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Fading #2
Freeing
#1 Amazon Bestseller in Gay Fiction and LGBT Romance
Knowing who you are and accepting who you are come at different prices.
Jase Kinrick is terrified of the person he's discovering himself to be. Shame, confusion, and denial hover over him with an ever-constant burden.
Escaping California and moving to Seattle to attend the University of Washington, Jase frees himself enough to recognize that he likes men, but he doesn't realize that he's still in denial until he meets Mark. When emotions become real, it stirs up the questions and fears he's fought hard to hide from.
Stripping away the barriers of his heart to accept what is real will be Jase's defining moment, but he'll need Mark to lead him there.
Knowing who you are and accepting who you are come at different prices.
Jase Kinrick is terrified of the person he's discovering himself to be. Shame, confusion, and denial hover over him with an ever-constant burden.
Escaping California and moving to Seattle to attend the University of Washington, Jase frees himself enough to recognize that he likes men, but he doesn't realize that he's still in denial until he meets Mark. When emotions become real, it stirs up the questions and fears he's fought hard to hide from.
Stripping away the barriers of his heart to accept what is real will be Jase's defining moment, but he'll need Mark to lead him there.
296 pages, Paperback
First published September 9, 2013
97 people are currently reading
4294 people want to read
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dnf
June 14, 201946% dnf
Almost half way through and the story is more focused on the relationship between one of the MCs and his female best friend than it is on the relationship development that is supposed to be happening between MCs. What very little interaction there is between the MCs is lackluster. At this point, no matter what happens next, I seriously doubt I'll feel any chemistry between them. I also wasn't to crazy about the writing style. So it's pointless for me to continue.
Almost half way through and the story is more focused on the relationship between one of the MCs and his female best friend than it is on the relationship development that is supposed to be happening between MCs. What very little interaction there is between the MCs is lackluster. At this point, no matter what happens next, I seriously doubt I'll feel any chemistry between them. I also wasn't to crazy about the writing style. So it's pointless for me to continue.
October 16, 2013
Note to self: If I ever decide to read in public, make sure it is Shakespeare’s biography or Locke’s treaties, not books where tears are streaming down my face, heart so full of emotion it might actually burst, and random people looking at me like I came from a lunatic asylum.
In many ways, this book was a first for me. It’s my debut in reading m/m romances and can I say, HOLY FLYING COW?! Not only was the book packed with an intensity that is rare to find in today's New Adult genre, but also is infused with a message that is life-changing. Freeing is one emotionally provocative story that takes you on a journey filled with pain, regret, passion, and love. Especially love. Love after loss, love after forgiveness, and love after accepting yourself.
Jase Kinrick is what you see on the outside – good-looking playboy and laidback person – except that he is gay. It was absolutely heartbreaking to read about his fears, his loneliness, and his attempts to counter against his feelings. His parents didn’t understand him, and the one person who did (before Candace) happened to be No one there to guide him, support him, or be there for him, and as a result, Jase closed off his emotions. He made walls so high in fear of being judged and humiliated, all while waging an internal war with himself.
“Who wants a fag for a friend? I’ve spent the last few years praying that this is just a phase. Fighting the thoughts that skate around in my head. Pretending to be someone I’m not in an attempt to escape this sick person who lives inside of me.”
Jase continues down a self-destructive path until he meets Mark, a guitarist and Architect major. For the first time in his life, Jase is interested in more than a casual hook-up but still holds back, fearing public scorn.
“Here I believed, for the past three years, that I’ve been an openly gay man, but truth is, I’m still hiding. I didn’t really see it until Mark came along. He made me realize just how scared of these feelings I actually am. I don’t want a relationship with him because I’m afraid that will make it too real for me. Define me. Gay. Fag. Queer. Fuck. Am I ready for that?”
It was empowering to watch him struggle against his insecurities and demons and come out a strong, confident man. It was heartwarming to see the faithful Mark stand by his side and support his decisions. Their story completely consumed me, and though my emotions went through a painful rollercoaster ride, I wouldn’t change a single thing.
Another aspect I truly loved but was equally terrified of was Candace’s role in this book. Reading about her ordeal in Fading for the first time was excruciating, but to read it through Jase’s eyes…the pain and agony he felt, I could feel. She’s his only family, and for her to be hurt this way wrecked part of his heart. No one should have to watch your closest friend morph into a shell of what she once was, least of all Jase.
“She’s never going to do anything about this. She’s just gonna pretend it never happened, and he’s never going to pay for what he did.” I choke back a breath as tears fall down my face and then turn to look at him. “So tell me…what the hell do I do?”
E.K. Blair’s writing is phenomenal, and the tears her words induced were not like others. It wasn’t a cry-out-loud, wailing, or sobbing type; it was the silent, chilling tears that dripped down my face because by that time, I had already lost my voice. My heart was crammed into my throat and there were only so many pages I read afterwards to force me to realize that, yes, this did happen, and yes, Jase is left picking up her broken pieces, which makes this part of the book even more heartbreaking to read from his point of view.
While this book can be read as a standalone, I strongly advise you to read Fading , Candace’s book, first as it allows you to grasp the full meaning of her experiences, as well as shed light on the complexities of her friendship with Jase. I cannot say this enough, but I highly, highly recommend you to read this series if you haven’t already!!!
5 SOUL-ETCHING STARS!!!
ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Please note that all quotes are from an advance copy and are subject to change in the final edition.
In many ways, this book was a first for me. It’s my debut in reading m/m romances and can I say, HOLY FLYING COW?! Not only was the book packed with an intensity that is rare to find in today's New Adult genre, but also is infused with a message that is life-changing. Freeing is one emotionally provocative story that takes you on a journey filled with pain, regret, passion, and love. Especially love. Love after loss, love after forgiveness, and love after accepting yourself.
Jase Kinrick is what you see on the outside – good-looking playboy and laidback person – except that he is gay. It was absolutely heartbreaking to read about his fears, his loneliness, and his attempts to counter against his feelings. His parents didn’t understand him, and the one person who did (before Candace) happened to be No one there to guide him, support him, or be there for him, and as a result, Jase closed off his emotions. He made walls so high in fear of being judged and humiliated, all while waging an internal war with himself.
“Who wants a fag for a friend? I’ve spent the last few years praying that this is just a phase. Fighting the thoughts that skate around in my head. Pretending to be someone I’m not in an attempt to escape this sick person who lives inside of me.”
Jase continues down a self-destructive path until he meets Mark, a guitarist and Architect major. For the first time in his life, Jase is interested in more than a casual hook-up but still holds back, fearing public scorn.
“Here I believed, for the past three years, that I’ve been an openly gay man, but truth is, I’m still hiding. I didn’t really see it until Mark came along. He made me realize just how scared of these feelings I actually am. I don’t want a relationship with him because I’m afraid that will make it too real for me. Define me. Gay. Fag. Queer. Fuck. Am I ready for that?”
It was empowering to watch him struggle against his insecurities and demons and come out a strong, confident man. It was heartwarming to see the faithful Mark stand by his side and support his decisions. Their story completely consumed me, and though my emotions went through a painful rollercoaster ride, I wouldn’t change a single thing.
Another aspect I truly loved but was equally terrified of was Candace’s role in this book. Reading about her ordeal in Fading for the first time was excruciating, but to read it through Jase’s eyes…the pain and agony he felt, I could feel. She’s his only family, and for her to be hurt this way wrecked part of his heart. No one should have to watch your closest friend morph into a shell of what she once was, least of all Jase.
“She’s never going to do anything about this. She’s just gonna pretend it never happened, and he’s never going to pay for what he did.” I choke back a breath as tears fall down my face and then turn to look at him. “So tell me…what the hell do I do?”
E.K. Blair’s writing is phenomenal, and the tears her words induced were not like others. It wasn’t a cry-out-loud, wailing, or sobbing type; it was the silent, chilling tears that dripped down my face because by that time, I had already lost my voice. My heart was crammed into my throat and there were only so many pages I read afterwards to force me to realize that, yes, this did happen, and yes, Jase is left picking up her broken pieces, which makes this part of the book even more heartbreaking to read from his point of view.
While this book can be read as a standalone, I strongly advise you to read Fading , Candace’s book, first as it allows you to grasp the full meaning of her experiences, as well as shed light on the complexities of her friendship with Jase. I cannot say this enough, but I highly, highly recommend you to read this series if you haven’t already!!!
5 SOUL-ETCHING STARS!!!
ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Please note that all quotes are from an advance copy and are subject to change in the final edition.
September 25, 2013
E.K. Blair makes me positively giddy with joy that I’m a reviewer and a co-blogger, but, most especially, that I’m a reader!! For me, personally, she is my greatest find this year and an absolute treasure for those who crave depth, powerful emotion, and authenticity in storytelling!
Freeing is, as E.K. says, a companion novel to her positively masterful debut, Fading. I so loved the way that E.K. told Jase and Mark’s story, within the context of Fading. I first met Jase while reading Fading. He was Candace’s best friend…a thoroughly inadequate term to describe their relationship. What I found in Fading was that Jase was one of the most loyal, giving, supportive, and loving friends I had ever had the pleasure to read about. I remember writing in my review that everyone needed a ‘Jase’ in his or her life, and I mean that even more after reading Freeing. In Fading, as one would expect, I learned only bits and pieces of Jase and Mark’s relationship, and I fell in love with these two immediately. Separately and together, they were exceptional young men who gave of themselves, fully and without hesitation, to their friends. I watched them support Candace unflinchingly and so selflessly, and when I found out that they would have their own book, I literally shouted, “YES”!! Their story needed and deserved to be told!
So, Freeing. Wow…Freeing! Freeing retells parts of Fading from Jase’s point of view. It also tells Jase’s story, as well as the love story of Jase and Mark. From the first page, I knew I was in for another intensely emotional and personal ride. The prologue moved me so deeply because it told of a young Jase fighting with himself, with how he was raised—fighting his parents’ values and beliefs which were preached too him from day one—about who he really was, not who his parents wanted him to be. Maybe not even who he wanted to be, at first. The way E.K. Blair tells a story is a rare gift. She always makes me feel so much, and this was no exception. I felt Jase’s agony as he struggled with admitting to himself what he knew was fact. In turn, I imagined just how many young men and women go through that exact agony, that exact sense of self-loathing every single day. It was a profound moment for me, to say the least. I so hurt for Jase in that prologue and again, later in the book, as he confronted his parents and came out to them.
I refuse to ruin the experience of this story for anyone, so I won’t discuss the remaining truly crucial scenes in detail. However, I do have to mention, one of the most beautiful scenes took place at the end of Chapter 14, and it was a conversation between Jase and his sister. That’s all the detail I’m giving, but, in my opinion, it is a conversation not to be missed. It was so simple and so well-crafted. It may just be me, but that scene literally made me catch my breath and then the tears just rolled. Of course, because it’s E.K. Blair, there are any number of scenes in this book where I could say the same. For instance, every scene between Jase and Candace was imbued with a love which, honestly, left me in tears many times throughout the story. Their platonic love affair—because calling it a friendship does it an injustice—is one I will never forget. Breathtaking!
Mark was, without any doubt, the perfect man—the only man—for Jase. Complete opposites almost, Mark was confident, self-aware, and perfectly comfortable with who he was. He recognized and was terribly patient with Jase’s insecurities about being gay and being in a committed relationship. Mark wasn’t a pushover. I would never call him that. He was a very good judge of character, though, and he read people unbelievably well. He understood the reasons behind Jase’s self-sabotage and hesitancy, and they worked together to overcome all obstacles. I had so much admiration and respect for Mark.
Every time I finish a book by E.K. Blair, I’m left greedy for another! Her writing speaks to me so clearly and moves me so deeply. I remember being young and finding that first book which made my eyes open wide, my mouth drop open, and everything around me fade away as I became lost in the story. E.K. Blair gives me that experience with every story she tells. Have I said thank you, E.K.? Because you deserve at least that. Thank you so much for inspiring that wide-eyed enthusiasm for reading once again!! The books may be decidedly more mature, but the feeling…that feeling…it’s exactly the same.
5 Stars (did you doubt it?!)
Freeing is, as E.K. says, a companion novel to her positively masterful debut, Fading. I so loved the way that E.K. told Jase and Mark’s story, within the context of Fading. I first met Jase while reading Fading. He was Candace’s best friend…a thoroughly inadequate term to describe their relationship. What I found in Fading was that Jase was one of the most loyal, giving, supportive, and loving friends I had ever had the pleasure to read about. I remember writing in my review that everyone needed a ‘Jase’ in his or her life, and I mean that even more after reading Freeing. In Fading, as one would expect, I learned only bits and pieces of Jase and Mark’s relationship, and I fell in love with these two immediately. Separately and together, they were exceptional young men who gave of themselves, fully and without hesitation, to their friends. I watched them support Candace unflinchingly and so selflessly, and when I found out that they would have their own book, I literally shouted, “YES”!! Their story needed and deserved to be told!
So, Freeing. Wow…Freeing! Freeing retells parts of Fading from Jase’s point of view. It also tells Jase’s story, as well as the love story of Jase and Mark. From the first page, I knew I was in for another intensely emotional and personal ride. The prologue moved me so deeply because it told of a young Jase fighting with himself, with how he was raised—fighting his parents’ values and beliefs which were preached too him from day one—about who he really was, not who his parents wanted him to be. Maybe not even who he wanted to be, at first. The way E.K. Blair tells a story is a rare gift. She always makes me feel so much, and this was no exception. I felt Jase’s agony as he struggled with admitting to himself what he knew was fact. In turn, I imagined just how many young men and women go through that exact agony, that exact sense of self-loathing every single day. It was a profound moment for me, to say the least. I so hurt for Jase in that prologue and again, later in the book, as he confronted his parents and came out to them.
I refuse to ruin the experience of this story for anyone, so I won’t discuss the remaining truly crucial scenes in detail. However, I do have to mention, one of the most beautiful scenes took place at the end of Chapter 14, and it was a conversation between Jase and his sister. That’s all the detail I’m giving, but, in my opinion, it is a conversation not to be missed. It was so simple and so well-crafted. It may just be me, but that scene literally made me catch my breath and then the tears just rolled. Of course, because it’s E.K. Blair, there are any number of scenes in this book where I could say the same. For instance, every scene between Jase and Candace was imbued with a love which, honestly, left me in tears many times throughout the story. Their platonic love affair—because calling it a friendship does it an injustice—is one I will never forget. Breathtaking!
Mark was, without any doubt, the perfect man—the only man—for Jase. Complete opposites almost, Mark was confident, self-aware, and perfectly comfortable with who he was. He recognized and was terribly patient with Jase’s insecurities about being gay and being in a committed relationship. Mark wasn’t a pushover. I would never call him that. He was a very good judge of character, though, and he read people unbelievably well. He understood the reasons behind Jase’s self-sabotage and hesitancy, and they worked together to overcome all obstacles. I had so much admiration and respect for Mark.
Every time I finish a book by E.K. Blair, I’m left greedy for another! Her writing speaks to me so clearly and moves me so deeply. I remember being young and finding that first book which made my eyes open wide, my mouth drop open, and everything around me fade away as I became lost in the story. E.K. Blair gives me that experience with every story she tells. Have I said thank you, E.K.? Because you deserve at least that. Thank you so much for inspiring that wide-eyed enthusiasm for reading once again!! The books may be decidedly more mature, but the feeling…that feeling…it’s exactly the same.
5 Stars (did you doubt it?!)
August 30, 2017
Freeing es el segundo libro de la trilogia Fading de la autora E. K. Blair y narra la historia de Jase y Mack, personajes secundarios en el primer libro.
No he leido demasiadas novelas m/m pero las que he leido son bastante diferentes entre si, por eso puedo decir sinceramente que esta historia ha sido la mas sentimental y profunda. Es cierto que no me llamaba demasiado la atencion y que incluso pense en saltarme este libro pero la verdad es que me alegro de haberle dado una oportunidad, ya que conocer mas a Mack y Jase fue una experiencia muy buena.
Me gusto mucho la forma en la que la autora desarrollo la trama, lo hizo de una manera muy tierna y real, no como en otros libros de esta tematica en la que todo suele ser brusco y rapido, ademas fue interesante leer lo que le pasa a Candace desde otro punto de vista, la hizo mas completa.
No leere Falling hasta dentro de unos dias, para que asi no se me haga repetitiva, aunque no se si aguantare mucho tiempo, ya que me muero de ganas por leer mas sobre Ryan y Candace.
3 Estrellas!
Read
February 12, 2014SO the most freeing thing about this book was deciding to free myself from reading it..because it is that ridiculously-ridiculous. This story is like a co-dumb-dependant fixation of an unentertaining kind involving a nauseatingly-damaged bestie (female) who he spends more time cuddling/sleeping with than his current male love interest (because she reminds him so much of his dead sister O.o)
And..there is a love story supposedly somewhere in all this..of the male persuasion but good luck finding it.
I am very appreciative of the beautiful cover to decorate my shelf with. Thank you.
And..there is a love story supposedly somewhere in all this..of the male persuasion but good luck finding it.
I am very appreciative of the beautiful cover to decorate my shelf with. Thank you.
July 22, 2013
I had the privilege of reading Freeing in exchange for an honest review. I had my reservations when first approaching the story due to the concept, but I am thankful I moved past them and embraced the story for what it really is. A love story.
Jase leads you through the all too common and unfortunate struggle of accepting who you are, when both internal and external forces are powerfully resistant. A companion to the novel "Fading", you get the opportunity to literally walk in another persons shoe's while re-experiencing the story from a completely fresh perspective. (It is absolutely not the retelling of the same story that happens often from a different POV.)
For as emotionally deep as Jase is, he does his best to hide behind the walls he has built overtime for self preservation. His best friend Candace is the only one to see who he truly is, and even she is held at a distance when it comes to being completely exposed. Jase is challenged with the age old truth, how can you fully love some one else when you cannot even love yourself. Freeing takes you on the journey of how exactly he will answer that question. Mark comes into his life as a divinely gifted guide, who's calmness and strength enables Jase to take this voyage of self discovery. Seeking out who you are is both painful and heartbreaking, fearful and loaded with doubt. When we choose to cross those barriers and face them head on, you stumble upon the greatest feeling of all which is strength, and within it the the driving force, which is freeing.
I LOVED THIS STORY!!! E.K. is a daring and innovative writer who is not afraid to take on the brutal aspects of humanity and expose the lightness hidden deep inside. 5 stars all the way!
Jase leads you through the all too common and unfortunate struggle of accepting who you are, when both internal and external forces are powerfully resistant. A companion to the novel "Fading", you get the opportunity to literally walk in another persons shoe's while re-experiencing the story from a completely fresh perspective. (It is absolutely not the retelling of the same story that happens often from a different POV.)
For as emotionally deep as Jase is, he does his best to hide behind the walls he has built overtime for self preservation. His best friend Candace is the only one to see who he truly is, and even she is held at a distance when it comes to being completely exposed. Jase is challenged with the age old truth, how can you fully love some one else when you cannot even love yourself. Freeing takes you on the journey of how exactly he will answer that question. Mark comes into his life as a divinely gifted guide, who's calmness and strength enables Jase to take this voyage of self discovery. Seeking out who you are is both painful and heartbreaking, fearful and loaded with doubt. When we choose to cross those barriers and face them head on, you stumble upon the greatest feeling of all which is strength, and within it the the driving force, which is freeing.
I LOVED THIS STORY!!! E.K. is a daring and innovative writer who is not afraid to take on the brutal aspects of humanity and expose the lightness hidden deep inside. 5 stars all the way!
September 17, 2013
Because Jase totally deserved to have a little spot light! So glad this book is happening!
I begged E.K to write this after beta reading Fading. It may be tabu, risky, cutting edge but this novel was completely necessary. I loved Jase and Mark in Fading, but after Freeing I love them even more.
love is love, and experiencing Jase coming to terms with who he is was an awe inspiring journey. I can't imagine having to hide who you are, or who you love.
this novel has the power to help, to free and hopefully push equal rights for all. it can tear down pre-conceived notions of being "gay". Love is love, a couple is a couple.
E.K. you are awesomesauce for having the girl parts to say "fuck it" and write what was real, it may not be mainstream but I smell another best seller.
I begged E.K to write this after beta reading Fading. It may be tabu, risky, cutting edge but this novel was completely necessary. I loved Jase and Mark in Fading, but after Freeing I love them even more.
love is love, and experiencing Jase coming to terms with who he is was an awe inspiring journey. I can't imagine having to hide who you are, or who you love.
this novel has the power to help, to free and hopefully push equal rights for all. it can tear down pre-conceived notions of being "gay". Love is love, a couple is a couple.
E.K. you are awesomesauce for having the girl parts to say "fuck it" and write what was real, it may not be mainstream but I smell another best seller.
September 25, 2013
*** 5 BEAUTIFUL HEARTFELT FREEING STARS ***
I absolutely fell in love with E.K. Blair's debut novel, Fading. So when I heard she was going to write a companion novel for Jase, I knew I had to read it. Freeing is a beautiful heartfelt tear-jerking book that teaches and reminds us all a valuable lesson in love, understanding, acceptance, and most importantly to be free: Free to be comfortable to who we are as individuals, Free to not let fear hold us back, and most importantly FREE to LOVE.
In Freeing, we follow Jase's journey of self-discovery from moving from California to Seattle. Leaving his hometown, Jase finally thinks he can escape from his guilt and shame of being gay. He has random hook-ups with guys but is never 100% comfortable and avoids being in relationship because it would make it "real" for him. When Jase meets Mark, he knows Mark is different from the rest. Mark is the one guy who challenges Jase to finally set himself free of his insecurities, guilt, shame, and to finally open his heart to LOVE.
The transformation and growth of Jase was truly inspiring and heartfelt. I felt so much empathy for Jase as he struggled with his inner demons and being comfortable in his own sexuality. He so badly wanted to love and to be loved. I ached and felt his pain because I know there are others like Jase still struggling with being accepted for who they are by others and in society.
"It isn't about deserving; it's about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift, and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you."
Mark is truly a remarkable boyfriend. He stood by Jase through his times of struggles and always made sure that they were on the same page. He was so understanding of Jase's friendship with Candace and his fears and insecurities. His patience, kindness and compassion was a perfect balance for Jase. There are not enough words to describe the love that Mark has for Jase but simply: Beautiful and Breathtaking.
"Giving Mark this,something I have never given anyone else, makes me want to give him even more. There's no shame, no regret; there's only love for the man that is showing me that it's okay to be me........ He calms me when we are together like this, and I don't want this with anyone but him."
Jase's story reminds us all that the first step in truly loving someone is to love yourself first. I would highly recommend everyone to read this book because it will touch your heart and reminds us all that LOVE between two people regardless of sex, color and religion is just BEAUTIFUL!!
Freeing was my first M/M romance book that I read and it was truly heartening and empowering for others who are still struggling with their sexuality and acceptance. E.K. Blair knows how to write a fantastic and profound book that delivers a powerful message of love and acceptance. I truly admire the fact that she isn't afraid to write about difficult subjects. She knows how to write a compelling and emotionally driven book that is full of true raw honesty. I look forward to reading FALLING and future works by E.K. Blair.
On a side note, I LOVE the cover of this book. Both the book covers of Fading and Freeing was simply exquisite and alluring.
E.K. Blair
"I'm sad because I love you. When your heart hurts, so does mine. Your pain is my pain."
I absolutely fell in love with E.K. Blair's debut novel, Fading. So when I heard she was going to write a companion novel for Jase, I knew I had to read it. Freeing is a beautiful heartfelt tear-jerking book that teaches and reminds us all a valuable lesson in love, understanding, acceptance, and most importantly to be free: Free to be comfortable to who we are as individuals, Free to not let fear hold us back, and most importantly FREE to LOVE.
"Wanting to put an end to this war I've been battling inside of myself, I surrender my heart and trade it for his."
In Freeing, we follow Jase's journey of self-discovery from moving from California to Seattle. Leaving his hometown, Jase finally thinks he can escape from his guilt and shame of being gay. He has random hook-ups with guys but is never 100% comfortable and avoids being in relationship because it would make it "real" for him. When Jase meets Mark, he knows Mark is different from the rest. Mark is the one guy who challenges Jase to finally set himself free of his insecurities, guilt, shame, and to finally open his heart to LOVE.
The transformation and growth of Jase was truly inspiring and heartfelt. I felt so much empathy for Jase as he struggled with his inner demons and being comfortable in his own sexuality. He so badly wanted to love and to be loved. I ached and felt his pain because I know there are others like Jase still struggling with being accepted for who they are by others and in society.
"It isn't about deserving; it's about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift, and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you."
Mark is truly a remarkable boyfriend. He stood by Jase through his times of struggles and always made sure that they were on the same page. He was so understanding of Jase's friendship with Candace and his fears and insecurities. His patience, kindness and compassion was a perfect balance for Jase. There are not enough words to describe the love that Mark has for Jase but simply: Beautiful and Breathtaking.
"Giving Mark this,something I have never given anyone else, makes me want to give him even more. There's no shame, no regret; there's only love for the man that is showing me that it's okay to be me........ He calms me when we are together like this, and I don't want this with anyone but him."
Jase's story reminds us all that the first step in truly loving someone is to love yourself first. I would highly recommend everyone to read this book because it will touch your heart and reminds us all that LOVE between two people regardless of sex, color and religion is just BEAUTIFUL!!
"Fighting to be free. But now I realize, it isn't about fighting.It's letting go of the fight to see that what I've been searching for is within him. Mark is my freeing."
Freeing was my first M/M romance book that I read and it was truly heartening and empowering for others who are still struggling with their sexuality and acceptance. E.K. Blair knows how to write a fantastic and profound book that delivers a powerful message of love and acceptance. I truly admire the fact that she isn't afraid to write about difficult subjects. She knows how to write a compelling and emotionally driven book that is full of true raw honesty. I look forward to reading FALLING and future works by E.K. Blair.
On a side note, I LOVE the cover of this book. Both the book covers of Fading and Freeing was simply exquisite and alluring.
E.K. Blair
November 16, 2014
Amazing, hearwarming story about liking who you really are, finding peace with yourslef and true love. This is everything I hoped for from E. K Blair. Now, I only crave even more.
September 9, 2013
ARC received for an honest review
Freeing by EK Blair
5 stars!!
ac•cep•tance
n.
1. The act or process of accepting.
2. The state of being accepted or acceptable.
3. Favorable reception; approval.
4. Belief in something; agreement
I was worried going into this, just a teensy, weensy bit…after all Fading was absolutely brilliant, how could EK Blair match it or even top it? How could you also tell the same story without spoiling the original? I needn’t have worried. Freeing is so much more than just a rehash of Fading, it is it’s own unique story and one, once again amazingly told by EK Blair.
“It isn’t about deserving; it’s about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift, and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you.”
We all know that Jase was the best friend of Candace and he was gay, he was also in a relationship with Mark and we all know the relationship that he had with Candace. Well this book takes this all on to the next level and then some! We also get a look at Jase’s background and his parents. This is a book about a boy that just wants to be loved and accepted. He wants to be able to feel happy in his own skin, he wants to be happy with his life choices and not feel dirty or strange or abnormal or even worse abhorrent. This is Jase’s story!
EK Blair is an amazing writer, her stories captivate you from the very beginning, her writing is fluid and she creates characters that you cannot help but love and feel for. I had recently expanded my reading material to M/M and have read some amazing books, so the fact that this was about Jase and Mark was not intimidating at all, I couldn’t wait to get started.
“My pieces feel like they are stripped bare.” I catch his eyes when I look back up and tell him, “I’m not sure I even have enough of them."
“Maybe I have what you’re missing. But if you keep holding back, you’ll never find out. You’ll never know how well we can fit together if you don’t try”
I fell in love with Jase in Fading, he was such a pillar of strength to Candace and the relationship that those two shared was so endearing, they were truly soul mates. He was selfless, loveable, dependable just a total amazing guy. Jase’s problems very much stem from himself, he is having a hard time dealing with the fact that he is gay, whilst he has accepted it somewhat, he still hasn’t “come out” to his parents, he continues with his “non-committal” relationships or one night stands, as he feels that if they are one off’s they don’t really mean anything. After his sisters death, he shoulders the responsibility of being the only child left of his parents, with that comes added pressure and deemed responsibilities, but deep down he knows that they would never accept him for who he is, hence his reluctance to tell them the truth. The way he talks to his sister for guidance is heart breaking. He knows that if she were alive, she would tell him what to do, she would accept him, he misses her, a lot!
Mark, such a loveable character, he has been through what Jase is going through, he handles him with kid gloves, he is a lot more understanding than most would be and certainly more forgiving. Jase tries to push him away in his own way, but Mark is steadfast, after some apologies and sincerity, he understands and he helps Jase, he guides Jase and most of all he centres him. His parents are totally amazing and the way that they also help Jase was brilliant to read. They are just what Jase needs and wants. The chat with Mark’s dad on the roof was brilliant! Mark gently makes Jase understand that he deserves love, to love himself and most of all he can give love back.
“No doubts. No questions. He’s freed me in a way I didn’t think was possible. I didn’t know I could open myself up this way to another man and be so exposed. But he doesn’t judge. He has only ever given me the benefit of the doubt, letting me stumble at my own pace. And even though I am scared shitless about meeting his family, I want to because there isn’t anyone else I want to be with. He’s it.”
This book was unputdownable for me, it was a tub of pringles…once I popped I couldn’t stop! I devoured it, I was captivated by Jase’s story, I didn’t want it to stop and I didn’t want it to end. These two books have left their mark on my heart and memory, they are one I will not forget and I cannot wait to see what this author has up her sleeve next! Whatever it is, you can be sure it will be well written!!
www.theromancecover.com
Freeing by EK Blair
5 stars!!
ac•cep•tance
n.
1. The act or process of accepting.
2. The state of being accepted or acceptable.
3. Favorable reception; approval.
4. Belief in something; agreement
I was worried going into this, just a teensy, weensy bit…after all Fading was absolutely brilliant, how could EK Blair match it or even top it? How could you also tell the same story without spoiling the original? I needn’t have worried. Freeing is so much more than just a rehash of Fading, it is it’s own unique story and one, once again amazingly told by EK Blair.
“It isn’t about deserving; it’s about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift, and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you.”
We all know that Jase was the best friend of Candace and he was gay, he was also in a relationship with Mark and we all know the relationship that he had with Candace. Well this book takes this all on to the next level and then some! We also get a look at Jase’s background and his parents. This is a book about a boy that just wants to be loved and accepted. He wants to be able to feel happy in his own skin, he wants to be happy with his life choices and not feel dirty or strange or abnormal or even worse abhorrent. This is Jase’s story!
EK Blair is an amazing writer, her stories captivate you from the very beginning, her writing is fluid and she creates characters that you cannot help but love and feel for. I had recently expanded my reading material to M/M and have read some amazing books, so the fact that this was about Jase and Mark was not intimidating at all, I couldn’t wait to get started.
“My pieces feel like they are stripped bare.” I catch his eyes when I look back up and tell him, “I’m not sure I even have enough of them."
“Maybe I have what you’re missing. But if you keep holding back, you’ll never find out. You’ll never know how well we can fit together if you don’t try”
I fell in love with Jase in Fading, he was such a pillar of strength to Candace and the relationship that those two shared was so endearing, they were truly soul mates. He was selfless, loveable, dependable just a total amazing guy. Jase’s problems very much stem from himself, he is having a hard time dealing with the fact that he is gay, whilst he has accepted it somewhat, he still hasn’t “come out” to his parents, he continues with his “non-committal” relationships or one night stands, as he feels that if they are one off’s they don’t really mean anything. After his sisters death, he shoulders the responsibility of being the only child left of his parents, with that comes added pressure and deemed responsibilities, but deep down he knows that they would never accept him for who he is, hence his reluctance to tell them the truth. The way he talks to his sister for guidance is heart breaking. He knows that if she were alive, she would tell him what to do, she would accept him, he misses her, a lot!
Mark, such a loveable character, he has been through what Jase is going through, he handles him with kid gloves, he is a lot more understanding than most would be and certainly more forgiving. Jase tries to push him away in his own way, but Mark is steadfast, after some apologies and sincerity, he understands and he helps Jase, he guides Jase and most of all he centres him. His parents are totally amazing and the way that they also help Jase was brilliant to read. They are just what Jase needs and wants. The chat with Mark’s dad on the roof was brilliant! Mark gently makes Jase understand that he deserves love, to love himself and most of all he can give love back.
“No doubts. No questions. He’s freed me in a way I didn’t think was possible. I didn’t know I could open myself up this way to another man and be so exposed. But he doesn’t judge. He has only ever given me the benefit of the doubt, letting me stumble at my own pace. And even though I am scared shitless about meeting his family, I want to because there isn’t anyone else I want to be with. He’s it.”
This book was unputdownable for me, it was a tub of pringles…once I popped I couldn’t stop! I devoured it, I was captivated by Jase’s story, I didn’t want it to stop and I didn’t want it to end. These two books have left their mark on my heart and memory, they are one I will not forget and I cannot wait to see what this author has up her sleeve next! Whatever it is, you can be sure it will be well written!!
www.theromancecover.com
July 28, 2013
Holy cow. I didn't know if I could possibly love Jase's story in Freeing more than I loved Candace's story in Fading, but I did. And here's why-- E.K. Blair effortlessly manages to tell Jase's story in a way that feels both independent and interwoven with Candace's, but never repetitive. Freeing largely revolves around Jase struggling with his insecurities, and his eventual acceptance of his own worth. By the end of the book, I felt like I was leaving my best friend behind. What surprised me most was how much I absolutely fell head-over-flip-flops for Mark. I liked him in Fading, but meeting Mark through Jase's eyes was such a pleasure that I found myself with a new book boyfriend (and I totally don't care that he's not into girls, I'm claiming him). Just like in Candace's story in Fading, Jase's journey in Freeing is riddled with emotional potholes and a sense of realism I just don't see as often as I'd like. Every character felt like someone I could easily meet at my corner coffee shop. The only part of this book I really didn't like was that it had to end eventually. I wanted to live in those pages with Jase and Mark forever.
October 8, 2013
“How can this be wrong? To love someone. How can love be a sin?”
Once in a blue moon, there comes a book that is not just a book, but a statement of truth. A statement of hope. A statement of defiance. A statement of courage. A book that gently nudges us to take stock of the world around us and acknowledge its faults. Freeing is not a story intended to glorify homosexuality in any shape or form – it is nothing more than a reality check, a vividly poignant account of one man’s battle with his own sexual orientation during his journey of self-acceptance. This is a book that moved me, tore me apart, frustrated me, and then soothed me with its beautiful ending, and it is a must read in every possible way.
Jason “Jase” Kinrick is a loyal and selfless friend, an emotional rock to his best friend Candace and an overall fun and positive person to be around. But under that fragile layer of self-assurance and stability lies a troubled young man torn between what he is and what he was taught he should be. Surrounded by people in his life who accept and love him for his heart, not his dating preferences, Jase might have stopped fighting his own body and physically embraced his sexual orientation, but he is still struggling with the ‘label’ of being gay. He was raised to believe that homosexuality is a choice, against God’s wishes, inherently perverse and intolerable, and that is what subconsciously Jase still believes to a certain extent. He lives his life without committing or investing any of himself in the men he sleeps with, indiscriminately satisfying his carnal needs but starving his heart and self-esteem.
“I believe in God, and was taught that this way of life is wrong. It isn’t what He wants; it isn’t what I want, but at the same time… it is.”
When Jase meets Mark, the attraction is immediate, but unexpectedly different. Instead of following his usual pattern of behaviour and jumping into bed with him on their first date, they slowly get to know each other, like each other, fall for one another. But while Mark is confident in his feelings for Jase and in what he wants and hopes for in their relationship, Jase does not share such confidence in them or himself, afraid that a real bond would finally and irreversibly define him as being “gay”.
“Imperfect. Unequal. I’m undeserving and selfish. You’re worth so much more than what I’m capable of giving you.”
When losing a good man like Mark becomes the ultimate price to pay for not being true to himself, Jase sets to change his life by living it with courage and honesty. However, self-acceptance does not happen overnight and while the world around you might adjust itself quickly or not even care either way, the shift in a person’s perception of themselves can be a painful task to achieve, especially when self-destructive behaviour has always been the easy way out. Thankfully, Mark’s love acts as a guiding light in that tunnel of self-deprecation and steers Jase towards his truth and the realisation that it is okay to be who he has always been and who he was always meant to be.
“No one has ever given me what you do.”
“I want to give you everything.”
We get to live this journey with Jase, feel his turmoil and moments of doubt, taste his desperation to free himself from the binds of his own mind, from the way he was taught to believe that being gay is somehow wrong, something to be fought and suppressed. I was heartbroken by his fear of being judged by others as a young man finally embracing his sexuality, but I was completely shattered by the disapproval and lack of acceptance from those who were meant to love him unconditionally.
“This is a choice, Jason, and you’re choosing wrong.”
This book gives us such a truthful and realistic picture of how difficult it can be for a person to learn that what counts the most in life is not how the world perceives them, but rather how they see and accept themselves in that world. It’s a story written with great sensitivity and skill, somehow drawing all focus to Jase’s personal journey, and yet still making it a spectacular romance between two soulmates who meet, fall in love and then fight tooth and nail to keep each other. I am applauding Ms Blair for writing this book, not only because I believe that Jase’s story needed to be told, but also because by doing so, she broke out of a mainstream safety net and chose to pave her own way as a writer. I hope to live one day in a world where writing a book with a theme of homosexuality in it is no longer considered an act of bravery, and while we have come a long way as a society, we are not there yet as a whole, so I would like to thank authors like Ms Blair for giving me hope that that day might eventually come.
As a companion novel, Freeing should not be read without reading Fading beforehand, as these stories are deeply intertwined and some of the events in this book cannot be fully understood without full knowledge of the prequel.
“For years I’ve been trying to free myself of these fears, free myself from my tormenting thoughts, free myself from the walls that have kept me trapped in a hole of self-loathing.”
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March 6, 2018
After meeting Jase in FADING, I had tonread his story. And boy did it surprise me..!!
though most of the times i wanted to kick him but seeing as he grows in the story was good. Its a really good book, heart breaking and emotional. His struggle to accept his sexuality and the way he grows up its beautiful.
It was my first M/M book, and it surely wont be last.
though most of the times i wanted to kick him but seeing as he grows in the story was good. Its a really good book, heart breaking and emotional. His struggle to accept his sexuality and the way he grows up its beautiful.
It was my first M/M book, and it surely wont be last.
November 22, 2017
***5 beautiful heart warming tear jerking stars!***
I just have no better words to described my feeling after reading this except, Freeing is amazing.
I never expected I'll cry a lot before reading Freeing. But I did.
This one touched my heart on the right place.
I never expected I was so fuckin' drowned in this very short reading.
Yes short, but definitely, dried me, in a good way.
This is about Jase and Mark, about acceptance, about finding their identity, about what they are, who they are. About fighting between right or wrong.
I called it a spiritual journey , especially for Jase whom once denied his sexuality, that he's gay.
I'm a Muslim. In Qur'an I was told that Sodom and Gomorah was cursed and Noah had to accepted his people been cursed, drowning, for the sins. I was told, homosexuality, was definitely WRONG and SIN.
I read so many gay books, watching so many gay movies, and I always feeling a pang of pain every time they're struggling with society, and religion told them, that was wrong. Forbidden fruit. Mistake. Sin.
But again, life is not just about judging people for what they choose in life, for what they are, whatever path they're walk into...it's their choices. We have no rights to judge.
God is the only judge.
I know how hard the feeling of being rejected by your family, feeling alone and your own family treat you like a disease.
It was hard. Always hard.
This book was intense and E.K. Blair touched a very deep place in my heart, that God is out there, watching us. And there's NOTHING... Nothing would happen without His permission.
I loved Mark and Jase chemistry, it was built slowly from the first meeting. How Jase was so confuse, denied his sexuality, or let Mark step into his life, and being his freeing?
This is an emotional read for me. Even there's no twist...this book hooked me on my bed finishing it in one night.
Really unputdownable.
I loved how how unselfish Mark and Jase was, according their friendship with Candace....this bonding warmed my heart. There's love, friendship, acceptance and unconditional love among them.
That was B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, FOR EVERYONE!
I just have no better words to described my feeling after reading this except, Freeing is amazing.
"In the end there doesn't
have to be anyone who
understands you...
There just has to be someone
who wants to"
I believe in God, and was taught that this way of life is wrong. It isn’t what He wants; it isn’t what I want, but at the same time . . . it is.
I never expected I'll cry a lot before reading Freeing. But I did.
This one touched my heart on the right place.
I never expected I was so fuckin' drowned in this very short reading.
Yes short, but definitely, dried me, in a good way.
This is about Jase and Mark, about acceptance, about finding their identity, about what they are, who they are. About fighting between right or wrong.
I called it a spiritual journey , especially for Jase whom once denied his sexuality, that he's gay.
I'm a Muslim. In Qur'an I was told that Sodom and Gomorah was cursed and Noah had to accepted his people been cursed, drowning, for the sins. I was told, homosexuality, was definitely WRONG and SIN.
I read so many gay books, watching so many gay movies, and I always feeling a pang of pain every time they're struggling with society, and religion told them, that was wrong. Forbidden fruit. Mistake. Sin.
But again, life is not just about judging people for what they choose in life, for what they are, whatever path they're walk into...it's their choices. We have no rights to judge.
God is the only judge.
I know how hard the feeling of being rejected by your family, feeling alone and your own family treat you like a disease.
It was hard. Always hard.
This book was intense and E.K. Blair touched a very deep place in my heart, that God is out there, watching us. And there's NOTHING... Nothing would happen without His permission.
I loved Mark and Jase chemistry, it was built slowly from the first meeting. How Jase was so confuse, denied his sexuality, or let Mark step into his life, and being his freeing?
This is an emotional read for me. Even there's no twist...this book hooked me on my bed finishing it in one night.
Really unputdownable.
I loved how how unselfish Mark and Jase was, according their friendship with Candace....this bonding warmed my heart. There's love, friendship, acceptance and unconditional love among them.
That was B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L.
I hold him close, and don’t even question the love I feel for him. I can’t. It’s heavy and palpable. It’s everything I have been missing and makes up for all the time I had been avoiding what was in me. What I was. What I am
His smile is big, and he doesn’t skip a beat when he cups his hands along my jaw and kisses me. I take it. I don’t even try to shy away from it. This is what I’ve been needing; what I’ve been missing. Acceptance. And coming from these people, in this house, I know I’m exactly who I’m meant to be. I just needed Mark to show me
Everything I’ve been searching for from the time I realized I was gay, he’s given me: my realization, my understanding, my accepting. He makes it okay for me to be who I was always meant to be.
For years I’ve been trying to free myself of these fears, free myself from my tormenting thoughts, free myself from the walls that have kept me trapped in a hole of self-loathing. Since I met Mark, I’ve been fighting. Fighting to be free. But now I realize, it isn’t about fighting. It’s letting go of the fight to see that what I’ve been searching for is within him. Mark is my freeing.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, FOR EVERYONE!
September 26, 2013
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
For years I’ve been trying to free myself of these fears, free myself from my tormenting thoughts, free myself from the walls that have kept me trapped in a hole of self-loathing.
Everyone of us wants to be accepted and loved just the way we are, especially by the people closest to us, but what when who we are is considered wrong and shameful by society?
Aside from being a beautiful & touching love story, this book also deals with issues like homosexuality and rape. Just like many times before, I was captivated by the beautiful cover and even more when I read the blurb and realized it's a MM book, so of course I had to put everything on hold and read it and I don't regret a bit. This is a prequel story to Fading (Fading, #1), but it can be read first, just like I did.
He made me realize just how scared of these feelings I actually am. I don't want a relationship with him because I'm afraid that will make it too real for me. Define me. Gay. Fag. Queer. Fuck. Am I ready for that?
Jase Kinrick's life finally started when he moved out of his hometown to collage where he was far away from his broken home and estranged parents, where he could finally be free and his true self, but can he really? What when your whole life you learn that smth is wrong and that you are unwanted and freak for doing it? What when people who don't even know you judge you, when even the people closest you, who should love you and protect you no matter what, judge you and show you how much their love is conditional? Can you love and respect yourself, even if everyone else doesn't?
This book made me think a lot. It made me think about what I would do if my future kid came to me one day and said: " Mom, I'm gay." The thing I know for sure is that I would never do to him/her what Jase's parents did to him. I would love him and protect him no matter what, because it's my kid and I would want him to have a happy & loved life. How could you do that to your own blood is beyond me? It made me sad, because I know that a lot of people out there wouldn't do the same.
There would always be some insecure and frustrated bully out there who would try to hurt him and make him less worth and what's worse is the knowing that you won't be always there to protect him and that's why I would want him, just like Jase did, to have someone like Mark to do that when I'm not around. He is such a sweet, understanding and charming character, and even though it sometimes frustrated me how much understanding he had for Jase's constant insecurities, you simply can't not like him. And the way they helped their friend Candance heal (the main character from the next book -> Fading (Fading, #1)) and cope with the horrible situation she went through was so brave and made me like them even more. Who wouldn't want to have friends like that?
This book was a very emotional read and I loved it even more than the first book in the series. My only complain is that it wasn't long enough. Highly recommend it to every MM fan!
I hold him close, and don’t even question the love I feel for him. I can’t. It’s heavy and palpable. It’s everything I have been missing and makes up for all the time I had been avoiding what was in me. What I was. What I am.
For years I’ve been trying to free myself of these fears, free myself from my tormenting thoughts, free myself from the walls that have kept me trapped in a hole of self-loathing.
Everyone of us wants to be accepted and loved just the way we are, especially by the people closest to us, but what when who we are is considered wrong and shameful by society?
Aside from being a beautiful & touching love story, this book also deals with issues like homosexuality and rape. Just like many times before, I was captivated by the beautiful cover and even more when I read the blurb and realized it's a MM book, so of course I had to put everything on hold and read it and I don't regret a bit. This is a prequel story to Fading (Fading, #1), but it can be read first, just like I did.
He made me realize just how scared of these feelings I actually am. I don't want a relationship with him because I'm afraid that will make it too real for me. Define me. Gay. Fag. Queer. Fuck. Am I ready for that?
Jase Kinrick's life finally started when he moved out of his hometown to collage where he was far away from his broken home and estranged parents, where he could finally be free and his true self, but can he really? What when your whole life you learn that smth is wrong and that you are unwanted and freak for doing it? What when people who don't even know you judge you, when even the people closest you, who should love you and protect you no matter what, judge you and show you how much their love is conditional? Can you love and respect yourself, even if everyone else doesn't?
This book made me think a lot. It made me think about what I would do if my future kid came to me one day and said: " Mom, I'm gay." The thing I know for sure is that I would never do to him/her what Jase's parents did to him. I would love him and protect him no matter what, because it's my kid and I would want him to have a happy & loved life. How could you do that to your own blood is beyond me? It made me sad, because I know that a lot of people out there wouldn't do the same.
There would always be some insecure and frustrated bully out there who would try to hurt him and make him less worth and what's worse is the knowing that you won't be always there to protect him and that's why I would want him, just like Jase did, to have someone like Mark to do that when I'm not around. He is such a sweet, understanding and charming character, and even though it sometimes frustrated me how much understanding he had for Jase's constant insecurities, you simply can't not like him. And the way they helped their friend Candance heal (the main character from the next book -> Fading (Fading, #1)) and cope with the horrible situation she went through was so brave and made me like them even more. Who wouldn't want to have friends like that?
This book was a very emotional read and I loved it even more than the first book in the series. My only complain is that it wasn't long enough. Highly recommend it to every MM fan!
I hold him close, and don’t even question the love I feel for him. I can’t. It’s heavy and palpable. It’s everything I have been missing and makes up for all the time I had been avoiding what was in me. What I was. What I am.
July 27, 2013
If you have read E.K. Blair's debut novel, Fading, you will know what to expect from Freeing - it is raw & real. My heart ached for Jase at so many different parts in the book. Freeing takes place around the same time Fading took place so you will see an overlap in a few scenes.
Jase is a sweet guy & a great friend but emotionally he is in turmoil. He is having a hard time accepting who he is. It was great to see Jase grow & become more comfortable in his own skin as this book progresses.
Jase
It was great to see some scenes from Fading in Freeing but from Jase's perspective. I loved him in Fading but getting to see how heartbroken he was over Candace's pain made me love him even more... he is a great friend.
Candace & Jase
My favorite message in this story is that we have the ability to create our own family. Family isn't always blood - it's the people who love you unconditionally, accept you for who you are & have your back no matter what. Jase's family wasn't always the most loving & accepting but he had Candace & he found a home with Mark as well!
If you loved E.K. Blair's debut novel, Fading - You will love Freeing as well!!
Jase is a sweet guy & a great friend but emotionally he is in turmoil. He is having a hard time accepting who he is. It was great to see Jase grow & become more comfortable in his own skin as this book progresses.
Jase
It was great to see some scenes from Fading in Freeing but from Jase's perspective. I loved him in Fading but getting to see how heartbroken he was over Candace's pain made me love him even more... he is a great friend.
Candace & Jase
My favorite message in this story is that we have the ability to create our own family. Family isn't always blood - it's the people who love you unconditionally, accept you for who you are & have your back no matter what. Jase's family wasn't always the most loving & accepting but he had Candace & he found a home with Mark as well!
If you loved E.K. Blair's debut novel, Fading - You will love Freeing as well!!
July 23, 2013
First I will start off by saying that in order to enjoy Freeing you will need to first read Fading. While it is not a sequel, as Fading is a stand-alone, I think you will be lost and will not have true understanding of the characters or storyline. So please start with Fading.
I was so excited to read Jase's story and I am thrilled that I had the privilege of beta reading this book. When I finished Fading, I was so curious to know more about Jase! He is just the most amazing best friend to Candace and the kind of friend everyone wishes they could have. One that is there for you through everything, loves you unconditionally and would do anything for you. So I could not wait to learn about his background and how he dealt with his homosexuality growing up, coming out and developing his relationship with Mark. Throughout the book, my emotions were running strong as Jase told his story. I cried, I smiled, I even think at one point I screamed at my Kindle! I will not give anything away about the story but I just absolutely loved how as I read I felt as if I were there, as if Jase were really talking to me about his life. You will learn more about Mark too and how they function together in their relationship as Jase struggles to come to terms with being openly gay, something that is a true issue for him but comes much more easily to Mark. His relationships with his parents, his friends, and Mark really help to define his character and provide a better understanding of Jase as a person and the struggles he has to learn to overcome. There is romance too of course, between Jase and Mark, and it is written beautifully. E.K. did a wonderful job with those scenes and they will have your heart fluttering with joy.
I highly recommend Freeing, it is not to be missed! Great job E.K. Blair, keep up the amazing work!
I was so excited to read Jase's story and I am thrilled that I had the privilege of beta reading this book. When I finished Fading, I was so curious to know more about Jase! He is just the most amazing best friend to Candace and the kind of friend everyone wishes they could have. One that is there for you through everything, loves you unconditionally and would do anything for you. So I could not wait to learn about his background and how he dealt with his homosexuality growing up, coming out and developing his relationship with Mark. Throughout the book, my emotions were running strong as Jase told his story. I cried, I smiled, I even think at one point I screamed at my Kindle! I will not give anything away about the story but I just absolutely loved how as I read I felt as if I were there, as if Jase were really talking to me about his life. You will learn more about Mark too and how they function together in their relationship as Jase struggles to come to terms with being openly gay, something that is a true issue for him but comes much more easily to Mark. His relationships with his parents, his friends, and Mark really help to define his character and provide a better understanding of Jase as a person and the struggles he has to learn to overcome. There is romance too of course, between Jase and Mark, and it is written beautifully. E.K. did a wonderful job with those scenes and they will have your heart fluttering with joy.
I highly recommend Freeing, it is not to be missed! Great job E.K. Blair, keep up the amazing work!
September 11, 2013
This was a difficult read for me. The subject matter is one in which I have mixed emotions. I firmly believe in God, and therefore believe in what the Bible says and I believe in human rights. According to many versions of the bible, being homosexual is 'wrong'. It is a 'sin against God', and a sure fire way to stay out of the gates of heaven. However, I also believe that God loves ALL His children unconditionally, no matter what, and His is the only judgement that counts. He sent his only son, Jesus, to save us from our sins....ALL sin, not just homosexual sin!! Jesus, who for all intents and purposes, surrounded himself with 'the wrong crowd' and he loved them anyway.
The idea of asking, demanding, or requiring someone to deny love because I (as a Christian) may not agree with their 'life style choice', goes against what Jesus stood for. Not to mention, NO ONE has ever asked, demanded, or required me to deny my love so, who would I be to do the that??? It begs the question, is it really a choice? Because I'm not entirely certain it is. I don't ever recall making a defining choice to be heterosexual, its just who I am. Love is blind. It does not see color, ethnicity, or sexuality. And 50+ years ago, the relationship my parents had was 'wrong, illegal, and frowned upon my the masses'. I'm thankful for those that stood up for the HUMAN rights of their peers, and loved ones. Without them, I wouldn't be here!!
Jase's story is one of discovery, love, and acceptance. He struggles with his identity. And because of his own demons, insecurities, and actions he nearly loses Mark. We didn't get to see this side of him in Fading. He was the pillar of strength for Candace. He appeared to be put together. Appeared...appearances can and most likely are deceiving. Many times people hide behind smiles, or gather strength when they don't have any, just as Jase did for Candace.
While Jase was at a local bar, he sees Mark. Before leaving, he asks Mark for forgiveness. He shares his fears, insecurities, and demons with Mark. And despite the hurt Mark has, he forgives Jase. (Thank God for grace) I cheered for Candace every time Jase came to her rescue in Fading, and I did the same every time Mark came to Jase's rescue in Freeing! Although, there were times when I wanted to punch Mark for being too harsh in the pushing of Jase to step back from Candace; I understand why. Mark is there for Jase, even when Jase doesn't feel he deserves it. That's love....it doesn't just walk away because YOU don't feel deserving of it.
This book stretched me. Not just as a reader, but has a woman of faith, a woman of mixed ethnicity, and a woman who believes in good ole fashioned L O V E! It will never be for me to judge. That isn't my place on this earth. As I move forward, I'm taking the words of Mark's mother with me. "It isn't about deserving; it's about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift, and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you."
E.K. Blair, your set of cojones are massive!! This is a controversial subject matter and won't be loved by all. Thank you, thank you for penning it anyway!!
If you haven't already; buy, read, and fall in love with Fading, and THEN, buy, read, and fall in love with Freeing! They will change you. I promise, and my promises don't come lightly!!
The idea of asking, demanding, or requiring someone to deny love because I (as a Christian) may not agree with their 'life style choice', goes against what Jesus stood for. Not to mention, NO ONE has ever asked, demanded, or required me to deny my love so, who would I be to do the that??? It begs the question, is it really a choice? Because I'm not entirely certain it is. I don't ever recall making a defining choice to be heterosexual, its just who I am. Love is blind. It does not see color, ethnicity, or sexuality. And 50+ years ago, the relationship my parents had was 'wrong, illegal, and frowned upon my the masses'. I'm thankful for those that stood up for the HUMAN rights of their peers, and loved ones. Without them, I wouldn't be here!!
Jase's story is one of discovery, love, and acceptance. He struggles with his identity. And because of his own demons, insecurities, and actions he nearly loses Mark. We didn't get to see this side of him in Fading. He was the pillar of strength for Candace. He appeared to be put together. Appeared...appearances can and most likely are deceiving. Many times people hide behind smiles, or gather strength when they don't have any, just as Jase did for Candace.
While Jase was at a local bar, he sees Mark. Before leaving, he asks Mark for forgiveness. He shares his fears, insecurities, and demons with Mark. And despite the hurt Mark has, he forgives Jase. (Thank God for grace) I cheered for Candace every time Jase came to her rescue in Fading, and I did the same every time Mark came to Jase's rescue in Freeing! Although, there were times when I wanted to punch Mark for being too harsh in the pushing of Jase to step back from Candace; I understand why. Mark is there for Jase, even when Jase doesn't feel he deserves it. That's love....it doesn't just walk away because YOU don't feel deserving of it.
This book stretched me. Not just as a reader, but has a woman of faith, a woman of mixed ethnicity, and a woman who believes in good ole fashioned L O V E! It will never be for me to judge. That isn't my place on this earth. As I move forward, I'm taking the words of Mark's mother with me. "It isn't about deserving; it's about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift, and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you."
E.K. Blair, your set of cojones are massive!! This is a controversial subject matter and won't be loved by all. Thank you, thank you for penning it anyway!!
If you haven't already; buy, read, and fall in love with Fading, and THEN, buy, read, and fall in love with Freeing! They will change you. I promise, and my promises don't come lightly!!
September 17, 2013
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
4 stars!
E.K. Blair has amazing writing talent, and Freeing is yet another example of this. We met Jace in Fading, and if you have not read this book, please read it before reading this book. Freeing has been promoted as a companion novel to Fading (and that’s exactly what it is). Fading remains on of my favorite reads of the year and it was like a breath of fresh air to revisit these characters that I’ve come to care about.
Freeing is Jace’s book. We met him as Candace’s best friend and the source of greatest support in her darkest hours, but for those who read Fading, we all knew that Jace had his own story to tell.
Jace has been struggling with accepting his sexuality. He has had numerous sexual encounters with different men, but none of these men have ever been significant enough to force Jace to come to terms with his own sexuality. Mark bursts onto the scene and Jace realizes early on that Mark is different from all the other guys. Mark is incredibly comfortable in his own skin and is very open about his sexuality. He is gay and makes no excuses or apologies for that.
In this novel, we see Jace’s journey towards self-acceptance and honesty with his family and others. It is painful and difficult, but in the end he is freed (as the book is aptly named.)
Here is a quote:
“Everything I’ve been searching for from the time I realized I was gay, he’s given me: my realization, my understanding, my accepting. He makes it okay for me to be who I was always meant to be.”
I am traditionally not a reader of m/m romance, but I loved Jace enough to give this book a chance (and I’m glad I did). I love reading books about romance, and Freeing is an amazing love story.
E.K. Blair is an author who is absolutely not to be missed.
Enjoy!
Thanks to E.K. Blair for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
4 stars!
E.K. Blair has amazing writing talent, and Freeing is yet another example of this. We met Jace in Fading, and if you have not read this book, please read it before reading this book. Freeing has been promoted as a companion novel to Fading (and that’s exactly what it is). Fading remains on of my favorite reads of the year and it was like a breath of fresh air to revisit these characters that I’ve come to care about.
Freeing is Jace’s book. We met him as Candace’s best friend and the source of greatest support in her darkest hours, but for those who read Fading, we all knew that Jace had his own story to tell.
Jace has been struggling with accepting his sexuality. He has had numerous sexual encounters with different men, but none of these men have ever been significant enough to force Jace to come to terms with his own sexuality. Mark bursts onto the scene and Jace realizes early on that Mark is different from all the other guys. Mark is incredibly comfortable in his own skin and is very open about his sexuality. He is gay and makes no excuses or apologies for that.
In this novel, we see Jace’s journey towards self-acceptance and honesty with his family and others. It is painful and difficult, but in the end he is freed (as the book is aptly named.)
Here is a quote:
“Everything I’ve been searching for from the time I realized I was gay, he’s given me: my realization, my understanding, my accepting. He makes it okay for me to be who I was always meant to be.”
I am traditionally not a reader of m/m romance, but I loved Jace enough to give this book a chance (and I’m glad I did). I love reading books about romance, and Freeing is an amazing love story.
E.K. Blair is an author who is absolutely not to be missed.
Enjoy!
Thanks to E.K. Blair for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
September 13, 2013
All I can say is I popped my virgin M/M cherry, this book was raw, it was real, it was emotional, it was hot, and for some people it's taboo, but for me it's ACCEPTANCE..
Jase Kinrick grew up in your typical, all-American household. But after the death of his sister, his parents shut down, forcing him to deal with everything life throws his way alone..
He grew up in church, going to Sunday school and bible study summer camps, believes in god and was taught that this way of life was wrong..He can't keep pretending to be someone else in an attempt to escape the sick person that resides inside himself..Being gay is wrong!! It's sick!!
Why do I have to be this way??
Never staying with any guy long enough to get to know them, he doesn’t realize that he’s still hiding from who he is until he meets Mark. Scared of having real feelings for another guy stirs up the questions and fears he’s fought hard to bury.
Jase swears he doesn't want a relationship with Mark, because then it makes it too real for him, something he'll have to face, he doesn't want it to define him..Gay..Fag..Queer..
This book really made me sit back and think how many other men have come out to their families only to have those families throw them out of the house, disown them!! For those men, my heart breaks for you and I only hope you had the support from an outside friend like Jase did..
September 6, 2016
This book is disappointing, it's just a repeat of the first book. It's Jase point of view, Candace best friend that's gay. When I read the first book, I liked Jay and I wanted to learn more about him and Mark. I wanted to see how Jase and Mark fell in love. Yes we get pieces of them together. I felt like Mark and Jase relationship was almost robotic and rushed. But like I said it was a repeat, more Candace than anything. I was to the point that I started to dislike her and her crying and I didn't want Candace to be mention anymore in this book. Why? Because we already had her story in book 1 and we know she has another coming up with Ryan. So I get that Candace and Jase have their own unique relationship, (non sexual) but sometimes it was too much. It felt like Candace and Jase were in a relationship and Mark was the third wheel. I just got bored.
May 12, 2015
Honestly, I struggled with this book. It wasn't the writing, the characters, or the story. Those were all fantastic. I loved reading and feeling what could be a very real story about a young man dealing with coming out. I think it was more of the retelling of Fading that was hard for me.
April 2, 2017
3,5 stars
JASE AND MARK ARE SO PERFECT! ASDFGHJK ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡
JASE AND MARK ARE SO PERFECT! ASDFGHJK ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡
September 13, 2013
Star Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Heat Rating: HOT!
*While Freeing is not a sequel to Fading, it is Jase's (the best friend) story that happens during the same time period as Fading and really should be read after reading Fading*
E.K. Blair is one of those special writers that taps into hard subjects, grabs your heart and takes you along for an amazing journey. It is a rare writer that gets the reader so immersed in the characters that you forget that you aren't actually in the story, you feel their struggles, emotions and breakthroughs right along with them. I read a LOT of books and E.K. Blair has written two stories that will always stay with me (this doesn't happen very often)! These stories have changed me, made me look at things differently and made me want to shout from the rooftops at how AMAZING this series is.
I got really attached to Jase and Candace in Fading, and was on the fence about wanting to read the same story from Jases's perspective, thinking that I wouldn't really get that much more out of this version (who wants to read the same exact story twice). I was WRONG! Yes, you do get some of the same story but you get the events told in a completely different manner, you get to see how one trauma can cause a domino effect in all the people around you and you get to understand the true power of friendship and love. Jase is the kind of friend everyone needs in their life, that friend that will support you, stand up for you and love you no matter what happens.
The best part about Freeing is getting to go "behind the scenes" and read about Mark and Jase falling in love. Jase's character is complex, on the outside he seems like a happy-go-lucky person but on the inside he is carrying around such a weighted burden that he feels trapped. The struggle of watching Jase come to terms with being gay (openly gay) was hard to read. It was tough to read how someone could feel that conflicted and torn about who they are as a person and having to worry about outside forces instead of what just feels right for you, that kind of struggle, it shredded me. The Mom in me wanted to take his pain away, but just like in life you have to find your own answers and learn to free yourself to really reach your destination of accepting who you are.
Watching Jase fall in love with Mark was one of the most beautiful stories I have read in a long time. Mark was a perfect balance to Jase, he was patient, kind and loving. Mark is a man anyone would be lucky to have in their life, it was interesting to read about his background and wonder if Jase had the support that Mark had, how things might have been different.
"It isn't about deserving; it's about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift, and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you."
Freeing was a fantastic story about love and how powerful that love can be, especially once you learn to first love yourself. E.K Blair is an Author that I will instantly buy without even reading the description. I know with her I will get a powerful book that will leave me amazed, awed and changed. I am so grateful that she wrote this series, I want to hug her for sharing these stories with the world. The Fading series is in my Top 5 books of all time and once you read these I am sure they will find a way on to your keeper shelf too!
July 20, 2014
I have to admit when I saw this was available, I did not realize that it was not just a novella but a full length novel. I thought Jace was the biggest sweetheart while reading Fading and was so happy to see that he was getting a chance to have his story told from his point of view.
The book was beautifully told, his story of having to accept who he is and what he is feeling. Finding Mark and the fears that come from having to realize that although his actions over the last few years were of being 'out' - he never allowed it to penetrate his world enough to have to come to terms with it fully.
The only thing that held me back from outright loving this was that the prior story was too fresh in my head, making this feel a little repetitive at times. And although Jace was a sweet as could be, I need the guy to be a bit more aggressive within certain aspects of the story. He was a bit too sweet for me. I am not sure if this was a story that really needed to be told in a different POV at full length though. I want to read Ryan's story now, but will need to put some space between starting that to avoid felling as if I am just reading the same story over again.
The book was beautifully told, his story of having to accept who he is and what he is feeling. Finding Mark and the fears that come from having to realize that although his actions over the last few years were of being 'out' - he never allowed it to penetrate his world enough to have to come to terms with it fully.
The only thing that held me back from outright loving this was that the prior story was too fresh in my head, making this feel a little repetitive at times. And although Jace was a sweet as could be, I need the guy to be a bit more aggressive within certain aspects of the story. He was a bit too sweet for me. I am not sure if this was a story that really needed to be told in a different POV at full length though. I want to read Ryan's story now, but will need to put some space between starting that to avoid felling as if I am just reading the same story over again.
April 22, 2015
Are you kidding me with this shit? There is no chemistry here, no spark between the two MC's - I've never seen two people (In a book) have such boring conversations - and maybe b/c I didn't read the first book I'm missing something, but frankly, I doubt it. I couldn't care or even be the slightest bit interested in any of these people and this one turned me off from bothering with any of the others.
It also looks like this is basically the same book from three different pov's. Seriously? That Candace chick was such a whiny, blubbering twit that I imagine reading an entire book from her pov would be like chewing on aluminum foil. No fucking thanks.
It also looks like this is basically the same book from three different pov's. Seriously? That Candace chick was such a whiny, blubbering twit that I imagine reading an entire book from her pov would be like chewing on aluminum foil. No fucking thanks.
June 27, 2021
3.5 ⭐
ספר שני בסדרת fading
את הספר הראשון קראתי לפני שנה והוא היה בסדר 🤷🏻♀️, אז באמת לא הייתה לי ציפייה,
הספר הנוכחי מספר את סיפורו של החבר הכי טוב של הגיבורה מהספר הראשון
ומה שהיה מבאס פה שהרבה מהספר היה אותו סיפור כמו הראשון רק מנקודת המבט של החבר
היה גם קצת מהסיפור האישי שלו (רומן mm) אבל כל הספר סך הכל היה דיי פרווה 😬
לסיכום - מי שמחפשת דרמה קלילה זה הסדרה בשבילה, למרות שהנושאים בסדרה הם דיי רציניים וחשובים, הסופרת לצערי לא הלכה יותר לעמוק כדאי להעניק לנושאים האלו את הכבוד הראוי להם.
ספר שני בסדרת fading
את הספר הראשון קראתי לפני שנה והוא היה בסדר 🤷🏻♀️, אז באמת לא הייתה לי ציפייה,
הספר הנוכחי מספר את סיפורו של החבר הכי טוב של הגיבורה מהספר הראשון
ומה שהיה מבאס פה שהרבה מהספר היה אותו סיפור כמו הראשון רק מנקודת המבט של החבר
היה גם קצת מהסיפור האישי שלו (רומן mm) אבל כל הספר סך הכל היה דיי פרווה 😬
לסיכום - מי שמחפשת דרמה קלילה זה הסדרה בשבילה, למרות שהנושאים בסדרה הם דיי רציניים וחשובים, הסופרת לצערי לא הלכה יותר לעמוק כדאי להעניק לנושאים האלו את הכבוד הראוי להם.
August 23, 2013
“The first step to finding true love is loving yourself.” –Adam Lambert
love
ləv
noun: love; plural noun: loves
1. an intense feeling of deep affection.
"babies fill parents with intense feelings of love"
Synonyms: deep affection, fondness, tenderness, warmth, intimacy, attachment, endearment
compassion, care, caring, regard, solicitude, concern, friendliness, friendship, kindness,
2. a person or thing that one loves.
"He was the love of his life"
synonyms: beloved, loved one, love of one's life, dear, dearest, dear one, darling, sweetheart, sweet, 1. feel a deep romantic or sexual attachment to (someone). "do you love me?"
verb: love;
1. feel a deep romantic or sexual attachment to (someone).
"Do you love me?"
synonyms: care very much for, feel deep affection for, hold very dear, adore, think the world of, be devoted to, dote on, idolize, worship
Freeing was a tale of love, forgiveness, and acceptance. E.K. Blair tells a story like no other author. She is a brilliant writer who creates characters that captivate you; break down your walls, and make you feel so deeply.
I was unsure about how I’d feel about a love story between two men, as I have never read one before. Well after reading Freeing, it opened my eyes to a beautiful relationship between Jase and Mark. The love that these characters shared was so deep.
I had met Jase while reading Fading, and fell in love with him from the very beginning. He is broken and has an extremely difficult time accepting the fact that he is gay. He wonders what he has done wrong and feels as if he is being punished. My heart broke for him as he tried to come to terms with his feelings and accept the life he is destined to live.
“I like Mark, there is no doubt about that, but the anxiety I’ve had since we started spending more time together is stirring up this shame I thought I had let go of.”
I was waiting and praying Jase would be able to come to accept and love himself; he deserved to be loved.
Mark…what can I say about Mark? He is kind, open, and honest and most of all, patient. He doesn’t pressure Jase into doing anything that he is not ready for. He helped “see” that love is not black or white. Love is something that everyone deserves and should experience.
“He runs his hand down my cheek and looks me in the eyes when he affirms, “I want to give you everything.” Those words are the only affirmation I need to know how he feels about me—about us—and I feel it too.”
Mark is perfect. I love him and everything he does for Jase, everything he is for him. He teaches him how to love himself so that he is able to love in return.
E.K. Blair enraptured me and I was mesmerized with her words. She will leave you breathless and in love.
I had the honor of being E.K.’s beta reader. She is a gifted, passionate writer and I am anxiously awaiting her next book.
love
ləv
noun: love; plural noun: loves
1. an intense feeling of deep affection.
"babies fill parents with intense feelings of love"
Synonyms: deep affection, fondness, tenderness, warmth, intimacy, attachment, endearment
compassion, care, caring, regard, solicitude, concern, friendliness, friendship, kindness,
2. a person or thing that one loves.
"He was the love of his life"
synonyms: beloved, loved one, love of one's life, dear, dearest, dear one, darling, sweetheart, sweet, 1. feel a deep romantic or sexual attachment to (someone). "do you love me?"
verb: love;
1. feel a deep romantic or sexual attachment to (someone).
"Do you love me?"
synonyms: care very much for, feel deep affection for, hold very dear, adore, think the world of, be devoted to, dote on, idolize, worship
Freeing was a tale of love, forgiveness, and acceptance. E.K. Blair tells a story like no other author. She is a brilliant writer who creates characters that captivate you; break down your walls, and make you feel so deeply.
I was unsure about how I’d feel about a love story between two men, as I have never read one before. Well after reading Freeing, it opened my eyes to a beautiful relationship between Jase and Mark. The love that these characters shared was so deep.
I had met Jase while reading Fading, and fell in love with him from the very beginning. He is broken and has an extremely difficult time accepting the fact that he is gay. He wonders what he has done wrong and feels as if he is being punished. My heart broke for him as he tried to come to terms with his feelings and accept the life he is destined to live.
“I like Mark, there is no doubt about that, but the anxiety I’ve had since we started spending more time together is stirring up this shame I thought I had let go of.”
I was waiting and praying Jase would be able to come to accept and love himself; he deserved to be loved.
Mark…what can I say about Mark? He is kind, open, and honest and most of all, patient. He doesn’t pressure Jase into doing anything that he is not ready for. He helped “see” that love is not black or white. Love is something that everyone deserves and should experience.
“He runs his hand down my cheek and looks me in the eyes when he affirms, “I want to give you everything.” Those words are the only affirmation I need to know how he feels about me—about us—and I feel it too.”
Mark is perfect. I love him and everything he does for Jase, everything he is for him. He teaches him how to love himself so that he is able to love in return.
E.K. Blair enraptured me and I was mesmerized with her words. She will leave you breathless and in love.
I had the honor of being E.K.’s beta reader. She is a gifted, passionate writer and I am anxiously awaiting her next book.
September 12, 2013
"Nobody knows. I'm not sure anyone will ever know."
I fell in love with Jase in Fading. I said it in my review that we all need a Jase in our lives. Freeing confirmed that, with the addition that now I feel we all need a Jase and Mark in our lives. This was an emotional and heartfelt story that represents so many people in our world today. I commend E.K. Blair on taking this chance. On showing us who really Jase is, where he comes from and what really went through his mind. In Freeing we can see that while he helped Candace through her ordeal he was also suffering and having issues of his own. In order to really get Jase's story it is important to read Fading first.
"I love her more than anything. She was the first person I met and became friends with when I moved to Seattle three years ago. We had an instant connection."
We met Jase as Candace's best friend. That friend that is really more important to you than even family. Strong love. Siblings of the heart and soul. They give each other the safety they failed to receive at their own homes. And they guard that very fiercely. It is a necessity to survive. Jase has gone through a lot and accepting himself is the ultimate challenge. He fights it every step of the way but he meets Mark. Mark is on another level. He is secure, accepting of who he is, has a supportive family that loves him no matter what. I love Mark. The way he patiently waited for Jase to be ready in every step of their relationship was simply touching. An example of true love. The way he also cared for Candace and helped her heal by providing love and true friendship 24/7 to her was another factor that I also fell in love with Mark.
The highlight of this beautiful book for me is to see Jase evolve. Mark's love and support gives Jase what he needs to finally free himself from all the hang ups that stopped him from being accepting of the wonderful person he truly is. The steamy scenes were beautifully written and it is always about the love, the intimacy, and the connection in this story.
"It was him that opened me up, that freed me of everything I was so scared of."
I cannot wait to read the third book in this amazing series. The next book is Falling, Ryan's story.
I fell in love with Jase in Fading. I said it in my review that we all need a Jase in our lives. Freeing confirmed that, with the addition that now I feel we all need a Jase and Mark in our lives. This was an emotional and heartfelt story that represents so many people in our world today. I commend E.K. Blair on taking this chance. On showing us who really Jase is, where he comes from and what really went through his mind. In Freeing we can see that while he helped Candace through her ordeal he was also suffering and having issues of his own. In order to really get Jase's story it is important to read Fading first.
"I love her more than anything. She was the first person I met and became friends with when I moved to Seattle three years ago. We had an instant connection."
We met Jase as Candace's best friend. That friend that is really more important to you than even family. Strong love. Siblings of the heart and soul. They give each other the safety they failed to receive at their own homes. And they guard that very fiercely. It is a necessity to survive. Jase has gone through a lot and accepting himself is the ultimate challenge. He fights it every step of the way but he meets Mark. Mark is on another level. He is secure, accepting of who he is, has a supportive family that loves him no matter what. I love Mark. The way he patiently waited for Jase to be ready in every step of their relationship was simply touching. An example of true love. The way he also cared for Candace and helped her heal by providing love and true friendship 24/7 to her was another factor that I also fell in love with Mark.
The highlight of this beautiful book for me is to see Jase evolve. Mark's love and support gives Jase what he needs to finally free himself from all the hang ups that stopped him from being accepting of the wonderful person he truly is. The steamy scenes were beautifully written and it is always about the love, the intimacy, and the connection in this story.
"It was him that opened me up, that freed me of everything I was so scared of."
I cannot wait to read the third book in this amazing series. The next book is Falling, Ryan's story.
October 11, 2013
I just finished freeing and I really liked it. This is the story of Mark and Jase. Mark and Jase were in Fading (Candace and Ryan) This is basically in Jase's POV at the time of Fading. If you haven’t read Fading, you absolutely have too. Freeing can be read alone but it is much better to read Fading first. Freeing is about Mark and Jases relationship. Its about heartbreak, love, and acceptance. Mark has been out for awhile and Jases is just recent so it is much easier for Mark to be who he is then Jase. He is having a hard time and for him meeting Mark it puts it in perceptive and how he wants to have a relationship instead of his constant one night stands. He comes out to his parents, who disown him so he is feeling like he is by himself even though he has Candace but Candace is going through alot so trying to be there for her and himself is taking a toll. Mark wants to be there for him but it will be all up to Jase to let him in. He feels like Mark deserves better so will he be able to let Mark in? You will have to read and see.
I really liked this story, it flowed really well. It was good to see the stories co-inside with each other. To see what was happening to Candace through his eyes just put a good spin on the series. Jase is so sweet and so kind. Mark is awesome. To come into a new relationship with alot of baggage takes alot of courage and understanding. The perfect balance that Jase needed.
I love this saying in the book (Marks Mother)
"It isn’t about deserving. It’s about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you"
There wasn’t anything i disliked about the story. I love all the characters and cannot wait to see where this goes.
Next is Ryans POV, super excited!!
I know that this isn’t something I would normally read but enjoyed it none the less. You have to get this. Great all around series.
Story 5
Sex 4
Overall 5++++++
Reviewed by Beggin at Mommys a Book Whore
I really liked this story, it flowed really well. It was good to see the stories co-inside with each other. To see what was happening to Candace through his eyes just put a good spin on the series. Jase is so sweet and so kind. Mark is awesome. To come into a new relationship with alot of baggage takes alot of courage and understanding. The perfect balance that Jase needed.
I love this saying in the book (Marks Mother)
"It isn’t about deserving. It’s about accepting. None of us deserve anything. Everything we have is a gift and you have to learn to simply accept what God gives you"
There wasn’t anything i disliked about the story. I love all the characters and cannot wait to see where this goes.
Next is Ryans POV, super excited!!
I know that this isn’t something I would normally read but enjoyed it none the less. You have to get this. Great all around series.
Story 5
Sex 4
Overall 5++++++
Reviewed by Beggin at Mommys a Book Whore
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