect Brian with the same kind of fierce devotion that Brian shows him. Their protection may be different but no less meaningful and important. Watching Talker move beyond something to painful, so hurtful and something he almost completely broke from to emerge a stronger individual makes an intense and absorbing character driven story.
The writing is very clean with no obvious mistakes and straddles a difficult line of showing as much as possible even in memories. The prose is very good with a great talent in weaving flashbacks so they’re not annoying or overpowering. Each scene is important and has a purpose to the characters and story. Once again if I have a complaint it’s that several of these scenes are so intense and meaningful I’d love to have seen more. The romantic exchange between Talker and Brian when they have penetrative sex for the first time is lovely but the connection between the two, the humor, love, and affection is really wonderful. The pet rat they take care is a nice addition as is the reappearance of friends and family.
Again if there are any negative attributes it’s only that I’d have truly loved this duo of stories if they’d been combined into one story. However that’s a personal preference and these novellas stand incredibly well as they’re crafted. The characters are well developed, engrossing, and you never want the story to end. This couple is one I’ll happily revisit time and time again. Perhaps next time it’ll be a happy event even.
Talker’s Redemption is a stunning sequel to the wonderfully moving and emotional Talker. This sequel has all the charm and heart wrenching intensity of the first book and although can be read on its own, I wouldn’t recommend. Definitely read the first book from Brian’s point of view and then pick this up from Talker’s perspective. Lane delivers another engaging, well written, and absorbing story that you don’t want to end. Once again I wish this had been combined with the original Talker to deliver a full sized novel that I could really sink into but I do adore these men with their flaws and strengths anyway.
The sequel continues the same non-linear pattern as the original book. Here the flashbacks are a therapy session between Talker, Brian, and their doctor. In that session Talker is attempting to talk about the night he was raped, an event that Talker can’t even say and still feels enormous guilt about. This session is shown in italics and in the past mixes with present day events. One night after work Talker and Brian get into a fight with Talker’s rapist, Trevor, and Brian is badly hurt. The story switches between the therapy session and the current events as Talker must search for strength he doesn’t think he possesses.
While Brian was the real star of the first book, here the hidden depths of Talker are explored. The twitchy, easily freaked out, scared mentality of Talker comes through in the writing as his thoughts – and subsequently the story – jump around somewhat chaotically. Talker mixes the therapy session with the events going on and shows how they mirror his thoughts and emotions. Coming through a terrible ordeal like a rape, Talker has a lot of guilt and mixed emotion. He wonders if it was his fault, he thinks he didn’t do enough to stop it, and he clings to the strength Brian offers and feels guilty about needing it.
Talker is an easy character to like and sympathize with. He’s so broken, scared, and yet devoted to Brian that you can’t help but adore him. Yet it’s his strength and courage that shine through. When Talker is at his lowest, his weakest, he never gives up and never gives in. He fights to protect Brian with the same kind of fierce devotion that Brian shows him. Their protection may be different but no less meaningful and important. Watching Talker move beyond something to painful, so hurtful and something he almost completely broke from to emerge a stronger individual makes an intense and absorbing character driven story.
The writing is very clean with no obvious mistakes and straddles a difficult line of showing as much as possible even in memories. The prose is very good with a great talent in weaving flashbacks so they’re not annoying or overpowering. Each scene is important and has a purpose to the characters and story. Once again if I have a complaint it’s that several of these scenes are so intense and meaningful I’d love to have seen more. The romantic exchange between Talker and Brian when they have penetrative sex for the first time is lovely but the connection between the two, the humor, love, and affection is really wonderful. The pet rat they take care is a nice addition as is the reappearance of friends and family.
Again if there are any negative attributes it’s only that I’d have truly loved this duo of stories if they’d been combined into one story. However that’s a personal preference and these novellas stand incredibly well as they’re crafted. The characters are well developed, engrossing, and you never want the story to end. This couple is one I’ll happily revisit time and time again. Perhaps next time it’ll be a happy event even.
October 1, 2024
3.5 Stars
I don’t even know what to say right now. Parts of this book infuriated me. Not the storyline, not the actions of the MC’s; that was all fine. But the attitudes of some of the minor characters were just preposterous. I understand that there are assholes in this world, but I'll be damned if I want to deal with such ignorance in my books, at such an extreme level that borders on unrealistic.
Ok, breathe…
So, what I did like about this story was that it was narrated by Talker (the original was narrated by Brian). I loved this change in narrative. The reader is able to immerse themselves in Talker’s fragile psyche and get a front row seat to all his personal struggles. I felt like I got to burrow deep into some depressed, desperate, and ultimately resolute place within him. It was a sucky place to be, but I sympathised with his predicaments and his attempts to overcome all the shit that was weighing him down mentally.
Through some pretty intense plot events, we get to witness Talker coming to terms, at times quite unwillingly, with a debilitating trauma from his past (an event from book #1). But he pushes through the pain of his memories in an attempt to overcome, which was often extremely painful to observe as the reader. At one point Talker emotionally declares, “I don’t want to be a victim!” This just about broke my fucking heart.
Much of this story was emotionally powerful, and at times brutal, and it left me feeling ill at ease. I already mentioned my strong reactions of anger, and I’m trying my best to let that shit go in order to fully appreciate this story, but I just can’t seem to get past it.
Regardless of my annoyances, I still adore both Brian and Talker and have to see how this trilogy ends. Wish me luck…
I don’t even know what to say right now. Parts of this book infuriated me. Not the storyline, not the actions of the MC’s; that was all fine. But the attitudes of some of the minor characters were just preposterous. I understand that there are assholes in this world, but I'll be damned if I want to deal with such ignorance in my books, at such an extreme level that borders on unrealistic.
Ok, breathe…
So, what I did like about this story was that it was narrated by Talker (the original was narrated by Brian). I loved this change in narrative. The reader is able to immerse themselves in Talker’s fragile psyche and get a front row seat to all his personal struggles. I felt like I got to burrow deep into some depressed, desperate, and ultimately resolute place within him. It was a sucky place to be, but I sympathised with his predicaments and his attempts to overcome all the shit that was weighing him down mentally.
Through some pretty intense plot events, we get to witness Talker coming to terms, at times quite unwillingly, with a debilitating trauma from his past (an event from book #1). But he pushes through the pain of his memories in an attempt to overcome, which was often extremely painful to observe as the reader. At one point Talker emotionally declares, “I don’t want to be a victim!” This just about broke my fucking heart.
Much of this story was emotionally powerful, and at times brutal, and it left me feeling ill at ease. I already mentioned my strong reactions of anger, and I’m trying my best to let that shit go in order to fully appreciate this story, but I just can’t seem to get past it.
Regardless of my annoyances, I still adore both Brian and Talker and have to see how this trilogy ends. Wish me luck…
January 2, 2016
This time we get Tate’s POV and Talker's Redemption picks up a few months after the events in Talker. Talker, along with Brian, has been seeing a therapist but it’s been a rough go. Talker still refuses to really talk about the “Worst Date Ever” and though he’s gotten better at being with Brian it is obviously still affecting their lives. Trigger Warning:
This story damn near broke my freaking heart.
After Brian is assaulted, Talker must overcome his fears to be there this time to protect Brian.
Although I enjoyed the audio overall, there were a couple issues, mainly with my biggest complaint being David Kaplan's use of one voice. He doesn't do character voices, which, when it was dialogue-heavy could be hard to follow especially listening while working.
Book two is intense but ultimately hopeful when Talker finally emotionally pronounces, “I don’t want to be a victim!” and goes about proving that he won't be. The relationship between Talker and Brian deepens and this time it's Talker who takes a stand to make sure they make it through okay.
Recommended.
Review Copy generously provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
December 20, 2015
Talker's Redemption picks up a few months after Talker leaves off. Talker has been seeing a shrink to help him get through his issues, and Brian has been steadfast, always there with him. Talker's fighting the process, though. He's terrified to face it. Like he really does think his being raped was his fault and he's afraid that the shrink and Brian will come to see it that way, too. That's how damaged this boy is. It's heart breaking.
In this book, Talker is forced to face his demon's. They don't go quietly into the night for Talker to deal with when he's ready. No, they come screaming at him and bring friends.
Though Talker has finally brought some things into light, I know that he still has a ways to go. Brian is Talker's friend, lover and protector through all of it and he pays a heavy price, but he'd still go through it all again, if only to keep Talker safe.
I'm really loving this series. On to book 3!
In this book, Talker is forced to face his demon's. They don't go quietly into the night for Talker to deal with when he's ready. No, they come screaming at him and bring friends.
Though Talker has finally brought some things into light, I know that he still has a ways to go. Brian is Talker's friend, lover and protector through all of it and he pays a heavy price, but he'd still go through it all again, if only to keep Talker safe.
I'm really loving this series. On to book 3!
February 26, 2011
I really recommend this to everyone. It's a powerful story about coping with your pains and healing your wounds. In short, it shows the side of life we'd rather not think about and yet, it happens. It doesn't matter just how tough or weak the blows get, they knock us down and it's up to us to pick up those pieces and be stronger for it. Still, sometimes, there are those willing to stand by us, through every tear and breakdown, and even when there is no sunshine cutting through the clouds, those people will be our strength and our reason for moving on.
Now, why I rated it with 4 stars instead of 5? The first book in this series was 5 stars. It completely blew me away and I couldn't come out of it how good it was. This one, though amazing, just didn't strike the same spark the first one did. The memories got to me more and I couldn't get through them fast enough. But other than that, this story is more about one man instead of being about a couple. I missed the couple.
Now, why I rated it with 4 stars instead of 5? The first book in this series was 5 stars. It completely blew me away and I couldn't come out of it how good it was. This one, though amazing, just didn't strike the same spark the first one did. The memories got to me more and I couldn't get through them fast enough. But other than that, this story is more about one man instead of being about a couple. I missed the couple.
March 8, 2012
Another heartbreaking story.
This time we learn what really happened to Tate on his Worse Date Ever. And how Brian proves again just what an amazing guy he really is.
This time we learn what really happened to Tate on his Worse Date Ever. And how Brian proves again just what an amazing guy he really is.
December 8, 2024
It took a while for me to just go with the stories and stop trying to follow the novel's structure. We have two main scenarios :Talker, Brian and a therapist talking about a rape in detail that's absolutely not the modern approach to trauma. The second story is Talker and aunt Lindsey talking to two cops about a violent assault. The drama kept me listening. The narrator was better than in book 1, becoming tolerable. His detachment fitted the subject matter.
July 26, 2024
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 4
Story – 5
OMG, this story just about broke my heart.
After listening to the first book in this series I could hardly wait to start this one and it didn't disappoint. This was definitely difficult to listen to in places (and I mean the story, not just the narrator). Brian loves Talker so much that he risked everything for him. Now I'm on to listen to book 3 even though the narrator isn't too great. I was fortunate to get the books in a good sale from Audible.
The narrator was still just OK for me, not bad but not great. The audiobook was produced in 2011 and they have changed a lot since then. Now good narrators actually perform books so listening to one is more like experiencing a play with only your ears.
Note: Content warning for previous off page rape of one of the MC's and his resulting trauma on page.
Overall – 5
Performance – 4
Story – 5
OMG, this story just about broke my heart.
After listening to the first book in this series I could hardly wait to start this one and it didn't disappoint. This was definitely difficult to listen to in places (and I mean the story, not just the narrator). Brian loves Talker so much that he risked everything for him. Now I'm on to listen to book 3 even though the narrator isn't too great. I was fortunate to get the books in a good sale from Audible.
The narrator was still just OK for me, not bad but not great. The audiobook was produced in 2011 and they have changed a lot since then. Now good narrators actually perform books so listening to one is more like experiencing a play with only your ears.
Note: Content warning for previous off page rape of one of the MC's and his resulting trauma on page.
April 17, 2011
This is the sequel to Talker and it tells about Tate and Brian's love story after they got together. This time it's Tate's turn to tell their story. At the end of the previous book Brian decided that Tate needed counseling and we see Tate trying to cope with his past, especially the Worst.Date.Ever. The writing is clipped and fast as I imagine Tate's talking is and it's disconnected, taking unexpected turns, following Tate's mind and his recollections and denials.
Tate's memories are something that he wants to hide and bury, but he has to relive them and call them what they are, he has to give facts their proper names in order to really own his life and make it better, not only for him, but for his lover too.
It was very interesting to be in Tate's head, to learn everything about the hows and whys of his outer appearance and to see how Brian's love changed him and gave him courage. Talker never ceases from being too fragile, too naked in his emotions, but we see how he rebuilds himself, how love makes him stronger, even if not fearless.
I'd really recommend to read this book and its prequel one after another. I hope there will be something else about them in the future, just to see if they're all right. I care.
Tate's memories are something that he wants to hide and bury, but he has to relive them and call them what they are, he has to give facts their proper names in order to really own his life and make it better, not only for him, but for his lover too.
It was very interesting to be in Tate's head, to learn everything about the hows and whys of his outer appearance and to see how Brian's love changed him and gave him courage. Talker never ceases from being too fragile, too naked in his emotions, but we see how he rebuilds himself, how love makes him stronger, even if not fearless.
I'd really recommend to read this book and its prequel one after another. I hope there will be something else about them in the future, just to see if they're all right. I care.
May 17, 2013
This book broke my heart! [Recap book one:
This book however, is told from Talker's perspective and tore my heart out. For me it was not quite clear how traumatic the experience was for him and what really happened in Talker's head. This novel is the exploration of the mind of a rape victim and is told with so much sincerity and vulnerability that while it was hard for me to read, I couldn't help but marvel at the strength the MCs drew from each other and their friends to deal with the heart wrenching events and leave them behind. The way this story was told, with flashbacks playing heavily and often into the story to show how the trauma of the past collides with the present and show the unfocused thoughts of Talker further create the feeling of seeing into Talker's mind as he tries to heal.
It is a short story, but rarely have I been able to have such an intimate look at a character. What Amy Lane managed to do with this story is truly astonishing!
This book however, is told from Talker's perspective and tore my heart out. For me it was not quite clear how traumatic the experience was for him and what really happened in Talker's head. This novel is the exploration of the mind of a rape victim and is told with so much sincerity and vulnerability that while it was hard for me to read, I couldn't help but marvel at the strength the MCs drew from each other and their friends to deal with the heart wrenching events and leave them behind. The way this story was told, with flashbacks playing heavily and often into the story to show how the trauma of the past collides with the present and show the unfocused thoughts of Talker further create the feeling of seeing into Talker's mind as he tries to heal.
It is a short story, but rarely have I been able to have such an intimate look at a character. What Amy Lane managed to do with this story is truly astonishing!
February 6, 2015
Actual rating: 4.5/5
This series is so great. Tate and Brian have such a deep relationship and have been through so much. They continue to make me cry, and I am so glad that they have each other while they go through all this.
I had trouble following all the flashbacks in the first installment, so I am glad that in this one the flashbacks are all written in italics. It made it a lot easier to follow. And while the first book was entirely in Brian's POV, this one was entirely in Tate's POV, so we got insight into both. Perhaps the last installment will be alternating, to make things even.
I think it may have been better if this series had been combined as a single book. I don't like interruptions, or stories that don't flow smoothly. But this series is still amazing so far and I cant wait to read the last installment and to see Tate and Brian's HEA.
This series is so great. Tate and Brian have such a deep relationship and have been through so much. They continue to make me cry, and I am so glad that they have each other while they go through all this.
I had trouble following all the flashbacks in the first installment, so I am glad that in this one the flashbacks are all written in italics. It made it a lot easier to follow. And while the first book was entirely in Brian's POV, this one was entirely in Tate's POV, so we got insight into both. Perhaps the last installment will be alternating, to make things even.
I think it may have been better if this series had been combined as a single book. I don't like interruptions, or stories that don't flow smoothly. But this series is still amazing so far and I cant wait to read the last installment and to see Tate and Brian's HEA.
December 9, 2014
2.5 STARS
I was disappointed with book two after loving book one. I know it's so disjointed to reflect the chaos swirling through Talker's and Brian's lives that have been violently upended and I can appreciate that but it was just too stilted for me. I don't usually mind books jumping around in a non linear fashion but this was just too much. It was a real let down after book one
I was disappointed with book two after loving book one. I know it's so disjointed to reflect the chaos swirling through Talker's and Brian's lives that have been violently upended and I can appreciate that but it was just too stilted for me. I don't usually mind books jumping around in a non linear fashion but this was just too much. It was a real let down after book one
September 12, 2011
Emotionally difficult book, and definitely made me cry, but it was a testament to the wounded souls out there who find the strength and courage to make it one more day. Both Brian and Talker, just love them.
January 29, 2011
I think I liked this story more than Talker. I can't say I enjoyed it more, because at times it was heart-wrenching to read. But...it was beautiful, and sad and...full of hope. I think that's what I love about Amy Lane's books more than anything else, the sense of hope that pervades them.
October 1, 2020
The author is killing me with this series. The boys' lives are changing. They are learning how to function in their new norm. There is self doubt, revenge, fear, and a little bit of everything. However, sometimes you have to go through the valley to get to the next peak. On to book three.
February 6, 2012
1/24/2011-
I just love these two guys. This second book is written from the POV of Talker. It's a little heartbreaking but mostly it's full of heart. It seems to start about 6 months after the first book. And although things have moved forward you find that Brian and Tate may be a little stuck in that way people get stuck because they don't quite realize they are. There are flashbacks, like in the first book and it took a couple before I quite got my bearings, but once I did it was all good. At one point, things are moving fast, the flaskbacks are getting shorter and we are moving in 3 times and it's brilliantly done. In anycase, I don't want to give anything away, just read the book.
I will say these few things though. First, the song Jeremy is absolutely stuck in my head now. I had to download it from itunes (I was pretty surprised I didn't already own it, but maybe my Pearl Jam days were on cassette and not cd. Second, Kudos to Amy Lane for sneaking a Joss Wheadon reference into both books. I may need to watch a little something from the Whesdonverse. And lastly, I think it's funny that Brian thinks he's simple. Sure he's 2+2 compared to Tate who is like the square root of pi, but he's by no means simple. Even though it doesn't really come up in this book, I reread Talker before I started this one and even though what seems to drive him is pretty simple- "Love and take care of Tate", what's going on inside is so much more.
I hope we can revisit these two again. Not that they need another story, but, I want to check in on them and make sure they are still ok, you know. I just need to check in on them further down their road.
2/5/2012
Ok, I reread this book before reading the last installment. And then I reread my review and it stands. That's the sign of a good book, when the book stands the test of time. I didn't bawl my eyes out this time however because I knew what was coming.
I just love these two guys. This second book is written from the POV of Talker. It's a little heartbreaking but mostly it's full of heart. It seems to start about 6 months after the first book. And although things have moved forward you find that Brian and Tate may be a little stuck in that way people get stuck because they don't quite realize they are. There are flashbacks, like in the first book and it took a couple before I quite got my bearings, but once I did it was all good. At one point, things are moving fast, the flaskbacks are getting shorter and we are moving in 3 times and it's brilliantly done. In anycase, I don't want to give anything away, just read the book.
I will say these few things though. First, the song Jeremy is absolutely stuck in my head now. I had to download it from itunes (I was pretty surprised I didn't already own it, but maybe my Pearl Jam days were on cassette and not cd. Second, Kudos to Amy Lane for sneaking a Joss Wheadon reference into both books. I may need to watch a little something from the Whesdonverse. And lastly, I think it's funny that Brian thinks he's simple. Sure he's 2+2 compared to Tate who is like the square root of pi, but he's by no means simple. Even though it doesn't really come up in this book, I reread Talker before I started this one and even though what seems to drive him is pretty simple- "Love and take care of Tate", what's going on inside is so much more.
I hope we can revisit these two again. Not that they need another story, but, I want to check in on them and make sure they are still ok, you know. I just need to check in on them further down their road.
2/5/2012
Ok, I reread this book before reading the last installment. And then I reread my review and it stands. That's the sign of a good book, when the book stands the test of time. I didn't bawl my eyes out this time however because I knew what was coming.
April 22, 2011
Talker's Redemption begins some six months after Tate realizes Brian is gay. The two of them are undergoing some serious therapy sessions with paunchy Doc Sutherland, a colorful psychiatrist with a penchant for knitting cardigans. Brian is Tate's Prince Charming, his knight in shining armor. What happens when events carry the knight the field? Is Tate going to step up to the plate?
Amy Lane handles the second book about this sweet couple with much skill. Lane tells much of the Talker's Redemption in flashbacks and from Tate's disjointed perspective. You hop from past points in Tate's life forward to past points in Tate's friendship with Brian. At some points, I found myself confused by what was happening, particularly the introduction of Jeremy. The story requires your full attention. I'm giving this 4 stars because it is obviously a transitional novel with several plot points left unresolved. Still, I loved the story.
More reviews from Barb Manning are available at www.barbmanning.net
Amy Lane handles the second book about this sweet couple with much skill. Lane tells much of the Talker's Redemption in flashbacks and from Tate's disjointed perspective. You hop from past points in Tate's life forward to past points in Tate's friendship with Brian. At some points, I found myself confused by what was happening, particularly the introduction of Jeremy. The story requires your full attention. I'm giving this 4 stars because it is obviously a transitional novel with several plot points left unresolved. Still, I loved the story.
More reviews from Barb Manning are available at www.barbmanning.net
March 16, 2023
This book is not for the faint of heart, in fact there are parts of this book that might hit trigger level for some readers. The prior book let us know what happened during The. Worst. Date. Ever., but did not go into the details. During this part of the story Talker has to face, and talk about, what happened. I loved that Brian quickly realized that Talker needed help way beyond the love and support that he could offer and looked for professional help. Luckily for the two poor students, the school offered free mental health services.
When Brian ends up in the hospital, Talker realizes that he does have a group of people who will support him and he has to make some tough choices to protect Brian. I was really rooting for these two young men. They have both had such tough lives you just want things to get easier and happier for them!
When Brian ends up in the hospital, Talker realizes that he does have a group of people who will support him and he has to make some tough choices to protect Brian. I was really rooting for these two young men. They have both had such tough lives you just want things to get easier and happier for them!
August 19, 2011
Wow. Heart-wrenching and emotional, the story of Tate and Brian continues from "Talker." Both young men were damaged in their own way, feeling alone until they found each other. In this sequel, they realize that the two of them aren't as alone as they first thought. It's particularly poignant that they, as a new couple starting out, struggle to make ends meet, and pay their bills, and anyone who's had to make hard budgeting decisions can identify with them.
This book may not be an easy read for some, it deals with rape and brutality, but Ms. Lane handles the intense topics with a deft hand. Tate's twitches, his internal music, make the character so real, as does Brian's steadfastness. And Lyndie is the aunt we'd all like to have.
Bravo, Ms. Lane, on another spectacular book.
This book may not be an easy read for some, it deals with rape and brutality, but Ms. Lane handles the intense topics with a deft hand. Tate's twitches, his internal music, make the character so real, as does Brian's steadfastness. And Lyndie is the aunt we'd all like to have.
Bravo, Ms. Lane, on another spectacular book.
March 5, 2011
OK, this is dissembling, bec Amy Lane did not write this book. It says Jim Brown. His style is close to Amy's, but he just doesn't have her airy feel for the charactars. He makes his m points more ham-handed, and the dialogue is clumsy and doesn't have the rhythm of real speech. I also can't see a male therapist being comfortable with these guys. Amy stretches believability anyway, but this is just so awkward, it's like seeing the man behind the puppet stage. Just doesn't have her grace. It's close, but I know the real thing when I read it, guys. Probably not going to finish this, so i will mark it as read.
April 24, 2011
This was a great continuation of Talker and should really be read right after reading Talker. (This book definitely should NOT be read without having read Talker first.) I let a couple of months go in between reading the first book and this book, so it took a while for me to remember the storyline and to get back into the way this book is written (jumping back and forth from the past to the present).
Talker's Redemption is heartbreaking, learning all that Tate and Brian have gone through and are going through. But, it has a satisfying HEA and I really think that Tate and Brian make such a great couple with a very deep love that will get them through anything.
Talker's Redemption is heartbreaking, learning all that Tate and Brian have gone through and are going through. But, it has a satisfying HEA and I really think that Tate and Brian make such a great couple with a very deep love that will get them through anything.
February 3, 2012
I enjoyed this book better than the first book simply because Talker and Brian's relationship is growing by leaps and bounds. I loved Brian in the first book and love him even more now. Talker is still traumatized by the events in the first book, and this book is written from his point of view. That was an interesting change and I can't say that I enjoyed it more or less, but it was good to get inside Talker's head.
Brian's loyalty and protectiveness come into play in a big way in this book, and now it's Talker's turn to protect Brian. These two boy-men are very poignant together. The love between them is quite touching and dramatic.
Brian's loyalty and protectiveness come into play in a big way in this book, and now it's Talker's turn to protect Brian. These two boy-men are very poignant together. The love between them is quite touching and dramatic.
May 21, 2013
I can't work out if I like the covers for being a really accurate portrayal of how the characters are described or I hate them because they're super awkward looking.
From Talker's point of view and though annoyingly short I enjoyed it more than the first one.
It's odd though, it feels like almost the bare bones of a story. Amy Lane hasn't fleshed it out. I have trouble connecting to the characters and their situation.
I almost want to steal the character of Talker and write him in his own full length novel (don't worry Amy, if you ever read this, I promise I won't) it just feels like he's been really short changed in these novellas.
From Talker's point of view and though annoyingly short I enjoyed it more than the first one.
It's odd though, it feels like almost the bare bones of a story. Amy Lane hasn't fleshed it out. I have trouble connecting to the characters and their situation.
I almost want to steal the character of Talker and write him in his own full length novel (don't worry Amy, if you ever read this, I promise I won't) it just feels like he's been really short changed in these novellas.
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