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Addicted
“I’m not sure I’ve ever loved anyone, but if love means feeling like the Earth is going to eat you whole at the thought of never seeing them again, if love means feeling unable to be yourself without the one you love, then maybe that’s what I’m starting to feel for you.”
“I don’t want to mend you. I just want to be there for you while you do it yourself.”
Noah is 23 years old and a big brother. That’s probably how he would describe himself, since no job is as important as being a big brother to Jimmy, all while struggling with the depression and anxiety he’s learned to control the best he can. He’s lived in the same small town his entire life, kept away both from danger and pleasure, and everything else the world has to offer.
Daniel is a 30 year-old third-grade teacher with a secret. Apparently perfect, damage and addiction hide behind his fabricated front. He’s troubled, he’s mean, he’s controlling and dominant. And most importantly, he’s straight. He doesn’t love anything besides his job, and his human interactions consist of using people to satisfy his needs.
When life brings Noah and Daniel together, a peculiar arrangement is formed, pushing both men to new limits. Will Noah learn to step out of his comfort zone and take control of his life? Will Daniel defeat his demons? The characters in this book are flawed and troubled, but they do their best as they try to figure out their lives, learning about addiction, lust, and love, and falling for each other in the process.
“I don’t want to mend you. I just want to be there for you while you do it yourself.”
Noah is 23 years old and a big brother. That’s probably how he would describe himself, since no job is as important as being a big brother to Jimmy, all while struggling with the depression and anxiety he’s learned to control the best he can. He’s lived in the same small town his entire life, kept away both from danger and pleasure, and everything else the world has to offer.
Daniel is a 30 year-old third-grade teacher with a secret. Apparently perfect, damage and addiction hide behind his fabricated front. He’s troubled, he’s mean, he’s controlling and dominant. And most importantly, he’s straight. He doesn’t love anything besides his job, and his human interactions consist of using people to satisfy his needs.
When life brings Noah and Daniel together, a peculiar arrangement is formed, pushing both men to new limits. Will Noah learn to step out of his comfort zone and take control of his life? Will Daniel defeat his demons? The characters in this book are flawed and troubled, but they do their best as they try to figure out their lives, learning about addiction, lust, and love, and falling for each other in the process.
- GenresM M RomanceContemporary
152 pages, ebook
First published December 1, 2016
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 3, 2017
"Addicted"is the story of Noah, his 23, gay and has had some depression in the past but is doing better, working, and being a great big brother. He meets Daniel, 30, who's divorced and it's his little brother's third grade teacher. Noah, finds himself crushing on Daniel and he even finds the courage to ask him on a coffee date which was so brave of him because his not a forward kinda guy.
Noah was a great guy, shy, sweet to his little brother, the way he was always there for him was so endearing. Daniel, I didn't really care for him, I thought he was, selfish and kinda mean especially with Noah, the way he used him was not right with me. But I have to say he was a great teacher though.
The problem with Noah/Daniel was I didn't feel like they formed a relationship through out the story. Daniel, was a jerk, the sexual encounters with Noah weren't even sexy I mean I liked that Daniel, didn't kiss Noah and bam, proclaim himself gay, he fought it, and that felt realistic to some point. But then it would of been nice to see them feel some kind of connection between them. Plus the ending felt way too rushed
Overall it like it, it had its good solid parts and it definitely had the potential to be a great love story.
** ARC was provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
December 10, 2016
4 stars because I like to be surprised by a book and stumble on an author I didn’t know.
Noah is a young man, quiet and sweet, going through bouts of depression, estranged from his parents, but totally devoted to his 9-year-old brother. Daniel is a passionate teacher. However, his genuine love for kids doesn’t keep him from his addictions: alcohol and sex, fueled by his past demons and his vindictive ex-wife. At day, it makes everything he can to keep up appearances and not lose his job, but at night, he just gives in to his cravings by being dominant and mean.
A giver and a taker : a match that could turn so bad or so good.
I really enjoyed this story : it was well written, poignant, with an underlying of sadness and hopelessness, but also emotions and some tenderness. Daniel is not very likeable but he didn’t denied his flaws, addictions and meanness and he redeems himself by realizing that he found a reason to fight them, even though this reason turns out to be a man. And I loved that Noah blossomed in a young man with the strength to get out of his comfort zone.
It’s not fluffy but there is acceptance and redemption and yes, love.
"I was madly jealous of how he gave instead of taking and how he fixed instead of breaking."
I just wish it could have been a bit longer with more development about Noah’s depression, Daniel and Noah’s journey together and Daniel’s fights against his demons. The ending was unexpected, different and great but left me with wanting more just because it was that enticing and promising.
Note : I’m voluntarily reviewing an advanced copy of this novel
Noah is a young man, quiet and sweet, going through bouts of depression, estranged from his parents, but totally devoted to his 9-year-old brother. Daniel is a passionate teacher. However, his genuine love for kids doesn’t keep him from his addictions: alcohol and sex, fueled by his past demons and his vindictive ex-wife. At day, it makes everything he can to keep up appearances and not lose his job, but at night, he just gives in to his cravings by being dominant and mean.
A giver and a taker : a match that could turn so bad or so good.
I really enjoyed this story : it was well written, poignant, with an underlying of sadness and hopelessness, but also emotions and some tenderness. Daniel is not very likeable but he didn’t denied his flaws, addictions and meanness and he redeems himself by realizing that he found a reason to fight them, even though this reason turns out to be a man. And I loved that Noah blossomed in a young man with the strength to get out of his comfort zone.
It’s not fluffy but there is acceptance and redemption and yes, love.
"I was madly jealous of how he gave instead of taking and how he fixed instead of breaking."
I just wish it could have been a bit longer with more development about Noah’s depression, Daniel and Noah’s journey together and Daniel’s fights against his demons. The ending was unexpected, different and great but left me with wanting more just because it was that enticing and promising.
Note : I’m voluntarily reviewing an advanced copy of this novel
December 10, 2016
*** This is a new author for me, and received a copy for an honest review. Firstly, going into this story, I thought I knew what to expect; that I had it figured out, and then, NO, it wasn't the usual older/younger guys, the brother of a student falling for the kid's teacher, NO - it surprised me !
Noah, 23, has always cared for his brother,
third grade Jimmy/Orange, because their folks were not interested in parenting.
Daniel is a newly divorced teacher, with a new girl in his bed often, and he's got tongues wagging. Daniel
is struggling with his attraction/irritation (GFY) with Noah.
What is it about him? They are helping the kids with a play, and Jimmy is an amazing kid. Noah's back story is a sad one, with inattentive parents, loneliness and longing. His only "lights" are his barista job, and his little brother. His needs aren't met, and he's attracted to older Daniel, but what will become of this? Time will tell.
Daniel sends off mixed messages, until Noah confronts him.
Noah has had crappy sex once at 15, so he knows nearly nothing, but is willing to learn. Daniel is a dominant who wants someone to submit, but he's a horrible "Dom", as he never worries about anything but his own pleasure. I disliked him for that. Noah is sweet with his yearning for someone to finally want to be with him. But Daniel only uses Noah.
Finally we get to see why Daniel's life is such a mess. WOW ! That poor man has been through enough.
Every time I thought I knew what would happen - I was surprised again. This is a well written tale with an evenly flowing plot, and great characters, even with their flaws. I enjoyed this so much. It began with darkness, but was hopeful, and then it was deliciously unpredictable.
LOVED IT !
The end was an awesome HEA, and Jimmy's email letter is enthralling.
Thank you Mark Summers for this lovely book. I looked forward to every page, every new discovery.
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !
============================
Noah, 23, has always cared for his brother,
third grade Jimmy/Orange, because their folks were not interested in parenting.
Daniel is a newly divorced teacher, with a new girl in his bed often, and he's got tongues wagging. Daniel
is struggling with his attraction/irritation (GFY) with Noah.
What is it about him? They are helping the kids with a play, and Jimmy is an amazing kid. Noah's back story is a sad one, with inattentive parents, loneliness and longing. His only "lights" are his barista job, and his little brother. His needs aren't met, and he's attracted to older Daniel, but what will become of this? Time will tell.
Daniel sends off mixed messages, until Noah confronts him.
Noah has had crappy sex once at 15, so he knows nearly nothing, but is willing to learn. Daniel is a dominant who wants someone to submit, but he's a horrible "Dom", as he never worries about anything but his own pleasure. I disliked him for that. Noah is sweet with his yearning for someone to finally want to be with him. But Daniel only uses Noah.
Finally we get to see why Daniel's life is such a mess. WOW ! That poor man has been through enough.
Every time I thought I knew what would happen - I was surprised again. This is a well written tale with an evenly flowing plot, and great characters, even with their flaws. I enjoyed this so much. It began with darkness, but was hopeful, and then it was deliciously unpredictable.
LOVED IT !
The end was an awesome HEA, and Jimmy's email letter is enthralling.
Thank you Mark Summers for this lovely book. I looked forward to every page, every new discovery.
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !
============================
December 20, 2016
I have rarely read a book with a one word title that was so perfectly descriptive of the book as this one. I thought that it was excellently told where Daniel is the obvious addict in the story, but you could easily flip it and see that Noah's actions show that he too has addictions and unhealthy dependencies on outside influences. I also loved that, at the heart of things, both Noah & Daniel essentially have the same issues with self worth, but they manifest those insecurities is vastly different ways.
I liked that Noah's submissiveness didn't translate into him not having dignity, and that he realized that non-consensual degradation wasn't what he wanted from Daniel. It was very refreshing to read that he didn't find Daniel using him and being a player to be some kind of romantic strong alpha BS.
The one thing that distracted me with this book was that the author repeatedly, and consistently, used the verb "to submit" meaning "to dominate" (i.e. Daniel enjoyed submitting Noah to his will). Every time it was used, it threw me out of the story and I wish that Mark had chosen different phrasing because it was used a lot.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I liked that Noah's submissiveness didn't translate into him not having dignity, and that he realized that non-consensual degradation wasn't what he wanted from Daniel. It was very refreshing to read that he didn't find Daniel using him and being a player to be some kind of romantic strong alpha BS.
The one thing that distracted me with this book was that the author repeatedly, and consistently, used the verb "to submit" meaning "to dominate" (i.e. Daniel enjoyed submitting Noah to his will). Every time it was used, it threw me out of the story and I wish that Mark had chosen different phrasing because it was used a lot.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
December 18, 2016
This book was an impressive but sometimes bumpy ride for me.
It started like a contemporary Jane Austen novel but within a few pages that picture was completely shattered.
After reading a lot of fluffy holiday stories for the last weeks I was definitely not prepared for reality to hit so hard.
Daniel Harries is a school teacher, but behind the facade he is a man who's life is completely out of control, which is even more ridiculous because being in control is the most important thing for him not only during sex.
He has meaningless one night stands with women he picks up randomly and he is an alcoholic.
Noah meets him because Daniel teaches Noah's brother and Noah is immediately drawn towards him. But Daniel pushes him away repeatedly and treats him very poorly.
While Noah is an absolutely loveable character, it was really hard for me to like Daniel. Only when I found out the whole story, I began to understand and honestly that made my love for Daniel so much deeper in the end.
As mentioned this is not a fluffy romance story, be prepared to be challenged if you decide to read it.
It deals with addictions, alcoholism, light depression and some domination (and some m/f sex, which was a challenge of its own).
Fortunately there is also Jimmy, Noah's 9 year old brother who is adorable and lightens the mood, when things get too dark.
I got this book in exchange for an honest review and at the beginning I was a little worried that review might not be too favorable.
It definitely took time to get used to this extraordinary and really different story, but at the end I was not only crying, but it also gave me such a deep and comforting feeling and it really left a lasting impression.
This might not be perfect for everyone, but if you read the blurb and know what you are getting into, it might blow your mind!
I definitely loved it and for me this was a solid 4 star read!
It started like a contemporary Jane Austen novel but within a few pages that picture was completely shattered.
After reading a lot of fluffy holiday stories for the last weeks I was definitely not prepared for reality to hit so hard.
Daniel Harries is a school teacher, but behind the facade he is a man who's life is completely out of control, which is even more ridiculous because being in control is the most important thing for him not only during sex.
He has meaningless one night stands with women he picks up randomly and he is an alcoholic.
Noah meets him because Daniel teaches Noah's brother and Noah is immediately drawn towards him. But Daniel pushes him away repeatedly and treats him very poorly.
While Noah is an absolutely loveable character, it was really hard for me to like Daniel. Only when I found out the whole story, I began to understand and honestly that made my love for Daniel so much deeper in the end.
As mentioned this is not a fluffy romance story, be prepared to be challenged if you decide to read it.
It deals with addictions, alcoholism, light depression and some domination (and some m/f sex, which was a challenge of its own).
Fortunately there is also Jimmy, Noah's 9 year old brother who is adorable and lightens the mood, when things get too dark.
I got this book in exchange for an honest review and at the beginning I was a little worried that review might not be too favorable.
It definitely took time to get used to this extraordinary and really different story, but at the end I was not only crying, but it also gave me such a deep and comforting feeling and it really left a lasting impression.
This might not be perfect for everyone, but if you read the blurb and know what you are getting into, it might blow your mind!
I definitely loved it and for me this was a solid 4 star read!
December 10, 2016
Daniel is a volcano of darkness created by the controlling hands of a sadistic dominant wife who has abused him emotionally for years.To save his sanity he tears himself free from her bitter grasp & revels in his freedom of alcoholism & sexual addiction nightly with numerous submissive women until it becomes a bland numbers game.
The only light in his darkness is his interaction with the pupils in his class with one in particular,Jimmy.Noah who is Jimmy's big brother is his rock in a family where his parents are present but otherwise engaged in their own existence.Noah balances on the cliff of depression where a single blow could plunge him over into a sea of despair.
The meeting between the two main characters begins a slow smolder into a game of master and servant without the formal rituals.This book has a GFY theme and the only sweetness is provide by the antics of a small boy,the rest is an adult struggle for happiness and an attempt to break free from a web of lies that the ex-wife spins across a small town.
There is no instant love nor lust and any romance between the two men develops at a realistic pace which makes Daniels's first time attraction to a man all the more believable.
*This book is an ARC kindly provided by the author*.
The only light in his darkness is his interaction with the pupils in his class with one in particular,Jimmy.Noah who is Jimmy's big brother is his rock in a family where his parents are present but otherwise engaged in their own existence.Noah balances on the cliff of depression where a single blow could plunge him over into a sea of despair.
The meeting between the two main characters begins a slow smolder into a game of master and servant without the formal rituals.This book has a GFY theme and the only sweetness is provide by the antics of a small boy,the rest is an adult struggle for happiness and an attempt to break free from a web of lies that the ex-wife spins across a small town.
There is no instant love nor lust and any romance between the two men develops at a realistic pace which makes Daniels's first time attraction to a man all the more believable.
*This book is an ARC kindly provided by the author*.
February 13, 2017
I knew for a fact that I wasn’t gay. I wasn’t completely attracted to Noah either, but there were some things about him – his personality, the air around him – that drove me nuts.
✳✳✳
Being gay and living in small town when all the people know each other life under their nose was not easy. And having a crush on his little brother's teacher wasn't a good thing for Noah. Add to the fact that the teacher is straight.
In his early twenty, Noah has enough complicated life to live.
When the author offer me to review his book, I accepted it because GFY is my thing.
I'm so excited to devour this book but also a bit curious at the same time because the author was new to me and reading a book from new author definitely a challenge for me.
So? Curious, nervous and excited, that's all what I feel.
The first few part of the story i found really interesting. The pace kinda slow, but I like how it goes when Noah start to crushing over Mr. Harris and try to hide his attraction and feels to him, the giddy feeling, the shyness, the eagerness to have Mr. Harris attention enough to make those butterflies dancing in my tummy.
When Mr. Harris start to 'notice' Noah and have strange attraction to the young guy, the butterflies in my tummy went crazy.
But then there's something about this Mr. Harris that make me feels not quite 'right'. Even with all the 'reason' revealed nearly the end of the book still cannot convinced me enough to accept what had happened.
Mr. Harris dominance and his disrespectful act to Noah start to annoying me to the level 'I can barely tolerate anymore'.
And Noah naively accepted all that irritated me even more.
I've read about a dominance character in a story before and I don't have problem with all that dominance thing, but I think there's something not quite 'right' about Mr. Harris dominance and demanding act to Noah. Something is missing here and I can't explained the 'what or why'.
I expect more on the story, but seems it's not fulfill my expectations.
I hope for something more or at least can bring me the feels, but I can't get it.
One thing that keep the rating from further falls is the bond between Noah and his little brother, jimmy. It worth in very heartwarming way...
ARC is kindly provided by the Author in exchange of a fair and honest review.
October 20, 2017
I hold it on postponed for a very long time.
And didn't enjoy the story, I think I'm done with a bully MC.
Too bad, because it was started with interesting opening. It went downhill after that.
And didn't enjoy the story, I think I'm done with a bully MC.
Too bad, because it was started with interesting opening. It went downhill after that.
December 24, 2016
I have mixed feelings about this story. When it first started out, I had it in my head that the story would progress in a particular way--older, presumedly straight guy meets younger, gay guy, friendship and later a relationship develops and so on. Not so much with this one. I was a bit unhappy with Daniel's behavior towards Noah because honestly I found it to be disrespectful. The fact that Noah openly accepted it made me think he was wanting for attention if he was willing to engage in the arrangement Daniel offered him.
But...they are both adults-even if Noah is very young and inexperienced-and if they're both willing and in the arrangement voluntarily, that is their business...even if I don't agree with it.
The story itself progresses at a good pace, and has a good cast of supporting characters. I particularly liked Noah's brother Jimmy-he's remarkably astute and a bit precocious, and is a welcome voice in this story. I didn't really care for Noah and Jimmy's parents-their attitude towards their children is baffling, especially given how wonderful both Noah and Jimmy are. As for Daniel's ex-wife? I am not fond of using the word hate to describe my feelings, but "dislike" is nowhere near strong enough to explain my thoughts toward this nasty woman.
I did like the story overall, though I would have preferred more closure to Noah and Daniel's tale. It felt a bit open-ended, so a more thorough epilogue would have settled my mind more about how their relationship developed and ended up. As it stands right now, this is a 3-star read for me. Addicted is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
But...they are both adults-even if Noah is very young and inexperienced-and if they're both willing and in the arrangement voluntarily, that is their business...even if I don't agree with it.
The story itself progresses at a good pace, and has a good cast of supporting characters. I particularly liked Noah's brother Jimmy-he's remarkably astute and a bit precocious, and is a welcome voice in this story. I didn't really care for Noah and Jimmy's parents-their attitude towards their children is baffling, especially given how wonderful both Noah and Jimmy are. As for Daniel's ex-wife? I am not fond of using the word hate to describe my feelings, but "dislike" is nowhere near strong enough to explain my thoughts toward this nasty woman.
I did like the story overall, though I would have preferred more closure to Noah and Daniel's tale. It felt a bit open-ended, so a more thorough epilogue would have settled my mind more about how their relationship developed and ended up. As it stands right now, this is a 3-star read for me. Addicted is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
December 13, 2016
Overall rating: 3.5 Stars
Audio book: n/a
Book Cover: 3 Stars
MC1: Noah
MC2: Daniel
I was kindly gifted an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review
This was my first read by this author although I don't have a problem with his writing style I would have wanted more detail on some situations.
This was a difficult book to read not because the book was bad, I just struggled with Daniel’s character. The things he did bothered me. I so wanted to understand why he was the way he was! I wanted to tell him to stop being a bastard and just breathe. I felt very conflicted with his character one moment I wanted to feel sorry for him and just hold him and the next moment I wanted to kill him!!! So it made me feel like an emotional wreck!!! I can see all the potential in this book.
There were things I loved and then there were things I hated like the MF scene in the beginning in the book. I liked the plot it was original and the characters were one of a kind. I love the bond between “Orange and Noah”. I loved how Noah stood up for himself at the end of this book and that it ended with a HEA …. Like I said I would have loved more detail!!!!
Audio book: n/a
Book Cover: 3 Stars
MC1: Noah
MC2: Daniel
I was kindly gifted an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review
This was my first read by this author although I don't have a problem with his writing style I would have wanted more detail on some situations.
This was a difficult book to read not because the book was bad, I just struggled with Daniel’s character. The things he did bothered me. I so wanted to understand why he was the way he was! I wanted to tell him to stop being a bastard and just breathe. I felt very conflicted with his character one moment I wanted to feel sorry for him and just hold him and the next moment I wanted to kill him!!! So it made me feel like an emotional wreck!!! I can see all the potential in this book.
There were things I loved and then there were things I hated like the MF scene in the beginning in the book. I liked the plot it was original and the characters were one of a kind. I love the bond between “Orange and Noah”. I loved how Noah stood up for himself at the end of this book and that it ended with a HEA …. Like I said I would have loved more detail!!!!
December 18, 2016
I was gifted Addicted by the author for my honest opinion.
This was my first time reading this author, so I went into this without any idea what to expect concerning his writing style. Other than a few awkward words and sentences, I found this author easy to read and he kept my attention throughout the book. I look forward to reading more from this author!
I want to start off by saying that I was prepared for a much darker read and I am happy to say that even though it did have its dark moments... there were many more moments shared with us in this story that made me smile! Noah and Daniel were so busy trying to find what they needed to get through each day that they didn't even know that they were missing someone, not something in their lives. This was not an easy, comforting romance... but this was a story that had you hoping to see Daniel win the battle over his demons and cheering for Noah to get the love that he desired and deserved... and trust me when I say, you won't be disappointed when you reach the end of this story!
BTW: A review of this book would NOT be complete without a mention of "Orange" aka Jimmy, Noah's little brother who breathed love, hope, kindness and just plain joy of life into this story! Well done Mr. Summers, well done!
This was my first time reading this author, so I went into this without any idea what to expect concerning his writing style. Other than a few awkward words and sentences, I found this author easy to read and he kept my attention throughout the book. I look forward to reading more from this author!
I want to start off by saying that I was prepared for a much darker read and I am happy to say that even though it did have its dark moments... there were many more moments shared with us in this story that made me smile! Noah and Daniel were so busy trying to find what they needed to get through each day that they didn't even know that they were missing someone, not something in their lives. This was not an easy, comforting romance... but this was a story that had you hoping to see Daniel win the battle over his demons and cheering for Noah to get the love that he desired and deserved... and trust me when I say, you won't be disappointed when you reach the end of this story!
BTW: A review of this book would NOT be complete without a mention of "Orange" aka Jimmy, Noah's little brother who breathed love, hope, kindness and just plain joy of life into this story! Well done Mr. Summers, well done!
December 7, 2016
I wasn't sure this was the book for me when I started page one by the end of that page I was addicted!! This book is well written with rounded real characters you can really get into. Noah a sweet young man who carries his own problems and has a strength even he doesn't see. Daniel a man who may have made bad choices in life, a character you should probably not like has a good side to him that you want to get to know. This book isn't like most love stories, where the troubled guy is fixed by the sweet guy but a book of acceptance. They each accept the other faults and all. No one will heal the other but can they stand by each other and offer to be there? The end of this book is really different and made me cry. This is a lovely story with a difference which makes it very appealing.
December 13, 2016
I have to start by saying that I honestly did not care for either Noah or Daniel, there characters were just blah. Daniel was nasty he was like a split personality the loving caring brilliant school teacher by day, dominant alcoholic a$$hole by night. Daniel seems to welcome his addictions and that just threw me off.
Noah was such a strange character, I was confused as to if he was Jimmy's( I refuse to call him orange,it's just ridiculous) dad or brother.
The whole master slave situation did nothing for me I I found myself just reading to get to the end.
Not for me at all.
Noah was such a strange character, I was confused as to if he was Jimmy's( I refuse to call him orange,it's just ridiculous) dad or brother.
The whole master slave situation did nothing for me I I found myself just reading to get to the end.
Not for me at all.
December 22, 2016
3.5 Stars
Thank you to the author for a review copy of this book.
While I think the story was there, more character development might have provided a better understanding for Noah and Daniel's strengths and weaknesses. I also feel the ending was a little rushed. Overall, a promising story from this new to me author.
Thank you to the author for a review copy of this book.
While I think the story was there, more character development might have provided a better understanding for Noah and Daniel's strengths and weaknesses. I also feel the ending was a little rushed. Overall, a promising story from this new to me author.
December 12, 2016
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
I am always happy to discover and support new authors. This book was different than what I was expecting, but in a good way.
Noah is young man who has his demons but is totally devoted to his younger brother Jimmy, acting more as a father figure than older brother. When picking up his brother from school he meets Jimmy's teacher Daniel Harris. The same man his mothers book club likes to gossip about.
Daniel runs very hot and cold in the beginning but doesn't understand his fascination with Noah. They get to know each other better when Noah helps out with Jimmy's school play. I must say that Jimmy (or Orange) was such a great kid and I really loved how much Noah cared for him. Their relationship was really sweet and I found it really touching.
At the beginning of their relationship, Daniel uses Noah for his own pleasure but as things progress you learn Daniels back story and all that he's been through.
Overall I would liked to have seen a little more development in the story and characters background. Plus I thought it could have been a little longer. The epilogue written by Jimmy was rather cute and gave a good impression on what happens next.
I am always happy to discover and support new authors. This book was different than what I was expecting, but in a good way.
Noah is young man who has his demons but is totally devoted to his younger brother Jimmy, acting more as a father figure than older brother. When picking up his brother from school he meets Jimmy's teacher Daniel Harris. The same man his mothers book club likes to gossip about.
Daniel runs very hot and cold in the beginning but doesn't understand his fascination with Noah. They get to know each other better when Noah helps out with Jimmy's school play. I must say that Jimmy (or Orange) was such a great kid and I really loved how much Noah cared for him. Their relationship was really sweet and I found it really touching.
At the beginning of their relationship, Daniel uses Noah for his own pleasure but as things progress you learn Daniels back story and all that he's been through.
Overall I would liked to have seen a little more development in the story and characters background. Plus I thought it could have been a little longer. The epilogue written by Jimmy was rather cute and gave a good impression on what happens next.
December 15, 2016
Noah is 23 years old and a big brother to Jimmy, all while struggling with the depression and anxiety he’s learned to control the best he can. He’s lived in the same small town his entire life, kept away both from danger and pleasure. His parents are absent at the best of times and very worried about their image. Daniel is a 30 year-old, third-grade teacher with a secret. Apparently perfect, emotional damage and addiction hide behind his fabricated front. He’s mean, controlling, and dominant. He finds solace in teaching children and finally divorcing his wife. His problems are deeper than you initial believe and Noah becomes the bright spot in his life. Daniel must decide if he is too set in his destructive ways to accept what could be between him and Noah. Noah has his own issues he must face and stay out of the downward spiral of depression. I loved reading this story of two imperfect men trying to find their way past their disorders and addictions.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
June 6, 2017
I was really impressed with this book. The characters were realistic with serious issues that a lot of people struggle with. At first I wasn't overly fond of Daniel, but as you go through the story his character develops into a complex man with a painful history. A man who wants a change. From the start I liked Noah. I wanted to protect him. You actually see him grow stronger and fight through. Like the character, his story was softer and yet just as deep if not deeper. Excellent job. I recieved a complementary copy of this book.
December 11, 2016
Amazing read. Good character exploration and believable dialogue. Both MC's have demons that they help each other to get over! Highly recommended! I throughly enjoyed the little brother Jimmy aka Orange! Happy reading
December 21, 2016
This is the first novel I’ve read of Mark Summers, and he didn’t disappoint me. He had a crew of characters that were lively, witty and of course those antagonists that you would like to throttle; you know the busy bodies of the women’s book club in town; one of those being the main character’s ex-wife which was a sick-o b-tch as far as I was concerned.
So Mark had a lot to juggle in this story and he did a great job writing to it. In the past, I seemed to reiterate what you could learn from the back cover, but this story captured me in a different way, maybe more thorough the eyes and feelings of the child.
The child, Jimmy is who I am talking about, is nine years old with his older brother, Noah’s around 23, I believe. Jimmy looks up to his brother with adoration and trust. Their parent’s haven’t taken much interest in either of them since Jimmy was born. It’s not that they are bad parents; they protect and provide for them as any parent should, just they’re not really emotionally there for them. So, the two brothers provide that for themselves.
Jimmy seems to know that Noah is more of a caretaker for him then his parent’s but he’s not angry or anything at them. He’s such a sweet adorable boy with his innocent behavior and seeing the good in everything and everyone. Jimmy is very in-tuned to his brother’s feelings and notices he preference for boys to girls, especially when Noah meets Mr. Harris.
Oh Yes, then there’s Jimmy’s third grade teacher, Mr. Daniel Harris, who’s handsome, kind, giving of his time to the kids and an all around well-liked guy during school hours. But he has a problem with alcohol and cruises for the ladies every night to bring one home for a one-nightstand. Daniel likes to be their dominated male lover; he wants to have the control over them. There are never any feelings involved; it’s just sex and nothing else.
Noah, Jimmy’s older brother, is well-liked, kind, caring, giving and an honest guy. He works at the coffee café across from the school and loves his little brother more than anything. Taking Jimmy to school like he does on most days he meets Mr. Harris and finds him attractive and drawn to him. Daniel feels the same way but feels he’s straight and bad for any relationship.
The two struggled with their feelings for each other, more Daniel than Noah. Noah seems to have a good idea what he wanted just not sure how to get there. Daniel’s totally messed up from his ex-wife and you begin to realize it’s no wonder the man drank and wanted to dominate women.
The theme within the story is around Jimmy’s role in a play and the play itself that Mr. Harris’s third graders are going to perform, and many of the parents volunteered to help. Not Jimmy’s parent’s of course, but Noah was there for Jimmy and to help out with the play production.
But during all of this, Daniel struggles with threats from his ex-wife and the gossip of a small town full of nosey parents and women that he’s afraid of losing his job. Noah’s mom is not helping out the situation for Daniel, though she has no idea her son’s relationship between him and Daniel.
It’s a book you have to read and get involved with and you’ll not regret that you did. I feel like I’m doing a terrible job at explaining the book, maybe because I've been sick, but all I know is that for me I was addicted to the book and had a hard time putting it down.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of the book.
So Mark had a lot to juggle in this story and he did a great job writing to it. In the past, I seemed to reiterate what you could learn from the back cover, but this story captured me in a different way, maybe more thorough the eyes and feelings of the child.
The child, Jimmy is who I am talking about, is nine years old with his older brother, Noah’s around 23, I believe. Jimmy looks up to his brother with adoration and trust. Their parent’s haven’t taken much interest in either of them since Jimmy was born. It’s not that they are bad parents; they protect and provide for them as any parent should, just they’re not really emotionally there for them. So, the two brothers provide that for themselves.
Jimmy seems to know that Noah is more of a caretaker for him then his parent’s but he’s not angry or anything at them. He’s such a sweet adorable boy with his innocent behavior and seeing the good in everything and everyone. Jimmy is very in-tuned to his brother’s feelings and notices he preference for boys to girls, especially when Noah meets Mr. Harris.
Oh Yes, then there’s Jimmy’s third grade teacher, Mr. Daniel Harris, who’s handsome, kind, giving of his time to the kids and an all around well-liked guy during school hours. But he has a problem with alcohol and cruises for the ladies every night to bring one home for a one-nightstand. Daniel likes to be their dominated male lover; he wants to have the control over them. There are never any feelings involved; it’s just sex and nothing else.
Noah, Jimmy’s older brother, is well-liked, kind, caring, giving and an honest guy. He works at the coffee café across from the school and loves his little brother more than anything. Taking Jimmy to school like he does on most days he meets Mr. Harris and finds him attractive and drawn to him. Daniel feels the same way but feels he’s straight and bad for any relationship.
The two struggled with their feelings for each other, more Daniel than Noah. Noah seems to have a good idea what he wanted just not sure how to get there. Daniel’s totally messed up from his ex-wife and you begin to realize it’s no wonder the man drank and wanted to dominate women.
The theme within the story is around Jimmy’s role in a play and the play itself that Mr. Harris’s third graders are going to perform, and many of the parents volunteered to help. Not Jimmy’s parent’s of course, but Noah was there for Jimmy and to help out with the play production.
But during all of this, Daniel struggles with threats from his ex-wife and the gossip of a small town full of nosey parents and women that he’s afraid of losing his job. Noah’s mom is not helping out the situation for Daniel, though she has no idea her son’s relationship between him and Daniel.
It’s a book you have to read and get involved with and you’ll not regret that you did. I feel like I’m doing a terrible job at explaining the book, maybe because I've been sick, but all I know is that for me I was addicted to the book and had a hard time putting it down.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of the book.
January 3, 2017
This has been one of the hardest reviews I have ever had to write, not because the book was bad or had content I couldn't handle. I think I made the book more difficult with my own preconceived notions of what the book was going to contain. I had expected the book to go a certain way. Then when it didn't follow that I had to reassess how the book made me feel and what it made me think without my distorted views. Once I got myself sorted I finished the book quickly. And still I sat and pondered this book. It made me run a gamut of emotions. I was angry at Daniel for how he treated Noah and a few other people. I felt a connection with Noah for his need of strength. I also felt sadness for Daniel and at a few other moments in the book. I could not classify this strictly as a romance. I would call this a book about healing, finding ones self and love in the most unexpected places. This whole book was unexpected, but by the end I loved it. I highly recommend it.
December 16, 2016
I was gifted Addicted by the author for my honest and independent review. This is my first read from this author and it was presented to me as a contemporary gay-for-you novel.
I will be frank…this one is a hard one to review, for various reasons. I’m rounding down to a 3* from 3.5* and I’ll explain below.
First, I thought this was a very well written book as far as writing goes, it’s the character(s) that bothered me…well mostly just Daniel. Daniel, I would describe as an anti-hero. He really was a damaged jerk and I kept thinking when I reading that he is a great Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. When Daniel was Mr. Harris (Jekyll), he was a fun-loving teacher of 3rd graders, who strived to do his very best to prove to his community he wasn’t everything his evil ex-wife was making him out to be. He turned into Mr. Hyde after school hours and went home and succumbed to his drinking and sex addiction. I struggled with this complete opposite personality. Don’t get me wrong, this is not a book about multiple personalities, but at times I did wonder.
Noah, is a young 23yr old, still living at home with his family and has basically assumed the role the raising his brother, due to his parents negligence. His mother is basically too wrapped up and busy w/ her social life worried how her “perfect” family looks to the community. Therefore, Noah is often left putting Jimmy (Orange) to bed, making his lunch, taking him and picking him up from school. Orange and Noah’s relationship was the highlight of this book for me.
Noah, well I really liked him…he is a damaged young man, who has fought depression his whole life and this author does a great job and dropping in signs here and there of his constant battle. If you have not dealt w/ depression, these subtle signs may be lost in the story. At the same time, he shows signs of strength and stands up a couple times…whether it be to his mother or Daniel, he fights for what he wants and I did like that.
Noah is an inexperienced gay man, who has very little experience with other men and really has not had the desire to become sexually active…even if alone. Daniel, on the other hand, is a straight, male whore. Well maybe that’s not fair because really he is addicted to sex and drinking, but didn’t care to have the same woman more than once.
Here is what bothered me most – Daniel has sex w/ women up until 30% into this book (which I know will turn off some MM romance readers) w/ one of the sex scenes being pretty detailed. In fact this author gives a more detailed scene w/ his last conquest before he meets Noah, then he ever does in the scenes between Daniel and Noah.
Daniel and Noah’s relationship starts off w/ a passionate encounter at school with a first kiss then more and Noah agreeing to basically become Daniel’s sex toy to use whenever or wherever Daniel desires. So I’m ok w/ that…kind of…I’ve read many Master/slave Dom/Sub stories and I’m usually good w/ them. What I’m not ok with…Daniel NEVER, not once – gave pleasure to Noah and the only explanation we were given of Noah ever getting relief was from his own doing after returning home after Daniel has used him.
In addition – the ending was really rushed and the final chapter IMO should have been an epilogue and not a chapter. However, we get our HEA, sort of.
I will be frank…this one is a hard one to review, for various reasons. I’m rounding down to a 3* from 3.5* and I’ll explain below.
First, I thought this was a very well written book as far as writing goes, it’s the character(s) that bothered me…well mostly just Daniel. Daniel, I would describe as an anti-hero. He really was a damaged jerk and I kept thinking when I reading that he is a great Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. When Daniel was Mr. Harris (Jekyll), he was a fun-loving teacher of 3rd graders, who strived to do his very best to prove to his community he wasn’t everything his evil ex-wife was making him out to be. He turned into Mr. Hyde after school hours and went home and succumbed to his drinking and sex addiction. I struggled with this complete opposite personality. Don’t get me wrong, this is not a book about multiple personalities, but at times I did wonder.
Noah, is a young 23yr old, still living at home with his family and has basically assumed the role the raising his brother, due to his parents negligence. His mother is basically too wrapped up and busy w/ her social life worried how her “perfect” family looks to the community. Therefore, Noah is often left putting Jimmy (Orange) to bed, making his lunch, taking him and picking him up from school. Orange and Noah’s relationship was the highlight of this book for me.
Noah, well I really liked him…he is a damaged young man, who has fought depression his whole life and this author does a great job and dropping in signs here and there of his constant battle. If you have not dealt w/ depression, these subtle signs may be lost in the story. At the same time, he shows signs of strength and stands up a couple times…whether it be to his mother or Daniel, he fights for what he wants and I did like that.
Noah is an inexperienced gay man, who has very little experience with other men and really has not had the desire to become sexually active…even if alone. Daniel, on the other hand, is a straight, male whore. Well maybe that’s not fair because really he is addicted to sex and drinking, but didn’t care to have the same woman more than once.
Here is what bothered me most – Daniel has sex w/ women up until 30% into this book (which I know will turn off some MM romance readers) w/ one of the sex scenes being pretty detailed. In fact this author gives a more detailed scene w/ his last conquest before he meets Noah, then he ever does in the scenes between Daniel and Noah.
Daniel and Noah’s relationship starts off w/ a passionate encounter at school with a first kiss then more and Noah agreeing to basically become Daniel’s sex toy to use whenever or wherever Daniel desires. So I’m ok w/ that…kind of…I’ve read many Master/slave Dom/Sub stories and I’m usually good w/ them. What I’m not ok with…Daniel NEVER, not once – gave pleasure to Noah and the only explanation we were given of Noah ever getting relief was from his own doing after returning home after Daniel has used him.
In addition – the ending was really rushed and the final chapter IMO should have been an epilogue and not a chapter. However, we get our HEA, sort of.
December 9, 2016
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. What drew me to the books was the prospect of reading a romance between a third grade teacher, Mr Daniel Harris and a 23 year old, Noah who takes great care of his much younger brother, Orange (Jimmy). Initially the story came across as very introspective. Both MCs seemed to be deep thinkers. The author provided alternating chapters that allowed the reader to get to know each protagonist separately, then experiencing how they interacted with each other.
I was surprised by how the last quarter of the book went. I am so glad I was reading this ARC because it forced me to finish the book. I wish the rest of the book was more like the last part, but it's my fault for not reading the complete book synopsis. I usually don't. I tend to just skim them so that I am surprised when I actually read the book. The reason I read gay romances is so I am not exposed to the raunchy, vulgar activities between MF characters in many contemporary romances. Imagine my surprise when there was more than one scene of rough sex between heterosexual characters. Be forewarned the divorced third grade teacher is a sex addict. Bedding a different woman most nights. The summary clearly states that Daniel was not a nice person. Believe it!!
Being a good guy was just a front so people wouldn't know just how mean, nasty, and no good Daniel was. He could be impulsive and dangerous, especially when he was drinking heavily. Then there was the smoking that steadily increased from the occasional one to nearly a pack a day. It began to take rougher and rougher sex to satisfy him, but only momentarily. This book took me completely out of my comfort zone, but it's ending made me see the skill of the author to make a despicable character sympathetic.
And there was little submissive, quiet, needy, dedicated big brother Noah. A vehemently denied attraction. An unwanted attraction. An undeniable mutual addiction. We could see a train wreck coming. Because Noah was so much more. He had an inner core of steel. Don't mess with his little brother, his annoying coworker, or his heart. He makes shocking decisions and expects something in return. Seemingly inexplicable, but he saw things no one else did and gave all of himself. His love was unconditional. A love that saved and healed both Daniel and Noah.
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I was surprised by how the last quarter of the book went. I am so glad I was reading this ARC because it forced me to finish the book. I wish the rest of the book was more like the last part, but it's my fault for not reading the complete book synopsis. I usually don't. I tend to just skim them so that I am surprised when I actually read the book. The reason I read gay romances is so I am not exposed to the raunchy, vulgar activities between MF characters in many contemporary romances. Imagine my surprise when there was more than one scene of rough sex between heterosexual characters. Be forewarned the divorced third grade teacher is a sex addict. Bedding a different woman most nights. The summary clearly states that Daniel was not a nice person. Believe it!!
Being a good guy was just a front so people wouldn't know just how mean, nasty, and no good Daniel was. He could be impulsive and dangerous, especially when he was drinking heavily. Then there was the smoking that steadily increased from the occasional one to nearly a pack a day. It began to take rougher and rougher sex to satisfy him, but only momentarily. This book took me completely out of my comfort zone, but it's ending made me see the skill of the author to make a despicable character sympathetic.
And there was little submissive, quiet, needy, dedicated big brother Noah. A vehemently denied attraction. An unwanted attraction. An undeniable mutual addiction. We could see a train wreck coming. Because Noah was so much more. He had an inner core of steel. Don't mess with his little brother, his annoying coworker, or his heart. He makes shocking decisions and expects something in return. Seemingly inexplicable, but he saw things no one else did and gave all of himself. His love was unconditional. A love that saved and healed both Daniel and Noah.
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December 8, 2016
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Wow. When I started reading this book – the first one I’ve read by author Mark Summers – I wasn’t sure what I thought. I kept reading, though, and was definitely rewarded for my decision. My curiosity was piqued because I couldn’t quite figure out the backstory on Noah, how old he was, why he had such a close and hands-on relationship (almost parental in nature) with his younger brother, and who he was as a person, aside from what I sensed was a lonely life. Next we’re introduced to Daniel. Summers certainly does a stellar job of portraying this guy as a multi-faced, complicated, demonized character who is just plain mean and domineering, and it only continued to generate more questions in my mind the farther along I read. Daniel admits he’s a bad person, and his list of vices – as well as his personality traits – are not pretty, even though he’s a third grade teacher who is much loved by his students, especially Noah’s younger brother Jimmy, aka Orange.
Without sharing too much about the storyline itself, it’s Summers’ firm grasp of characterization and different slant on storytelling that makes this book work for me. Just when the reader can’t imagine stomaching another second of Daniel, the emotional floodgates come crashing open and he confesses all to Noah…and holy sh*t, I never saw ANY of that coming, but boy!, did it ever frame things and change my attitude about Daniel.
Addicted is not a happy tale by any stretch of the imagination, but I honestly believe hope and redemption are elements consistently simmering just under the surface throughout the entire book, and both eventually emerge in full bloom, not only for Noah and Daniel, but for Noah’s dysfunctional immediate family. What started out as a sad, dark and almost depressing story, sobered up into a warm, accepting and gratifying conclusion laced with hope and salvation, and one of the most unique ending chapters I’ve ever read.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC of Addicted.
Wow. When I started reading this book – the first one I’ve read by author Mark Summers – I wasn’t sure what I thought. I kept reading, though, and was definitely rewarded for my decision. My curiosity was piqued because I couldn’t quite figure out the backstory on Noah, how old he was, why he had such a close and hands-on relationship (almost parental in nature) with his younger brother, and who he was as a person, aside from what I sensed was a lonely life. Next we’re introduced to Daniel. Summers certainly does a stellar job of portraying this guy as a multi-faced, complicated, demonized character who is just plain mean and domineering, and it only continued to generate more questions in my mind the farther along I read. Daniel admits he’s a bad person, and his list of vices – as well as his personality traits – are not pretty, even though he’s a third grade teacher who is much loved by his students, especially Noah’s younger brother Jimmy, aka Orange.
Without sharing too much about the storyline itself, it’s Summers’ firm grasp of characterization and different slant on storytelling that makes this book work for me. Just when the reader can’t imagine stomaching another second of Daniel, the emotional floodgates come crashing open and he confesses all to Noah…and holy sh*t, I never saw ANY of that coming, but boy!, did it ever frame things and change my attitude about Daniel.
Addicted is not a happy tale by any stretch of the imagination, but I honestly believe hope and redemption are elements consistently simmering just under the surface throughout the entire book, and both eventually emerge in full bloom, not only for Noah and Daniel, but for Noah’s dysfunctional immediate family. What started out as a sad, dark and almost depressing story, sobered up into a warm, accepting and gratifying conclusion laced with hope and salvation, and one of the most unique ending chapters I’ve ever read.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC of Addicted.
December 16, 2016
3.5*
This is a hard one for me to rate and review. There are lots of elements I thought were well done but it also had some no go's that I really don't want to see in a M/M romance.
Now, having said that, I understand why they were there and the rationale behind them did add in the long run to the story and relationship development, I'd have just referred them referenced off the page or in a fade to black.
I've read a couple of Mark Summers' books now and he certainly has talent. I think the execution isn't always brilliant and perhaps that will come with both experience and/or a top class editor.
It's also probable that these minor things irritate me more because of my professional background as a journalist and sub-editor for nearly 20 years. I expect tighter writing and less typos than the default 'normal' reader.
The epilogue goes a long way to making up for the lack of romance throughout the majority of the book and these do feel like very real people, with incredibly common problems dealing with some truly awful situations.
This book is predominantly darker than your average, it's not truly a love story until the last quarter but it's not angst for angst's sake, the drama is integral to the two men's lives and the demons and depressions they're living with.
Noah's younger brother brings a lot of light into the story though and Daniel does move towards redemption right before the epilogue.
# In the interests of transparency, the author asked if I would be willing to review this book and provide an unbiased opinion.
This is a hard one for me to rate and review. There are lots of elements I thought were well done but it also had some no go's that I really don't want to see in a M/M romance.
Now, having said that, I understand why they were there and the rationale behind them did add in the long run to the story and relationship development, I'd have just referred them referenced off the page or in a fade to black.
I've read a couple of Mark Summers' books now and he certainly has talent. I think the execution isn't always brilliant and perhaps that will come with both experience and/or a top class editor.
It's also probable that these minor things irritate me more because of my professional background as a journalist and sub-editor for nearly 20 years. I expect tighter writing and less typos than the default 'normal' reader.
The epilogue goes a long way to making up for the lack of romance throughout the majority of the book and these do feel like very real people, with incredibly common problems dealing with some truly awful situations.
This book is predominantly darker than your average, it's not truly a love story until the last quarter but it's not angst for angst's sake, the drama is integral to the two men's lives and the demons and depressions they're living with.
Noah's younger brother brings a lot of light into the story though and Daniel does move towards redemption right before the epilogue.
# In the interests of transparency, the author asked if I would be willing to review this book and provide an unbiased opinion.
December 9, 2016
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review by author, and I'm happy to read and support new writers because I like read and I admire who able to write giving life a new stories and characters. Addicted has so much potential and is different from other book of same genre, in fact it is not the usual "gay for you" type, Daniel is stright and, till the end he uses Noah as sex toy, a sexual slave , and when he understands that can be more the book ends with what seems a HEA. I must be sincere , I disliked both MC, Daniel more because he was simply a mean and evil, I have no pity , nor I'm sorry for him because he welcomes his addictions. I do think that his dominant personality is more a reaction at his wife's behavior: he is been submassive to wife now he is bad at other women, sex drive aside. Then there is his addiction at alchol, and his love for his teacher job: I would not let my children with him, and realistically speaking, I don't know as the one not influence the other.
Noah, I was sad for him. I would like know more about him and his depression and his family: creepy really. When Noah accepts to submit to Daniel, seems that his ansiety is about more a submassive personality: shame that such problem isnt been thoroughly treated. To the end , Addicted was a sad story, with little passion, chemistry, love , my regret is to want more. Great the Jimmy character.
Noah, I was sad for him. I would like know more about him and his depression and his family: creepy really. When Noah accepts to submit to Daniel, seems that his ansiety is about more a submassive personality: shame that such problem isnt been thoroughly treated. To the end , Addicted was a sad story, with little passion, chemistry, love , my regret is to want more. Great the Jimmy character.
December 14, 2016
This is my first book by Mark Summers and I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was immediately drawn into the story and liked how each chapter switched between Noah's and Daniel's POVs.
I love being inside a character's head. This isn't always a good thing and at times, being in Daniel's head made me really angry. I was definitely not his biggest fan. Sure, at school he was the poster boy for Teacher of the Year but in his head and with Noah, he was mean, judgmental and a total jerk. It took me almost until the end of the book to warm up to him. When he finally started to open up to Noah, he became more likeable. I would have liked if that happened earlier in the book.
I really liked Noah though. He was a nice guy but sad and lonely and basically ignored by his parents. The love he had for his younger brother Jimmy (aka Orange) was so sweet. Poor Noah had to grow up too fast and become Orange's primary caregiver. But you knew that he didn't mind because he loved Orange so much and wanted him to have what Noah himself didn't.
The story was good and despite my need for sleep I found myself saying "just one more chapter" a few times. I'm a fan of gay-for-you stories and I liked how Daniel gradually became aware of his attraction and feelings for Noah.
I love being inside a character's head. This isn't always a good thing and at times, being in Daniel's head made me really angry. I was definitely not his biggest fan. Sure, at school he was the poster boy for Teacher of the Year but in his head and with Noah, he was mean, judgmental and a total jerk. It took me almost until the end of the book to warm up to him. When he finally started to open up to Noah, he became more likeable. I would have liked if that happened earlier in the book.
I really liked Noah though. He was a nice guy but sad and lonely and basically ignored by his parents. The love he had for his younger brother Jimmy (aka Orange) was so sweet. Poor Noah had to grow up too fast and become Orange's primary caregiver. But you knew that he didn't mind because he loved Orange so much and wanted him to have what Noah himself didn't.
The story was good and despite my need for sleep I found myself saying "just one more chapter" a few times. I'm a fan of gay-for-you stories and I liked how Daniel gradually became aware of his attraction and feelings for Noah.
January 23, 2017
I adore the writing. It's really impressive how Mark Summers is able to write two very distinct characters, not only in terms of their character personalities, but also the difference in their thinking. I don't know...I'm just really blown away by how so very different Noah and Daniel are.
As for the plot, it's not really dark... I kept waiting for something to jump out of the shadows at me, especially since you aren't told what demons Daniel hides. But nah...nothing scary.
The first 17 chapters were really good. You really got to know Noah and Daniel and the lives they lead. And while it wasn't spelled out, there were several inferences about Noah which, I can't decide if I wanted it to be explored further or if it was tastefully done. Perhaps i just wanted to know more about Noah.
I loved the first 17 chapters. It might seem slow going for some but i enjoyed the day to day life of the characters. The last 3 chapters though...I felt there was too big a leap between where they were to where they ended up. Especially the last chapter, which I suppose is an epilogue of sorts.
Because I loved the pacing of the book, I guess it threw me off when it just sort of jumped through to the end where everything was resolved and they lived happily ever after.
All in all, I enjoyed this. Looking forward to other books by Mark Summers!
As for the plot, it's not really dark... I kept waiting for something to jump out of the shadows at me, especially since you aren't told what demons Daniel hides. But nah...nothing scary.
The first 17 chapters were really good. You really got to know Noah and Daniel and the lives they lead. And while it wasn't spelled out, there were several inferences about Noah which, I can't decide if I wanted it to be explored further or if it was tastefully done. Perhaps i just wanted to know more about Noah.
I loved the first 17 chapters. It might seem slow going for some but i enjoyed the day to day life of the characters. The last 3 chapters though...I felt there was too big a leap between where they were to where they ended up. Especially the last chapter, which I suppose is an epilogue of sorts.
Because I loved the pacing of the book, I guess it threw me off when it just sort of jumped through to the end where everything was resolved and they lived happily ever after.
All in all, I enjoyed this. Looking forward to other books by Mark Summers!
December 18, 2016
I recieved a copy from the author in exchange for a written review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Addicted is such a pleasant read. The characters really stand out as their own, by this I mean I feel like each person is neat and clearly thought out. Something I especially found interesting was Jimmy's nickname- gifted to him by Noah. It had potential to be this heartfelt, significant moment and somehow that simple, uneventful explanation made it all the more realistic.
A quote that really struck me was this exchange between Jimmy and Daniel, “Why is your brother sad, Jimmy?” “That’s just how God made him.” It's such a big impact, the way this is worded. You feel the strength of Noah's depression and the way that Jimmy understands it. The way this is done proves that Summers does a great job encompassing situations from each person's perspective.
The sex is a little rough for my liking but if that's your thing then I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Give this story a go if you're up for some twists and turns in the form of two troubled main characters who somehow find their ways to each other.
Addicted is such a pleasant read. The characters really stand out as their own, by this I mean I feel like each person is neat and clearly thought out. Something I especially found interesting was Jimmy's nickname- gifted to him by Noah. It had potential to be this heartfelt, significant moment and somehow that simple, uneventful explanation made it all the more realistic.
A quote that really struck me was this exchange between Jimmy and Daniel, “Why is your brother sad, Jimmy?” “That’s just how God made him.” It's such a big impact, the way this is worded. You feel the strength of Noah's depression and the way that Jimmy understands it. The way this is done proves that Summers does a great job encompassing situations from each person's perspective.
The sex is a little rough for my liking but if that's your thing then I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Give this story a go if you're up for some twists and turns in the form of two troubled main characters who somehow find their ways to each other.
December 8, 2016
I'm a total sap for the soft, gentle and shy characters regardless of what I read and i was totally in #CampNoah from the get go and then even more so when you realise just how lonely he is - his one and only light in his life is his little brother Jimmy aka Orange he loves his brother so much that even though they're siblings he's more like a father figure but then he meets the elusive suit wearing Mr Daniel Harris and cha-ching :)
Daniel is a divorced alpha male, extremely dominant, a heavy drinker and has a high sex drive but he loves teaching kids he also happens to be straight and damn me if I didn't want to kick his characters arse to Timbuktu and back which I guess is what the author was wanting from his readers to get swept up with his characters emotions Daniels treatment of Noah really pushes you until he reveals some truths about why he is the way he is.
a great MM read this will definitely be going on my reread list
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Daniel is a divorced alpha male, extremely dominant, a heavy drinker and has a high sex drive but he loves teaching kids he also happens to be straight and damn me if I didn't want to kick his characters arse to Timbuktu and back which I guess is what the author was wanting from his readers to get swept up with his characters emotions Daniels treatment of Noah really pushes you until he reveals some truths about why he is the way he is.
a great MM read this will definitely be going on my reread list
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
December 21, 2016
Noah and Daniel are complementary opposites, they each fill the empty places in each other, the ones no one else sees. Daniel has addictive personality and it has cost him to lose almost everything, they only thing he can hold onto is his job and the kids he teaches. To the outside world, Daniel wears a mask so no one ever knows what he really is like, until he meets Noah who for some reason causes his mask to slip. Too bad certain people are not willing to let Noah and Daniel figure things out, instead feeling the need to cause as many problems as possible to destroy them. Great story, a bit dark with references to alcoholism, rough sex, and other addictions but that is second to the romance aspect which was grand. The characters were believable and relatable and easy to commiserate with the trials they faced, I personally loved Jimmy best! Great read.
**I voluntarily chose to review a copy of this book and I have not been compensated in any way**
**I voluntarily chose to review a copy of this book and I have not been compensated in any way**
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