What do you think?
Rate this book
Where You Are
Robert Westfall's life is falling apart--everywhere but in math class. That's the one place where problems always have a solution. But in the world beyond high school, his father is terminally ill, his mother is squabbling with his interfering aunts, his boyfriend is unsupportive, and the career path that's been planned for him feels less appealing by the day.
Robert's math teacher, Andrew McNelin, watches his best student floundering, concerned but wary of crossing the line between professional and personal. Gradually, Andrew becomes Robert's friend, then his confidante. As the year progresses, their relationship--in school and out of it--deepens and changes. And as hard as he tries to resist, Andrew knows that he and Robert are edging into territory that holds incalculable risks for both of them.
J.H. Trumble, author of the acclaimed "Don't Let Me Go," explores a controversial subject with extraordinary sensitivity and grace, creating a deeply human and honest story of love, longing, and unexpected connection.
Robert's math teacher, Andrew McNelin, watches his best student floundering, concerned but wary of crossing the line between professional and personal. Gradually, Andrew becomes Robert's friend, then his confidante. As the year progresses, their relationship--in school and out of it--deepens and changes. And as hard as he tries to resist, Andrew knows that he and Robert are edging into territory that holds incalculable risks for both of them.
J.H. Trumble, author of the acclaimed "Don't Let Me Go," explores a controversial subject with extraordinary sensitivity and grace, creating a deeply human and honest story of love, longing, and unexpected connection.
336 pages, ebook
First published December 24, 2012
105 people are currently reading
3882 people want to read
About the author
J.H. Trumble
4 books488 followersJ.H. Trumble is a Texas native and graduate of Sam Houston State University. You can visit the author online at http://www.jhtrumble.com and on Facebook and Twitter.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 407 reviews
March 9, 2014
"Robert..." He presses his forehead to the door.
"Just let me go."
"I can't."
I don't think my mere words, or weak attempts...can give this book the justice it deserves. It amazed me, kept me intrigued and had me in love with the characters, before they themselves shared their feelings.
A story on forbidden love, between a teacher and his student. An unavoidable and unforgettable connection...that leads to secrets, stolen moments and a love that strains under the hardships it endures.
A marvelous and extremely well written book...that captures the reader and doesn't let them go. To me, Where You Are is simply...extraordinary.
Mates, I couldn't recommend a better heartwarming and wonderful read xx
"Are you scared now?"
"Yeah. But I'm here. And I'm not going anywhere.
Okay?"
October 25, 2019
Audio....4 Stars
Story.....3.5 Stars
Dear Author,
I was ok with Robert and Andrew's story being slow paced and hellah angsty because of the whole forbidden relationship thing. I'm even grudgingly willing to forgive the FTB sex scenes because I felt the connection and chemistry between them. What I can't get passed is the quick "happy for now" ending. 😤
Please consider continuing Robert and Andrew's story.
Story.....3.5 Stars
Dear Author,
I was ok with Robert and Andrew's story being slow paced and hellah angsty because of the whole forbidden relationship thing. I'm even grudgingly willing to forgive the FTB sex scenes because I felt the connection and chemistry between them. What I can't get passed is the quick "happy for now" ending. 😤
Please consider continuing Robert and Andrew's story.
September 3, 2018
I love books with forbidden theme, especially maybe with a student/teacher romance.
It is my guilty pleasure, what can I say?
And this was a m/m book. And by J H Trumble!
Dubble -yum!!! Her debut novel "Don`t Let Me Go"was simply perfection. I absolutely loved the honesty and the realistic writing style. I completely fell in love with Nate and Adam Are you reading her books? Why the hell not? She is one of the best new authors out there. So obviously I was super excited for "Where You Are". And this didn't disappoint one bit. It kinda blew me away to be completely honest and has now taken a permanent place on my all time favorites-shelf.
Andrew McNelis is a 24 year old math teacher. He is 100% gay but is divorced with a 2 year old daughter. Robert Westfall is his 17 year old student. He is described as "good looking, quiet, confident and popular," (he even has a fan club on facebook.) He has a boyfriend, which honestly is a real moron, and he spends his freetime tutoring kids with special needs. But he´s living a nightmare. His father is dying of brain cancer and his life is falling apart everywhere but in class. Andrew sees how his best student is struggeling and out of concern, he offers to be there for him if he needs to talk. With time, they form a beautiful friendship.
But that is all it is. Andrew is determined not to cross the bond between the student and his teacher. But the attraction is there, and it is strong. Somewhere along the way, Andrew realizes that he has fallen for his student, fallen hard and he is terrified. But it is only 4 months to graduation, and surely they can wait that long before they act on their feelings, right? Wrong, turns out that some things are just to strong to ignore...and a catastrophe is just waiting to happen...
Don´t be weirded out by the fact that this is a student/teacher novel. Andrew and Robert`s relationship is described so beautifully and realistic that it really isn´t an issue, if you are not into the whole student/teacher thing. Their emotions for eachother are real, it is not just sex. There is some steam in this, yes, but nothing is overly described. There is plenty of sexual tension, so I was satisfied. I wouldn´t call this a strict YA novel.
Non the less, it is one of the best books i have read, both in the YA category and overall. J A Trumbe is my new favorite author. And did I tell you how well written this is? AmazingI loved everything about this book. And I mean everything. I haven´t felt this strongly about a book in a very long time. It really was fantastic.. I want to convince everybody to read this author`s books.
I can read this over and over again, I think this is the fifth time. I really loved Robert and Andrew as a couple! The writing is amazing and the author is really talanted. I can`t wait for her new novel Just Between Us which dealls with a very serious topic, HiV.
It is my guilty pleasure, what can I say?
And this was a m/m book. And by J H Trumble!
Dubble -yum!!! Her debut novel "Don`t Let Me Go"was simply perfection. I absolutely loved the honesty and the realistic writing style. I completely fell in love with Nate and Adam Are you reading her books? Why the hell not? She is one of the best new authors out there. So obviously I was super excited for "Where You Are". And this didn't disappoint one bit. It kinda blew me away to be completely honest and has now taken a permanent place on my all time favorites-shelf.
Andrew McNelis is a 24 year old math teacher. He is 100% gay but is divorced with a 2 year old daughter. Robert Westfall is his 17 year old student. He is described as "good looking, quiet, confident and popular," (he even has a fan club on facebook.) He has a boyfriend, which honestly is a real moron, and he spends his freetime tutoring kids with special needs. But he´s living a nightmare. His father is dying of brain cancer and his life is falling apart everywhere but in class. Andrew sees how his best student is struggeling and out of concern, he offers to be there for him if he needs to talk. With time, they form a beautiful friendship.
But that is all it is. Andrew is determined not to cross the bond between the student and his teacher. But the attraction is there, and it is strong. Somewhere along the way, Andrew realizes that he has fallen for his student, fallen hard and he is terrified. But it is only 4 months to graduation, and surely they can wait that long before they act on their feelings, right? Wrong, turns out that some things are just to strong to ignore...and a catastrophe is just waiting to happen...
Don´t be weirded out by the fact that this is a student/teacher novel. Andrew and Robert`s relationship is described so beautifully and realistic that it really isn´t an issue, if you are not into the whole student/teacher thing. Their emotions for eachother are real, it is not just sex. There is some steam in this, yes, but nothing is overly described. There is plenty of sexual tension, so I was satisfied. I wouldn´t call this a strict YA novel.
Non the less, it is one of the best books i have read, both in the YA category and overall. J A Trumbe is my new favorite author. And did I tell you how well written this is? AmazingI loved everything about this book. And I mean everything. I haven´t felt this strongly about a book in a very long time. It really was fantastic.. I want to convince everybody to read this author`s books.
I can read this over and over again, I think this is the fifth time. I really loved Robert and Andrew as a couple! The writing is amazing and the author is really talanted. I can`t wait for her new novel Just Between Us which dealls with a very serious topic, HiV.
September 4, 2013
And this one goes straight onto my "Yeah but no but yeah conflicted" shelf.
It's a 3.5, but rounded up because I can't stop thinking about it.
The writing is really good. Really good.
The story is also really good.
But, and here's where it gets into that morally grey area: it's a book about a student and a teacher, and, whichever way you look at it, that's a violation of trust, and an abuse of power. Which is why it surprised the hell out of me that I really liked the teacher, Andrew. I really felt for him. It's not like he was grooming Robert or anything, so is he still a predator? Well, yeah. Because the law is there for a reason. And that reason is to protect the students who, even if they are over the age of consent, are still vulnerable in the teacher/student dynamic.
It's a measure of my liking for Andrew that I kept saying to my Kindle, "No, don't! Don't text him! Don't invite him into your house! Don't love him! Just keep it in your pants until he's graduated!" But then where would the story be, right?
And Robert may not be your average high school senior either. His father is dying, his mother is constantly being berated by her husband's relatives, and Robert just wants his dad to hurry up and die so that he can get his life back. It sounds cold the way I've put it there, but it's not, I promise. And wow, those parts of the book...just fantastic. Robert and his mother are fatigued; looking after Robert's father is full time, it's not pretty, and they are copping nothing but a guilt trip from the rest of the family for not constantly weeping at his bedside. If you've ever had to watch someone die slowly and horribly...well, this book nailed that for me.
And still... Robert is a student, and Andrew is a teacher. And they might be exactly what they each need, but, until Robert graduates, it's wrong. Andrew knows it's wrong. Robert knows it's wrong. And every time that Andrew reminds Robert to delete his texts, that's an acknowledgement of guilt. Andrew might not groom Robert, but the moment they start something, he makes sure their tracks are covered.
Well, almost...because again, where would the story be, right?
Also, if J.H. Trumble isn't a teacher, she certainly knows a few. The part where Robert asks Andrew if teachers really gossip about students had me in stitches. Um...yeah. When teachers start to gossip, open a bottle of wine and let it happen. It'll be hilarious.
I really liked this book. It was very well written. It also made me extremely uncomfortable.
Because Andrew knows he's crossed the line. And, the moment you find yourself hoping he doesn't get caught, then you've crossed that line with him.
Yeah but no but yeah conflicted.
It's a 3.5, but rounded up because I can't stop thinking about it.
The writing is really good. Really good.
The story is also really good.
But, and here's where it gets into that morally grey area: it's a book about a student and a teacher, and, whichever way you look at it, that's a violation of trust, and an abuse of power. Which is why it surprised the hell out of me that I really liked the teacher, Andrew. I really felt for him. It's not like he was grooming Robert or anything, so is he still a predator? Well, yeah. Because the law is there for a reason. And that reason is to protect the students who, even if they are over the age of consent, are still vulnerable in the teacher/student dynamic.
It's a measure of my liking for Andrew that I kept saying to my Kindle, "No, don't! Don't text him! Don't invite him into your house! Don't love him! Just keep it in your pants until he's graduated!" But then where would the story be, right?
And Robert may not be your average high school senior either. His father is dying, his mother is constantly being berated by her husband's relatives, and Robert just wants his dad to hurry up and die so that he can get his life back. It sounds cold the way I've put it there, but it's not, I promise. And wow, those parts of the book...just fantastic. Robert and his mother are fatigued; looking after Robert's father is full time, it's not pretty, and they are copping nothing but a guilt trip from the rest of the family for not constantly weeping at his bedside. If you've ever had to watch someone die slowly and horribly...well, this book nailed that for me.
And still... Robert is a student, and Andrew is a teacher. And they might be exactly what they each need, but, until Robert graduates, it's wrong. Andrew knows it's wrong. Robert knows it's wrong. And every time that Andrew reminds Robert to delete his texts, that's an acknowledgement of guilt. Andrew might not groom Robert, but the moment they start something, he makes sure their tracks are covered.
Well, almost...because again, where would the story be, right?
Also, if J.H. Trumble isn't a teacher, she certainly knows a few. The part where Robert asks Andrew if teachers really gossip about students had me in stitches. Um...yeah. When teachers start to gossip, open a bottle of wine and let it happen. It'll be hilarious.
I really liked this book. It was very well written. It also made me extremely uncomfortable.
Because Andrew knows he's crossed the line. And, the moment you find yourself hoping he doesn't get caught, then you've crossed that line with him.
Yeah but no but yeah conflicted.
May 25, 2012
You know those books you love so much you want to make everyone read them, but they're so special to you that you want to keep them to yourself?
THIS!
Just thinking about WHERE YOU ARE and talking about it gets me so excited and emotional, and I haven't felt so strongly about a book in years. I've read it three times already and will probably read it many more. It was an instant top 10-er for me.
Do NOT let the teacher/student thing dissuade you. It's handled so tenderly, so naturally, and so beautifully, it might make you rethink all of the news stories.
THIS!
Just thinking about WHERE YOU ARE and talking about it gets me so excited and emotional, and I haven't felt so strongly about a book in years. I've read it three times already and will probably read it many more. It was an instant top 10-er for me.
Do NOT let the teacher/student thing dissuade you. It's handled so tenderly, so naturally, and so beautifully, it might make you rethink all of the news stories.
December 12, 2012
I’m hard pressed to find even ONE likable character in this book. Selfish, immature, impetuous, careless, aggravating…and those are the ADULTS. Don’t get me started on the teenagers.
I thought it was the topic (teacher / student (high school) relationship) that bothered me, but ultimately, it was just BAD all around.
1 star for trying.
1 star for a Mary Jo Latuerno reference – let’s hope it was meant as foreshadowing and not just an accident.
I should subtract a star for using alternating 1st person POV’s of the MC’s as a ploy to get us to like & feel for the idiots…but I’m feeling generous.
DO NOT READ THIS BOOK! (<-you're welcome...)
August 16, 2021
I guess I’m of the opinion that you can enjoy "problematic" works as long as you’re aware of and acknowledge the issues in said works. this book was definitely a bit iffy, for lack of a better word, but I still found myself quite engaged with the story and its characters. come to think of it, engaged may be putting it too lightly... I was enthralled with this sorry, despite not always enjoying what unfolds within it.
let me back up a bit, though. when I first came across this book, I misread the blurb and thought this was going to be a slowburn, mutual pining type of story between teacher and student where nothing would ~actually~ happen until the end of the book when the student graduates from high school. and sure, okay, that’s a little sus, but I can handle it in fiction. even as I first began reading, I thought might be the case, but nope. it’s not. student and teacher don’t fight their attraction very long, and they have to face the consequences of their actions eventually. but by the time they first got together, I was already invested in Robert and Andrew’s relationship as well as their individual struggles throughout the book.
finishing this book was honestly stressing me tf out, truth be told. as soon as they consulates their relationship, I knew where things were headed and I didn’t want it to. but, still, I had to find out what happened, and I’m glad I made myself finish reading this.
I don’t think I will ever seek out these taboo age gap books - they’re just not my thing usually - but I am glad I read this. I definitely plan on checking more of J.H. Trumble’s works when I can.
4.25 stars rounded down.
let me back up a bit, though. when I first came across this book, I misread the blurb and thought this was going to be a slowburn, mutual pining type of story between teacher and student where nothing would ~actually~ happen until the end of the book when the student graduates from high school. and sure, okay, that’s a little sus, but I can handle it in fiction. even as I first began reading, I thought might be the case, but nope. it’s not. student and teacher don’t fight their attraction very long, and they have to face the consequences of their actions eventually. but by the time they first got together, I was already invested in Robert and Andrew’s relationship as well as their individual struggles throughout the book.
finishing this book was honestly stressing me tf out, truth be told. as soon as they consulates their relationship, I knew where things were headed and I didn’t want it to. but, still, I had to find out what happened, and I’m glad I made myself finish reading this.
I don’t think I will ever seek out these taboo age gap books - they’re just not my thing usually - but I am glad I read this. I definitely plan on checking more of J.H. Trumble’s works when I can.
4.25 stars rounded down.
August 10, 2013
So this book creating this big knot of emotions in my chest that I might have to get rid of by crying. Or getting drunk, which would then lead to crying.
There is just so much emotion in this book, that I guess some of it seeped through the (virtual) pages into my fingertips and is slowly killing me like a painless poison. Actually, no, scratch that, this is extremely painful. Emotional torture bordering on physical.
Some people didn't like the characters - I found them simply perfect.
The cast was big and I loved how every single character was a perfectly designed individual with his own quirks and personality traits. I could relate to Andrew and Robert, but I could also understand, if not forgive and love, all of the others. That is to say, they acted in a completely realistic, natural way - most of the time exactly how I would have acted. Okay, that sounds as if I were saying I'm perfect. I won't deny that, but what I actually meant to say is that I would have done the stupid things they did. It's just the way it is: sometimes in life you lash out, you bow down, you bawl like a baby, you are excited and happy as fuck, you have quick hot dirty secret sex, you make huge mistakes and try to fix them. And if you have a love like the one Andrew and Robert have, you can do it. None of what happened in this book was contrived, overdramatic or overkill; it's just the way life goes.
Basically, what I'm trying to say with this huge mess of words you might as well skip is that what I loved about this novel is its humanity. These are alive, frail and at the same time strong characters, who interact with and influence each other in a thousand little ways, have real life problems - money, problems with the law, gossip and illnesses - and feel deeply.
Damn, that was so neat and clear, wasn't it? Whatever. Just go read it, no matter who you are and what you usally like. This is simply too good to pass.
There is just so much emotion in this book, that I guess some of it seeped through the (virtual) pages into my fingertips and is slowly killing me like a painless poison. Actually, no, scratch that, this is extremely painful. Emotional torture bordering on physical.
Some people didn't like the characters - I found them simply perfect.
The cast was big and I loved how every single character was a perfectly designed individual with his own quirks and personality traits. I could relate to Andrew and Robert, but I could also understand, if not forgive and love, all of the others. That is to say, they acted in a completely realistic, natural way - most of the time exactly how I would have acted. Okay, that sounds as if I were saying I'm perfect. I won't deny that, but what I actually meant to say is that I would have done the stupid things they did. It's just the way it is: sometimes in life you lash out, you bow down, you bawl like a baby, you are excited and happy as fuck, you have quick hot dirty secret sex, you make huge mistakes and try to fix them. And if you have a love like the one Andrew and Robert have, you can do it. None of what happened in this book was contrived, overdramatic or overkill; it's just the way life goes.
Basically, what I'm trying to say with this huge mess of words you might as well skip is that what I loved about this novel is its humanity. These are alive, frail and at the same time strong characters, who interact with and influence each other in a thousand little ways, have real life problems - money, problems with the law, gossip and illnesses - and feel deeply.
Damn, that was so neat and clear, wasn't it? Whatever. Just go read it, no matter who you are and what you usally like. This is simply too good to pass.
March 20, 2024
Audiobook - 4 stars
Story - 3.25 stars
Story - 3.25 stars
Read
January 23, 2015DNF at 35%
Eye-rolling-non-stop.
I have a very long issues with this book. Should I name them all?!
Shortly:
A gay student who has a gay friend since 9 months and they still haven't touched each other, except holding hands. They are both 17 years old.
A gay teacher who first came out and then decided to build a family with his best friend, slept with her only once that was enough to make a daughter, married her and then his wife at last CAPISCE that when a husband sleeps in a separate room with a closed door something significant is missing and a mutual child is just a bit too less to fulfill a dream about a happy family. The day she shared with her husband these thoughts, he moved out and then they divorced. Of course he remained the best dad ever- he was a natural born Daddy!**sigh****eye-roll**
There was not a single word about a single gay life of a teacher Andrew. Except a boring messages exchange with the above mentioned student Robert. Of course it was enough for our inexperienced teacher to fall in love- **eye roll**.
There was also a dying farther(not a natural born one, quite the opposite), a female college(she wanted to get into his pants-no way, he learned from his mistakes), and a lot of as well unsympathetic second characters. The whole story is nothing more than a soap opera full of cheap clichés.
Bottom line:
Ridiculous plot.
Unrealistic situations.
Unsympathetic characters.
Boring.
I second Susan-DON'T READ THIS BOOK!
P.S. I just can't believe that this book was among the finalists of the 26th Lambda Award!
October 6, 2012
I want to give a HUGE THANK YOU to Kensington Publishing for sending me this ARC. I read this book in eight hours and I have to say that I could not put it down. It is so AMAZING I have never read something so heart wrenching and so gut wrenching! I laughed and I cried and I screamed at the book because it was like I was there. Yes this story has some issues that people will say are not right but I say to them PISS OFF! This story is about a love, loss and everything in between when it comes to teens. It is also a story about love true raw unadulterated love between two guys. I loved this story and I just finished reading it and my head is so full with things to say and I am trying so hard not to place spoilers so I won't.
Where You Are is a story about about a young man named Robert whose father is dying of Cancer and Robert and his mother are trying to keep it together. It is his senior year in high school and Robert just wants to graduate and go on to college where he can live his life free of the guilt he carries in regards to his father. Robert loves school and when he starts to fall behind in math his math teacher decides to befriend him and help him stay on track. Robert also has to deal with the fact that his boyfriend is acting weirder by the minuet but that's okay because Robert knows that once he gets to college he will meet other guys and have other friendships and relationships. What Robert doesn't factor in this equation is falling in love with his math teacher.
As we all know teachers are forbidden to be with their students. That is a big no no and when Robert falls for his teacher Mr McNelis aka Drew he is not sure the teacher feels the same way. So when Mr McNelis and Robert start to get closer and and Drew consoles him after his father dies Robert knows he wants to spend the rest of his life with him. Drew is not sure how he and Robert are going to be together but he knows he wants no one else in his life. Then if life could not add anymore lemons to Robert and Drews lemonade something big happens to Drew and he and Robert have to figure out a way to be together.
To Andrew teaching is his life. He loves to help students and he loves to give back by teaching. His life has not always been easy but he has always had his best friend by his side and with his best friend he has created the one bright spot in his life and that is his daughter. Once he realized he was gay he decided to divorce his best friend and just go back to being friends with her for the sake of his daughter. He loves her and will do anything to make her happy. So when he opens up to Robert he is terrified by his feelings because Robert is a student and he is his teacher. But what are you to do when you have such strong feelings for someone that you feel like you could die if you don't see them? Andrew will have to figure all this out and then he will have to make decisions that will make him or break him. What will Andrew decide?
They will face prejudices and they will face trials and tribulations. Are they strong enough to stand up to the people who mean to do them harm? Is Andrew strong enough to fight the feelings he has for Robert? Will Robert fight his feelings for Andrew? Come along with Robert and Andrew as they find their way through this maze called life. This book is BRILLIANT! 2012 MUST READ!
Where You Are is a story about about a young man named Robert whose father is dying of Cancer and Robert and his mother are trying to keep it together. It is his senior year in high school and Robert just wants to graduate and go on to college where he can live his life free of the guilt he carries in regards to his father. Robert loves school and when he starts to fall behind in math his math teacher decides to befriend him and help him stay on track. Robert also has to deal with the fact that his boyfriend is acting weirder by the minuet but that's okay because Robert knows that once he gets to college he will meet other guys and have other friendships and relationships. What Robert doesn't factor in this equation is falling in love with his math teacher.
As we all know teachers are forbidden to be with their students. That is a big no no and when Robert falls for his teacher Mr McNelis aka Drew he is not sure the teacher feels the same way. So when Mr McNelis and Robert start to get closer and and Drew consoles him after his father dies Robert knows he wants to spend the rest of his life with him. Drew is not sure how he and Robert are going to be together but he knows he wants no one else in his life. Then if life could not add anymore lemons to Robert and Drews lemonade something big happens to Drew and he and Robert have to figure out a way to be together.
To Andrew teaching is his life. He loves to help students and he loves to give back by teaching. His life has not always been easy but he has always had his best friend by his side and with his best friend he has created the one bright spot in his life and that is his daughter. Once he realized he was gay he decided to divorce his best friend and just go back to being friends with her for the sake of his daughter. He loves her and will do anything to make her happy. So when he opens up to Robert he is terrified by his feelings because Robert is a student and he is his teacher. But what are you to do when you have such strong feelings for someone that you feel like you could die if you don't see them? Andrew will have to figure all this out and then he will have to make decisions that will make him or break him. What will Andrew decide?
They will face prejudices and they will face trials and tribulations. Are they strong enough to stand up to the people who mean to do them harm? Is Andrew strong enough to fight the feelings he has for Robert? Will Robert fight his feelings for Andrew? Come along with Robert and Andrew as they find their way through this maze called life. This book is BRILLIANT! 2012 MUST READ!
Want to read
January 14, 2016i need this. hard. bcuz reasons ok, mind y'business, my gosh
December 16, 2015
I liked the story a lot. I'm actually shocked that parts of it didn't creep me out, but both characters were written very well, so you understood that these were two people who were truly trying to be there for one another -- in spite of their current place in the world.
Due to the small differences in their ages, almost 18 & 24, made the story feel like they were truly meant to be together, but fate just brought them together a bit too early and in one of the worst of scenarios for Andrew's career. Four short months later and no one would have really blinked an eye -- or had any reason to.
On the other hand, if Andrew had been 40, I'm fairly sure the book would have felt a bit lecherous, so I'm really glad that wasn't the case here.
Due to the small differences in their ages, almost 18 & 24, made the story feel like they were truly meant to be together, but fate just brought them together a bit too early and in one of the worst of scenarios for Andrew's career. Four short months later and no one would have really blinked an eye -- or had any reason to.
On the other hand, if Andrew had been 40, I'm fairly sure the book would have felt a bit lecherous, so I'm really glad that wasn't the case here.
April 28, 2013
Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow.
Such a controversial subject, done in such a way where the sexual aspect of the forbidden (teacher/student theme) is secondary. Yet the story, the story is strong and realistic and oddly provocative without getting vulgar or trying too hard.
The book was an emotional roller coaster for me.
The strongest emotion: anger and disgust but not for the two main characters, 17 year old - Robert or 24 year old - Andrew. It was most of the women in their lives - Roberts' aunts- I seriously have never wanted to go through a book and rip out two women's entrails more. They disgust me. Their level of selfishness made me sick to my stomach. And the fact that I know there are people who actually are like that...I have no words.
Not in a good way.
I am so empathetic to Robert's home life. It's a sad home life. And that pathetic selfish excuse for a father...it's a wonder Robert was so normal. Well I guess under the circumstances.
Andrew, the handsome, single teacher...he's the one pursued by the teen. While both men fall victims to lust, they fall in love first. And it is believable. Andrew, he's been manipulated by an ex-wife (Maya) who I can't blame for trying. If I had an Andrew in my life, I'd want to hold on to his shine for just a little longer. But she had a difficult time dealing with the fact that he was gay and would not fall back into her arms.
The author did quite a bit of research about legalities and famous cases and it shows in the work. This story is strong. It's young adult but anyone could read it and be left mostly satisfied. (If you are looking for kink or sexy classroom antics - don't look for it here - the sex is glossed over)
And I find it wasn't necessary, this story is strong enough without being cheapened.
I hope this review makes sense because I'm still reeling from the last 20% of this book it is a head spinner. And the result is HEA but a realistic one if you can read between the lines.
This would be a great starter book for those who are curious about MM and like a strong story and tame sexual actions.
Wow.
I'm going to have a drink now. LOL
Such a controversial subject, done in such a way where the sexual aspect of the forbidden (teacher/student theme) is secondary. Yet the story, the story is strong and realistic and oddly provocative without getting vulgar or trying too hard.
The book was an emotional roller coaster for me.
The strongest emotion: anger and disgust but not for the two main characters, 17 year old - Robert or 24 year old - Andrew. It was most of the women in their lives - Roberts' aunts- I seriously have never wanted to go through a book and rip out two women's entrails more. They disgust me. Their level of selfishness made me sick to my stomach. And the fact that I know there are people who actually are like that...I have no words.
Not in a good way.
I am so empathetic to Robert's home life. It's a sad home life. And that pathetic selfish excuse for a father...it's a wonder Robert was so normal. Well I guess under the circumstances.
Andrew, the handsome, single teacher...he's the one pursued by the teen. While both men fall victims to lust, they fall in love first. And it is believable. Andrew, he's been manipulated by an ex-wife (Maya) who I can't blame for trying. If I had an Andrew in my life, I'd want to hold on to his shine for just a little longer. But she had a difficult time dealing with the fact that he was gay and would not fall back into her arms.
The author did quite a bit of research about legalities and famous cases and it shows in the work. This story is strong. It's young adult but anyone could read it and be left mostly satisfied. (If you are looking for kink or sexy classroom antics - don't look for it here - the sex is glossed over)
And I find it wasn't necessary, this story is strong enough without being cheapened.
I hope this review makes sense because I'm still reeling from the last 20% of this book it is a head spinner. And the result is HEA but a realistic one if you can read between the lines.
This would be a great starter book for those who are curious about MM and like a strong story and tame sexual actions.
Wow.
I'm going to have a drink now. LOL
April 28, 2013
Where You Are by J.H. Trumble is a unique novel for me. I have read books and stories about student/teacher affairs before. But this one was more than that. It had a unique enough aspect to it, not everything was about sex. The fact this was a YA novel makes it even better in my opinion. This will probably be a controversial book. But I could see past the issues.
Andrew and Robert were the couple in this book. Andrew the teacher, divorced with a two year old daughter. His ex-wife (and former best friend) Maya was a character who I hated in this. Sometimes I wanted to slap her. But she was a fake woman, I felt pity for her boyfriend and Andrew. She screwed them around in every way possible. I could understand how she felt to an extent but she had some serious issues.
As a character I found Andrew to be interesting. He had a lot of potential and it was fulfilled. I pitied the situation he had been in and I really though (despite the issue with being Roberts teacher) that he was a good honorable man. He was also a good teacher, he did not chose to fall in love with Robert. But that is the beauty of love, we don't chose it, it chooses us.
Robert. Oh I felt so bad for Robert. He had not got an easy life. His father, I can say, I was glad he died. He sounded like the type of man that cared more about himself than his family. I loved his mom though. Robert had to deal with his father dying and falling in love with his teacher. He grew so much in this novel, it was surprising there was any time for the romance.
It was not very heavy when it comes to romance. It had romance in it. But it had so many aspects. I did love Andrew and Robert together. Even in the sadder scenes it was easy to feel for them. They had to lie, they had to hide and they had to hurt themselves and each other to be together. It was something I was glad we saw. It would have taken from the book if they had been the happy couple all the time.
I would highly recommend this wonderful novel. It has a great story, something controversial, that could be read by all ages. It was a favourite read of mine and I will definitely read it again.
Highly recommend this book!
Andrew and Robert were the couple in this book. Andrew the teacher, divorced with a two year old daughter. His ex-wife (and former best friend) Maya was a character who I hated in this. Sometimes I wanted to slap her. But she was a fake woman, I felt pity for her boyfriend and Andrew. She screwed them around in every way possible. I could understand how she felt to an extent but she had some serious issues.
As a character I found Andrew to be interesting. He had a lot of potential and it was fulfilled. I pitied the situation he had been in and I really though (despite the issue with being Roberts teacher) that he was a good honorable man. He was also a good teacher, he did not chose to fall in love with Robert. But that is the beauty of love, we don't chose it, it chooses us.
Robert. Oh I felt so bad for Robert. He had not got an easy life. His father, I can say, I was glad he died. He sounded like the type of man that cared more about himself than his family. I loved his mom though. Robert had to deal with his father dying and falling in love with his teacher. He grew so much in this novel, it was surprising there was any time for the romance.
It was not very heavy when it comes to romance. It had romance in it. But it had so many aspects. I did love Andrew and Robert together. Even in the sadder scenes it was easy to feel for them. They had to lie, they had to hide and they had to hurt themselves and each other to be together. It was something I was glad we saw. It would have taken from the book if they had been the happy couple all the time.
I would highly recommend this wonderful novel. It has a great story, something controversial, that could be read by all ages. It was a favourite read of mine and I will definitely read it again.
Highly recommend this book!
January 16, 2013
My word. *exhale* I'm a bit drained now.
This was a good story, albeit one with awful women. Every last one of them is problematic. The extreme bitchiness; combined with Andrew's unremitting gullibility as far as his ex-wife is concerned and his easy acquiescence, his submission to being manipulated by her; plus the separation between Andrew and Robert that is prolonged unnecessarily all make this somewhat of an exhausting read.
Underneath all these elements, however, is a good story of finding and keeping love despite adversary, in the face of oppositional popular opinion, and in spite of harpies introducing obstacles into the course of an elemental connection that supersedes and triumphs over all this.
The writing is strong, particularly in the scenes with the dying father. There is palpable tension that keeps the reader glued throughout. The characterisation could have benefitted from a bit more balance, though. Andrew and Robert are on the cusp of being mere, unwitting victims and, if cast as such, some might reduce their relationship to that of seeking safe harbour or simple refuge away from the shrewish women that surround them.
Nonetheless, I believed in their love...
This was a good story, albeit one with awful women. Every last one of them is problematic. The extreme bitchiness; combined with Andrew's unremitting gullibility as far as his ex-wife is concerned and his easy acquiescence, his submission to being manipulated by her; plus the separation between Andrew and Robert that is prolonged unnecessarily all make this somewhat of an exhausting read.
Underneath all these elements, however, is a good story of finding and keeping love despite adversary, in the face of oppositional popular opinion, and in spite of harpies introducing obstacles into the course of an elemental connection that supersedes and triumphs over all this.
The writing is strong, particularly in the scenes with the dying father. There is palpable tension that keeps the reader glued throughout. The characterisation could have benefitted from a bit more balance, though. Andrew and Robert are on the cusp of being mere, unwitting victims and, if cast as such, some might reduce their relationship to that of seeking safe harbour or simple refuge away from the shrewish women that surround them.
Nonetheless, I believed in their love...
December 5, 2018
Lo leí en julio y estamos comenzando diciembre, así de actualizadas están mis reviews...
He leído alguna reseña (negativa) para refrescar la memoria y no puedo estar más de acuerdo.
Los personajes en general no me gustaron mucho, recuerdo que no se salvaba nadie del reparto xD, y hay ciertas situaciones y relaciones entre ellos que son inverosímiles y hasta ofensivas.
¿Lo recomiendo? No. Ni hablar. Aunque es cierto que está bien escrito.
¿Me gustó? Pues mucho, oiga xD
Por momentos se merece dos estrellas, sobre todo la relación de Edward con su ex (aquí la autora se había fumado algo) y con Jen (otro WTF muy serio, yo pensaba que estas cosas ya las teníamos superadas...), pero le voy a poner cuatro y me voy a quedar más ancha que larga...
Porque sí, porque disfruté mucho y me tuvo enganchada, y porque soy débil, y si me pones un amor clandestino con mensajitos soy tuya forevah. Ademas tiene momentos que me llegaron al corazoncito y que se han quedado conmigo.
He leído alguna reseña (negativa) para refrescar la memoria y no puedo estar más de acuerdo.
Los personajes en general no me gustaron mucho, recuerdo que no se salvaba nadie del reparto xD, y hay ciertas situaciones y relaciones entre ellos que son inverosímiles y hasta ofensivas.
¿Lo recomiendo? No. Ni hablar. Aunque es cierto que está bien escrito.
¿Me gustó? Pues mucho, oiga xD
Por momentos se merece dos estrellas, sobre todo la relación de Edward con su ex (aquí la autora se había fumado algo) y con Jen (otro WTF muy serio, yo pensaba que estas cosas ya las teníamos superadas...), pero le voy a poner cuatro y me voy a quedar más ancha que larga...
Porque sí, porque disfruté mucho y me tuvo enganchada, y porque soy débil, y si me pones un amor clandestino con mensajitos soy tuya forevah. Ademas tiene momentos que me llegaron al corazoncito y que se han quedado conmigo.
September 3, 2013
This book is an absolutely superb piece of writing, eliciting strong emotions throughout -joy, heartbreak, anger, love, hope. Where You Are is well researched - medical, psychological, the education system, legal, family dynamics, human nature.
It is an LGBT YA but will appeal to many ages and should most certainly be utilized by groups, schools etc to fully bring forth some discussion regarding the topics covered in the book - being aware at a conscious level is so important, never questioning leads to ignorance. There are even discussion question at the end. In depth review at Greedy Bug Book Reviews - http://greedybugbookreviews.com/where...
Advance reading copy supplied to me by Kensington Publishing, through NetGalley, in return for an honest review.
It is an LGBT YA but will appeal to many ages and should most certainly be utilized by groups, schools etc to fully bring forth some discussion regarding the topics covered in the book - being aware at a conscious level is so important, never questioning leads to ignorance. There are even discussion question at the end. In depth review at Greedy Bug Book Reviews - http://greedybugbookreviews.com/where...
Advance reading copy supplied to me by Kensington Publishing, through NetGalley, in return for an honest review.
November 6, 2013
Just this summer, I read a m/f book that was all the rage. It was about a teacher/student affair, and I was so totally squicked by the premise that I gave the book two stars.
And then came Where You Are.
Have you read the blurb?
Do you realize this is a story about a student/teacher relationship?
Do you see how many stars I'm giving this book?
*Hypocritical reader/reviewer alert*
I'm going to excuse myself for really, really liking this book. I was interested in the characters. They were complicated and complex and remorseful about what they were doing. Consequences happened. It's m/m. The sex scenes were completely off-page. It was well-written and believable.
Oh, hell. I'm still a hypocrite, aren't I?
Ah well. You can't win 'em all.
And then came Where You Are.
Have you read the blurb?
Do you realize this is a story about a student/teacher relationship?
Do you see how many stars I'm giving this book?
*Hypocritical reader/reviewer alert*
I'm going to excuse myself for really, really liking this book. I was interested in the characters. They were complicated and complex and remorseful about what they were doing. Consequences happened. It's m/m. The sex scenes were completely off-page. It was well-written and believable.
Oh, hell. I'm still a hypocrite, aren't I?
Ah well. You can't win 'em all.
May 30, 2022
I had so many mixed feelings about this story. Andrew as a teacher should have known that what he and Robert had started was going to blow up and take them, at least him, down with it...but love is truly blind, deaf and dumb. Robert lied to Andrew about his age and that wasn't found out until after things were spinning out of control. Andrew thought that Robert was 18 which would have made him an adult, then finds out he wouldn't be 18 for two more months. Andrew is only 6 years older. I felt drawn to their dilemma and found myself rooting for them when I realized that the ups and downs in the relationship was all created entirely by others. It deals with such a controversial subject but is done in such a way that the sexual aspect of the forbidden teacher/student relationship is secondary. The story is strong and realistic and oddly provocative without being vulgar. It's compelling, romantic and if like me you are a sucker for a happy ending you'll love Andrew and Robert. These two deserved happy ever after in spades.
Actual Rateing: 4.5 stars
Actual Rateing: 4.5 stars
October 7, 2012
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Kensington Publishing. This in no way influences the impartiality of this review.
No sophomore slump here. After an absolutely perfect first novel in Don't Let Me Go, JH Trumble took the brave leap of NOT writing a sequel (which would have been easier to do as there were threads to be picked up at the end of DLMG). She instead started from scratch. I am so glad she did.
The subject matter of Where You Are will be sure to cause some controversy. For me, it was insightfully and gently presented. As the parent of a 15 year old son, I never would have tried to look at an attraction between a teacher and student from any perspective but that of a parent. Ms. Trumble gave me the only two points-of-view required to truly understand this type of attraction. The fact that the age difference between Andrew and Robert is only seven years makes it more palatable for me. A much wider gap would have made me uncomfortable. The physicality of the relationship was handled delicately with no graphic descriptions at all.
Where You Are is riveting reading. Sometimes riveting like a train wreck, sometimes like a perfectly executed ballet. Beneath the ballet and the train wreck were feelings. Ms. Trumble excels at feelings. She gives her characters the words to make the reader acutely feel their feelings. She uses those same words to make the reader feel his/her own feelings. I wanted to reach through the pages and hold Robert in my arms. Sometimes I wanted to smack him and Andrew upside the head. I wanted to kick Nic in the nads. I won't even tell you what I wanted to do to Aunt Whitney, Aunt Olivia, Maya and Stephen.
As with Don't Let Me Go, I want more! I want Luke & Curtis' story. I want to see Nic get a clue. I don't know if I'll get what I want (I'm still waiting for more DLMG!). That's part of Trumble's genius, though. She builds such a world of fascinating people around her MCs that you just want MORE.
"Like Glaze on a Donut" is the most original phrase for the situation in which it was used that I have ever heard. And I read ALOT. You'll have to read the book to find out if you agree. ;D
No sophomore slump here. After an absolutely perfect first novel in Don't Let Me Go, JH Trumble took the brave leap of NOT writing a sequel (which would have been easier to do as there were threads to be picked up at the end of DLMG). She instead started from scratch. I am so glad she did.
The subject matter of Where You Are will be sure to cause some controversy. For me, it was insightfully and gently presented. As the parent of a 15 year old son, I never would have tried to look at an attraction between a teacher and student from any perspective but that of a parent. Ms. Trumble gave me the only two points-of-view required to truly understand this type of attraction. The fact that the age difference between Andrew and Robert is only seven years makes it more palatable for me. A much wider gap would have made me uncomfortable. The physicality of the relationship was handled delicately with no graphic descriptions at all.
Where You Are is riveting reading. Sometimes riveting like a train wreck, sometimes like a perfectly executed ballet. Beneath the ballet and the train wreck were feelings. Ms. Trumble excels at feelings. She gives her characters the words to make the reader acutely feel their feelings. She uses those same words to make the reader feel his/her own feelings. I wanted to reach through the pages and hold Robert in my arms. Sometimes I wanted to smack him and Andrew upside the head. I wanted to kick Nic in the nads. I won't even tell you what I wanted to do to Aunt Whitney, Aunt Olivia, Maya and Stephen.
As with Don't Let Me Go, I want more! I want Luke & Curtis' story. I want to see Nic get a clue. I don't know if I'll get what I want (I'm still waiting for more DLMG!). That's part of Trumble's genius, though. She builds such a world of fascinating people around her MCs that you just want MORE.
"Like Glaze on a Donut" is the most original phrase for the situation in which it was used that I have ever heard. And I read ALOT. You'll have to read the book to find out if you agree. ;D
Want to read
July 2, 2018Killer price drop to $1.99 at Amazon US, 7/1/18
https://www.amazon.com/Where-You-Are-...
https://www.amazon.com/Where-You-Are-...
November 30, 2012
An emotionally charged story of unexpected love and unwavering loyalty.
Once again, I found myself engrossed in a book that constantly made me question my stance on teacher-student relationships. As a mother, could I condone such a relationship? As a hopeless romantic, should I accept that you can't control who you love? And as a reader, do I accept this story for the fiction it is even if the reality of it all causes so much controversy? Throughout my reading I found myself wondering why I constantly put myself through this kind of turmoil.
The answer lies in the beauty of what embodies this book - the range in emotions, the complexity of the characters and their development and the skillful way the controversial subject is brought forward.
I have to admire an author who manages to make me ecstatic one moment and has me crying the next. It is not every author who keeps me in a constant state of expectation then astonishes me with a whole different set of events or makes me question my beliefs and achieves my compliance. This is the first book I have read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last.
You can view my full review at LeAnn's Book Reviews on December 21, 2012.
I received this book through NetGalley and I would like to extend my appreciation to them and Kensington Publishing Corporation for giving me the opportunity to read and review this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
Once again, I found myself engrossed in a book that constantly made me question my stance on teacher-student relationships. As a mother, could I condone such a relationship? As a hopeless romantic, should I accept that you can't control who you love? And as a reader, do I accept this story for the fiction it is even if the reality of it all causes so much controversy? Throughout my reading I found myself wondering why I constantly put myself through this kind of turmoil.
The answer lies in the beauty of what embodies this book - the range in emotions, the complexity of the characters and their development and the skillful way the controversial subject is brought forward.
I have to admire an author who manages to make me ecstatic one moment and has me crying the next. It is not every author who keeps me in a constant state of expectation then astonishes me with a whole different set of events or makes me question my beliefs and achieves my compliance. This is the first book I have read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last.
You can view my full review at LeAnn's Book Reviews on December 21, 2012.
I received this book through NetGalley and I would like to extend my appreciation to them and Kensington Publishing Corporation for giving me the opportunity to read and review this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
September 7, 2013
Robert Westfall has never had it worse - his father is terminally ill, his aunts are cruel and unsupportive, and the life he always envisioned for himself seems less and less appealing every day. Only in Calculus do his fears fade, and it's mostly because of his kind teacher, Andrew McNelis. Mr. McNelis watches Robert flail from afar and with time offers a guiding hand. But what happens when Mr. McNelis's role in Robert's life changes from that of a confidante, to a friend, to something more...?
I have no qualms when it comes to reading about student-teacher relationships. In real life it is an area of ambiguity and the topic screams of sensitivity, but in fiction, I want to escape the actual consequences and explore the deeper meanings behind the issue: does the power dynamic in the relationship really play a part? What if that power dynamic did not exist? Is that possible, or is it inherent? Why does the age difference matter if both members are at the same level of emotional maturity? I do not advocate one side or the other; I just love discussing the idea in all of its facets.
But Where You Are let me down a bit. While I enjoyed the buildup of Robert and Andrew's relationship, once they established their feelings for one another, the drive behind the conflict felt forced. Sure, they danced together and sent funny text messages to each other, but what drove them to be together besides the fact that Andrew could offer Robert a helping hand? Robert apparently makes Andrew feel more alive, but what exactly propelled them to be together to the extent that Andrew would risk his career, reputation, etc. for their illicit (due to society's standards) relationship? Because of the sheer magnitude of the implications regarding their relationship I would have liked more, more passion, more depth, more of something that would change the mindsets of those opposed to teacher-student relationships on principle.
Several external issues and secondary characters caused harm to Andrew and Robert, but not many of them were fleshed out. Maya, Andrew's best friend for many years, acts like a sexual molester for most of the book and has a sudden change of heart with no explanation at the novel's end. Robert's boyfriend Nic never displays any sincerity and neither do Robert's aunts. While I realize that in life there are people out there who really just suck, in a book like this more nuanced characters could have created layers that would have added to the story's sincerity and sagacity.
While I may come across as harsh in my critique of Where You Are, I would recommend it to anyone searching for a light and well-written romance. Some parts come across as cheesy (like the line, "I'd take him for a happy meal") but it does examine a grey zone in society with honesty. J.H. Trumble is still an author to watch.
I have no qualms when it comes to reading about student-teacher relationships. In real life it is an area of ambiguity and the topic screams of sensitivity, but in fiction, I want to escape the actual consequences and explore the deeper meanings behind the issue: does the power dynamic in the relationship really play a part? What if that power dynamic did not exist? Is that possible, or is it inherent? Why does the age difference matter if both members are at the same level of emotional maturity? I do not advocate one side or the other; I just love discussing the idea in all of its facets.
But Where You Are let me down a bit. While I enjoyed the buildup of Robert and Andrew's relationship, once they established their feelings for one another, the drive behind the conflict felt forced. Sure, they danced together and sent funny text messages to each other, but what drove them to be together besides the fact that Andrew could offer Robert a helping hand? Robert apparently makes Andrew feel more alive, but what exactly propelled them to be together to the extent that Andrew would risk his career, reputation, etc. for their illicit (due to society's standards) relationship? Because of the sheer magnitude of the implications regarding their relationship I would have liked more, more passion, more depth, more of something that would change the mindsets of those opposed to teacher-student relationships on principle.
Several external issues and secondary characters caused harm to Andrew and Robert, but not many of them were fleshed out. Maya, Andrew's best friend for many years, acts like a sexual molester for most of the book and has a sudden change of heart with no explanation at the novel's end. Robert's boyfriend Nic never displays any sincerity and neither do Robert's aunts. While I realize that in life there are people out there who really just suck, in a book like this more nuanced characters could have created layers that would have added to the story's sincerity and sagacity.
While I may come across as harsh in my critique of Where You Are, I would recommend it to anyone searching for a light and well-written romance. Some parts come across as cheesy (like the line, "I'd take him for a happy meal") but it does examine a grey zone in society with honesty. J.H. Trumble is still an author to watch.
January 19, 2013
Okay, some heavy, heady stuff in here. This is was a tough one for me to process because I am a teacher. This book is the perfect example of how the experiences, biases, feelings, etc. in our lives can affect our reading and interpretation of a story.
Andrew McNelis is a high school teacher, like myself. He forms an attachment and eventually a relationship with one of his students, Robert Westfall. I knew before reading this novel that that was the premise of the story. I was totally prepared to be convinced that there are certain circumstances under which a relationship of this nature could be justified. But in the end I just couldn't do it. I could not take myself out of my role as a teacher and allow myself to feel for Andrew.
As with her first novel, Don't Let Me Go, Trumble's writing is gorgeous. Each character has a voice and a complex identity. The narration is clean and is constantly moving forward. Her descriptions are vivid and give away important details but also allow freedom for the reader to create his own environment (which worked to this reader's detriment at times because I kept visualizing my own classroom and my own students). Emotion through dialogue is raw and intense. Action is bright and quick, like watching it all happen on a movie screen. (In that, she follows her own advice perfectly. *wink*) The plot had several beautiful twists that made my eyes bug out and made me gasp aloud. The alternating first-person narrative, criticized by other reviewers, worked beautifully for me. It had to be done that way, in fact. A story of this nature could not be told from just one person's perspective. To hear only Andrew's voice might have portrayed Robert as nothing more than a teenager with a "daddy complex." To hear only Robert's voice might have painted Andrew as a selfish lecher.
This is an important story to tell. Even though I cannot condone any of the characters' actions (and there are some NASTY characters here!) the story is told with great care and concern. It sounds plausible. It sounds real. It begs both the opponent and the proponent of Andrew and Robert's relationship to reevaluate opinions and question biases. Oh, and this novel portrays oh-so-perfectly so many of the things that teachers have to deal with on a daily basis. Bravo.
Andrew McNelis is a high school teacher, like myself. He forms an attachment and eventually a relationship with one of his students, Robert Westfall. I knew before reading this novel that that was the premise of the story. I was totally prepared to be convinced that there are certain circumstances under which a relationship of this nature could be justified. But in the end I just couldn't do it. I could not take myself out of my role as a teacher and allow myself to feel for Andrew.
As with her first novel, Don't Let Me Go, Trumble's writing is gorgeous. Each character has a voice and a complex identity. The narration is clean and is constantly moving forward. Her descriptions are vivid and give away important details but also allow freedom for the reader to create his own environment (which worked to this reader's detriment at times because I kept visualizing my own classroom and my own students). Emotion through dialogue is raw and intense. Action is bright and quick, like watching it all happen on a movie screen. (In that, she follows her own advice perfectly. *wink*) The plot had several beautiful twists that made my eyes bug out and made me gasp aloud. The alternating first-person narrative, criticized by other reviewers, worked beautifully for me. It had to be done that way, in fact. A story of this nature could not be told from just one person's perspective. To hear only Andrew's voice might have portrayed Robert as nothing more than a teenager with a "daddy complex." To hear only Robert's voice might have painted Andrew as a selfish lecher.
This is an important story to tell. Even though I cannot condone any of the characters' actions (and there are some NASTY characters here!) the story is told with great care and concern. It sounds plausible. It sounds real. It begs both the opponent and the proponent of Andrew and Robert's relationship to reevaluate opinions and question biases. Oh, and this novel portrays oh-so-perfectly so many of the things that teachers have to deal with on a daily basis. Bravo.
May 29, 2013
It was actually quite good.
It's weird for me when I see rl references, probably because I generally read so much high fantasy. Every (rare) time I recognized some of the lyrics, I had a little "Aha!" moment...
Also, Robert's a bandie, so BAND GEEK SOLIDARITY!
I like the way the emotions are handled. I mean, the issues explored are rather tough and controversial and all that, but I rather liked it.
Much as it pains me, I do kind of agree with Susan of the 2-Star Review as she said in her comments I wouldn't necessarily say the characters were completely different people, though. The tone and direction did seem to change, but not that drastically...
I also find it understandable why such a change would have occurred, so that wasn't a huge issue with me.
Actually, reading Susan's comment (as I explicated above) kind of drew me out of the book a bit. I don't say that as accusation; I felt the same thing, though not necessarily to as drastic a degree as she did.
There is a change, but I feel that in the end, they're all still the same people.
Argh, that comment has me over-analyzing the characterization now =_=
This is why I generally wait until after reviewing to read other people's reviews =_=
Well, no. The book managed to pull me back in, so kudos all around.
I did feel it was abrupt, though. It was weird because it cut off and then cut back, but in Andrew's POV. Rather disorienting...
I mean, I personally have an aversion to the teacher-student thing because of the profusion of bad yaoi out there, but this book actually tugged at my heartstrings a couple of times.
I can see how some people would dislike it. I just don't follow their beliefs :D
Extended rant(-ish?)
I personally haven't had one of those "so in love I just can't control myself" situations, but I can easily see how it can happen. Yeah, dispassionate, cynical view of humans and all, but all that aside, I can see it.
The human mind is geared towards survival of the most basest form. If experiencing chronic increased levels of stress, it will start adjusting its equilibrium to that. Through a sort of inadvertent desensitizing, I can see how it'd be easier to take just one more risk, just a little longer, especially since they haven't gotten caught.
I was also rather good friends with some of my high school teachers (and I also tended to run in the AP/Honors circle, but surely THAT has nothing to do with it...) so I totally get some of the issues that Andrew ran into with his kids.
It actually reminded me of a lot of Salem Falls in not just subject, but also tone. It's actually quite amazingly eloquent
Another thing: I can totally empathize with Robert. I've totally had that experience before - when you're still not "legal" and people who "are" can't seem to decide if you're an adult or not. You are when it suits them to pile "responsibilities" onto you and you aren't when it suits them to take control.
I get the feeling that no, things aren't going to magically change when you're 18; your cognition isn't going to magically adjust to "adult" mode, and yet, they act as if it matters.
Anyways, I thought it was a good book.
...
What more can I say?
(No, honestly, I can't think of anything else. I'm still sitting basking in the bittersweetness of the ending. But it was bittersweet in a good way, I think.)
Actually, this is one of the few m/m books I've read (maybe I just read too much pulp?) that I felt like I got something deep and meaningful out of, that it wasn't just a way to kill some time.
The discussion guide at the end made me laugh because I always feel like books with discussion guides = trying too hard, but I realize that sometimes they're put there by the publisher.
I don't normally read these things, so I don't exactly have a point of reference, but some of those questions are actually quite good.
Some I just disliked.
*shrug. I personally liked it. That's no guarantee than anyone else will.
It's weird for me when I see rl references, probably because I generally read so much high fantasy. Every (rare) time I recognized some of the lyrics, I had a little "Aha!" moment...
Also, Robert's a bandie, so BAND GEEK SOLIDARITY!
I like the way the emotions are handled. I mean, the issues explored are rather tough and controversial and all that, but I rather liked it.
Much as it pains me, I do kind of agree with Susan of the 2-Star Review as she said in her comments I wouldn't necessarily say the characters were completely different people, though. The tone and direction did seem to change, but not that drastically...
I also find it understandable why such a change would have occurred, so that wasn't a huge issue with me.
Actually, reading Susan's comment (as I explicated above) kind of drew me out of the book a bit. I don't say that as accusation; I felt the same thing, though not necessarily to as drastic a degree as she did.
There is a change, but I feel that in the end, they're all still the same people.
Argh, that comment has me over-analyzing the characterization now =_=
This is why I generally wait until after reviewing to read other people's reviews =_=
Well, no. The book managed to pull me back in, so kudos all around.
I did feel it was abrupt, though. It was weird because it cut off and then cut back, but in Andrew's POV. Rather disorienting...
I mean, I personally have an aversion to the teacher-student thing because of the profusion of bad yaoi out there, but this book actually tugged at my heartstrings a couple of times.
I can see how some people would dislike it. I just don't follow their beliefs :D
Extended rant(-ish?)
I personally haven't had one of those "so in love I just can't control myself" situations, but I can easily see how it can happen. Yeah, dispassionate, cynical view of humans and all, but all that aside, I can see it.
The human mind is geared towards survival of the most basest form. If experiencing chronic increased levels of stress, it will start adjusting its equilibrium to that. Through a sort of inadvertent desensitizing, I can see how it'd be easier to take just one more risk, just a little longer, especially since they haven't gotten caught.
I was also rather good friends with some of my high school teachers (and I also tended to run in the AP/Honors circle, but surely THAT has nothing to do with it...) so I totally get some of the issues that Andrew ran into with his kids.
It actually reminded me of a lot of Salem Falls in not just subject, but also tone. It's actually quite amazingly eloquent
Another thing: I can totally empathize with Robert. I've totally had that experience before - when you're still not "legal" and people who "are" can't seem to decide if you're an adult or not. You are when it suits them to pile "responsibilities" onto you and you aren't when it suits them to take control.
I get the feeling that no, things aren't going to magically change when you're 18; your cognition isn't going to magically adjust to "adult" mode, and yet, they act as if it matters.
Anyways, I thought it was a good book.
...
What more can I say?
(No, honestly, I can't think of anything else. I'm still sitting basking in the bittersweetness of the ending. But it was bittersweet in a good way, I think.)
Actually, this is one of the few m/m books I've read (maybe I just read too much pulp?) that I felt like I got something deep and meaningful out of, that it wasn't just a way to kill some time.
The discussion guide at the end made me laugh because I always feel like books with discussion guides = trying too hard, but I realize that sometimes they're put there by the publisher.
I don't normally read these things, so I don't exactly have a point of reference, but some of those questions are actually quite good.
Some I just disliked.
*shrug. I personally liked it. That's no guarantee than anyone else will.
April 24, 2013
The first thing I didn't like about this book was the first person POV and then the POV shift change every other chapter. It was hard keeping up with which MC was speaking. This book also kept reminding me of Acclamation. Same story about high school teacher falling for student with dying father. The latter was done better.
At first I found Robert to be an interesting character. I could appreciate the honest feelings he had in regards to his father's impending death. I never felt anything for any of the characters in this novel. I didn't understand why Andrew was attracted to Robert. Andrew appeared to be smart but fell into the same trap so many teachers fall into nowadays. He had four months to wait, stinking four months and he couldn't do it.
The story went downhill rapidly. It felt like I was reading a bad soap opera: entitled student with over-indulgent parent sets up teacher. Ex-wife in love with gay ex-husband. Desperate teacher hitting on another teacher who shows no interest in her. I couldn't skip pages fast enough to get to the end.
At first I found Robert to be an interesting character. I could appreciate the honest feelings he had in regards to his father's impending death. I never felt anything for any of the characters in this novel. I didn't understand why Andrew was attracted to Robert. Andrew appeared to be smart but fell into the same trap so many teachers fall into nowadays. He had four months to wait, stinking four months and he couldn't do it.
The story went downhill rapidly. It felt like I was reading a bad soap opera: entitled student with over-indulgent parent sets up teacher. Ex-wife in love with gay ex-husband. Desperate teacher hitting on another teacher who shows no interest in her. I couldn't skip pages fast enough to get to the end.
November 22, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
Where You Are was a struggle for me for so many reasons. When it opens, Robert’s father is dying and Robert’s life is extremely stressful. A number of characters are introduced and one is more loathsome than the next. Robert has two aunts that take over his house while his father is dying. They rearrange things, make it Robert’s fault when their young children vandalize Robert’s room, treat his mother as the hired help, and constantly remind him that he is less than everyone else in the family. We are shown evidence that Robert’s father never cared for him and it is extremely unpleasant to watch for the first part of the book. Although Robert’s mother has her own issues to deal with, she mostly responds by leaving the house, and Robert is basically waiting for them to be able to move on to life without his father, although his feelings are complicated as well. Robert also has a boyfriend sort of in name only; they spend little time together as the boyfriend has to schedule Robert into his calendar, and their relationship was already in progress when the book starts and never explained well or at all.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
Where You Are was a struggle for me for so many reasons. When it opens, Robert’s father is dying and Robert’s life is extremely stressful. A number of characters are introduced and one is more loathsome than the next. Robert has two aunts that take over his house while his father is dying. They rearrange things, make it Robert’s fault when their young children vandalize Robert’s room, treat his mother as the hired help, and constantly remind him that he is less than everyone else in the family. We are shown evidence that Robert’s father never cared for him and it is extremely unpleasant to watch for the first part of the book. Although Robert’s mother has her own issues to deal with, she mostly responds by leaving the house, and Robert is basically waiting for them to be able to move on to life without his father, although his feelings are complicated as well. Robert also has a boyfriend sort of in name only; they spend little time together as the boyfriend has to schedule Robert into his calendar, and their relationship was already in progress when the book starts and never explained well or at all.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 18, 2024
I really loved this! It’s a well written slow burn about a forbidden romance between a teacher (who’s only 25, btw), and his 17 years old student, and it hit me with a lot of feels. The sex is off page, but that didn’t even bother me. This book is more about how two people find their other significant half and society has decided they can’t be together because of the student/teacher relationship. And I get that, sure, but in this case the whole world was against them and all they did was love each other.
There are some side plots that might make this book a tough read for some, so be aware of them before you proceed. (A terminal sick parent, a very bad parent-son relationship, interfering family members who shouldn’t be as hateful as they are for example).
I’ll definitely read more by this author.
There are some side plots that might make this book a tough read for some, so be aware of them before you proceed. (A terminal sick parent, a very bad parent-son relationship, interfering family members who shouldn’t be as hateful as they are for example).
I’ll definitely read more by this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 407 reviews