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The Art of Love #2
Painted
Love isn’t always convenient. Sometimes it’s forbidden.
Rhys Hawthorne is drowning in grief and artistic burnout when the last complication he needs walks straight into his heart in the form of family employee, Early Stevens, a vulnerable, searching soul he doesn’t dare touch, but who he can't resist.
Early is learning who they are, what they want, and how to survive after being rejected by their parents. Wanting Rhys might be dangerous, but denying their feelings hurts just as much. And then a naughty misunderstanding ends up with Early far more “exposed” than they ever thought they’d be.
One night changes everything.
And sometimes, breaking the rules is the only way forward.
Rhys Hawthorne is drowning in grief and artistic burnout when the last complication he needs walks straight into his heart in the form of family employee, Early Stevens, a vulnerable, searching soul he doesn’t dare touch, but who he can't resist.
Early is learning who they are, what they want, and how to survive after being rejected by their parents. Wanting Rhys might be dangerous, but denying their feelings hurts just as much. And then a naughty misunderstanding ends up with Early far more “exposed” than they ever thought they’d be.
One night changes everything.
And sometimes, breaking the rules is the only way forward.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
39 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
295 books1,142 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 10, 2024
Painter Rhys Hawthorne is a rising star in the art world and a favourite teacher at the Hawthorne Community Arts Centre, but his inspiration has been stuck for weeks, he’s still grieving for his sister, Riana who lost her life in a car crash. Early Stevens is still coming to grips with being nonbinary and figuring out what they want in their life, and now their parents have kicked them out of the house. The only light in their life is the Hawthorne family, who have taken them in. But living at Hawthorne House only puts Early into forced proximity with his crush, Rhys.
The second book in the series & another well written emotional book. I loved both Rhys & Early, both are struggling with their lives, Rhys still grieving his sister who he was very close to & Early at a crossroads does he conform or do they live their life as they want to? Add to the mix the attraction between them. I found this book to be heart wrenching at times, I loved that Rhys & Early were there for each other & after initial hiccups they talked & began to move forward. An engrossing book which I loved
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The second book in the series & another well written emotional book. I loved both Rhys & Early, both are struggling with their lives, Rhys still grieving his sister who he was very close to & Early at a crossroads does he conform or do they live their life as they want to? Add to the mix the attraction between them. I found this book to be heart wrenching at times, I loved that Rhys & Early were there for each other & after initial hiccups they talked & began to move forward. An engrossing book which I loved
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
November 24, 2024
4.5 stars. A realistic story with very big emotions. Early was figuring out how to stand up for themselves as non-binary and having to really struggle for that, with awful parental disapproval instead of support. Rhys was still consumed by grief and survivors guilt and didn't know how to move on. Their first time being intimate together was really well written, it is refreshing that it was far from perfect, and they learnt a lot from it. There were lots of really interesting characters and I'm looking forward to more.
December 9, 2024
4.5 Stars ⭐️
Get the tissues ready, this read is an emotional one. I'm going to make this review short and sweet with absolutely no spoilers, to ruin this book would be a tragedy in itself. This is a beautiful story of life, loss and love. I would recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Get the tissues ready, this read is an emotional one. I'm going to make this review short and sweet with absolutely no spoilers, to ruin this book would be a tragedy in itself. This is a beautiful story of life, loss and love. I would recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
November 16, 2024
This is a love story that includes a special family whose stewardship of an ancestral home and the subsequent Arts Center there is the background for multiple love interests. It is also about grief.
Merry Farmer has created a wonderful community of artists, locals, and the Hawthorne family that is defined by this space. The family is Bohemian and yet connected to the land and the community.
It is the background for a series of which this is the second book.
In this edition, Rhys Hawthorne is at the center of a love interest and presents the unique love within this family.
Early Stevens, his first name given the extra "y" to indicate his nonbinary status has fled his home with his parents as a result of their lack of understanding for his self-awareness. They work as an admin within the Hawthorne estate and has become loved by the family. Early’s crush is Rhys who teaches painting and arts at the estate. Early volunteers to be the nude model for his figure class when the previously hired model fails to show. It is part of Early’s self-awareness which also spurs non-male clothing frequently.
The storytelling is fantastic without fluff, but rich in detail as to the atmosphere, the place, and the people involved. It is beautifully told, and a joy to read. There are times my eyes were moist, and times where I laughed. There is emotion that comes off the page, particularly with a special painting that Rhys is doing as a tribute to his sister.
At the center of this book is the grief that the family obviously has, as well as the grief for the family of the woman who was driving drunk. It also is sad with the relationship between Early and their parents. But the book offers hope for a brighter future of their single child parents.
I found myself trying to read the book in one day as I was so involved with the story, the people of Hawthorne Estate and the drama around a tribute to Rhys’ sister who had died as a result of a drunk driver hitting the car she and Rhys were in. Also killed was the driver of the other vehicle, whose memory being shared at a fundraiser for an organization fighting drunk driving by education caused much angst with the family and Rhys in particular.
Merry Farmer explored their relationship, and dependency, in telling their story and in flashbacks. It allowed the story to be rich in detail with few words. It is the background for the growing relationship between Rhys and Early which highlights the sincerity and caring of Rhys. The growing relationship recognizes how humans can take shortcuts to an end, but one that is open and communicated well, bodes well for a more enduring relationship.
Now that I’ve read the first and second books in this series, I’m off to purchase the third.
I did receive this book for a review, but that did not affect my opinions expressed here for the novel.
Merry Farmer has created a wonderful community of artists, locals, and the Hawthorne family that is defined by this space. The family is Bohemian and yet connected to the land and the community.
It is the background for a series of which this is the second book.
In this edition, Rhys Hawthorne is at the center of a love interest and presents the unique love within this family.
Early Stevens, his first name given the extra "y" to indicate his nonbinary status has fled his home with his parents as a result of their lack of understanding for his self-awareness. They work as an admin within the Hawthorne estate and has become loved by the family. Early’s crush is Rhys who teaches painting and arts at the estate. Early volunteers to be the nude model for his figure class when the previously hired model fails to show. It is part of Early’s self-awareness which also spurs non-male clothing frequently.
The storytelling is fantastic without fluff, but rich in detail as to the atmosphere, the place, and the people involved. It is beautifully told, and a joy to read. There are times my eyes were moist, and times where I laughed. There is emotion that comes off the page, particularly with a special painting that Rhys is doing as a tribute to his sister.
At the center of this book is the grief that the family obviously has, as well as the grief for the family of the woman who was driving drunk. It also is sad with the relationship between Early and their parents. But the book offers hope for a brighter future of their single child parents.
I found myself trying to read the book in one day as I was so involved with the story, the people of Hawthorne Estate and the drama around a tribute to Rhys’ sister who had died as a result of a drunk driver hitting the car she and Rhys were in. Also killed was the driver of the other vehicle, whose memory being shared at a fundraiser for an organization fighting drunk driving by education caused much angst with the family and Rhys in particular.
Merry Farmer explored their relationship, and dependency, in telling their story and in flashbacks. It allowed the story to be rich in detail with few words. It is the background for the growing relationship between Rhys and Early which highlights the sincerity and caring of Rhys. The growing relationship recognizes how humans can take shortcuts to an end, but one that is open and communicated well, bodes well for a more enduring relationship.
Now that I’ve read the first and second books in this series, I’m off to purchase the third.
I did receive this book for a review, but that did not affect my opinions expressed here for the novel.
November 13, 2024
4.5 stars
This book is about grief, self discovery, family - whether biological or found - acceptance, and love.
There is more than one journey going on in this book and each one has their ups and downs.
Rhys is still struggling with the death of his sister, so one journey for him is finally getting some healing and peace.
Early is struggling with their identity and parents who want their 'boy' back, his journey to self acceptance was beautiful to see.
Finally, there is the journey Early and Rhys take together.
Early has had a crush on Rhys since they started working at Hawthorne House, but his complicated feelings and doubts about himself held him back. They are a really sweet, compassionate person, and they are accepted by the Hawthorne family, while their own only causes them grief.
Rhys has always been attracted to Early, but held back because he felt it would be inappropriate due to their thirteen year age gap and the fact Early works for his family. He is a talented painter and teaches a few classes at HH, but his emotions are still in turmoil, causing him to be filled with anger.
Surprisingly, it is when Early poses for one of Rhys' classes that Early starts to feel more confidence, and Rhys starts to feel more comfortable with the idea of being with Early. A lack of conversation causes a major hiccup for them, but it doesn't last long, and soon their spark of attraction becomes a deeper connection and genuine love flourishes between them.
The ARC I read still needed some editing, there were a few typos, the wrong day used, the wrong name .. etc, as well as an inconsistency that will hopefully be fixed for the final copy.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, it was wonderfuly written and thought provoking. I found it a little more melancholy, but there were parts with levity that balanced it out nicely. Both MC's were likeable, but I personally like Early a bit more, and there were a plethora of secondary characters that added depth to this story, and some that helped each MC with their journey.
This review is my unbiased, honest opinion.
One last thing, did anyone else find it kinda weird to have wine and champagne at an event for CADD? (Campaign Against Drink Driving - they raise awareness for impaired driving in the UK).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is about grief, self discovery, family - whether biological or found - acceptance, and love.
There is more than one journey going on in this book and each one has their ups and downs.
Rhys is still struggling with the death of his sister, so one journey for him is finally getting some healing and peace.
Early is struggling with their identity and parents who want their 'boy' back, his journey to self acceptance was beautiful to see.
Finally, there is the journey Early and Rhys take together.
Early has had a crush on Rhys since they started working at Hawthorne House, but his complicated feelings and doubts about himself held him back. They are a really sweet, compassionate person, and they are accepted by the Hawthorne family, while their own only causes them grief.
Rhys has always been attracted to Early, but held back because he felt it would be inappropriate due to their thirteen year age gap and the fact Early works for his family. He is a talented painter and teaches a few classes at HH, but his emotions are still in turmoil, causing him to be filled with anger.
Surprisingly, it is when Early poses for one of Rhys' classes that Early starts to feel more confidence, and Rhys starts to feel more comfortable with the idea of being with Early. A lack of conversation causes a major hiccup for them, but it doesn't last long, and soon their spark of attraction becomes a deeper connection and genuine love flourishes between them.
The ARC I read still needed some editing, there were a few typos, the wrong day used, the wrong name .. etc, as well as an inconsistency that will hopefully be fixed for the final copy.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, it was wonderfuly written and thought provoking. I found it a little more melancholy, but there were parts with levity that balanced it out nicely. Both MC's were likeable, but I personally like Early a bit more, and there were a plethora of secondary characters that added depth to this story, and some that helped each MC with their journey.
This review is my unbiased, honest opinion.
One last thing, did anyone else find it kinda weird to have wine and champagne at an event for CADD? (Campaign Against Drink Driving - they raise awareness for impaired driving in the UK).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2024
Painted, the second instalment in Merry Farmer’s Art of Love series, is a beautifully written story about grief, self-discovery, acceptance, family—both found and biological—and love.
The novel explores multiple journeys, each filled with challenges and triumphs. Rhys is grappling with the loss of his sister, making his journey one of finding healing and inner peace. Early, meanwhile, is navigating their identity and struggling with parents who refuse to accept them as they are. Early’s path to self-acceptance is poignant and inspiring, made even more touching by the unwavering support of the Hawthorne family, in stark contrast to the rejection they face from their own.
The third journey is the evolving relationship between Early and Rhys. Early has quietly harboured feelings for Rhys since starting work at Hawthorne House, but their insecurities held them back. Rhys, for his part, has been equally drawn to Early but was hesitant to act due to their 13-year age gap and Early’s role as an employee of his family.
It is through a moment of vulnerability—when Early poses for one of Rhys’ art classes—that their dynamic begins to shift. Early gains newfound confidence, while Rhys starts to let go of his reservations. Though miscommunication briefly derails their budding romance, their connection deepens into genuine love as they navigate their emotions and embrace their feelings.
While the ARC had minor issues like typos and inconsistencies, these didn’t detract from the overall experience. The story struck a delicate balance between melancholy and moments of levity, making it both thought-provoking and emotionally fulfilling.
Both main characters are compelling, with Early’s resilience and kindness making them particularly endearing. A rich cast of secondary characters adds further depth to the narrative, enhancing the sense of community and belonging.
Overall, Painted is a heartfelt and moving tale that delves into themes of healing, identity, and the transformative power of love. Highly recommended for readers seeking an emotionally resonant romance.
The novel explores multiple journeys, each filled with challenges and triumphs. Rhys is grappling with the loss of his sister, making his journey one of finding healing and inner peace. Early, meanwhile, is navigating their identity and struggling with parents who refuse to accept them as they are. Early’s path to self-acceptance is poignant and inspiring, made even more touching by the unwavering support of the Hawthorne family, in stark contrast to the rejection they face from their own.
The third journey is the evolving relationship between Early and Rhys. Early has quietly harboured feelings for Rhys since starting work at Hawthorne House, but their insecurities held them back. Rhys, for his part, has been equally drawn to Early but was hesitant to act due to their 13-year age gap and Early’s role as an employee of his family.
It is through a moment of vulnerability—when Early poses for one of Rhys’ art classes—that their dynamic begins to shift. Early gains newfound confidence, while Rhys starts to let go of his reservations. Though miscommunication briefly derails their budding romance, their connection deepens into genuine love as they navigate their emotions and embrace their feelings.
While the ARC had minor issues like typos and inconsistencies, these didn’t detract from the overall experience. The story struck a delicate balance between melancholy and moments of levity, making it both thought-provoking and emotionally fulfilling.
Both main characters are compelling, with Early’s resilience and kindness making them particularly endearing. A rich cast of secondary characters adds further depth to the narrative, enhancing the sense of community and belonging.
Overall, Painted is a heartfelt and moving tale that delves into themes of healing, identity, and the transformative power of love. Highly recommended for readers seeking an emotionally resonant romance.
December 1, 2024
This book spoke to me with its treatment of grief and all the emotions surrounding facing one you have lost. As a widow for five years, the feelings of pain and loss may ease with time but they don’t completely go away—at least for me. There were thoughts expressed that echoed mine, ringing true even after the years that have passed. I highlighted several passages that gave me comfort as the memory of the earlier grief I felt loomed up in places as I read this story. I identified so with Rhys, that hole where someone so important in your life is just gone and nothing will fill it and there is nothing you can do to make it better. Early’s calm and loving demeanor were a help as Rhys faced his anger and pain, a rock to cling to when the grief became too much to bear. Early had a strength within him which he didn’t realize until Rhys helped build his confidence and the entire Hawthorne family accepted him as he was while he worked on learning who he was also. The two MCs complimented and completed each other.
I don’t think I’ve read more than a book or two with a nonbinary main character, and I personally find myself caught off guard with the pronoun use, not because I have a problem with Early’s identification, just an old school English grammar teacher here adjusting to the 21st century. It’s been good for me to increase my awareness of the pronoun usage and to become comfortable with it when reading rather than having to reread passages to clarify in my own mind.
The characters struck me as realistic, honest and true, while being very relatable, and the grief dealt with realistically as it is something we all will deal with at some point in our lives. It was a moving book for me, having me invested in the characters and story non-stop until Rhys and Early are on their way to their HEA.
I received an advance reader copy of this book for free and this is my voluntary review.
I don’t think I’ve read more than a book or two with a nonbinary main character, and I personally find myself caught off guard with the pronoun use, not because I have a problem with Early’s identification, just an old school English grammar teacher here adjusting to the 21st century. It’s been good for me to increase my awareness of the pronoun usage and to become comfortable with it when reading rather than having to reread passages to clarify in my own mind.
The characters struck me as realistic, honest and true, while being very relatable, and the grief dealt with realistically as it is something we all will deal with at some point in our lives. It was a moving book for me, having me invested in the characters and story non-stop until Rhys and Early are on their way to their HEA.
I received an advance reader copy of this book for free and this is my voluntary review.
November 27, 2024
Rhys is struggling to get over the loss of his sister, and when the family decides to host a memorial that is a tribute to both his sister and the drunk driver that killed her, it stirs up a lot of feelings. Not everything that surfaces is bad. Now he needs to figure out what to do with all those emotions and unexpected draw he has to one of their employees.
Early isn’t naive but isn’t experienced either, and they just haven’t figured out who they are…yet. What they do know is they want Rhys, and they like that Rhys is a man. Otherwise, they don’t know where they fit as far as gender lines, but Rhys likes them just as they are, and that is enough.
Their worlds come together and they have to figure out how they can find a path with each other.
OPINION: This is another lovely story about this wonderful Art Center. Both characters are written with so much heart, giving the story a lot of depth. Merry give a great overview of Early and his life, addressing that he is non-binary and how those around him might react. I love Early, and to see them grow and love being with Rhys is perfect for them. They will be taken care of. The impact of the grief that Rhys experiences and how he handles it is a large part of the story, and the push and pull between love and grief is emotional. There is less information about the Art Center itself in this one, but there is a lot of detail about the fundraising event, making you really feel like you know how it will be. I enjoyed this book. Including a non-binary character is wonderful, and watching these two navigate their relationship was great. Put this on your TBR list, you’ll enjoy it. You don’t need to read the first book; I will say I liked book one better, but this was a wonderful follow-up.
Early isn’t naive but isn’t experienced either, and they just haven’t figured out who they are…yet. What they do know is they want Rhys, and they like that Rhys is a man. Otherwise, they don’t know where they fit as far as gender lines, but Rhys likes them just as they are, and that is enough.
Their worlds come together and they have to figure out how they can find a path with each other.
OPINION: This is another lovely story about this wonderful Art Center. Both characters are written with so much heart, giving the story a lot of depth. Merry give a great overview of Early and his life, addressing that he is non-binary and how those around him might react. I love Early, and to see them grow and love being with Rhys is perfect for them. They will be taken care of. The impact of the grief that Rhys experiences and how he handles it is a large part of the story, and the push and pull between love and grief is emotional. There is less information about the Art Center itself in this one, but there is a lot of detail about the fundraising event, making you really feel like you know how it will be. I enjoyed this book. Including a non-binary character is wonderful, and watching these two navigate their relationship was great. Put this on your TBR list, you’ll enjoy it. You don’t need to read the first book; I will say I liked book one better, but this was a wonderful follow-up.
February 2, 2026
Rhys Hawthorne is lost in grief and creative burnout when Early Stevens — a vulnerable, searching member of his family’s staff — becomes the one person he can’t stay away from. Early is trying to rebuild their life after being rejected by their parents, and falling for Rhys feels both dangerous and inevitable. A teasing misunderstanding pushes their simmering tension into something far more intimate, and one night changes everything. With desire turning into something deeper, both Rhys and Early must decide whether breaking the rules is worth the chance at love.
I loved this story that beautifully captured the magnetic pull between Rhys and Early — two people carrying very different kinds of grief that nonetheless draw them together with quiet inevitability. Rhys was still shattered by the loss of his sister, while Early is grieving parents who can’t accept their true self. Their pain runs parallel, creating a connection that feels both fragile and deeply powerful. What makes their relationship so compelling is how they recognised pieces of their own hurt in each other. The tenderness that grows between them isn’t simple or convenient, but it’s honest, healing, and impossible to ignore. As their bond deepens, it becomes clear that love isn’t just something they want — it’s something they need in order to move forward. This was a gentle, emotional, and beautifully intimate story about two wounded souls finding solace, understanding, and hope in each other. I loved the Rhys painting Early scene. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story that beautifully captured the magnetic pull between Rhys and Early — two people carrying very different kinds of grief that nonetheless draw them together with quiet inevitability. Rhys was still shattered by the loss of his sister, while Early is grieving parents who can’t accept their true self. Their pain runs parallel, creating a connection that feels both fragile and deeply powerful. What makes their relationship so compelling is how they recognised pieces of their own hurt in each other. The tenderness that grows between them isn’t simple or convenient, but it’s honest, healing, and impossible to ignore. As their bond deepens, it becomes clear that love isn’t just something they want — it’s something they need in order to move forward. This was a gentle, emotional, and beautifully intimate story about two wounded souls finding solace, understanding, and hope in each other. I loved the Rhys painting Early scene. This was an MM story with mature content.
November 15, 2024
Merry Farmer is not shying away from a very difficult subject with this absolutely great book.
It is not fluffy, it is not cute, it will punch you and you may need tissues. It's the story of grief and how we learn to live with it and move on with the right person at your side.
While Rhys' grief is obviously very visible, he is battling the loss of his sister for more than a year and can't come to terms with it. His grief is painful to read, he portraits the sucessful painter and loves teaching his classes but you can feel his pain, his battle with a painting clearly shows how he is not able to move on.
Early has a different kind of grief. Struggling to define themselves, they are loosing their family when they are not accepted at home. Learning to be themselves and finding a family with the Hawthornes and love with Rhys is for them a journey on its own. Seeing them finding confidence in unexpected manners is lovely to read.
When these two start something it nearly gets destroyed thanks to both not talking. Communication for both is difficult and the painful portion of the book is written great, the angst is needed and both Early and Rhys are portrait really good.
I love how Early can break through Rhys' defense and shows him how to accept the grief but also moves forward.
The Hawthorne family is a great background, supporting characters like these make the whole story round and well developed.
It is not fluffy, it is not cute, it will punch you and you may need tissues. It's the story of grief and how we learn to live with it and move on with the right person at your side.
While Rhys' grief is obviously very visible, he is battling the loss of his sister for more than a year and can't come to terms with it. His grief is painful to read, he portraits the sucessful painter and loves teaching his classes but you can feel his pain, his battle with a painting clearly shows how he is not able to move on.
Early has a different kind of grief. Struggling to define themselves, they are loosing their family when they are not accepted at home. Learning to be themselves and finding a family with the Hawthornes and love with Rhys is for them a journey on its own. Seeing them finding confidence in unexpected manners is lovely to read.
When these two start something it nearly gets destroyed thanks to both not talking. Communication for both is difficult and the painful portion of the book is written great, the angst is needed and both Early and Rhys are portrait really good.
I love how Early can break through Rhys' defense and shows him how to accept the grief but also moves forward.
The Hawthorne family is a great background, supporting characters like these make the whole story round and well developed.
December 4, 2024
Rhys and Early
“Painted” is the second installment in Merry Farmer’s Art of Love series. This story stars painter Rhys Hawthorne and the art center office employee Early Stevens. Both of these characters have a lot going on in their lives. Rhys is mired in grief over the death of his sister. Early is struggling with their identity and their relationship with their parents. Early has had a crush on Rhys and Rhys does feel drawn to Early but is ignoring the feelings because of Early’s employee status and age. These are two great dramatic characters, the story is deeply insightful and heartfelt. The reader is along for the ride to both healing and self discovery. Merry Farmer pulls no punches, have a box of tissues handy as Rhys struggles with his grief. Rhys and Early, who identifies as non-binary, begin their romantic relationship which ranges in intensity. This is an open door passionate relationship. Merry Farmer is building another interesting world with a myriad of wonderfully artistic, very individualistic, characters. Members of The Brotherhood make an appearance and we get to join Early and Rhys on their date at The Chameleon Club. I definitely recommend “Painted” by Merry Farmer. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“Painted” is the second installment in Merry Farmer’s Art of Love series. This story stars painter Rhys Hawthorne and the art center office employee Early Stevens. Both of these characters have a lot going on in their lives. Rhys is mired in grief over the death of his sister. Early is struggling with their identity and their relationship with their parents. Early has had a crush on Rhys and Rhys does feel drawn to Early but is ignoring the feelings because of Early’s employee status and age. These are two great dramatic characters, the story is deeply insightful and heartfelt. The reader is along for the ride to both healing and self discovery. Merry Farmer pulls no punches, have a box of tissues handy as Rhys struggles with his grief. Rhys and Early, who identifies as non-binary, begin their romantic relationship which ranges in intensity. This is an open door passionate relationship. Merry Farmer is building another interesting world with a myriad of wonderfully artistic, very individualistic, characters. Members of The Brotherhood make an appearance and we get to join Early and Rhys on their date at The Chameleon Club. I definitely recommend “Painted” by Merry Farmer. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
November 24, 2024
Alizarin crimson, narwhal bits, fairy godmother Rebecca
I am confused and dismayed. Raina, a late Hawthorne daughter, left behind her husband and two children. In "Thrown ", Book 1, the husband's name is Nate. But in this Book 2, his name is now Nick. I think it's the same character.
Regardless of the correct name, this is a great read! It's the continuation of the Hawthorne House and its family. This story centers on Rhys Hawthorne, a painter artist/teacher. And Early Stevens, the family receptionist/personal assistant, who is non-binary.
Early's parents kicked them out for not being their "son". Early, 21, is still trying to figure out who and what they are. Being close to the Hawthorne family, Early is taken under Rhys's wing. Rhys is still grieving his sister, Raina killed in a drunk driver accident a year ago. Rhys is also trying to fight his attraction to Early, over a decade younger. That sums up the angst of the story.
Of course, the Hawthornes are quirky and very likeable. They're close-knit and a lot of everything. Then there's the haters and "bad" characters. Booo! Hiss!
The imagery is well-written and easily visualized. The story is solid and riveting. Your emotions will be all over the place. Keep some tissues handy. That's all I'll say about that. I enjoyed this book immensely and have no qualms recommending it.
I am confused and dismayed. Raina, a late Hawthorne daughter, left behind her husband and two children. In "Thrown ", Book 1, the husband's name is Nate. But in this Book 2, his name is now Nick. I think it's the same character.
Regardless of the correct name, this is a great read! It's the continuation of the Hawthorne House and its family. This story centers on Rhys Hawthorne, a painter artist/teacher. And Early Stevens, the family receptionist/personal assistant, who is non-binary.
Early's parents kicked them out for not being their "son". Early, 21, is still trying to figure out who and what they are. Being close to the Hawthorne family, Early is taken under Rhys's wing. Rhys is still grieving his sister, Raina killed in a drunk driver accident a year ago. Rhys is also trying to fight his attraction to Early, over a decade younger. That sums up the angst of the story.
Of course, the Hawthornes are quirky and very likeable. They're close-knit and a lot of everything. Then there's the haters and "bad" characters. Booo! Hiss!
The imagery is well-written and easily visualized. The story is solid and riveting. Your emotions will be all over the place. Keep some tissues handy. That's all I'll say about that. I enjoyed this book immensely and have no qualms recommending it.
November 25, 2024
- series
- gender identity
- loss and bereavement
This is the second in the Art of Love series, but can be read as a standalone. This is Rhys and Early's story, we met both briefly in the first book. This was far more emotional a story than I ever thought it would be when I started it. Early's story is centred around their journey to find themselves, their gender identity and expressing that and finding confidence along the way. I loved seeing Early blossom and seeing them stand up to their family was so satisfying. Rhys is on a different journey, his one of grief at losing his sister whom he was very close to.
I loved how real this story was, from their first night together which was uncomfortable to read but was a refreshing change as not all first times are sunshine and roses and they don't all go as planned. I liked that they both learned to communicate with each other and find their way back to each other and build their relationship with that solid base.
There's a lot to unpack with this story, it never lets up from the first moment to the HEA for these two. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next in the series. I'm loving this bohemian, eclectic family.
- gender identity
- loss and bereavement
This is the second in the Art of Love series, but can be read as a standalone. This is Rhys and Early's story, we met both briefly in the first book. This was far more emotional a story than I ever thought it would be when I started it. Early's story is centred around their journey to find themselves, their gender identity and expressing that and finding confidence along the way. I loved seeing Early blossom and seeing them stand up to their family was so satisfying. Rhys is on a different journey, his one of grief at losing his sister whom he was very close to.
I loved how real this story was, from their first night together which was uncomfortable to read but was a refreshing change as not all first times are sunshine and roses and they don't all go as planned. I liked that they both learned to communicate with each other and find their way back to each other and build their relationship with that solid base.
There's a lot to unpack with this story, it never lets up from the first moment to the HEA for these two. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next in the series. I'm loving this bohemian, eclectic family.
November 14, 2024
This is the second in Farmer’s Art of Love series, set at the Hawthorne Community Arts Center – ancestral home of the Hawthorne family. Early Stevens works in the administrative office, and their nonbinary identity is rejected by his parents, with whom they live. Rhys Hawthorne lives in Hawthorne House, teaches painting classes, and is deeply grieving the loss of his sister. These two are attracted to each other, in a hurt/comfort way, though Rhys resists the attraction due to their age difference and the fact that Early works for the school the Hawthornes own and run.
I very much enjoyed this story, as the author brought in appropriate secondary characters (Early’s and Rhys’s parents), and liked the brief appearance of the Chameleon Club members from another series. I really felt the characters delving deeply into intense emotion beyond the surface sexual attraction. There’s a great, intense makeout session between them involving paint…
Highly recommended, and looking forward to the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I very much enjoyed this story, as the author brought in appropriate secondary characters (Early’s and Rhys’s parents), and liked the brief appearance of the Chameleon Club members from another series. I really felt the characters delving deeply into intense emotion beyond the surface sexual attraction. There’s a great, intense makeout session between them involving paint…
Highly recommended, and looking forward to the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2024
This is book two in the author’s Art of Love series on the colorful and eccentric Hawthorne family.
Rhys, one of the family’s resident artists, taught painting classes to a wide variety of students in the arts school they’d founded in their ancestral home. Early, a nonbinary employee, had a crush on Rhys and hoped he would grow to have feelings for him as well but because of an age gap, Rhys did his best to fight his attraction for the shy young man.
In addition to the tentative romance, a big portion of the book focuses on the grief that Rhys, in particular, was suffering from the loss of his beloved sister and confidant, Raina, due to an accident involving a drunk driver.
As much as I would’ve preferred there to be no death in my romances, it wasn’t just drama for the sake of drama, it served an important purpose. The book touched on the grieving process and the importance of grief counseling as well as promoting the awareness of anti drunk driving organizations.
My 4 star rating isn’t a reflection of the book as a whole, I enjoyed the book itself, my lowered review is only because of the death of a young mother and wife in a romance novel.
Rhys, one of the family’s resident artists, taught painting classes to a wide variety of students in the arts school they’d founded in their ancestral home. Early, a nonbinary employee, had a crush on Rhys and hoped he would grow to have feelings for him as well but because of an age gap, Rhys did his best to fight his attraction for the shy young man.
In addition to the tentative romance, a big portion of the book focuses on the grief that Rhys, in particular, was suffering from the loss of his beloved sister and confidant, Raina, due to an accident involving a drunk driver.
As much as I would’ve preferred there to be no death in my romances, it wasn’t just drama for the sake of drama, it served an important purpose. The book touched on the grieving process and the importance of grief counseling as well as promoting the awareness of anti drunk driving organizations.
My 4 star rating isn’t a reflection of the book as a whole, I enjoyed the book itself, my lowered review is only because of the death of a young mother and wife in a romance novel.
May 23, 2025
A Story of Discovery
Painted by Merry Farmer brings us the story of Rhys who is still mourning the loss of his sister, Raina, and Early who knows they are non-binary. Early is very much aware that they are in the beginning stages of figuring out who they are once they are living in a supportive environment.
Farmer gives a master class in illustrating both the pain of losing a loved one and the struggle to come to terms with the loss and also of Early’s journey of self-discovery. This book isn’t all sunshine and roses, but, as someone who has experienced the loss of a sibling, Farmer’s depiction is realistic.
That being said, Rhys and Early’s journey to finding their happily ever after is compelling and satisfying. I also really enjoyed the interaction with the supporting cast of characters. The Brotherhood will forever be a favorite set of series of mine. The Hawthorne family is also a joy to read. I’m intrigued by what Hawthorne-by-marriage Nick’s story will be.
Painted by Merry Farmer brings us the story of Rhys who is still mourning the loss of his sister, Raina, and Early who knows they are non-binary. Early is very much aware that they are in the beginning stages of figuring out who they are once they are living in a supportive environment.
Farmer gives a master class in illustrating both the pain of losing a loved one and the struggle to come to terms with the loss and also of Early’s journey of self-discovery. This book isn’t all sunshine and roses, but, as someone who has experienced the loss of a sibling, Farmer’s depiction is realistic.
That being said, Rhys and Early’s journey to finding their happily ever after is compelling and satisfying. I also really enjoyed the interaction with the supporting cast of characters. The Brotherhood will forever be a favorite set of series of mine. The Hawthorne family is also a joy to read. I’m intrigued by what Hawthorne-by-marriage Nick’s story will be.
November 27, 2024
Rhys' is struggling with the loss of his sister, as is the rest of the family, he is a sucessful painter and that teaches classes within the Hawthorn House, yes painting is the medium of art he loved to share and teach, his struggles with painting shows his issues and how he cant seem to move on.
Early is younger and with their own struggles to define themselves, then to have their family reject them. Its another hard version of grief, they didnt physically lose their family, but in a way, since they are the ones rejected, surely it must be harder, esp in the midst of their own mental angst.
Communication, its easy for us readers to see what neither character can, that they NEED to open their mouths and talk... but no. Like many books these characters forget they need to do that, neither one has a crystal ball to read the other.
The rest of Hawthorne family support all the characters well, loved seeing the previous book characters return
Early is younger and with their own struggles to define themselves, then to have their family reject them. Its another hard version of grief, they didnt physically lose their family, but in a way, since they are the ones rejected, surely it must be harder, esp in the midst of their own mental angst.
Communication, its easy for us readers to see what neither character can, that they NEED to open their mouths and talk... but no. Like many books these characters forget they need to do that, neither one has a crystal ball to read the other.
The rest of Hawthorne family support all the characters well, loved seeing the previous book characters return
December 2, 2024
Painted by Merry Farmer is a poignant and beautifully crafted story that delves into the complexities of love, identity, and healing. Rhys and Early's journey is tender yet intense, filled with moments of vulnerability and personal growth. The exploration of Early's nonbinary identity is handled with depth and care, adding richness to their character and the story as a whole.
While I found the first book in The Art of Love series slightly more gripping, this installment still captivated me with its emotional depth and introspection. Merry Farmer’s ability to give readers an intimate glimpse into her characters’ inner worlds is truly commendable.
This book offers more than just romance; it’s a heartfelt exploration of finding oneself and navigating love when life feels impossibly messy. A highly recommended read for those who enjoy thought-provoking, character-driven stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While I found the first book in The Art of Love series slightly more gripping, this installment still captivated me with its emotional depth and introspection. Merry Farmer’s ability to give readers an intimate glimpse into her characters’ inner worlds is truly commendable.
This book offers more than just romance; it’s a heartfelt exploration of finding oneself and navigating love when life feels impossibly messy. A highly recommended read for those who enjoy thought-provoking, character-driven stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 30, 2024
I fully enjoyed this book about Rhys and Early. They’re such a great couple and theirs is such a wonderful story!
Merry knows how to deal with difficult topics in such a beautiful way! I’m amazed by it every single time.
And I love how she put Early's thoughts on paper. The inner struggle one can have. It has also clarified a lot about non-binary identity for me.
Quotes:
-That was the annoying thing about grief. It kept hanging on and reared its head at the most inconvenient times, especially when you thought you’d kicked it.
-“I have no idea who I am,” Early argued. “I can’t even decide what gender I am.” “You’re you,” Robert said patting Early’s arm. “That’s the only label you need.” (Note: Robert is Rhys’s father.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Merry knows how to deal with difficult topics in such a beautiful way! I’m amazed by it every single time.
And I love how she put Early's thoughts on paper. The inner struggle one can have. It has also clarified a lot about non-binary identity for me.
Quotes:
-That was the annoying thing about grief. It kept hanging on and reared its head at the most inconvenient times, especially when you thought you’d kicked it.
-“I have no idea who I am,” Early argued. “I can’t even decide what gender I am.” “You’re you,” Robert said patting Early’s arm. “That’s the only label you need.” (Note: Robert is Rhys’s father.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2024
A tribute to life
In the whole book, what struck me most, aside the emerging feelings between Rhys and Early, was Rhys’ grief over Riana’s death. His anger, his powerlessness, and what amounts to survivor guilt and the way he processed that grief through his art.
In my eyes, the most important passage in the book is: “The set of people you started life with was rarely the set of people you carried with you throughout your entire life. It was the truest and hardest thing that anyone had to accept.”
Sometimes, it is worse to lose someone to life or to your own pride and pig-headed beliefs rather than to death, because you know it could have ended in a different way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In the whole book, what struck me most, aside the emerging feelings between Rhys and Early, was Rhys’ grief over Riana’s death. His anger, his powerlessness, and what amounts to survivor guilt and the way he processed that grief through his art.
In my eyes, the most important passage in the book is: “The set of people you started life with was rarely the set of people you carried with you throughout your entire life. It was the truest and hardest thing that anyone had to accept.”
Sometimes, it is worse to lose someone to life or to your own pride and pig-headed beliefs rather than to death, because you know it could have ended in a different way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2024
This book is not a fun fluffy read, it’s very heavy, but in a way cathartic as a good book about grief will do for you.
Things I liked about this book. The discovery of oneself, having Early figure themselves out, like as in what they like to wear and what was comfortable for them was refreshing. I really liked gaining a little insight into their thoughts and process. That was new to me, often I read enby characters where they’ve already established themselves, so it was nice to get to know Early so soon on their journey.
Rhys. I don’t know that he’s believable as a romantic partner with Early. He’s very in his own head about the loss of his sister, it nearly feels like Rhys has been a zombie the whole time and Early has been sent by Raina to spark life back into Rhys.
Things I liked about this book. The discovery of oneself, having Early figure themselves out, like as in what they like to wear and what was comfortable for them was refreshing. I really liked gaining a little insight into their thoughts and process. That was new to me, often I read enby characters where they’ve already established themselves, so it was nice to get to know Early so soon on their journey.
Rhys. I don’t know that he’s believable as a romantic partner with Early. He’s very in his own head about the loss of his sister, it nearly feels like Rhys has been a zombie the whole time and Early has been sent by Raina to spark life back into Rhys.
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November 19, 2024This is not your light, fluffy holiday romance... it tackles real grief, real family struggles and how people can lash out to those they're closest to in the throws of that grief... it also depicts one loving and supportive family and another who are controlling and hurtful...
I absolutely love Early! They're just so wonderful and sweet, with an amazing heart and a backbone of steel! They are such a beautiful character and while they make missteps, they totally know what they want!
Rhys is so broken and in so much pain that he lashes out and doesn't trust that he can ever be happy - this was gut wrenching to read, but Early was such a positive light that they balanced out!
So emotional, so moving and such a hard won HEA - with a little levity provided by The Brotherhood!
I absolutely love Early! They're just so wonderful and sweet, with an amazing heart and a backbone of steel! They are such a beautiful character and while they make missteps, they totally know what they want!
Rhys is so broken and in so much pain that he lashes out and doesn't trust that he can ever be happy - this was gut wrenching to read, but Early was such a positive light that they balanced out!
So emotional, so moving and such a hard won HEA - with a little levity provided by The Brotherhood!
November 28, 2024
Well handled. Rhys, is a well known artist who is teaching classes at his Family's community center. He is carrying a bit of sorrow in his life while he is struggling for inspiration and closure. He's attracted to Early who is learning his identity while working for the Hawthorne family. Early, has come out as nonbinary. Early's family kicked him out and the Hawthlorne's took him in. He is crushing hard on Rhys while trying to understand who he is. Rhys, lets his grief weigh him down and cloud his life. Early is absolutely adorable. Good book of the struggles of grief in all forms. Sweet Family support group and good story flow. Well done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 28, 2024
I am loving how Merry Farmer is developing this series. First of all kudos for the best representation of parents in a loving and healthy open relationship! In this book Rhys is not able to do any of his art because he is so upset about his sister dying. Early has been kicked out of their house because they refuse to dress like a boy all the time. The two are both interesting characters, but I really liked Early because they are such a unique character and because we share a love of vintage clothing. The plot flows well as is typical of Farmer’s writing and the pacing is also good. This book made me laugh and cry, sometimes even both at the same time. The whole thing was very endearing and I loved it.
November 21, 2024
This book absolutely lives up to its predecessor, Thrown, in the fact that it pulls you in and connects you to good, strong characters. Set in the same setting so meeting up with all the cast again is delightful. Early and Rhys find themselves attracted to and though perhaps slightly reluctant, for Rhys anyway, falling into a romantic relationship. Ups and downs, misunderstandings and outside derision can’t stop these two and the journey they begin is a beautiful, engaging experience, one that it’s very easy to become invested in. This book was a wonderful reading and I’m very excited for the next one and their adventures. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
November 24, 2024
This book simply moved my heart in so many ways. Early, struggling with his nonbinary identity, is thrown out of his family home but Rhys family takes in him as he works for them. Of course making this difficult is the fact that both men are attracted to one another but do not go there due to age gap and the employee thing. Rhys has his own issues grieving hid dead sister. A wonderful story about two men finding love, redefining family as they need it to be and I loved that there were may supportive secondary characters. Few books move me and get under my skin like this one. A perfect read. I did receive and ARC and leave this honest review.
November 11, 2024
Very Different!
Something in life which never ceases to amaze me is the potential destruction of a relationship due to the grief over the loss of a loved one, no matter what the circumstances are and who is involved..... and this is something which Rhys and Early had to deal with in their relationship.
It was a really good story with very interesting and endearing characters who didn't always do what I expected them to and that kept me on my toes.
I am happy to leave my voluntary review of this book after reading an early copy of it
Something in life which never ceases to amaze me is the potential destruction of a relationship due to the grief over the loss of a loved one, no matter what the circumstances are and who is involved..... and this is something which Rhys and Early had to deal with in their relationship.
It was a really good story with very interesting and endearing characters who didn't always do what I expected them to and that kept me on my toes.
I am happy to leave my voluntary review of this book after reading an early copy of it
November 25, 2024
Painted by Merry Farmer, The Art of Love book 2, brings us Rhys and Earle’s story. Rhys is still overwhelmed by his sister Raina’s death and Early is trying to separate themselves from their parents’ expectations so they can figure out who they are, besides someone madly crushing on Rhys! The story weaves growing into one’s identity with learning about grief, and how emotions felt authentically and fully can lead to more joy and love. Painted is a lovely, sensitive romance with a happily ever after.
November 28, 2024
This was an absolutely beautiful story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Rhys and Early’s story. The characters were believable and realistic in their grief and the things that they went through together and separately. I loved how Early was there for Rhys in his grieving process and how Rhys was there for Early in their struggle to find their place in life. It was a lot of emotion in this story and found myself crying along with the characters. This book was well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2024
Rhys and Early are going through some serious times individually but they just seem to work together. Eventually they realize that and decide to work on building a relationship. Unfortunately, love doesn't solve every problem for them once they make that decision. It doesn't make parents who don't accept you magically change, it doesn't eliminate grief and guilt and it doesn't uncomplicate what Rhys has to deal with in Hawthorne House and the Community Arts Center. These two have to work hard for their HEA. I'm really loving this series based around different artists and types of art.
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