Soldier (Scarcity Sanctuary, #1)

Aug 12, 2011 Serena Yates rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: m-m

This is such a brilliant story. It’s a book that really stands out for me, and even though I read it (for the first time) a very long time ago, the characters were still with me when I picked it up a few days ago to re-read it.

Much longer and richer than you’d think a short novel of 158 pages can ‘feel’, it revolves around the story of a man who is utterly lost when he first returns home after fighting in a war. Referring to himself only as ‘Soldier’, he starts out as an observer unable to join...more This is such a brilliant story. It’s a book that really stands out for me, and even though I read it (for the first time) a very long time ago, the characters were still with me when I picked it up a few days ago to re-read it.

Much longer and richer than you’d think a short novel of 158 pages can ‘feel’, it revolves around the story of a man who is utterly lost when he first returns home after fighting in a war. Referring to himself only as ‘Soldier’, he starts out as an observer unable to join in. He is tired, hurt and doesn’t even know how to return to ‘normal’ society. The journey he takes to heal himself by helping others is nothing short of amazing. The description of his thoughts made him utterly real to me.

Dillon is struggling to give a safe place to a group of young boys who have nobody else to care for them. While Dillon connects to the world in a very direct way, he has given up hope to find happiness for himself. He is a great nurturer who is willing to sacrifice his own happiness for others. His surprise and delight when he begins to realize that maybe he can be happy after all is wonderful to watch. The threats that promptly pop up and try to take it all away again held me on the edge of my seat.

Soldier and Dillon are both scarred in different ways. Yet both are driven to help not only each other but the homeless boys as well. The development of Soldier's and Dillon's relationship and the outside threats they encounter held me spellbound. All of the characters were so real that I cried and laughed with them as if they were my friends. And yet, this is also a book that reads like a fairy tale. With all of the problems inherent in these men’s situation it could have easily turned into total disaster. The fact that it didn’t may prompt some people to say that it is unrealistic. Unfortunately, thanks to the cruel world we live in, that is most likely true. All the better that we have places our imagination can take us (with the help of a great author like AKM) where disaster doesn’t strike and where ‘the bad guys’ don’t win. I, for one, enjoy reading stories like this just as much as those that are ‘real. Who is to say which is the ‘better’ reality?
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Jun 05, 2009 FloJ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: gay-fiction

This is the book to read if you are feeling very mushy, but not if you want hot sex!
I didn't like the cover. It is a bit creepy and doesn't represent the story. It is a novel about damaged men and boys helping one another and healing themselves in the process.
'Soldier' is not his real name but how he likes to be known. I am not sure why he feels his own name is worthless as he has received an honourable discharge from the army after being badly burned by an bomb exploding while he was trying to...more

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Jun 16, 2009 JenMcJ rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: e-books, mm-mmm-a-few-mmf-too

Soldier is a disenfranchised loner, scarred on the outside after a firefight and scarred on the inside from the outcome of that event.

Dillon is a young man, scarred on the outside from a youthful gay bashing but compassionate despite his ordeal.

Dillon is working on the very fringes of the social services system in a dilapadated old house taking care of 7 young boys that need security and safety more than the shuffle of the foster system.

Soldier and Dillon find each other when Soldier's wanderi...more

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Aug 18, 2012 MandyM rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m-romance

Wealthy, balding benefactor - check
Adorable orphans breaking into song - check
Scruffy stray dog - check

The story of 'Soldier' meeting Dillon and his band of cute kids is a big nod to the musical Annie. I can't believe I didn't read it for so long because of the scary ugly guy on the original cover. It's a big hearts and flowers fest, not to be taken seriously. I even skimmed through the sex scenes cause it felt a bit dirty reading them with all the kids around. lol. If you feel like being thumpe...more

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Nov 28, 2011 Lauraadriana rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: love-conquers-all, cried-like-a-baby, kids, loved-it, m-m, recommended, super-cute, super-super-hot

Well this was just completely HEARTWARMING. There is really no other way to describe this book. Please please please DO NOT judge this book by its cover! I BEG YOU.

Soldier is a man who has been so scarred by war, both mentally and physically, that all he can do is hide. From people, from his name from everything. One day he notices that in one of the properties he owns there is young man living with a group of boys. He seems to care for them, even though he is obviously struggling to keep them f...more Well this was just completely HEARTWARMING. There is really no other way to describe this book. Please please please DO NOT judge this book by its cover! I BEG YOU.

Soldier is a man who has been so scarred by war, both mentally and physically, that all he can do is hide. From people, from his name from everything. One day he notices that in one of the properties he owns there is young man living with a group of boys. He seems to care for them, even though he is obviously struggling to keep them fed and provided for. He's so curious how this man got all these boys, and he just starts coming by to see what they are up to. Until one night one of the little boys spots him and he finally gets to meet the young man and the boys who will bring him back to life.

Dillon, has never had much of anything, not much love, or money. But his heart is big. He has started taking care of boys that like him have been hurt too badly and then discarded. He will do anything for those boys, but he has no money and is barely keeping it together it's just so hard doing it all on his own. One night he sees this big man looking into the house, this giant looks menacing, but he goes and speaks to him anyways. That's how he meets Soldier, the man who comes into his life like a tidal wave.

The stories in this book are heartbreaking. It's horrifying to think that there are children in this world being broken by the people that should love them and nurture them. But it was also so sweet to read about their resilience, and how amazing the human spirit can be that it can still be open to love after being broken so badly.

The kids were AMAZING! Gom just pretty much hijacked my heart and ran off with it from the first. Just so adorable. What more can I say? I just really enjoyed this book. Was it perfect? Nope, it wasn't. Was the writing sappy at times? Yes it was. Were Soldier and Dillon super insta-lovey? That would be a big YES. Still, I couldn't help but love these kids, and these men with their kind hearts. Because in the end this book was about finding family, love, and a safe place.

As a side note.....Ummm Soldier and Dillon were kind of crazy hot together. Sure a bit chatty while smexing, but pretty damn sexy nonetheless.

I recommend.

And YES! The cover still gives me the heebie jeevies.(less)

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Nov 28, 2011 Lauraadriana rated it 4 of 5 stars

This cover makes me want to cry...

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Feb 22, 2013 Absynthe rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: cops-emts-soldiers, m-m, did-not-finish

So far, huge problem with this book. The insta-trust/insta-love thing is bothering me beyond belief. For all the characters! Oh yeah, there's a huge, scary strange man lurking in the backyard. Let's hand him a traumatized 8 year old boy and totally trust him without knowing a thing about him! The insta-trust/insta-love thing happened essentially ON SIGHT with Soldier. This defies my ability to suspend disbelief and just go with it.

Nope... can't keep reading this. I just can't get into it and let...more

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Dec 03, 2012 Letti rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This story broke my heart, Tommy’s and Gom’s tale was so despicable it made me nauseous, the horrors that these innocent children had to endure, at such a young and tender age is appalling... When I think of a child, I automatically think of laughter and light, dimples and dirt and through their eyes I see a better happier safer world. What makes me so fucking made is that Child abuse happens almost every 5-10 seconds 3.3 million cases are reported a year and 5 beautiful children die, erased fr...more

This story broke my heart, Tommy’s and Gom’s tale was so despicable it made me nauseous, the horrors that these innocent children had to endure, at such a young and tender age is appalling... When I think of a child, I automatically think of laughter and light, dimples and dirt and through their eyes I see a better happier safer world. What makes me so fucking made is that Child abuse happens almost every 5-10 seconds 3.3 million cases are reported a year and 5 beautiful children die, erased from the world their voiced and laughter are forever muted by those who should be fighting to protect them. What a sick world we live in.

Dillion was one of these children and his destiny was to make a safe and loving home for the next generation, he is working with a homeless shelter and Daniel (director of the shelter) sends Dillion special children who were abused or hard to place. They are partial funded and Dillion tries to make ends meet and it’s hard for one man to make a difference in 7 young boys’ lives, I have 5 and our grocery bill is close to $1,300 a month. This part of the novel didn’t seem quite believable, yes it may have been mushy and weird etc. but it was beautiful in its own right.

Keith Marsh A.K.A soldier comes from family money, he joined the military to fight the war on terrorism, and he is a hero and saved many lives. He was injured and recovered; he is also scarred physically and emotionally. Then he meets Dillion and Gom and with every passing minute he is with them they inspire him and give him a purpose and a reason to live and shake his gloomy thought.

Together they build a sanctuary for these boys and make a home, with Soldiers financial backing, Yeah that man is loaded, but he’s not out buying name brand clothes and wasting his money on frivolous things.. He’s using it to give these little guys a brighter safer future, his heart is made of gold, when you think of angels you think halo and wings but I think Dillion and Soldier
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Apr 27, 2009 Erotic Horizon rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Soldier has been on the outskirts of society for so long he has almost forgotten what the feel of human kindness and touch is like. Battle scarred and bone weary he decides to investigate his properties; he finds one of them in use and a whole lot of mystery surrounding the occupant of the house. When he delves into who has been getting up to what on his property, he finds himself caught up in the lives of seven expectant faces and one man whom he wants to be with more than anything else.
Dillon...more Soldier has been on the outskirts of society for so long he has almost forgotten what the feel of human kindness and touch is like. Battle scarred and bone weary he decides to investigate his properties; he finds one of them in use and a whole lot of mystery surrounding the occupant of the house. When he delves into who has been getting up to what on his property, he finds himself caught up in the lives of seven expectant faces and one man whom he wants to be with more than anything else.
Dillon is living a secretive live with his little band of boys; he keeps his head low, causes no problem and above all else ensures his charges are kept under the radar. When he appears to have a watcher, he tosses it off as a fluke, however when watcher turns savior - he follows his gut and faces the challenge head on. He and his boys get more than a surprise as their mystery person is a watcher and a savior and he is just what these eight people needs.

AKM Miles strikes again, this is my third book by this author and I have yet to be disappointed by any. SOLDIER is the latest addition in this author’s growing repertoire of books.

Soldier is at a phase of his life where he had given up; he just gets on with his day and makes the best of what life has thrown at him. Surprise for him comes in a package that is wrapped up in Dillon and a houseful of boys. For the first time in a long time, he get a satisfaction out of life and he is touching distance from having it all and - he aims to have it all.

Dillon is not only beautiful outside but just as beautiful on the inside and it shows in everything he touches and his every action. Doing his utmost to protect the charges he is responsible for leaves him little time to think of himself, so when he is able to have his cake and eat it too, he ponders if he is brave enough to take the steps necessary to make them all happy.

There is tremendous heartbreak, clinging desperation and huge doses of reality that will have you breaking out in shivers; however there is so much hope, so much giving, so much more loving than any of these people had ever known or expected to find in their life, that makes SOLDIER a richer read.

I love this book and I have done a re-read – already. AKM Miles is not only becoming one of my favorite authors, but with a story line that drags you into the pits of despair and comes full circle, to give her characters a life that is truer and fuller, just from the fact they met at the right time in their life.

My hat’s off to the author, AKM Miles has a way with words that will have you looking forward to the next AKM Miles production.(less)

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Jun 08, 2009 Eyre rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: erotica-romantica, i-would-marry-the-guy, i-cried-buckets, romance, gay-glbt-mm-mmf

Dillon survived a traumatic childhood and is now doing his best to help other abused/forgotten children. Unfortunately, he has to do this with insufficient help and the constant fear that his seven boys will be taken away. Putting food on the table is difficult, but Dillon is willing to make sacrifices to protect these children whom no one wants.

Soldier has been through a harrowing ordeal. The veteran was severely injured in Iraq, and his pain and scars have turned him into a loner. He is fascin...more

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Jul 13, 2011 Eva rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: bullying-abuse-etc, mm-kids-family

4.5 stars
Having read Gom's book first I have to say I liked it a more than this one.
While Soldier is ultimately Soldier and Dillon's story, I felt like more info on the boys would have been welcome.
From the moment Soldier shows up there's an instant bond between him and Gom, and later on Tommy as well. Also, he and Dillon feel drawn to each other from the start and not soon after they are in love and have decided to do all they can for the boys in Dillon's care.
Soldier and Dillon worked well a...more 4.5 stars
Having read Gom's book first I have to say I liked it a more than this one.
While Soldier is ultimately Soldier and Dillon's story, I felt like more info on the boys would have been welcome.
From the moment Soldier shows up there's an instant bond between him and Gom, and later on Tommy as well. Also, he and Dillon feel drawn to each other from the start and not soon after they are in love and have decided to do all they can for the boys in Dillon's care.
Soldier and Dillon worked well as a couple and I didn't mind the short amount of time it took for them to fall in love with each other. What did bother me a bit was that some problems seem to have conveniently sorted them selves out. For example the cop who was awful to Soldier at first had a complete change of heart after the fire and all we got was his statement that he figured he'd been rude towards them long enough. But there was no reason or an explanation for why he's changed his bigoted ways. Also, the original plan was for Dillon and Soldier to live separately, but after the fire they decide they can't live like that, tell the boys they are in love, and Daniel says he'll look into the situation of a gay couple acting as foster parents. (Soldier says he'll have his lawyers look into it as well.) I didn't notice any mention of how the situation was resolved, if there were any problems or anything of the kind. We just have them living together with the boys like the issue never existed and we weren't give an answer as to what the law says on the matter.
Another issues for me was that we never really learn anything about the rest of the boys aside from their names. And even though heaping on more sad stories about abused children would have maybe been too much I feel that more of the story should have been focused on the boys. As it stands we were given some touching scenes between Soldier and Gom and Soldier and Tommy, but I felt that the interaction with the rest of the kids was pretty much neglected. Even if Soldier didn't have the same connection with the other kids they still should have had a bigger part in the book. After all, the fact Dillon was caring for the boys was what compelled Soldier to stick around in the first place and made it possible for them to meet.(less)

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Jan 15, 2012 MsMiz (Tina) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: glbt-all, pdf

3.5 - Aside from the bad cover, this was a great book on love, trust, loss, and really just finding your place in the world no matter the adversity. This was a feel good book that will bring tears to your eyes - I can even give you page numbers where if this was a paperback, those pages would be soaked. I could have read on and on about this rag tag group of 9 boys and men. So heartwarming......

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Oct 10, 2011 Julie (Mom2lnb) rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Fans of Male/Male Romance w/a Sweet Story

Shelves: contemporary-romance, desert-island-keepers, read-2011, male-male-romance

Reviewed for THC Reviews
"4.5 stars" Soldier was my first foray into the male/male sub-genre of romance, and I have to say it was a pretty good book with which to begin. This was a very sweet story about two men who are terribly wounded in both body and mind but find love and acceptance in each others arms. They in turn are able to pass that love and acceptance along to the seven abused little boys who are in their care and even a poor scruffy dog and a little puppy too. The interactions between...more Reviewed for THC Reviews
"4.5 stars" Soldier was my first foray into the male/male sub-genre of romance, and I have to say it was a pretty good book with which to begin. This was a very sweet story about two men who are terribly wounded in both body and mind but find love and acceptance in each others arms. They in turn are able to pass that love and acceptance along to the seven abused little boys who are in their care and even a poor scruffy dog and a little puppy too. The interactions between the pair and their seven charges were utterly heartwarming, especially as a couple of the more severely abused boys slowly come out of their shells and begin to blossom under their care. It's readily apparent how much they all love each other, and they truly are one big, happy family. They couldn't be a closer, more caring bunch if they were related by blood.

Dillon is a sweet, wonderful guy who really stepped up to the plate to help these poor kids who no one wanted and who have completely gotten lost in the traditional social services system. Life is tough for them. The borrowed house they live in is falling down around their ears, and Dillon has to scrape on a daily basis just to provide food and the necessities of life for everyone in his care. As hard as he has to work though, I know Dillon wouldn't change a thing. He loves the boys just as much as if they were his own flesh and blood. After he was attacked as a teenager by his homophobic peers and left with facial scars, Dillon was resigned to probably spending the rest of his life alone until luck shone on him, bringing the man of his dreams right to his doorstep to help share his burden.

Soldier, as his nickname suggests, was in the military and fought in the war (presumably Iraq). His heroic actions saved several of his comrades lives, but he was severely wounded when a bomb exploded near him. He is now recovered from his injuries, but was left with extensive scarring on his face and body. Soldier has become something of a reclusive loner, a wanderer without much direction or purpose in life, until he finds a gorgeous guy with a bunch of kids living in one of his houses. Suddenly, Soldier knows what he wants to do with the rest of his life and the wealth that his dad left him. It's like he was just looking for a worthy cause, and Dillon and his boys were certainly that. I really admire Soldier for wanting to put his money to good use. I've often thought that if I had extra money that's exactly what I would be doing, searching for a philanthropic cause. Soldier had a lot more to offer than money though. As a military man and a big, strong guy at that, he was used to protecting and hadn't been able to do that since being injured. Now with Dillon and the kids, he has several someones to look out for. On the outside Soldier may have been a big, scary-looking dude, but underneath it all, he was just Gom's (and Dillon's ;-)) big, snuggly teddy bear.

Soldier and Dillon's first meeting, coupled with Gom coming out to ask a bazillion question and then fall asleep in Soldier's lap had just the right mix of awkwardness, emotion, sexual tension and sweetness. After that, things did kind of go from 0 to 60 really quickly in more ways than one. Normally, I wouldn't go for the love at first sight angle, nor the idea of an abused kid trusting a stranger so easily, but I think that they all just sensed something special in each other, a kindred spirit who could understand and relate to all their past hurts and share their fears of what the future might hold. In spite of knowing that, I did wish that there had been a little more development in Soldier and Dillon's relationship and a bit more exploration of their backgrounds. The reader is given just enough information on both men to get a feel for where they've been and what their lives were like before meeting, but not much else. I was a little surprised that Dillon didn't share his traumatic past with Soldier at any point in the story. However, I can respect that the author seemed to want to keep the focus on the present and how these two men interact with the boys and are trying to build a family unit together.

All the boys are a great bunch of kids, but two, Gom and Tommy, are stand-out characters who get quite a bit more face-time than the others. Little Gom (short for Montgomery) is just too cute for words and a real scene-stealer. He's been through a lot having been physically and emotionally abused by his drug-addict mother, but is still such a sweet, sensitive and thoughtful little boy. He doesn't sleep much until Soldier comes along and makes him feel safe and protected. Tommy is a little older and wise beyond his years. He too has been the victim of horrible sexual abuse and child prostitution. He's a quiet, gentle kid, but with Soldier there to back him up, he's able to face down his abusers. Even though these boys are just fictional characters they really got to me (probably because I know there are kids in the world just like them), so it really warmed my heart to know that they were being loved and cared for by two great dads like Soldier and Dillon.

Even though I loved the story, I did think that the writing itself could have been stronger. As is, it was a little too passive (too many “be” verbs), rather simplistic, and in need of more details. However, in spite of the mechanics of the writing being somewhat weak, I can't deny that Ms. Miles managed to create a story filled with heart and soul that really tugged at my heartstrings which is why I decided to give it keeper status. I haven't read a romance that embodied this much tenderness and emotion in a while. Soldier is the first book in the Scarcity Sanctuary series. Tommy and Gom grow up to get their own books next in the series, Tommy's Story and For Gom's Sake, and after falling in love with these little guys in this book, I can't wait to see what kind of young men they grow up to become. Soldier was definitely a pleasant introduction to male/male romance, and I'm really looking forward to not only continuing with this series, but seeing what else this genre has to offer.

Note: This book contains scenes of explicit sensuality between two men which may offend some readers.(less)

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Jan 21, 2011 Elizabeth H. rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Wonderful idea for this story that ultimately wasn't executed in such a way that it managed to satisfy me. I had a few problems with it:
1. A lot of telling and not showing, especially in the beginning.
2. Lots of repetition. A character might think: "I need to buy socks." And then he'd say to the other main character: "I need to buy socks." And then they'd go to buy socks! That's a simplistic example, but it sort of went like that. Plus the problem of how the house fit into the Social Services sy...more Wonderful idea for this story that ultimately wasn't executed in such a way that it managed to satisfy me. I had a few problems with it:
1. A lot of telling and not showing, especially in the beginning.
2. Lots of repetition. A character might think: "I need to buy socks." And then he'd say to the other main character: "I need to buy socks." And then they'd go to buy socks! That's a simplistic example, but it sort of went like that. Plus the problem of how the house fit into the Social Services system was hammered at often.
3. The most interesting part of the story, for me, was Soldier's transformation from the shadowy figure lurking in the yard to the benefactor he became. But this was a change that was glossed over, never truly explained, and happened almost from one scene to the next. I would have welcomed a novel three times the length of Soldier, and one-quarter of it should have been devoted to this character change. My opinion, only, of course, but I do feel that the author really left a golden opportunity on the floor.
4. Too, too perfect, too easy, too rich. Since Soldier has unlimited resources, the plotline took on the aura of a fairy tale (no double entendre intended!) because no *material* problem was possible. Yes, the problems the children had endured and still faced were heart-stoppingly sad (and this the author handled well, giving the reader enough detail without going overboard), but it did seem that Soldier was able to solve...everything else! And he even went a long way to solving their emotional difficulties too.
5. I have lived in Texas, and let me tell you, two gay men with a houseful of male foster kids? Would. Not. Work. *Especially* in a small town such as where Soldier is set. Very sad, but also very true. That state has a lot of growing up to do.

I'm disappointed because I really do think this is a terrific story idea. So much so that, even though this book did not work for me, I'm going to take a look to see if there are other books in this series. Hope springs eternal! (less)

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Feb 09, 2012 Jane (PS) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Oct 10, 2012 David rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This, as all of the Scarcity Sanctuary books, is such a touching story. I didn't start with this one, but once you read one, you will have to read them all.

I don't know if it is possible to not fall in love with these characters. They are so real, you come away feeling like there is a part of them that you'll always have with you. I read quite a bit, and rarely find something worth holding on to and reading again, but all of these books will definitely be read again and again.

Okay, the nitty gri...more

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Nov 10, 2010 R.J. rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I couldn't leave this book alone, it was behind my design programmes, it was behind Excel, and actually I got about 2% work done today!

This is a story that tugs on so many heartstrings. The main guys, Soldier, an army man, injured and scarred, and Dillon, a man for whom purpose in life is to give a good home to seven boys who would have suffered in the *system*.

Gom. Jeez. Gom has me by the ovaries, and Tommy...I want to adopt them both. The characterisation of the guys and the kids was spot on a...more

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Mar 29, 2011 Heather♥ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This was a very heart-warming story. What Dillon and Soldier were doing for those kids was simply beautiful. I especially had a soft spot for Gom and Tommy. As much pain and misery as their entire household had suffered in the past, I loved how they could lean on each other for strength and support. The name Scarcity Sanctuary was very fitting for a place where boys with scars on the inside and out could come to heal. And even though Soldier came off as a type of Daddy Warbucks with all his mone...more

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Dec 27, 2010 Lexi Ander rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: mm-series, mm-contemp, favorites, novella-plus

I melted, I cried and I laugh and then I melted again and I cried and I laughed. This is a story about a young man, Dillon, who runs a house for abused boys just slightly under the radar of social service because the system couldn't help or had failed these children. They are staying in a poor, dilapidated house that is falling down around them. The boys do not come out of the house and Dillon only leaves long enough to go beg food because the money he gets from the shelter only pays the utiliti...more

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Nov 26, 2011 ♥Laddie♥ rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: mm, mm-loved-it, hero-abused-in-past, mm-military-hero, mm-older-man-younger-man, mm-with-kiddies, wealthy-hero

It Warms My Little Heart

I have read every novel that AKM Miles has written and this one is by far my favorite. I fell in love with these characters and I've read this story a million times.

Soldier was injured while deployed and was honorably discharged from the military. He's very badly scarred and has isolated himself.

Dillon is a man who was gay bashed and is also very badly scarred. He takes care of seven boys, foster children, in a dilapadated house. These are boys who haven't done well in re...more

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Jun 14, 2012 Elisa Ramblings added it · review of another edition

Soldier and Dillon have both physical and emotional scars, but instead of hiding in fear, they both decided to help other scarred people on their own way. Dillon is taking care of 7 foster kids, and Soldier decides to help them; Dillon was given the use of one of Soldier’s properties, and when Soldier arrives to the house to check on it, it finds Dillon and the kids needs a lot more than only a roof above their heads. Soldier is a wealthy man, even if he has never used any of the money he inheri...more

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Dec 21, 2009 Tam rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: m-m

Dillon is a former foster kid who is now sheltering 7 emotionally, physically and sexually abused kids in an informal shelter as the kids don’t work in the foster system. He’s not licensed though so they keep it quiet. One night he meets Soldier who is hanging around watching them. One of the really damaged kids takes to Soldier like crazy and even though Soldier hates being around people he is absolutely hooked by what Dillon is doing for the kids and wants to help. Seems Soldier is filthy rich...more

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Dec 21, 2009 Kassa rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Soldier is unabashedly a fantasy romance written with heavily feminine undertones that epitomizes an overly romantic, unrealistic view of two men in a gay relationship. In order to read this story you must first suspend an incredible amount of disbelief to immerse yourself within the fantasy and escapist story that bares no resemblance to reality or believable conflict. Unfortunately even once willing to go along with the author’s created world, inherent problems with the writing, plot, and char...more Soldier is unabashedly a fantasy romance written with heavily feminine undertones that epitomizes an overly romantic, unrealistic view of two men in a gay relationship. In order to read this story you must first suspend an incredible amount of disbelief to immerse yourself within the fantasy and escapist story that bares no resemblance to reality or believable conflict. Unfortunately even once willing to go along with the author’s created world, inherent problems with the writing, plot, and characters create an overly simplistic, heavily romanticized view that offers little in the way of interesting characters and no conflict. Combined with incredibly poor writing, the lack of any discernable plot, characterization problems and lack of continuity, this book is a failure on all levels. I highly recommend you skip this book entirely and move on to something worth your time.

This story is fraught with problems from the onset, starting with poor and inconsistent characterization. Beginning with Soldier, who is introduced as a thirty-three year old military veteran, injured by a bomb during his tour of duty and thus leaving him emotionally, mentally, and physically scarred. His reaction is to retreat from the world for years. During this time Soldier goes to check on property he owns and happens to see a handful of boys and one older twenty-something living together in one of the run-down houses on the property. Soldier, being socially awkward and unable to communicate with other people, decides to stand in the woods and watch over the house with creepy stalker actions for days. Finally he’s seen and approached by the leader of the boys, Dillon.

At this point Soldier goes from almost silent introvert to an open, vulnerable, and communicative man. Soldier spends the remainder of the story talking at every conceivable point, often acting like a psychologist to the hurt and abused boys living within the run-down house. He spouts platitudes and comforts these boys, managing to reverse years of abuse and conditioning by repetitive statements such as “you’re a good boy, your parents were wrong”. While the sentiment is certainly true, the complete reversal of long standing emotional problems with simplistic statements is typical of the resolution to any pseudo-conflict that arises. As is Soldier’s heavy-handed manipulation of the situation with his sudden new found calling in life. Soldier, who remember was stalking this seemingly abandoned house without sleep, is actually a filthy rich man who wields power and money easily and without thought, all for the good of the boys and their home. There is a brief comment about Soldier’s past family as being rich but this is glossed over and not fully explored nor is his insistence on being called Soldier versus his real name, Keith Marsh, ever explained.

Soldier’s mammoth like size and Daddy Warbucks bank account from nowhere are just a few of the contradictory but overly simplistic resolutions used to clear up any pesky problems. Then there is the character of Dillon. He is introduced as twenty-five and running a kind of shelter that is subsidized by a not-so-legal arm of the Social Services. This outrageous trope will be discussed later but sticking to the character of Dillon, he’s been raped, beaten and somehow scarred during an altercation when he was younger and thus is determined to help other abused and frightened children. Admirable for sure, yet due to no income, no job, and no home Dillon must house these runaways in a dilapidated, abandoned home with virtually no clothes, no furniture, and food that has to be begged from shelters. Although the boys are never to leave the house for fear of discovery, at least he’s giving them a safe environment, I guess.

Furthermore, even Dillon has his own ugly and abused past but he immediately warms to Soldier and trusts him within hours of their introduction, even to the point of no protection sex. Supposedly the sexual sparks are flying amongst the lengthy and droll conversations about, well nothing. Dillon and Soldier talk all the time, making up the majority of the story, yet they mostly talk about the implausible shelter Dillon has created, the boys housed within, their stories and lengthy abuse recounting. There are almost no conversations about either man’s past, their hopes for the future beyond taking care of the boys, no shared experiences – instead both men cry repeatedly over the emotional scars of the boys and talk about how to spend Soldier’s money to fix up the house and actually make it a home versus a falling apart collection of walls. Both men talk at length about their feelings for each other, which stem mostly from a shared desire to better the lives of these young men, and have fallen in love within a matter of days, forming a connection that is visible for all to see. Although somehow I missed that connection as the men came across as wooden and insipid, including the exaggerated use of nicknames “honey, sweetie, baby, sweetheart“ for each other and the boys.

While the relationship between Soldier and Dillon is problematic, awkward and weird, the entire plot (such as it is) is even more so. The story revolves around – again – Dillon and his pseudo shelter for the boys and how Soldier rides to its rescue. The concept is that Dillon is allowed to house these boys due to sympathetic social workers who don’t mind that he keeps them basically locked within a house with few clothes, no education, scraps of food while they sleep on the floor. Not only that but Dillon and Soldier become foster parents with a legitimate shelter while being an openly gay couple because he clearly has enough money and power to smooth the way over any potential problems. Not to worry, there are no problems that appear for these two men though. Every person they come across is accepting, understanding and helpful as Soldier rebuilds their home and the emotional stability of the boys.

The few potential characters that could offer conflict, such as Officer Jensen, turn from cynical and distrusting to helpful and accommodating within hours. Good thing no one has ever encountered an actual homophobe within backwater Texas. Except of course the numerous boys living within the house. The characters of these boys are perhaps the brief shinning light amongst the story but unfortunately the author manages to trash even them. Gom and Tommy are the only boys given any real depth and even these characters are inconsistent and changeable. Gom is alternately described as a five year old or a ten year old, and his actions swing from frightened, abused child to an almost yoda-like wisdom. His emerges from years of abuse to still be a communicative and rather emotionally stable boy who immediately believes a stranger that tells him he’s a good boy. Tommy is not much better explained but somewhat more consistent as an abused twelve year old going on an emotional thirty.

Soldier muses “do wonders never cease?” for these characters the answer is easily no. There are no conflicts, there are no lingering emotional problems, no potential legal problems, no money worries – this is the ultimate fantasy with a few abuse back stories thrown in to tug at the heart strings of readers. The dull and simplistic writing does nothing to help the situation either. There is no vitality within the characters and the setting, no energy infused into dialogue, and even the numerous dramatic emotional scenes read vapid and empty with clear attempts to manipulate the reader into emotion but fell flat with poor writing. The prose was amateurish and clunky which made reading this story very difficult and agonizing. Quick, disjointed sentences with repetitive phrases and emotions dragged a story that could have been cut to the length of a short story.

The author truly says it best when quoting the relationship of Dillon and Soldier - “pure, sweet happiness flowed from one to the other. It was sappy and mushy and so sweet it made their teeth ache.” The attempt at an overly dramatic, overly emotional and sweetly sappy romance was hindered on so many levels but mostly due to the poor execution from beginning to end. Even willing to suspend disbelief and sense of reality to delve into the author’s fantasy, there were so many jarring, awkward and obvious plot devices that this story turned into a real chore to read. If I didn’t have to finish this for review, it would have been on my DNF shelf. I appreciate a sweet romance with a HEA as much as the next reader, but I would still like it well written with fully developed characters with depth and complexity for the emotions handled, and an energy to the prose that makes me excited and wanting to read it. Sorry this didn’t even come close to achieving any of that.
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Jun 05, 2009 Daisiemae rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-read-in-2009, books-reviewed-in-2009, books-to-i-will-never-part-with, contemporary-romance, e-book, male-male-romance-erotica

AKM Miles knows how to pull the heartstrings in her stories. She is awesome at making you care about her characters, and her storylines are often sweet, and so addictive to read. Soldier was no exception.

I really should be ashamed of myself. I’ve had Soldier for some time. For some reason I kept putting it off every time I thought about reading it. I know this is going to sound crazy, but I think the cover is one of those reasons. The cover turned me off. BUT, I knew that I have really enjoyed t...more AKM Miles knows how to pull the heartstrings in her stories. She is awesome at making you care about her characters, and her storylines are often sweet, and so addictive to read. Soldier was no exception.

I really should be ashamed of myself. I’ve had Soldier for some time. For some reason I kept putting it off every time I thought about reading it. I know this is going to sound crazy, but I think the cover is one of those reasons. The cover turned me off. BUT, I knew that I have really enjoyed the other books AKM has written, so I knew eventually I would get to it. I am glad I did! So don’t make the same mistake I did, just ignore the cover and go for it!

Dillon is a twenty five year old man who has made his mission to take care of unwanted and abused children. He is barely able to be a foster parent and does what he can to protect them and keep them safe. Because of their special situation, he lives in an abandoned home surviving under the radar in hopes that the children won’t ever be taken away from him.

Dillon has had a hard life himself. His too pretty to be real looks has gotten him viciously attacked when he was fourteen, leaving the right side of his face horribly scarred. He has learned to survive hardships and in turn is doing his best to ensure the boys under his care are safe and secure.

When Dillon and one of the boys he is watching named Gom (short for Montgomery) notice a dark shadow lingering in the distance they both know instinctively that they are being watched by a man. Young Gom insists that the man is dressed in camouflaged apparel and both Gom and Dillon instinctively believe this man will not harm them.

After the mysterious man saves Dillon the next day from being attacked, while he is making the rounds for food, Dillon decides to befriend the huge man. That night Dillon seeks the big man out, only to confirm that the man who calls himself Soldier is truly a gentle soul who is a loner himself.

Soldier is a very complex character. He has done things while in the military that other’s wouldn’t, yet the compassion, strength and love that Soldier easily gives Dillon, and the boys he watches over, is amazing. Soldier is accepted within their small family because of his beautiful soul and very big heart. Plus, the battle scars and horrible burns Soldier has on the left side of his face make him a man that these abused boys can relate too and possible even identify with.

I loved this book. The intensity of love and friendship between Dillon and Soldier was apparent throughout the book. Although they love one another, the love and respect they have for the boys they watch over was amazing too. I loved all of the boy’s right along with them. All of the secondary characters play a major role in making this book one of my favorite reads. There is much more story than sex, because Soldier and Dillon must be careful with being gay, and being able to keep the boys, but you won’t miss it. The couple of times they were able to sneak away make their sexual encounters romantic and very sweet. I loved it and I hope everyone will consider reading it. I really hated to see it come to an end. I would love to see how the boys all turn out.

If I could rate it higher than 5 stars I would.
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Sep 24, 2010 Jayded rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: m-m-read

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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May 10, 2011 Beth rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: erotic, m-m, romance

One of the most satisfying books I've read this year. I wanted to cheer as two physically and emotionally scarred men made a connection not only with each other but also with the kids that need them. An emotionally satisfying story with just enough humor sprinkled throughout the story to keep it from being sappy. I definitely will be purchasing the rest of this series, and I can see myself rereading it when I'm in the mood for a heartwarming story.

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Jul 04, 2012 Jaymie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Jaymie by: SueM

Shelves: m-m

Soldier is a sweet and sometimes emotional read. It's the kind of book that is good for when you are having a bad day and you just want to sit on your couch in your pj's and veg out. I think some people may find it too sweet, too perfect at times, so if you're looking for angst you probably won't find it here. If you are just looking for a feel good book, a "comfort read" this story is perfect for you.

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Jan 26, 2013 Georgia rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: le-gay

I love stories with kids and more than that, I love stories where the characters have to buy stuff to set up a home. This story got both of these things.
I'd love to read at least 50 more pages of build up between the main characters before they got together, as well as more character development for the kids.

All and all, I liked this and can't wait to read more of this series.

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Aug 19, 2009 Kati rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: dropped-book, 2009, ebooks, in-english, gay, romance

I had to drop this book. I know that most of my flist was totally excited about it, in love with it, giving it four stars, even five, but for me, this book just didn't... click, I guess. The characters were cute, that's true. But the setting... It was so unrealistic that I just couldn't get over it. I mean, I just can't see anybody letting Dill take care of seven boys in a run-down house when he has to literally beg for food in restaurants, he has no income, the boys don't go to school, they don...more

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Apr 03, 2012 Kristy Maitz rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 5-star-books

That plot make you think. Main couple Dillon and Soldier (real name is Keith but does not use it) are very good together even if from my point of view that coming together could be much slower but that was not the main part of the story. Main part are the kids and how they accept Soldier in there live. Really good story.

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