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Tangled Mind
For years Beck Lund has taken care of his volatile boyfriend, Brady, always putting Brady’s needs above his own and walking on eggshells to keep the peace. After Brady overdoses on heroin, his death devastates Beck. Thankfully Beck's best friend, Timothy Kallis, finds him the help he needs. Beck slowly starts to recover and moves in with Timothy to get back on his feet, but he's oblivious that Timothy is secretly nursing romantic affection for him.
Beck focuses on his own healing for the first time in his life. After months of challenging his codependent tendencies and learning how to stand up for himself, Beck finally starts to trust his gut and hopes to one day love again. Timothy is patient throughout, taking care of Beck in ways no one ever has. But if Beck can’t recognize Timothy’s affection for him, it might be too late for them to move beyond friendship.
Beck focuses on his own healing for the first time in his life. After months of challenging his codependent tendencies and learning how to stand up for himself, Beck finally starts to trust his gut and hopes to one day love again. Timothy is patient throughout, taking care of Beck in ways no one ever has. But if Beck can’t recognize Timothy’s affection for him, it might be too late for them to move beyond friendship.
76 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 24, 2014
3 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Posy Roberts
31 books232 followersPosy Roberts started reading romance when she was young, but textbooks eventually replaced the novels, and she somehow existed without reading for fun. When she finally picked up a romance years later, it was like slipping on a soft hoodie . . . that didn’t quite fit right. She wanted something more.
Now she wanted to read about queer people falling in love. She wanted to explore beyond the happily ever after and watch characters navigate the unpredictability of life as they create their happy homes. So Posy sat down at her keyboard to write the books she wanted to read.
Her stories have been USA Today’s “Happily Ever After” Must-Reads and Rainbow Award finalists. When she’s not writing or editing, she’s spending time with loved ones and doing anything possible to get out of grocery shopping and cooking.
Now she wanted to read about queer people falling in love. She wanted to explore beyond the happily ever after and watch characters navigate the unpredictability of life as they create their happy homes. So Posy sat down at her keyboard to write the books she wanted to read.
Her stories have been USA Today’s “Happily Ever After” Must-Reads and Rainbow Award finalists. When she’s not writing or editing, she’s spending time with loved ones and doing anything possible to get out of grocery shopping and cooking.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 11, 2015
A Hearts On Fire Review
3.75 HEARTS--"Tangled Mind" starts with the harsh reality of heroin overdose. It makes a statement. This is more of a quiet read. I was nervous this would make me cry or twist my heart, but I was rock steady. :)
The words, though. This is my first Posy Roberts, won't be my last. I enjoyed her technique a lot. It reminded me of some my favorite quieter impact romance writers. Nothing too dramatic to try and make a story but the author uses real life situations and reactions to get the story done...you know those types. :)
Tangled Mind starts with a death and it ends on a quiet high note of sweet romance.
Beck has been a caretaker most of his adult life to an addict, dysthymic boyfriend. After his boyfriend dies, he doesn't know how to cope not being in a relationship. A grieving codependent, the artist/high school art teacher rediscovers himself through counseling and support groups. And with the help of friends, especially his long time friend & furniture maker Timothy. But Timothy has been harboring a long time love for his friend. When the two move in together, they become closer. Beck sees he had something special right under his nose the entire time once he heals.
I enjoyed the pacing. I actually liked the length of the story. I don't think much more could've have been added to make much of a difference to the HEA. Maybe if the reader got to see some of Brady (dead boyfriend) and Beck together, it might've made the story edgier? Give a different angle? The story is told strictly from Beck's POV in first person POV (a favorite POV of mine) Yet somehow it left me medium-well rather than well done.
I can't pinpoint what exactly didn't make a stronger impact to me. The subjects of drug use and its victims (users and their loved ones)/ mental health/ grief are serious. I love books that showcase them and show main characters who aren't your regular cookie cutter types. It might just be a me thing (I don't think so but I'll give an out) but I couldn't connect to present day Beck. When he grieved, I fully understood him. Hell, I've had days like that, trying to reconnect to real life after a death.
Something about him was off. He said the right things. He didn't jump into the sack with the first willing body. He didn't cause drama. He was closer to sainthood than I'd like but I'll ignore it. He sought counseling which I support and started his relationship in a healthy manner.
But...Beck, sometimes I felt like I barely knew him.
I don't know how I ended up loving Timothy more than Beck, but I did. He's such a strong yet quiet presence. He was in the background when they were friends but I recognized him. I understood him. That silly hissy fit he had around 80%? I get where he was coming from but for a guy who argued about the mixer, wouldn't stand up or communicate with his friend after such an important event? It was to move the story along, I get it, but eh...it wasn't necessary.
The characters weren't one-dimensional in the least. The sex scenes were great. I like accurate portrayals of characters with a big D. Not everyone can take it like a porn star first time around, thank you. Loved main characters' friendship. It was rock solid.
As is the story. If you're in the mood for friends-to-lovers/ finding love after a partner's death, this is a story to check out.
3.75 HEARTS--"Tangled Mind" starts with the harsh reality of heroin overdose. It makes a statement. This is more of a quiet read. I was nervous this would make me cry or twist my heart, but I was rock steady. :)
The words, though. This is my first Posy Roberts, won't be my last. I enjoyed her technique a lot. It reminded me of some my favorite quieter impact romance writers. Nothing too dramatic to try and make a story but the author uses real life situations and reactions to get the story done...you know those types. :)
Tangled Mind starts with a death and it ends on a quiet high note of sweet romance.
Beck has been a caretaker most of his adult life to an addict, dysthymic boyfriend. After his boyfriend dies, he doesn't know how to cope not being in a relationship. A grieving codependent, the artist/high school art teacher rediscovers himself through counseling and support groups. And with the help of friends, especially his long time friend & furniture maker Timothy. But Timothy has been harboring a long time love for his friend. When the two move in together, they become closer. Beck sees he had something special right under his nose the entire time once he heals.
I enjoyed the pacing. I actually liked the length of the story. I don't think much more could've have been added to make much of a difference to the HEA. Maybe if the reader got to see some of Brady (dead boyfriend) and Beck together, it might've made the story edgier? Give a different angle? The story is told strictly from Beck's POV in first person POV (a favorite POV of mine) Yet somehow it left me medium-well rather than well done.
I can't pinpoint what exactly didn't make a stronger impact to me. The subjects of drug use and its victims (users and their loved ones)/ mental health/ grief are serious. I love books that showcase them and show main characters who aren't your regular cookie cutter types. It might just be a me thing (I don't think so but I'll give an out) but I couldn't connect to present day Beck. When he grieved, I fully understood him. Hell, I've had days like that, trying to reconnect to real life after a death.
Something about him was off. He said the right things. He didn't jump into the sack with the first willing body. He didn't cause drama. He was closer to sainthood than I'd like but I'll ignore it. He sought counseling which I support and started his relationship in a healthy manner.
But...Beck, sometimes I felt like I barely knew him.
I don't know how I ended up loving Timothy more than Beck, but I did. He's such a strong yet quiet presence. He was in the background when they were friends but I recognized him. I understood him. That silly hissy fit he had around 80%? I get where he was coming from but for a guy who argued about the mixer, wouldn't stand up or communicate with his friend after such an important event? It was to move the story along, I get it, but eh...it wasn't necessary.
The characters weren't one-dimensional in the least. The sex scenes were great. I like accurate portrayals of characters with a big D. Not everyone can take it like a porn star first time around, thank you. Loved main characters' friendship. It was rock solid.
As is the story. If you're in the mood for friends-to-lovers/ finding love after a partner's death, this is a story to check out.
January 22, 2015
The first page was like a sucker punch.
It came out of nowhere and hurt like a son of a bitch. I fought tears and forged ahead.
It still hurt, yet it got better and better.
Not messing around, Posy throws you directly onto the sharp blade of losing a cherished one to a brutal addiction.
Heroin: Evil, unforgiving, and a sure ticket to your last breath.
Just one more time, I’m almost there, this is the only way…..It's impossible to win and you drag everyone in your heart down with you.
Beck loses his partner, Brady, to this deadly drug. Ten years he nurtured, loved and tried to pull his lover back from the fatal brink. He lost the battle.
His pain palpated from the pages. My tummy was tight and my eyes were wet as I read.
It was so….real.
Beck is drowning in sorrow, grief, and remorse. His best friend, Tim, pulls him from the wretched despair he is fighting. He’s desperate to save him, but can Beck recognize the silver lining waiting for him? He can’t move forward until he releases the past. How do you say hello when you can’t say goodbye?
Tim never pushed, forced or took. He was simply...waiting. I thought Tim was incredible. It almost seems wrong to say that Beck is lucky, especially after everything he endured. Yet that is the first word that comes to mind; if only we were all so lucky to have a Tim in our lives.
Grief affects us all differently but there is no denying it’s all consuming. We follow Beck’s transition throughout the stages of grief with startling clarity. His suffocating guilt, isolation, anger, depression and finally acceptance does not allow for an easy path. Blessedly, hope, love and a bright future await Beck.
For such a short story, it packs a powerful punch.
It stuck with me, gained strength as it marinated. I think I even see a reread coming in the near future.
Beck is twisted and trapped, however Tim is determined to unravel the knots. It was painstakingly beautiful.
If you are looking for a rise above challenge this may be exactly what you’re searching for.
*4 twisted-tangled-tough stars*
It came out of nowhere and hurt like a son of a bitch. I fought tears and forged ahead.
It still hurt, yet it got better and better.
Not messing around, Posy throws you directly onto the sharp blade of losing a cherished one to a brutal addiction.
Heroin: Evil, unforgiving, and a sure ticket to your last breath.
Just one more time, I’m almost there, this is the only way…..It's impossible to win and you drag everyone in your heart down with you.
Beck loses his partner, Brady, to this deadly drug. Ten years he nurtured, loved and tried to pull his lover back from the fatal brink. He lost the battle.
His pain palpated from the pages. My tummy was tight and my eyes were wet as I read.
It was so….real.
Beck is drowning in sorrow, grief, and remorse. His best friend, Tim, pulls him from the wretched despair he is fighting. He’s desperate to save him, but can Beck recognize the silver lining waiting for him? He can’t move forward until he releases the past. How do you say hello when you can’t say goodbye?
Tim never pushed, forced or took. He was simply...waiting. I thought Tim was incredible. It almost seems wrong to say that Beck is lucky, especially after everything he endured. Yet that is the first word that comes to mind; if only we were all so lucky to have a Tim in our lives.
Grief affects us all differently but there is no denying it’s all consuming. We follow Beck’s transition throughout the stages of grief with startling clarity. His suffocating guilt, isolation, anger, depression and finally acceptance does not allow for an easy path. Blessedly, hope, love and a bright future await Beck.
For such a short story, it packs a powerful punch.
It stuck with me, gained strength as it marinated. I think I even see a reread coming in the near future.
Beck is twisted and trapped, however Tim is determined to unravel the knots. It was painstakingly beautiful.
If you are looking for a rise above challenge this may be exactly what you’re searching for.
*4 twisted-tangled-tough stars*
December 17, 2014
3.5 stars, rounded up.
The book opens with a horrific scene when Beck comes home to find his boyfriend Brady choking on his own vomit. A call to 911 comes too late. Brady is dead, from an overdose of heroin, having chased his last high.
Beck plummets into grief and despair, and thus loses himself even more. With therapy and the help from Timothy, one of his best friends, he slowly starts to crawl out of the pit and tries to find himself again.
Posy's writing style flows easily, yet delves deeply into the emotional side of Beck's state of mind, his suffering, the unanswered questions, and his need to be needed. As Beck learns about himself, about his co-dependent leanings, he finds solace and a shoulder to cry on in his friend Timothy.
The author has an uncanny knack for putting meaning between her lines, letting the reader but not the character see what's really going on. I knew that Timothy was in love with Beck long before he even said the words.
But Beck learns. There's much character growth in this short novel, as Beck emerges on the other side of his grief, confronted with his own demons, and finds the strength to ask for what he needs.
There is one scene that ticked me off, when Timothy makes a stupid assumption, though I can understand how he would have come to that conclusion. He's a little more insecure than he lets on, and it causes both of them pain.
But things do get resolved, and the ending gives me much hope for them both.
The dialogue is organic and realistic, and the characters' growth is meaningful and believable. This isn't an easy read, because it's filled with pain and loss, but the ending makes it worth your tears.
** I received a free copy of this book from Pride Promotions as part of an ongoing blogtour. A positive review was not promised in return. **
The book opens with a horrific scene when Beck comes home to find his boyfriend Brady choking on his own vomit. A call to 911 comes too late. Brady is dead, from an overdose of heroin, having chased his last high.
Beck plummets into grief and despair, and thus loses himself even more. With therapy and the help from Timothy, one of his best friends, he slowly starts to crawl out of the pit and tries to find himself again.
Posy's writing style flows easily, yet delves deeply into the emotional side of Beck's state of mind, his suffering, the unanswered questions, and his need to be needed. As Beck learns about himself, about his co-dependent leanings, he finds solace and a shoulder to cry on in his friend Timothy.
The author has an uncanny knack for putting meaning between her lines, letting the reader but not the character see what's really going on. I knew that Timothy was in love with Beck long before he even said the words.
But Beck learns. There's much character growth in this short novel, as Beck emerges on the other side of his grief, confronted with his own demons, and finds the strength to ask for what he needs.
There is one scene that ticked me off, when Timothy makes a stupid assumption, though I can understand how he would have come to that conclusion. He's a little more insecure than he lets on, and it causes both of them pain.
But things do get resolved, and the ending gives me much hope for them both.
The dialogue is organic and realistic, and the characters' growth is meaningful and believable. This isn't an easy read, because it's filled with pain and loss, but the ending makes it worth your tears.
** I received a free copy of this book from Pride Promotions as part of an ongoing blogtour. A positive review was not promised in return. **
December 19, 2014
Original Blog Post:
Book Tour, eARC Review, Excerpt & #Giveaway: Tangled Mind by Posy Roberts
This is so beautiful.
Tangled Mind digs deep into the psyche of someone in deep grief and drowning in it. It digs deep into the feelings that could not be controlled and there is a fight for survival. But it is hard. It is so hard. When an unexpected lifeline is cast out his way, he has two choices: to grab or ignore.
Beck had been in relationship that... tortured. That is the only word I could come up with. It was basically a one-sided love affair where his partner, Brady, sucked Beck's life out and unfortunately, Beck was like a frog sitting in a tub of slowly boiling water. Dying in increments and not realizing it. When Brady dies, call it accidental, call it fate, call it whatever, it was really Beck's way out. Unfortunately, just like the clueless frog, he did not recognize it.
Brady's death hit Beck hard and he slowly loses all control. It is thanks to his best friend, Timothy, that he finally gets a hold of the lifeline cast his way. It is Timothy who takes him to a grief counseling group and stays with him until Beck could go on his own. It was Timothy who takes him in when his finances forced him to let go of his home. It was Timothy who cared for Beck when he was at his lowest.
But Beck's grief left him clueless and is lost. When the epiphany hits, it hits hard and he is confused. What can he do to get back his Timothy? His best friend. His best love. His savior.
This is a really heavy book in the sense that the Beck's grief rolls off the pages like oil and it sticks in every thought. It was hard getting off of this read, it just grabs and takes you in. Yes, it is heavy drama but it is also so full of hope and quite the light read, it does not leave any bad taste in the mouth or mind. Curiously, it did not even make me cry but it hit me hard. With that confusing reaction, it's not just Beck's and Timothy's minds that are tangled up, it's mine as well. In the best possible way.
Book Tour, eARC Review, Excerpt & #Giveaway: Tangled Mind by Posy Roberts
This is so beautiful.
Tangled Mind digs deep into the psyche of someone in deep grief and drowning in it. It digs deep into the feelings that could not be controlled and there is a fight for survival. But it is hard. It is so hard. When an unexpected lifeline is cast out his way, he has two choices: to grab or ignore.
Beck had been in relationship that... tortured. That is the only word I could come up with. It was basically a one-sided love affair where his partner, Brady, sucked Beck's life out and unfortunately, Beck was like a frog sitting in a tub of slowly boiling water. Dying in increments and not realizing it. When Brady dies, call it accidental, call it fate, call it whatever, it was really Beck's way out. Unfortunately, just like the clueless frog, he did not recognize it.
Brady's death hit Beck hard and he slowly loses all control. It is thanks to his best friend, Timothy, that he finally gets a hold of the lifeline cast his way. It is Timothy who takes him to a grief counseling group and stays with him until Beck could go on his own. It was Timothy who takes him in when his finances forced him to let go of his home. It was Timothy who cared for Beck when he was at his lowest.
But Beck's grief left him clueless and is lost. When the epiphany hits, it hits hard and he is confused. What can he do to get back his Timothy? His best friend. His best love. His savior.
This is a really heavy book in the sense that the Beck's grief rolls off the pages like oil and it sticks in every thought. It was hard getting off of this read, it just grabs and takes you in. Yes, it is heavy drama but it is also so full of hope and quite the light read, it does not leave any bad taste in the mouth or mind. Curiously, it did not even make me cry but it hit me hard. With that confusing reaction, it's not just Beck's and Timothy's minds that are tangled up, it's mine as well. In the best possible way.
December 24, 2014
Fantastic story. Packed a lot of punch for a short story. Think this will go on my reread shelf.
December 3, 2014
4.5 stars
I loved this book.
Review to come:
I loved this book.
Review to come:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2015
This is a gem of a story that has many difficult moments. It starts with a horrible moment and then deals with the aftermath. Beck has lost his partner of a decade after basically sacrificing himself to try to keep Brady and their relationship together. In the end, Brady loses his battle and Beck is left to try to pick up the pieces of his shattered life. He has no idea how he will do that and spends several months barely surviving. Once he joins a grief support group, he finally begins to move out of the rut he is in. It's hard to watch him suffer with the loneliness and grief and guilt, but he begins to do some constructive things that help him move along in in journey. His best friend Timothy has always been there for him, not judging, but helping, comforting and caring for him. As Beck heals and their relationship changes as Beck is changing, maybe there is a chance for them to be more.
Beautifully written and very descriptive of the steps that a survivor of such a horrific life experience goes through. I felt so much for Beck and the awful situation he was trying to get out of. His painful steps to healing and really dealing with the aftermath of living in what is a very unhealthy codependent and abusive relationship were so well done.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
Beautifully written and very descriptive of the steps that a survivor of such a horrific life experience goes through. I felt so much for Beck and the awful situation he was trying to get out of. His painful steps to healing and really dealing with the aftermath of living in what is a very unhealthy codependent and abusive relationship were so well done.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
February 9, 2015
3.5 stars.
January 19, 2015
4.5 star review by Tara
In this Book, Beck has been taking care of his heroin addicted, clinically depressed boyfriend named Brady. For years he has been putting Brady’s happiness above his own, loving him, trying to endure his mood swings, and turning an eye when he started to depend on drugs to find his high. Unfortunately while coming home one day he didn’t make it in time to stop him from overdosing and their relationship is ended in tragedy.
Even though Beck’s friends jump to his rescue he finds himself living like a zombie. One day after he had almost reached a point of no return, his best friend Timothy finds him and urges him to seek care. He attends grief counseling meetings and finds himself following the same pattern in his relationship with Brady and as it’s brought to his attention he decides it’s time to focus on healing himself.
Beck begins to see a therapist and moves in with his best friend Timothy, leaving the house that had so many memories of Brady. Beck begins to heal and by his side is Timothy. They learn to laugh together, make meals and good memories with each other. But unknown to Beck, Timothy has loved him for years. After a few months, Beck finds himself wanting to love again and Timothy shows him that he is ready for has been in his face the whole time.
I truly enjoyed this book. It showed the raw side of drug addiction and how it can affect the people you love greatly. Beck was a great character. He grieved for Brady even though for most of their relationship he imagined walking away. He stayed loyal until the very end. I could relate to his struggle to find the will to live again. He had lost what he assumed would be the last love of his life. He felt betrayed, and worthless that he wasn’t enough to get his Brady to stay alive. Timothy was my favorite though. His love for Beck showed throughout the whole story. He was there for him at his most vulnerable, and was willing to share his home to help him heal. I believe he still would have helped even if Beck turned to another guy. It would’ve hurt but he was that good of a guy.
When they finally slept together for the first time all I could think was finally! It wasn’t that it was dragged out; it was just that you wanted them to be together. They were absolutely adorable. Beck with his love for long colored socks because he always had cold feet, and Timothy’s love for ice cream no matter the time of year was so cute and relatable. When they both had doubts about each other, I wanted to slap them because it was so evident that they were meant to be together. I definitely recommend you read this tale. Even though its beginning is based on something sad, the growth, love, and ending is just so worth it. The author did a fantastic job with this book, and I only wish it was just a tad longer because I didn’t want to see the two mc’s go.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
In this Book, Beck has been taking care of his heroin addicted, clinically depressed boyfriend named Brady. For years he has been putting Brady’s happiness above his own, loving him, trying to endure his mood swings, and turning an eye when he started to depend on drugs to find his high. Unfortunately while coming home one day he didn’t make it in time to stop him from overdosing and their relationship is ended in tragedy.
Even though Beck’s friends jump to his rescue he finds himself living like a zombie. One day after he had almost reached a point of no return, his best friend Timothy finds him and urges him to seek care. He attends grief counseling meetings and finds himself following the same pattern in his relationship with Brady and as it’s brought to his attention he decides it’s time to focus on healing himself.
Beck begins to see a therapist and moves in with his best friend Timothy, leaving the house that had so many memories of Brady. Beck begins to heal and by his side is Timothy. They learn to laugh together, make meals and good memories with each other. But unknown to Beck, Timothy has loved him for years. After a few months, Beck finds himself wanting to love again and Timothy shows him that he is ready for has been in his face the whole time.
I truly enjoyed this book. It showed the raw side of drug addiction and how it can affect the people you love greatly. Beck was a great character. He grieved for Brady even though for most of their relationship he imagined walking away. He stayed loyal until the very end. I could relate to his struggle to find the will to live again. He had lost what he assumed would be the last love of his life. He felt betrayed, and worthless that he wasn’t enough to get his Brady to stay alive. Timothy was my favorite though. His love for Beck showed throughout the whole story. He was there for him at his most vulnerable, and was willing to share his home to help him heal. I believe he still would have helped even if Beck turned to another guy. It would’ve hurt but he was that good of a guy.
When they finally slept together for the first time all I could think was finally! It wasn’t that it was dragged out; it was just that you wanted them to be together. They were absolutely adorable. Beck with his love for long colored socks because he always had cold feet, and Timothy’s love for ice cream no matter the time of year was so cute and relatable. When they both had doubts about each other, I wanted to slap them because it was so evident that they were meant to be together. I definitely recommend you read this tale. Even though its beginning is based on something sad, the growth, love, and ending is just so worth it. The author did a fantastic job with this book, and I only wish it was just a tad longer because I didn’t want to see the two mc’s go.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
January 5, 2015
Note: This story deals with themes of death, grief, drug use, and codependency. Anyone triggered by those things might want to skip this one. It hit a few nerves with me, even though the specific experiences aren't my own.
This is really well-written, and I love that Ms. Roberts didn't shy away from the raw emotions. At the same time, it didn't have the feel of trying too hard to get the reader to feel a certain way.
The first part of the story was hard to get through--not because it was boring or poorly written but because it hit so hard. Even for people who have not experienced the exact situation (a spouse or partner with an addiction), it is likely to resonate with anyone who has been in the position of emotional caregiver. When Beck began to emerge from his situation, I wanted to cheer for him.
I loved that Timothy was genuinely bisexual, and Beck had no problem with that at all. I had to laugh at Beck's commentary, especially how their other friends just didn't get it and how Timothy was simply his own person, refusing to be put in a box. This is the most absolutely true thing about most of the bisexual people I know, and I adored it. It was subtle enough that most people probably wouldn't notice or care (or get it, actually), but I sure did.
The relationship between Beck and Timothy unfolded slowly, which made it that much more satisfying when they finally found their way to each other. It was full of hope and promise. The sex was hot, yes, but it was also filled with all the things they both brought to the table.
This was an incredibly satisfying story, start to finish, and I look forward to reading more of Ms. Roberts' work.
5 stars.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
This is really well-written, and I love that Ms. Roberts didn't shy away from the raw emotions. At the same time, it didn't have the feel of trying too hard to get the reader to feel a certain way.
The first part of the story was hard to get through--not because it was boring or poorly written but because it hit so hard. Even for people who have not experienced the exact situation (a spouse or partner with an addiction), it is likely to resonate with anyone who has been in the position of emotional caregiver. When Beck began to emerge from his situation, I wanted to cheer for him.
I loved that Timothy was genuinely bisexual, and Beck had no problem with that at all. I had to laugh at Beck's commentary, especially how their other friends just didn't get it and how Timothy was simply his own person, refusing to be put in a box. This is the most absolutely true thing about most of the bisexual people I know, and I adored it. It was subtle enough that most people probably wouldn't notice or care (or get it, actually), but I sure did.
The relationship between Beck and Timothy unfolded slowly, which made it that much more satisfying when they finally found their way to each other. It was full of hope and promise. The sex was hot, yes, but it was also filled with all the things they both brought to the table.
This was an incredibly satisfying story, start to finish, and I look forward to reading more of Ms. Roberts' work.
5 stars.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
August 20, 2016
Note: This story deals with themes of death, grief, drug use, and codependency. Anyone triggered by those things might want to skip this one. It hit a few nerves with me, even though the specific experiences aren’t my own.
This is really well-written, and I love that Ms. Roberts didn’t shy away from the raw emotions. At the same time, it didn’t have the feel of trying too hard to get the reader to feel a certain way.
The first part of the story was hard to get through–not because it was boring or poorly written but because it hit so hard. Even for people who have not experienced the exact situation (a spouse or partner with an addiction), it is likely to resonate with anyone who has been in the position of emotional caregiver. When Beck began to emerge from his situation, I wanted to cheer for him.
I loved that Timothy was genuinely bisexual, and Beck had no problem with that at all. I had to laugh at Beck’s commentary, especially how their other friends just didn’t get it and how Timothy was simply his own person, refusing to be put in a box. This is the most absolutely true thing about most of the bisexual people I know, and I adored it. It was subtle enough that most people probably wouldn’t notice or care (or get it, actually), but I sure did.
The relationship between Beck and Timothy unfolded slowly, which made it that much more satisfying when they finally found their way to each other. It was full of hope and promise. The sex was hot, yes, but it was also filled with all the things they both brought to the table.
This was an incredibly satisfying story, start to finish, and I look forward to reading more of Ms. Roberts’ work.
This is really well-written, and I love that Ms. Roberts didn’t shy away from the raw emotions. At the same time, it didn’t have the feel of trying too hard to get the reader to feel a certain way.
The first part of the story was hard to get through–not because it was boring or poorly written but because it hit so hard. Even for people who have not experienced the exact situation (a spouse or partner with an addiction), it is likely to resonate with anyone who has been in the position of emotional caregiver. When Beck began to emerge from his situation, I wanted to cheer for him.
I loved that Timothy was genuinely bisexual, and Beck had no problem with that at all. I had to laugh at Beck’s commentary, especially how their other friends just didn’t get it and how Timothy was simply his own person, refusing to be put in a box. This is the most absolutely true thing about most of the bisexual people I know, and I adored it. It was subtle enough that most people probably wouldn’t notice or care (or get it, actually), but I sure did.
The relationship between Beck and Timothy unfolded slowly, which made it that much more satisfying when they finally found their way to each other. It was full of hope and promise. The sex was hot, yes, but it was also filled with all the things they both brought to the table.
This was an incredibly satisfying story, start to finish, and I look forward to reading more of Ms. Roberts’ work.
August 29, 2016
Never clicked with Timothy.
Beck chose to stay with Brady, yet everyone, including Beck after a while, act like Brady was evil and forced Beck to stay instead of acknowledging how sick Brady was. And I have serious issues with the whole "poor Beck" thing when Beck knew his partner was doing drugs and just turned a blind eye. Staying with someone that ill and not doing anything is just as bad, if not worse, than just walking away.
This book was a chance to show the horrors of depression and mental illness, and it did, but it turned the sufferer into the bad guy, especially by introducing drugs. There are plenty of seriously depressed people who don't do drugs and don't choose to, or accidentally end up, killing themselves with illegal drugs.
If you are with someone and you can't handle their issues then you need to walk away, not stay and do nothing and then vilify them once they are dead.
Beck chose to stay with Brady, yet everyone, including Beck after a while, act like Brady was evil and forced Beck to stay instead of acknowledging how sick Brady was. And I have serious issues with the whole "poor Beck" thing when Beck knew his partner was doing drugs and just turned a blind eye. Staying with someone that ill and not doing anything is just as bad, if not worse, than just walking away.
This book was a chance to show the horrors of depression and mental illness, and it did, but it turned the sufferer into the bad guy, especially by introducing drugs. There are plenty of seriously depressed people who don't do drugs and don't choose to, or accidentally end up, killing themselves with illegal drugs.
If you are with someone and you can't handle their issues then you need to walk away, not stay and do nothing and then vilify them once they are dead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2015
I had to think about this overnight. While I agree with the majority of the readers on here the very start of the book grips you. It’s a powerful way to begin and for some reason the style of writing worked there. But the remainder of the book follows that same style, it was like being told the events of someone’s life that happened a long, long time ago. I felt distanced from not only the events but the main character also. It stopped me from connecting and being invested. I also think that the main theme of the book wasn’t really about the MC’s romantic relationships but more how those represented things he needed to change within himself to be healthy enough for a positive relationship in the future. I was glad at the little peak of what developed between he and Timothy but it wasn’t overly romantic, very realistic, but not romantic.
March 26, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four stars!
This book starts out with a huge bang and Beck’s whole world changing. It was wonderful seeing how Beck grew and changed throughout the book. He grew into who he was supposed to be without his past getting in the way. Timothy is a beautiful character. He’s so strong for helping Beck at his lowest, and not being judgmental about Beck’s choices. I would love to see a sequel to this book to show Beck and Timothy more established a few years down the line. It wasn’t a full HEA since they’re still a new couple. But it’s way better than a HFN.
Four stars!
This book starts out with a huge bang and Beck’s whole world changing. It was wonderful seeing how Beck grew and changed throughout the book. He grew into who he was supposed to be without his past getting in the way. Timothy is a beautiful character. He’s so strong for helping Beck at his lowest, and not being judgmental about Beck’s choices. I would love to see a sequel to this book to show Beck and Timothy more established a few years down the line. It wasn’t a full HEA since they’re still a new couple. But it’s way better than a HFN.
January 14, 2015
This book starts out with a suicide, but its actually about the good that comes from that act. Beck loved Brady so much that he loses himself in Brady's addiction and destructive behavior. He's so used to taking care of Brady that he has forgotten to take care of himself. This book is very sad in parts, Beck is so lost, luckily he has a good friend in Timothy. He wont let Beck alone until he knows he'll be ok, and he's secretly been in love with Beck for years. I really liked how positive Timothy was, when Beck could only be sad and pessimistic. I wish it was a little longer just so it had a bit more of them together. But it really was a good read.
February 21, 2015
Tangled Mind was a beautifully written and and sometimes painful story. We first meet Beck after finding his boyfriend Brady dead from a drug overdose. Over the course of the story we learn more about Brady's tragic life and their troubled and tumultuous relationship. Beck, for obvious reasons, has a hard time coping with his loss. I feel like the authors treatment of Beck and Brady's relationship and Beck's subsequent grief was realistic and heartbreaking. I loved seeing Beck's growth and the slow and often times tender development of Beck and Timothy's relationship. While this was a novella, I don't think the story suffered for the shorter length. Definitely recommended.
March 21, 2016
Sad but hopeful. I think she did a great job with Beck's grief without letting it completely overwhelm the story or become too heavy. I was pleasantly surprised when .
This is my first Posy Roberts, and I'll definitely check out more of her stuff.
This is my first Posy Roberts, and I'll definitely check out more of her stuff.
February 9, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
We have a Buddy Review of Tangled Mind to share with you all!
Read Jason and Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
We have a Buddy Review of Tangled Mind to share with you all!
Read Jason and Michelle's review in its entirety here.
December 26, 2014
I was one of the lucky recipients of an advanced copy, and luckier still to be asked to give feedback in the later stages of this book. It is utterly heartbreaking at times, but beautiful. Definitely worth reading.
December 29, 2014
3.5 stars rounded up..
I enjoyed this quick little read. It’s a serious subject, that hits very close to home for me. It’s heavy hearted, but real life. It’s told well and written well....
See rest of review at http://literarynook.com/review-lisas-...
I enjoyed this quick little read. It’s a serious subject, that hits very close to home for me. It’s heavy hearted, but real life. It’s told well and written well....
See rest of review at http://literarynook.com/review-lisas-...
January 4, 2015
I enjoyed this. It was emotional without being over the top. A great book about new beginnings to start the New Year with.
December 26, 2014
3.75 stars
December 29, 2014
Review to come
December 29, 2014
3.75 stars
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews