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#lovehim #3
In Case You Missed It
Brooks is convinced his life is totally, one hundred percent happy.
Until Darien tracks him down.
Darien was supposed to be the guy he kissed once and remembered forever, but now he’s back in Brooks’s life, with easy smiles and big ideas.
The first of which … show the homeschooled Brooks everything he’s missed out on. But as the pair work through a spring of playing catch up on life, it becomes obvious to Darien that Brooks has a secret.
And as things heat up between them, Brooks’s secret might just be Darien’s worst fear.
Because Darien has always lived in the moment.
But Brooks has always lived for the future he knows is inevitable.
When life is set to tear them apart, will love be enough to keep them together?
Until Darien tracks him down.
Darien was supposed to be the guy he kissed once and remembered forever, but now he’s back in Brooks’s life, with easy smiles and big ideas.
The first of which … show the homeschooled Brooks everything he’s missed out on. But as the pair work through a spring of playing catch up on life, it becomes obvious to Darien that Brooks has a secret.
And as things heat up between them, Brooks’s secret might just be Darien’s worst fear.
Because Darien has always lived in the moment.
But Brooks has always lived for the future he knows is inevitable.
When life is set to tear them apart, will love be enough to keep them together?
400 pages, ebook
First published February 12, 2019
31 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 16, 2019
In Case You Missed It could so easily have been a story too heavy for my fragile heart to handle, and believe me, there are parts that cannot be read with dry eyes. But these boys - what they found in each other - all that they went through together - holy hell, was I invested in seeing them through to their happy ending!
I'll admit, on going into this, I knew nothing of the condition Brooks lived with beyond its name. I can't comment on the accuracy of its portrayal, but it certainly seemed like S.M. James tackled this delicate issue with great sensitivity and understanding.
I felt for Brooks - so hard.
And Darien...
Wow!
Darian barged into Brooks's life, offering everything that boy had never known he needed and nothing he'd prepared himself to accept, and the patience, persistence and sheer force of faith under which those walls between them fell was soul warming.
There's an adorable humour to their interactions, taking just the right amount of edge off the emotional charge, and I loved how supportive and involved both MC's families were in their lives (refreshing in a YA).
A fully engaging and enjoyable read. Highly recommend.
***ARC received in exchange for an honest review***
I'll admit, on going into this, I knew nothing of the condition Brooks lived with beyond its name. I can't comment on the accuracy of its portrayal, but it certainly seemed like S.M. James tackled this delicate issue with great sensitivity and understanding.
I felt for Brooks - so hard.
And Darien...
Wow!
Darian barged into Brooks's life, offering everything that boy had never known he needed and nothing he'd prepared himself to accept, and the patience, persistence and sheer force of faith under which those walls between them fell was soul warming.
There's an adorable humour to their interactions, taking just the right amount of edge off the emotional charge, and I loved how supportive and involved both MC's families were in their lives (refreshing in a YA).
A fully engaging and enjoyable read. Highly recommend.
***ARC received in exchange for an honest review***
February 12, 2019
This story was very personal to me as I’ve had a friend with the same issues as Brooks I know as soon as I started reading what the problem was and at one point I considered not finishing it it brought back so many memories mostly good but some not so good.
This story was worth the compassion and sensitivity for the subject matter it was pleasure to read.
It had me laughing and crying quite a few times but the relationship between brooks and Darien was a tale of a beautiful friendship and not letting anything get in your way.
Life’s short live every moment as it’s your last your breath is precious don’t waste it .
This story was worth the compassion and sensitivity for the subject matter it was pleasure to read.
It had me laughing and crying quite a few times but the relationship between brooks and Darien was a tale of a beautiful friendship and not letting anything get in your way.
Life’s short live every moment as it’s your last your breath is precious don’t waste it .
February 7, 2019
I wasn't expecting such a highly emotional book (yes, I cried several times) and yet I loved every word. Brooks and Darien, both highly likable characters, have one kiss that both of them remember three months after it happened. Brooks is hesitant to want even a friendship with Darien, but he's very persuasive and Brooks finds himself out of his comfort zone, but having the time of his life after Darien moves into town. But Brooks has a secret and Darien suspects something and when all is revealed, well...let's just say you have to read the book. I loved getting to know both Darien and Brooks and can't recommend this book highly enough!!
February 2, 2019
In Case You Missed It by S.M. James is the fifth book in The#lovehim Series but can be read as a stand alone book. It is a beautiful story of two boys finding love together even through fears, sickness and doubts.
I love the characters of Brooks and Darien. They are adorably sweet and gave me so many feels. Its emotional, entertaining and amazing. Well written, well developed characters and plot.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I love the characters of Brooks and Darien. They are adorably sweet and gave me so many feels. Its emotional, entertaining and amazing. Well written, well developed characters and plot.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
February 3, 2019
Oh my god I loved this book so much. Darien and Brooks were both so amazing. Both were extremely likable and realistic. I loved that we saw a teen who knew who he was and was confident in himself. Brooks was such a sweetheart.
And man. My emotions were all over the place. I’m not gonna lie, I cried several times. There were also times I was laughing out loud. And my heart felt for these boys. Their love for each other was so strong.
The diversity and awareness in this book was great. I don’t want to spoil anything about the secret but I will say you need to read this book.
And man. My emotions were all over the place. I’m not gonna lie, I cried several times. There were also times I was laughing out loud. And my heart felt for these boys. Their love for each other was so strong.
The diversity and awareness in this book was great. I don’t want to spoil anything about the secret but I will say you need to read this book.
July 9, 2023
this book is a mess of an unhealthy relationship and ableism that went on for about 200 more pages than it needed to.
content/trigger warnings; ableism, arophobic language, alcohol, underage drinking, mention of near death during childbirth, cystic fibrosis, feeding tube, mentions of car accident, mentions of near death experience, kissing, mentions of post-partum depression, mentions of past suicide attempts, cystic fibrosis related death of minor character, sex, blood, hospital, collapsed lung, induced coma,
rep; brooks (mc) is gay and has cystic fibrosis. damien (mc) is pansexual and has brown skin. blake (sc) is black and unlabeled queer.
let jump into the ableism.
i don’t like how brooks’ cystic fibrosis is treated as a spoiler/reveal. it’s not named in the synopsis, reviewers hide it as a spoiler or don’t name it at all, and while we see that brooks is sick, it isn’t named on page until over 200 pages in when he finally tells damien. i just don’t think that’s necessary. even if you’re set on having it be some big reveal to damien, brooks can still name it in his pov chapters.
i’m over the only disability narrative being a disabled character who thinks no one would ever love them and they’ll never be happy like abled people and that they’re a burden. this isn’t to say that those aren’t things real people feel and that ownvoices stories about it are bad, just that it usually isn’t ownvoices, which speaks to how abled people feel about disabled people that this is their go to narrative.
brooks’ illness is also used to justify him being inconsiderate and dismissive of, and reckless with the people who care about him and their feelings. brooks literally creates an unhealthy one-sided relationship and it’s okay because “oh he’s sick he’s allowed to have boundaries and needs” but in a relationship, all parties deserves to have their boundaries and needs respected and met.
and on that note, let really dive into the unhealthy relationship.
right off the bat, darien does not respect brooks. every time brooks tries to set boundaries, darien says he’s okay with them, but then starts thinking about how he has very intention of disrespecting them. he literally thinks about the “loopholes” he’d need to find in the rules brooks set with him to “get what he wants” which is so fucking gross.
brooks then begins toying with darien. he tells him he isn’t interested, then flirts with him. he tells him he doesn’t date, then literally proceeds to date him. all knowing how serious darien is about him. brooks has this “i don’t want to invest in him, but i want him to invest in me” mindset. he refuses to commit to him, but gets jealous and bitter at the thought of darien being with other people, platonically or otherwise.
brooks and damien’s relationship is built around brooks. what he wants, what he needs, what he’s comfortable with and when. damien’s needs aren’t acknowledged until damien becomes passive and basically unresponsive in their relationship, causing brooks to feel like he’s forcing himself on damien and wonder if that’s how damien has felt the whole time. but even when brooks makes the effort to show damien he’s committed to him, he’s annoyed that he has to do it and how long it takes. it just takes far too long for brooks and damien and everyone else to realize or outright acknowledge that damien has been giving and giving and getting nothing in return.
the people outside of brooks and damien’s relationship create this idea that damien has to be all about brooks while getting nothing in return. brooks’ cousin tells damien that he doesn’t deserve him if he mopes about brooks bailing on their plans. but at that point, damien didn’t know about his illness! all he knew was that the guy he’s so into is fucking with his feelings. but he’s vilified for those justified feelings. damien cannot be made out to be a bad guy for being insensitive to the illness he’s purposely being kept in the dark about. and when damien starts to catch on to brooks being sick, he asks brooks’ cousin questions and again gets vilified. he’s accused of putting brooks’ cousin in the middle when he should just ask brooks, but brooks refuses to talk to damien. what else is he supposed to do? he’s vilified for not being sensitive to an illness he doesn’t know about, and then vilified again for trying to find out what he can about from other people because brooks won’t talk to him about it.
brooks’ mom then gets in on this narrative, by interrogating damien as if he’s marrying brooks, demanding to know what he’d sacrifice for brooks and telling him about all the things he would be giving up to be with him, but damien didn’t know about his illness at that point!!!! and brooks wouldn’t even commit to dating damien at that point either, but damien is getting lectured about how he has to dedicate his life to him. makes sense.
due to this, damien starts to believe he has to be “good” for brooks, that he has to go above and beyond for him, despite getting nothing in return. as if that’s healthy.
that turning point in the relationship that i mentioned previously, comes when brooks tells damien he needs space and that damien should hook up with other people. when damien is horrified that brooks wants him to cheat on him, brooks says it’s not cheating because they aren’t together. damien’s response is to say now he’s the one who needs space and kick brooks out of his house to break down in private, and brooks is like “what just happened? why do i feel like i just got dumped?” like....he completely missed how damien immediately shut down when he agreed with what brooks told him to do because he was too focused on his own relief at damien once again conceding to what he wants.
one of the most “what the fuck?” moments and a solidifier of their relationship being all about brooks is when they have sex for the first time. it happens minutes after brooks gets the news that one of his friends in a cf group has died. darien questions whether this is the right time, justifiably so, and brooks goes off on him. the possibility of damien not being okay with having sex right after finding out brooks’ friend died is never entertained. it’s all about brooks. again. because brooks is fine with having sex at that moment in time, and because damien does want to have sex with him, damien isn’t allowed to have a problem with the circumstances of their first time. he’s literally portrayed as an asshole for making sure his boyfriend is in a good place emotionally to have sex for the first time and that he isn’t using him as an escape from his emotions/reality. fuck caring about consent, i guess.
other;
ya contemporaries very rarely have any business being more than 350 pages, and this is no exception. boy, did this shit drag.
the ending is way too cheesy and unbelievable for the relationship, given the 400 pages we got.
brooks’ stomach drops and a “sticky, heavy sickness settles over him” when he finds out that darien isn’t a virgin. y’all, being jealous of your partner’s past lovers or feeling any type of way that you’re not your partner’s first sexual experience is not fucking cute!!! grow up!!!
so tired of the narrative that if you aren’t doing the stereotypical high school social things (parties, dances, smoking/drinking, etc.) then you’re sad and aren’t living and are missing out. brooks being homeschooled is treated as something to pity him for and i’m just not here for it.
brooks literally says he can’t feel sympathy for darien feeling lost and confused and dismisses what he’s going through because he “has his whole life ahead of him” and that’s just shitty. being sick doesn’t grant you the right to be a dismissive asshole.
brooks always goes on about how embarrassing his parents are, but like...where? they just tease him about boys...what’s ~so embarrassing about that?
brooks uses darien’s fear of snakes against him as a joke and it’s literally never called out. brooks maintains later in the book that it was hilarious. like...nah ur just a dick????
brooks complains about how people ask how you are and then don’t believe you, but this is ridiculous because he’s always lying about how he is. even when he’s not hiding his illness, he still lies about how he’s doing. he literally laughs when darien asks if he’d tell him if he was seriously sick and assures him he would. come on.
all in all; i don’t like it.
oh, there’s this one moment when damien’s sister tells their parents about the girl she likes, and their father (who has been talked about not being too happy about his son dating guys) says “i always imagined one day when you were both married, i’d have two sons and two daughters. it’s not how i pictured it, but … this way is okay too.” and i thought that was actually really sweet.
content/trigger warnings; ableism, arophobic language, alcohol, underage drinking, mention of near death during childbirth, cystic fibrosis, feeding tube, mentions of car accident, mentions of near death experience, kissing, mentions of post-partum depression, mentions of past suicide attempts, cystic fibrosis related death of minor character, sex, blood, hospital, collapsed lung, induced coma,
rep; brooks (mc) is gay and has cystic fibrosis. damien (mc) is pansexual and has brown skin. blake (sc) is black and unlabeled queer.
let jump into the ableism.
i don’t like how brooks’ cystic fibrosis is treated as a spoiler/reveal. it’s not named in the synopsis, reviewers hide it as a spoiler or don’t name it at all, and while we see that brooks is sick, it isn’t named on page until over 200 pages in when he finally tells damien. i just don’t think that’s necessary. even if you’re set on having it be some big reveal to damien, brooks can still name it in his pov chapters.
i’m over the only disability narrative being a disabled character who thinks no one would ever love them and they’ll never be happy like abled people and that they’re a burden. this isn’t to say that those aren’t things real people feel and that ownvoices stories about it are bad, just that it usually isn’t ownvoices, which speaks to how abled people feel about disabled people that this is their go to narrative.
brooks’ illness is also used to justify him being inconsiderate and dismissive of, and reckless with the people who care about him and their feelings. brooks literally creates an unhealthy one-sided relationship and it’s okay because “oh he’s sick he’s allowed to have boundaries and needs” but in a relationship, all parties deserves to have their boundaries and needs respected and met.
and on that note, let really dive into the unhealthy relationship.
right off the bat, darien does not respect brooks. every time brooks tries to set boundaries, darien says he’s okay with them, but then starts thinking about how he has very intention of disrespecting them. he literally thinks about the “loopholes” he’d need to find in the rules brooks set with him to “get what he wants” which is so fucking gross.
brooks then begins toying with darien. he tells him he isn’t interested, then flirts with him. he tells him he doesn’t date, then literally proceeds to date him. all knowing how serious darien is about him. brooks has this “i don’t want to invest in him, but i want him to invest in me” mindset. he refuses to commit to him, but gets jealous and bitter at the thought of darien being with other people, platonically or otherwise.
brooks and damien’s relationship is built around brooks. what he wants, what he needs, what he’s comfortable with and when. damien’s needs aren’t acknowledged until damien becomes passive and basically unresponsive in their relationship, causing brooks to feel like he’s forcing himself on damien and wonder if that’s how damien has felt the whole time. but even when brooks makes the effort to show damien he’s committed to him, he’s annoyed that he has to do it and how long it takes. it just takes far too long for brooks and damien and everyone else to realize or outright acknowledge that damien has been giving and giving and getting nothing in return.
the people outside of brooks and damien’s relationship create this idea that damien has to be all about brooks while getting nothing in return. brooks’ cousin tells damien that he doesn’t deserve him if he mopes about brooks bailing on their plans. but at that point, damien didn’t know about his illness! all he knew was that the guy he’s so into is fucking with his feelings. but he’s vilified for those justified feelings. damien cannot be made out to be a bad guy for being insensitive to the illness he’s purposely being kept in the dark about. and when damien starts to catch on to brooks being sick, he asks brooks’ cousin questions and again gets vilified. he’s accused of putting brooks’ cousin in the middle when he should just ask brooks, but brooks refuses to talk to damien. what else is he supposed to do? he’s vilified for not being sensitive to an illness he doesn’t know about, and then vilified again for trying to find out what he can about from other people because brooks won’t talk to him about it.
brooks’ mom then gets in on this narrative, by interrogating damien as if he’s marrying brooks, demanding to know what he’d sacrifice for brooks and telling him about all the things he would be giving up to be with him, but damien didn’t know about his illness at that point!!!! and brooks wouldn’t even commit to dating damien at that point either, but damien is getting lectured about how he has to dedicate his life to him. makes sense.
due to this, damien starts to believe he has to be “good” for brooks, that he has to go above and beyond for him, despite getting nothing in return. as if that’s healthy.
that turning point in the relationship that i mentioned previously, comes when brooks tells damien he needs space and that damien should hook up with other people. when damien is horrified that brooks wants him to cheat on him, brooks says it’s not cheating because they aren’t together. damien’s response is to say now he’s the one who needs space and kick brooks out of his house to break down in private, and brooks is like “what just happened? why do i feel like i just got dumped?” like....he completely missed how damien immediately shut down when he agreed with what brooks told him to do because he was too focused on his own relief at damien once again conceding to what he wants.
one of the most “what the fuck?” moments and a solidifier of their relationship being all about brooks is when they have sex for the first time. it happens minutes after brooks gets the news that one of his friends in a cf group has died. darien questions whether this is the right time, justifiably so, and brooks goes off on him. the possibility of damien not being okay with having sex right after finding out brooks’ friend died is never entertained. it’s all about brooks. again. because brooks is fine with having sex at that moment in time, and because damien does want to have sex with him, damien isn’t allowed to have a problem with the circumstances of their first time. he’s literally portrayed as an asshole for making sure his boyfriend is in a good place emotionally to have sex for the first time and that he isn’t using him as an escape from his emotions/reality. fuck caring about consent, i guess.
other;
ya contemporaries very rarely have any business being more than 350 pages, and this is no exception. boy, did this shit drag.
the ending is way too cheesy and unbelievable for the relationship, given the 400 pages we got.
brooks’ stomach drops and a “sticky, heavy sickness settles over him” when he finds out that darien isn’t a virgin. y’all, being jealous of your partner’s past lovers or feeling any type of way that you’re not your partner’s first sexual experience is not fucking cute!!! grow up!!!
so tired of the narrative that if you aren’t doing the stereotypical high school social things (parties, dances, smoking/drinking, etc.) then you’re sad and aren’t living and are missing out. brooks being homeschooled is treated as something to pity him for and i’m just not here for it.
brooks literally says he can’t feel sympathy for darien feeling lost and confused and dismisses what he’s going through because he “has his whole life ahead of him” and that’s just shitty. being sick doesn’t grant you the right to be a dismissive asshole.
brooks always goes on about how embarrassing his parents are, but like...where? they just tease him about boys...what’s ~so embarrassing about that?
brooks uses darien’s fear of snakes against him as a joke and it’s literally never called out. brooks maintains later in the book that it was hilarious. like...nah ur just a dick????
brooks complains about how people ask how you are and then don’t believe you, but this is ridiculous because he’s always lying about how he is. even when he’s not hiding his illness, he still lies about how he’s doing. he literally laughs when darien asks if he’d tell him if he was seriously sick and assures him he would. come on.
all in all; i don’t like it.
oh, there’s this one moment when damien’s sister tells their parents about the girl she likes, and their father (who has been talked about not being too happy about his son dating guys) says “i always imagined one day when you were both married, i’d have two sons and two daughters. it’s not how i pictured it, but … this way is okay too.” and i thought that was actually really sweet.
February 12, 2019
In Case You Missed It by S.M. James is a sweet, poignant, and emotional story that will stick with you. If you are looking for an LGBTQ story that is YA, then you will want to check out this book and the others in the series. Now, this is not the first book in the series, however, each book can be read as a standalone, and I honestly think they are getting better and better with each release.
Brooks and Darien weren't supposed to be anything except a kiss and a memory, but Darien has other plans. The plot, the story, the characters, everything about this book was great. The beginning was a little bit of a slow start, however, it didn't drag for too long and soon, you will find yourself in the middle and loath to put it down. I highly recommend this story and suggest you one click it today. 4.5 stars.
Brooks and Darien weren't supposed to be anything except a kiss and a memory, but Darien has other plans. The plot, the story, the characters, everything about this book was great. The beginning was a little bit of a slow start, however, it didn't drag for too long and soon, you will find yourself in the middle and loath to put it down. I highly recommend this story and suggest you one click it today. 4.5 stars.
April 22, 2021
Plans
This is the heaviest subject matter in the series so far. The tears flowed early and often. Pride in New Orleans had my fingers crossed for a chance encounter. Once again the main characters are relatable and easy to love & surrounded by great friends. 4.5 for warm fires in the cabin.
This is the heaviest subject matter in the series so far. The tears flowed early and often. Pride in New Orleans had my fingers crossed for a chance encounter. Once again the main characters are relatable and easy to love & surrounded by great friends. 4.5 for warm fires in the cabin.
dnf
February 24, 2019dnf at 53%
I went into this story not knowing exactly what to expect. It's beautifully written, I loved both MCs, it's just not the type of story I can handle right now.
I went into this story not knowing exactly what to expect. It's beautifully written, I loved both MCs, it's just not the type of story I can handle right now.
May 26, 2019
Rated 3.5
February 15, 2019
Review in English and Polish || Recenzja po angielsku i polsku
In his life, teenage Brooks Lehman follows one rule, which he intends never to break – he doesn't date. And in his opinion, he has a quite good reason for it because he suffers from a serious illness. And although every day is a fight for every breath and his future looks dark, the boy is happy with his life and tries to enjoy it to the fullest. His organized world changes when Darien, a charming boy met some time ago at a Christmas party, restores their friendship and moves nearby along with his family. And although Darien knows that Brooks doesn't date, he finds ways to avoid this rule, for it is impossible to deny their mutual attraction. However, the problem is that Dare doesn't know about Brooks's illness, and disclosing it can change everything between them.
"In Case You Missed It" is a story that begins in a short story entitled "For The Win", which presents the first meeting of our two lead characters. And although they are the main elements that combine these two pieces of writing, it is thanks to the novel concerning Brooks and Darien that we really have the opportunity to get to know these two better and fully appreciate their charms. For there is no doubt that the main characters are one of the greatest advantages of this book, and believe me, it's filled with them to the brim. But let's return to our boys and start with the fact that we can sense S.M. James' parental love towards them from the very first page. No wonder they are so easy to love, truly wonderful and memorable. I also think that Brooks and Darien are to a large extent believable characters and, what is equally important, they are presented in a way that fully reflects their young age, but doesn't make children out of them, and that is really essential. I would also like to add that they are a huge plus of this novel not only as the characters themselves, but also because in this story they represent something more, because…
Brooks is not only an extremely strong, sweet, and sometimes silly boy who is struggling with a terrible illness. In fact, I have the impression that his character is on the one hand the embodiment of strength and courage, and on the other, of the fears associated with the consequences of cystic fibrosis that he suffers from. But this is just the beginning, as Brooks represents a life with an illness. A life that one can still enjoy in one's own way to the fullest for as long as possible. But that's still not all, because the character of Brooks is also a reflection of hesitation and uncertainty of a sick person, who must understand that if only they have the courage to do it, it's all right to want something more from life, something really special. Thus, the person of this young boy carries a very positive message, which should arouse in the readers a certain optimism and hope. For we have only one life, so no matter how long it lasts and with what difficulties we have to struggle, let's get the most out of it, because we all have the right to be really happy.
As for Darien, he's not only a charming, lively boy who can't stand still for too long. This character represents the human kind which consists of its various faces. Darien is the embodiment of life and youthful craziness, every day of the average teenager, as well as of care for others, love without limits, courage to face adversities in the name of feelings, openness to sacrifice, life, people. I think that the character of Darien is also a reflection of perseverance in pursuing the goal, and if we look at him from Brooks' perspective, we can see that he's like an avatar of the fulfilled dreams and a friend who pushes us forward, motivates us. What's more, while Brooks is the strength in itself, Darien seems to be someone else's strength and at the same time the one that is fueled by this other person. This boy is like a gift which becomes really valuable when it's given to someone, and that's how we can see that it is not enough that we simply are, because what we give to people and the world is the most important.
As for the story presented in "In Case You Missed It", I think it's not only interesting but also really beautiful, wonderfully romantic and positive. I admit that there are moments that are incredibly touching, which reach readers' hearts and make them cry, but it doesn't change the fact that the novel focuses primarily on the presentation and the discovery of positive emotions. What's more, the story shown in this book is also full of wisdom as it emphasizes many very important truths. One of them is the fact that the most important thing in our life is to take full advantage of the time that is given to us and to try enjoying every moment, instead of counting down the time while waiting for the end of those better, more beautiful days. I admit that in my opinion in this story there are simply no weak points and each sentence carries a significant message.
"In Case You Missed It" is a truly wonderful novel, which surely should be appreciated by everyone who decides to read it, regardless of their age. The characters of this book will undoubtedly engrave their own mark in the readers' hearts and won't let them to ever forget them. To the story like this one, we simply want to come back many times. To be honest, to say that it is a valuable and beautiful novel is simply not enough. No matter who you are and how old are you, you must read "In Case You Missed It"!
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W życiu nastoletni Brooks Lehman kieruje się jedną zasadą, której nie planuje nigdy złamać – nie randkuje. I ma ku temu jego zdaniem całkiem słuszny powód, albowiem jest poważnie chory. I chociaż każdy dzień to walka o każdy oddech, a jego przyszłość wydaje się malować w czarnych barwach, chłopak cieszy się z życia i stara się przeżyć je jak najlepiej. Jego poukładany świat zmienia się, kiedy Darien, czarujący chłopak poznany jakiś czas wcześniej podczas bożonarodzeniowej imprezy, odnawia ich znajomość i wraz z rodziną wprowadza się niedaleko. I chociaż Darien wie, że Brooks nie randkuje, to jednak znajduje sposoby by obejść tę zasadę, albowiem ich wzajemnemu przyciąganiu nie sposób zaprzeczyć. Problem jednak w tym, że Dare nie wie o chorobie Brooksa, a jej ujawnienie może zmienić między nimi wszystko.
„In Case You Missed It” jest historią, która swój początek znalazła w opowiadaniu „For The Win”, które przedstawia pierwsze spotkanie dwójki naszych głównych bohaterów. I chociaż to oni łączą te dwie pozycje, to właśnie w pełnej powieści poświęconej Brooksowi i Darienowi naprawdę mamy okazję lepiej poznać tę dwójkę i w pełni docenić ich urok. Nie ulega bowiem wątpliwości, że główni bohaterowie są jedną z największych zalet tej książki, a wierzcie mi, że jest ona nimi wypełniona po same brzegi. Wróćmy jednak do naszych chłopców i zacznijmy od tego, że już od pierwszych stron możemy wyczuć rodzicielską miłość, jaką darzy ich S.M. James. Nic więc dziwnego, że są tak łatwi do pokochania, prawdziwie wspaniali i zapadają w pamięć. Uważam również, że Brooks i Darien w dużej mierze są postaciami prawdopodobnymi i co równie ważne, zostali przedstawieni w sposób, który w pełni oddaje ich młody wiek, ale nie czyni z nich dzieci, a to naprawdę bardzo istotne. Chciałabym także dodać, iż są oni ogromnym plusem tej powieści nie tylko jako bohaterowie sami w sobie, ale także dlatego, że w tej historii reprezentują sobą coś więcej, albowiem...
Brooks to nie tylko niezwykle silny, słodki, a czasami głupiutki chłopak, który zmaga się z okropną chorobą. Tak naprawdę mam wrażenie, że jego postać jest z jednej strony ucieleśnieniem siły i odwagi, z drugiej zaś obaw, jakie wiążą się z wiszącym nad nim widmem następstw mukowiscydozy, na którą cierpi. Ale to dopiero początek, jako że Brooks reprezentuje życie z chorobą. Życie, z którego mimo wszystko można się cieszyć na swój własny sposób i czerpać z niego pełnymi garściami, tak długo, jak to tylko możliwe. Ale to nie wszystko, ponieważ postać Brooksa jest także odbiciem wahań i niepewności osoby chorej, która musi zrozumieć, że jeśli tylko ma się ku temu odwagę, można chcieć od życia czegoś więcej, czegoś naprawdę wyjątkowego. Tym samym, ten młody chłopak niesie ze sobą bardzo pozytywne przesłanie, które powinno budzić w czytelnikach pewien optymizm i nadzieję. Mamy bowiem tylko jedno życie, więc bez względu na to ile będzie trwało i z jakimi trudnościami musimy się zmagać, czerpmy z niego jak najwięcej, ponieważ wszyscy mamy prawo do tego, aby być naprawdę szczęśliwymi.
Darien z kolei jest nie tylko czarującym, pełnym życia chłopakiem, który nie potrafi usiedzieć zbyt długo w jednym miejscu. Jego postać reprezentuje człowieka, na którego składają się różne jego oblicza. Darien jest bowiem ucieleśnieniem pełni życia i młodzieńczego szaleństwa, codzienności przeciętnego nastolatka, a także troski o innych, miłości bez ograniczeń, odwagi do stawienia czoła przeciwnościom losu w imię uczuć, otwartości na poświęcenie, życie, ludzi. Myślę, że postać Dariena jest także odbiciem wytrwałości w dążeniu do celu, a jeśli spojrzymy na niego z perspektywy Brooksa, dostrzeżemy, że jest również obrazem spełnienia marzeń i przyjaciela, który popycha nas do przodu, motywuje. Co więcej, o ile Brooks jest siłą samą w sobie, o tyle Darien wydaje się być siłą dla kogoś oraz dzięki komuś. Ten chłopak jest niczym prezent, który nabiera prawdziwej wartości, kiedy zostaje komuś podarowany, a poprzez to pokazuje, że nie wystarczy że jesteśmy, ponieważ najwięcej mówi o nas to, co od siebie dajemy ludziom i światu.
Co się zaś tyczy samej historii przedstawionej w „In Case You Missed It”, uważam, że jest nie tylko interesująca, ale również naprawdę bardzo ładna, cudownie romantyczna i pozytywna. Przyznaję, że są w niej także momenty niesamowicie wzruszające, które ściskają za serce i wyciskają z oczu czytelnika łzy, ale nie zmienia to faktu, że powieść skupia się przede wszystkim na przedstawieniu oraz odkryciu pozytywnych emocji. Co więcej, ukazana w tej książce historia jest również pełna mądrości, ponieważ podkreśla niezliczenie wiele bardzo ważnych prawd. Jedną z nich jest chociażby fakt, że w życiu tak naprawdę chodzi o to, aby człowiek wykorzystał w pełni czas, jaki jest mu dany i starał się cieszyć każdą chwilą, zamiast odliczać czas do końca tych lepszych, piękniejszych dni. Przyznaję, że w moim odczuciu w tej historii zwyczajnie nie ma słabych stron i każde zdanie niesie ze sobą coś wyjątkowego.
„In Case You Missed It” to powieść prawdziwie cudowna, którą w pełni doceni każdy, kto po nią sięgnie, niezależnie od wieku. Bohaterowie tej książki bez wątpienia wyryją w sercach czytelników swój wyraźny ślad i nie pozwolą o sobie zapomnieć. Do historii takiej jak ta zwyczajnie chce się wracać wielokrotnie. Powiedzieć, że jest to powieść wartościowa i piękna to po prostu za mało. „In Case You Missed It” najzwyczajniej w świecie trzeba przeczytać! To prawdziwa perełka.
In his life, teenage Brooks Lehman follows one rule, which he intends never to break – he doesn't date. And in his opinion, he has a quite good reason for it because he suffers from a serious illness. And although every day is a fight for every breath and his future looks dark, the boy is happy with his life and tries to enjoy it to the fullest. His organized world changes when Darien, a charming boy met some time ago at a Christmas party, restores their friendship and moves nearby along with his family. And although Darien knows that Brooks doesn't date, he finds ways to avoid this rule, for it is impossible to deny their mutual attraction. However, the problem is that Dare doesn't know about Brooks's illness, and disclosing it can change everything between them.
"In Case You Missed It" is a story that begins in a short story entitled "For The Win", which presents the first meeting of our two lead characters. And although they are the main elements that combine these two pieces of writing, it is thanks to the novel concerning Brooks and Darien that we really have the opportunity to get to know these two better and fully appreciate their charms. For there is no doubt that the main characters are one of the greatest advantages of this book, and believe me, it's filled with them to the brim. But let's return to our boys and start with the fact that we can sense S.M. James' parental love towards them from the very first page. No wonder they are so easy to love, truly wonderful and memorable. I also think that Brooks and Darien are to a large extent believable characters and, what is equally important, they are presented in a way that fully reflects their young age, but doesn't make children out of them, and that is really essential. I would also like to add that they are a huge plus of this novel not only as the characters themselves, but also because in this story they represent something more, because…
Brooks is not only an extremely strong, sweet, and sometimes silly boy who is struggling with a terrible illness. In fact, I have the impression that his character is on the one hand the embodiment of strength and courage, and on the other, of the fears associated with the consequences of cystic fibrosis that he suffers from. But this is just the beginning, as Brooks represents a life with an illness. A life that one can still enjoy in one's own way to the fullest for as long as possible. But that's still not all, because the character of Brooks is also a reflection of hesitation and uncertainty of a sick person, who must understand that if only they have the courage to do it, it's all right to want something more from life, something really special. Thus, the person of this young boy carries a very positive message, which should arouse in the readers a certain optimism and hope. For we have only one life, so no matter how long it lasts and with what difficulties we have to struggle, let's get the most out of it, because we all have the right to be really happy.
As for Darien, he's not only a charming, lively boy who can't stand still for too long. This character represents the human kind which consists of its various faces. Darien is the embodiment of life and youthful craziness, every day of the average teenager, as well as of care for others, love without limits, courage to face adversities in the name of feelings, openness to sacrifice, life, people. I think that the character of Darien is also a reflection of perseverance in pursuing the goal, and if we look at him from Brooks' perspective, we can see that he's like an avatar of the fulfilled dreams and a friend who pushes us forward, motivates us. What's more, while Brooks is the strength in itself, Darien seems to be someone else's strength and at the same time the one that is fueled by this other person. This boy is like a gift which becomes really valuable when it's given to someone, and that's how we can see that it is not enough that we simply are, because what we give to people and the world is the most important.
As for the story presented in "In Case You Missed It", I think it's not only interesting but also really beautiful, wonderfully romantic and positive. I admit that there are moments that are incredibly touching, which reach readers' hearts and make them cry, but it doesn't change the fact that the novel focuses primarily on the presentation and the discovery of positive emotions. What's more, the story shown in this book is also full of wisdom as it emphasizes many very important truths. One of them is the fact that the most important thing in our life is to take full advantage of the time that is given to us and to try enjoying every moment, instead of counting down the time while waiting for the end of those better, more beautiful days. I admit that in my opinion in this story there are simply no weak points and each sentence carries a significant message.
"In Case You Missed It" is a truly wonderful novel, which surely should be appreciated by everyone who decides to read it, regardless of their age. The characters of this book will undoubtedly engrave their own mark in the readers' hearts and won't let them to ever forget them. To the story like this one, we simply want to come back many times. To be honest, to say that it is a valuable and beautiful novel is simply not enough. No matter who you are and how old are you, you must read "In Case You Missed It"!
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W życiu nastoletni Brooks Lehman kieruje się jedną zasadą, której nie planuje nigdy złamać – nie randkuje. I ma ku temu jego zdaniem całkiem słuszny powód, albowiem jest poważnie chory. I chociaż każdy dzień to walka o każdy oddech, a jego przyszłość wydaje się malować w czarnych barwach, chłopak cieszy się z życia i stara się przeżyć je jak najlepiej. Jego poukładany świat zmienia się, kiedy Darien, czarujący chłopak poznany jakiś czas wcześniej podczas bożonarodzeniowej imprezy, odnawia ich znajomość i wraz z rodziną wprowadza się niedaleko. I chociaż Darien wie, że Brooks nie randkuje, to jednak znajduje sposoby by obejść tę zasadę, albowiem ich wzajemnemu przyciąganiu nie sposób zaprzeczyć. Problem jednak w tym, że Dare nie wie o chorobie Brooksa, a jej ujawnienie może zmienić między nimi wszystko.
„In Case You Missed It” jest historią, która swój początek znalazła w opowiadaniu „For The Win”, które przedstawia pierwsze spotkanie dwójki naszych głównych bohaterów. I chociaż to oni łączą te dwie pozycje, to właśnie w pełnej powieści poświęconej Brooksowi i Darienowi naprawdę mamy okazję lepiej poznać tę dwójkę i w pełni docenić ich urok. Nie ulega bowiem wątpliwości, że główni bohaterowie są jedną z największych zalet tej książki, a wierzcie mi, że jest ona nimi wypełniona po same brzegi. Wróćmy jednak do naszych chłopców i zacznijmy od tego, że już od pierwszych stron możemy wyczuć rodzicielską miłość, jaką darzy ich S.M. James. Nic więc dziwnego, że są tak łatwi do pokochania, prawdziwie wspaniali i zapadają w pamięć. Uważam również, że Brooks i Darien w dużej mierze są postaciami prawdopodobnymi i co równie ważne, zostali przedstawieni w sposób, który w pełni oddaje ich młody wiek, ale nie czyni z nich dzieci, a to naprawdę bardzo istotne. Chciałabym także dodać, iż są oni ogromnym plusem tej powieści nie tylko jako bohaterowie sami w sobie, ale także dlatego, że w tej historii reprezentują sobą coś więcej, albowiem...
Brooks to nie tylko niezwykle silny, słodki, a czasami głupiutki chłopak, który zmaga się z okropną chorobą. Tak naprawdę mam wrażenie, że jego postać jest z jednej strony ucieleśnieniem siły i odwagi, z drugiej zaś obaw, jakie wiążą się z wiszącym nad nim widmem następstw mukowiscydozy, na którą cierpi. Ale to dopiero początek, jako że Brooks reprezentuje życie z chorobą. Życie, z którego mimo wszystko można się cieszyć na swój własny sposób i czerpać z niego pełnymi garściami, tak długo, jak to tylko możliwe. Ale to nie wszystko, ponieważ postać Brooksa jest także odbiciem wahań i niepewności osoby chorej, która musi zrozumieć, że jeśli tylko ma się ku temu odwagę, można chcieć od życia czegoś więcej, czegoś naprawdę wyjątkowego. Tym samym, ten młody chłopak niesie ze sobą bardzo pozytywne przesłanie, które powinno budzić w czytelnikach pewien optymizm i nadzieję. Mamy bowiem tylko jedno życie, więc bez względu na to ile będzie trwało i z jakimi trudnościami musimy się zmagać, czerpmy z niego jak najwięcej, ponieważ wszyscy mamy prawo do tego, aby być naprawdę szczęśliwymi.
Darien z kolei jest nie tylko czarującym, pełnym życia chłopakiem, który nie potrafi usiedzieć zbyt długo w jednym miejscu. Jego postać reprezentuje człowieka, na którego składają się różne jego oblicza. Darien jest bowiem ucieleśnieniem pełni życia i młodzieńczego szaleństwa, codzienności przeciętnego nastolatka, a także troski o innych, miłości bez ograniczeń, odwagi do stawienia czoła przeciwnościom losu w imię uczuć, otwartości na poświęcenie, życie, ludzi. Myślę, że postać Dariena jest także odbiciem wytrwałości w dążeniu do celu, a jeśli spojrzymy na niego z perspektywy Brooksa, dostrzeżemy, że jest również obrazem spełnienia marzeń i przyjaciela, który popycha nas do przodu, motywuje. Co więcej, o ile Brooks jest siłą samą w sobie, o tyle Darien wydaje się być siłą dla kogoś oraz dzięki komuś. Ten chłopak jest niczym prezent, który nabiera prawdziwej wartości, kiedy zostaje komuś podarowany, a poprzez to pokazuje, że nie wystarczy że jesteśmy, ponieważ najwięcej mówi o nas to, co od siebie dajemy ludziom i światu.
Co się zaś tyczy samej historii przedstawionej w „In Case You Missed It”, uważam, że jest nie tylko interesująca, ale również naprawdę bardzo ładna, cudownie romantyczna i pozytywna. Przyznaję, że są w niej także momenty niesamowicie wzruszające, które ściskają za serce i wyciskają z oczu czytelnika łzy, ale nie zmienia to faktu, że powieść skupia się przede wszystkim na przedstawieniu oraz odkryciu pozytywnych emocji. Co więcej, ukazana w tej książce historia jest również pełna mądrości, ponieważ podkreśla niezliczenie wiele bardzo ważnych prawd. Jedną z nich jest chociażby fakt, że w życiu tak naprawdę chodzi o to, aby człowiek wykorzystał w pełni czas, jaki jest mu dany i starał się cieszyć każdą chwilą, zamiast odliczać czas do końca tych lepszych, piękniejszych dni. Przyznaję, że w moim odczuciu w tej historii zwyczajnie nie ma słabych stron i każde zdanie niesie ze sobą coś wyjątkowego.
„In Case You Missed It” to powieść prawdziwie cudowna, którą w pełni doceni każdy, kto po nią sięgnie, niezależnie od wieku. Bohaterowie tej książki bez wątpienia wyryją w sercach czytelników swój wyraźny ślad i nie pozwolą o sobie zapomnieć. Do historii takiej jak ta zwyczajnie chce się wracać wielokrotnie. Powiedzieć, że jest to powieść wartościowa i piękna to po prostu za mało. „In Case You Missed It” najzwyczajniej w świecie trzeba przeczytać! To prawdziwa perełka.
February 29, 2020
“There are so many people in the world. And I want to meet them all. Yet here I am, fixated on this one, beautiful soul.”
What is this beautiful thing. I am choking on emotions 😭❤️
What is this beautiful thing. I am choking on emotions 😭❤️
February 2, 2019
I love everything this author writes! And even though this entire series is amazing, In Case You Missed It definitely stands out from the others.
The book has the same humor and sweetness, but the characters don’t have it nearly as easy, if that’s even the right word, as the MC’s that came before.
Brooks, mysterious and elusive Brooks, has a secret. One that will break your heart. I wasn’t prepared for it, neither was Darien, and boy did it hurt to read it. Both these boys show so much heart and courage, handling everything life throws at them. All the love!
This book is amazing, the way it subtly ties in with the other books in the series, the challenges Brooks and Darien face and not in the least, the truly wonderful, diverse secondary characters (family and friends). The writing is superb, almost poetic at times.
Recommend!!
Keep the tissues close though.
The book has the same humor and sweetness, but the characters don’t have it nearly as easy, if that’s even the right word, as the MC’s that came before.
Brooks, mysterious and elusive Brooks, has a secret. One that will break your heart. I wasn’t prepared for it, neither was Darien, and boy did it hurt to read it. Both these boys show so much heart and courage, handling everything life throws at them. All the love!
This book is amazing, the way it subtly ties in with the other books in the series, the challenges Brooks and Darien face and not in the least, the truly wonderful, diverse secondary characters (family and friends). The writing is superb, almost poetic at times.
Recommend!!
Keep the tissues close though.
February 10, 2019
Having never read anything by this author before, I didn't know what to expect, but man am I glad I requested an ARC from Gay Book Promotions. It was fantastic!
I loved both of our heroes, and even though I wanted to smack Brooks a couple of times, the author did an excellent job of portraying his vulnerabilities and insecurities as they pertain to his unique situation. And Darien... What can I say about him except that he's the type of hero you swoon over in romance novels. Brooks and Darien were perfectly paired and their relationship was beautiful to watch as it unfolded.
Honestly, I loved everything about this book. The plot line, the surprising dose of angst, the characters, the secondary characters. It is a lengthy novel, but it didn't feel that way. The pacing was perfect; I never skimmed, no scene or chapter dragged on, I was never bored.
Once you reach the 50% mark, you'll want a box of tissues for the rest. And OMG, I'm SO GLAD I read this at home and not on my commute to or from work like I usually do. A lot of strangers on the train would've seen a grown woman balling her eyes out.
Just...go read this. I can't gush about it enough. I read a lot of young adult books and this was a knockout. In Case You Missed It was a beautiful reminder to live life to its fullest and cherish the people you love.
Go read it. Right now.
I loved both of our heroes, and even though I wanted to smack Brooks a couple of times, the author did an excellent job of portraying his vulnerabilities and insecurities as they pertain to his unique situation. And Darien... What can I say about him except that he's the type of hero you swoon over in romance novels. Brooks and Darien were perfectly paired and their relationship was beautiful to watch as it unfolded.
Honestly, I loved everything about this book. The plot line, the surprising dose of angst, the characters, the secondary characters. It is a lengthy novel, but it didn't feel that way. The pacing was perfect; I never skimmed, no scene or chapter dragged on, I was never bored.
Once you reach the 50% mark, you'll want a box of tissues for the rest. And OMG, I'm SO GLAD I read this at home and not on my commute to or from work like I usually do. A lot of strangers on the train would've seen a grown woman balling her eyes out.
Just...go read this. I can't gush about it enough. I read a lot of young adult books and this was a knockout. In Case You Missed It was a beautiful reminder to live life to its fullest and cherish the people you love.
Go read it. Right now.
June 11, 2020
5 stars
I love this book to pieces!!! It made me swoon, it made me laugh and it made me cry - both in the best and worst way. :)
Personally, I like to go into a book not knowing too much about it. I like to read the blurb and some reviews but nothing spoilery. And I encourage everyone to go into this one blind, because I believe that it will give you a much better experience.
Thus said, this review has some small spoilers because with this topic it's almost impossible to talk about the story and not give certain things away. I've tried to stay vague for the most part but you have been warned. :)
And for those of you who absolutely have to know if there's a HEA, before starting a book, I'll give you the short answer here so that you can decide if you want to give it a try. In any case, I highly encourage you to read this, because it was fantastic and went straight to my favorites shelf! Or rather my Lieblings-shelf. ;) You'll get it when you read the book. :)))
+++ SMALL SPOILERS AHEAD +++
For the most part this book was funny and lighthearted. You can sense the underlying serious issues but it doesn't overpower the story. As a reader, you know a lot sooner than Darien how grave Brooks illness really is. But the author is only giving us glimpses, not coming right out and telling us his diagnosis and I caught myself hoping that it wouldn't be so bad. Because I was rooting so hard for these boys!
Darien was such a positive, energetic and sweet character. His cheeky comebacks had me grinning throughout the book. But Brooks had a sassy side, too and the banter between them was so much fun! I also loved that Darien was so open about his feelings and such an honest person. It never even occurred to him to be anything other than himself. I also got Brook's reasoning for holding back. It came from a good place but also from fear. Which was a theme in the story, overcoming your fears, and I was happy to see both Brooks and Darien succeed in the end.
I was also happy, that in this third book in the series I finally, finally liked ALL the supporting characters. Brooks cousin and best friend Cameron, was a great guy, always supporting him and having his back. Darien's old friends from New Jersey were a great lot. The kids at his new school didn't show up much but when they did they were all really nice. Darien's parents and sister were also likeable, his mom more openly supportive and empathic, his dad a little more reserved, but overall a good guy. But my favorite supporting characters by far were Brook's parents. Really, I'd wish I'd had parents like that. They were supportive but not smothering and pretty laid-back about almost everything. His mom was a little more intense at times but his dad was completely chilled and they had a great sense of humor. Some of the funniest scenes included them and especially his dad was a hoot!
Towards the end, the story gets a little heavier. It has Darien retreating emotionally and becoming cautious which was almost painful to see after only knowing him to be upbeat and cheerful so far. And it's also my only complaint, because I felt that we never got that open, care-free feeling back that was prevalent for 90% of the book. I wanted them to get back to being happy and sure of their feelings BEFORE the dramatic events at the end. At least, I wanted a longer glimpse afterwards, to see them getting back to it.
But even with the epilogue, which takes place one year later, that feeling of happiness was just starting to come back when the book ended. It was a little too sudden and I felt they deserved more time. Or maybe that's just me wanting to see more of these guys. Honestly, I was really sad to let them go. I hope the author writes at least another novella about them some day.
So, to sum it up, this book might have a serious topic but for the most part it is extremely funny, adorably cute, totally swoon-worthy and utterly romantic! It's my favorite in the series so far and I'm afraid that it can't get any better. But to keep in line with the theme here, I will overcome that fear and will jump right into the next book. :)
I love this book to pieces!!! It made me swoon, it made me laugh and it made me cry - both in the best and worst way. :)
Personally, I like to go into a book not knowing too much about it. I like to read the blurb and some reviews but nothing spoilery. And I encourage everyone to go into this one blind, because I believe that it will give you a much better experience.
Thus said, this review has some small spoilers because with this topic it's almost impossible to talk about the story and not give certain things away. I've tried to stay vague for the most part but you have been warned. :)
And for those of you who absolutely have to know if there's a HEA, before starting a book, I'll give you the short answer here so that you can decide if you want to give it a try. In any case, I highly encourage you to read this, because it was fantastic and went straight to my favorites shelf! Or rather my Lieblings-shelf. ;) You'll get it when you read the book. :)))
+++ SMALL SPOILERS AHEAD +++
For the most part this book was funny and lighthearted. You can sense the underlying serious issues but it doesn't overpower the story. As a reader, you know a lot sooner than Darien how grave Brooks illness really is. But the author is only giving us glimpses, not coming right out and telling us his diagnosis and I caught myself hoping that it wouldn't be so bad. Because I was rooting so hard for these boys!
Darien was such a positive, energetic and sweet character. His cheeky comebacks had me grinning throughout the book. But Brooks had a sassy side, too and the banter between them was so much fun! I also loved that Darien was so open about his feelings and such an honest person. It never even occurred to him to be anything other than himself. I also got Brook's reasoning for holding back. It came from a good place but also from fear. Which was a theme in the story, overcoming your fears, and I was happy to see both Brooks and Darien succeed in the end.
I was also happy, that in this third book in the series I finally, finally liked ALL the supporting characters. Brooks cousin and best friend Cameron, was a great guy, always supporting him and having his back. Darien's old friends from New Jersey were a great lot. The kids at his new school didn't show up much but when they did they were all really nice. Darien's parents and sister were also likeable, his mom more openly supportive and empathic, his dad a little more reserved, but overall a good guy. But my favorite supporting characters by far were Brook's parents. Really, I'd wish I'd had parents like that. They were supportive but not smothering and pretty laid-back about almost everything. His mom was a little more intense at times but his dad was completely chilled and they had a great sense of humor. Some of the funniest scenes included them and especially his dad was a hoot!
Towards the end, the story gets a little heavier. It has Darien retreating emotionally and becoming cautious which was almost painful to see after only knowing him to be upbeat and cheerful so far. And it's also my only complaint, because I felt that we never got that open, care-free feeling back that was prevalent for 90% of the book. I wanted them to get back to being happy and sure of their feelings BEFORE the dramatic events at the end. At least, I wanted a longer glimpse afterwards, to see them getting back to it.
But even with the epilogue, which takes place one year later, that feeling of happiness was just starting to come back when the book ended. It was a little too sudden and I felt they deserved more time. Or maybe that's just me wanting to see more of these guys. Honestly, I was really sad to let them go. I hope the author writes at least another novella about them some day.
So, to sum it up, this book might have a serious topic but for the most part it is extremely funny, adorably cute, totally swoon-worthy and utterly romantic! It's my favorite in the series so far and I'm afraid that it can't get any better. But to keep in line with the theme here, I will overcome that fear and will jump right into the next book. :)
February 11, 2019
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Brooks and Darien had met once before during a holiday party, on a non-date that ended with a kiss goodnight. But despite promising to get in touch, Brooks didn't. Now Darien is moving into the same neighbourhood and they meet again.
Brooks wants to maybe be friends, Darien wants much more but will take anything he can get. Brooks is scared where things might go, because he has a secret , while Darien is all-in from the start. As they fall in love and get to know each other, they have to overcome their fears to be together.
This was such an emotional read! At times almost heartbreaking, but over all a very sweet romance despite covering some very serious themes. Luckily, S.M. James is a writer you can trust to handle these things, and in well-written prose to boot. The book is relatively long and a slow burn romance, which absolutely suited the story.
I loved both of the main characters. Brooks is just my kind of nerdy, quiet and serious, playing the guitar. Darien is so kind and caring, energetic and the life of any party. I loved the rest of the cast of characters too, they were such a diverse bunch.
There's a little cameo from Angus (main character of To Be Honest) as well, which I thought was a nice touch.
In Case You Missed It is a wonderful YA romance, but I think it will be of interest to older readers as well. I'd definitely recommend this for fans of John Green's The Fault in Our Stars.
Brooks and Darien had met once before during a holiday party, on a non-date that ended with a kiss goodnight. But despite promising to get in touch, Brooks didn't. Now Darien is moving into the same neighbourhood and they meet again.
Brooks wants to maybe be friends, Darien wants much more but will take anything he can get. Brooks is scared where things might go, because he has a secret , while Darien is all-in from the start. As they fall in love and get to know each other, they have to overcome their fears to be together.
This was such an emotional read! At times almost heartbreaking, but over all a very sweet romance despite covering some very serious themes. Luckily, S.M. James is a writer you can trust to handle these things, and in well-written prose to boot. The book is relatively long and a slow burn romance, which absolutely suited the story.
I loved both of the main characters. Brooks is just my kind of nerdy, quiet and serious, playing the guitar. Darien is so kind and caring, energetic and the life of any party. I loved the rest of the cast of characters too, they were such a diverse bunch.
There's a little cameo from Angus (main character of To Be Honest) as well, which I thought was a nice touch.
In Case You Missed It is a wonderful YA romance, but I think it will be of interest to older readers as well. I'd definitely recommend this for fans of John Green's The Fault in Our Stars.
February 15, 2019
5+ Tearjerking Stars!
OMG, can I tell you how much I loved this book? It's poignant and it had me bawling like a baby because it made me feel so damn much for Brooks and Darien. But first, I need to say a couple of things, this is not a book for everyone, it deals with a life-threatening illness and while it ends on a high note, it's not really a HEA, but a very strong HFN, which I was perfectly fine with, it was realistic. If you read No Regrets by Nicky James, this book runs along a similar line, just not as dire as NR. It's also long, but don't let that deter you, I didn't even feel the length, it was just so good, I couldn't put it down. It's angsty as all hell, but it's also sweet and hopeful.
Darien was amazing, steadfast and stubbornly adorable. I'm pretty sure not many 18-year-olds would've had his determination to be in Brooks life no matter what, and I won't say he was perfect, but he was pretty close to being so. And Brooks, well, he just broke my heart. I could understand why he didn't want to date or saddle anyone with going through with what he had no other choice to live through. Because of this, this is a bit of a slow burn, even if it was obvious where things were going and that both boys were into each other. It made perfect sense and I loved every second of it.
I loved Brooks' parents and his cousin Cameron. They were all great and it was lovely to see how much they cared about Brooks and supported him and his decisions, even when they didn't agree with them all the time.
The writing was amazing and the story was a maelstrom of emotions that left me drained and hungover, but so happy that I decided to give this magnificent book a try. Definitely a must-read, just stock on the tissues!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
OMG, can I tell you how much I loved this book? It's poignant and it had me bawling like a baby because it made me feel so damn much for Brooks and Darien. But first, I need to say a couple of things, this is not a book for everyone, it deals with a life-threatening illness and while it ends on a high note, it's not really a HEA, but a very strong HFN, which I was perfectly fine with, it was realistic. If you read No Regrets by Nicky James, this book runs along a similar line, just not as dire as NR. It's also long, but don't let that deter you, I didn't even feel the length, it was just so good, I couldn't put it down. It's angsty as all hell, but it's also sweet and hopeful.
Darien was amazing, steadfast and stubbornly adorable. I'm pretty sure not many 18-year-olds would've had his determination to be in Brooks life no matter what, and I won't say he was perfect, but he was pretty close to being so. And Brooks, well, he just broke my heart. I could understand why he didn't want to date or saddle anyone with going through with what he had no other choice to live through. Because of this, this is a bit of a slow burn, even if it was obvious where things were going and that both boys were into each other. It made perfect sense and I loved every second of it.
I loved Brooks' parents and his cousin Cameron. They were all great and it was lovely to see how much they cared about Brooks and supported him and his decisions, even when they didn't agree with them all the time.
The writing was amazing and the story was a maelstrom of emotions that left me drained and hungover, but so happy that I decided to give this magnificent book a try. Definitely a must-read, just stock on the tissues!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
February 17, 2019
Title: In Case You Missed It
Author: S. M. James
Publisher: May Books
ISBN: B07KVJBZQW
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Case-You-Misse...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
#lovehim 5
Brooks is convinced his life is totally, one hundred percent happy.
Until Darien tracks him down.
Darien was supposed to be the guy he kissed once and remembered forever, but now he’s back in Brooks’s life, with easy smiles and big ideas.
The first of which … show the homeschooled Brooks everything he’s missed out on. But as the pair work through a spring of playing catch up on life, it becomes obvious to Darien that Brooks has a secret.
And as things heat up between them, Brooks’s secret might just be Darien’s worst fear.
Because Darien has always lived in the moment.
But Brooks has always lived for the future he knows is inevitable.
When life is set to tear them apart, will love be enough to keep them together?
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
This was an incredible coming of age story with a twist. Brooks seems to be happy with his home school existence, that is until Darien comes along bringing laughter and unpredictability into his life. Now initially they met by chance allowing Brooks to maintain his quiet life until Darien manages to track him down. Darien knows what he wants, but there is more to Darien than he ever imagined. Brooks is determined to keep his distance even when his heart’s desire, Darien, is right in front of him. Now there is more complications than you could imagine forcing Darien and Brooks to decide to keep it safe or take a chance on a future neither could imagine.
This was a wonderful edition to the #lovehim series.
Author: S. M. James
Publisher: May Books
ISBN: B07KVJBZQW
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Case-You-Misse...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
#lovehim 5
Brooks is convinced his life is totally, one hundred percent happy.
Until Darien tracks him down.
Darien was supposed to be the guy he kissed once and remembered forever, but now he’s back in Brooks’s life, with easy smiles and big ideas.
The first of which … show the homeschooled Brooks everything he’s missed out on. But as the pair work through a spring of playing catch up on life, it becomes obvious to Darien that Brooks has a secret.
And as things heat up between them, Brooks’s secret might just be Darien’s worst fear.
Because Darien has always lived in the moment.
But Brooks has always lived for the future he knows is inevitable.
When life is set to tear them apart, will love be enough to keep them together?
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
This was an incredible coming of age story with a twist. Brooks seems to be happy with his home school existence, that is until Darien comes along bringing laughter and unpredictability into his life. Now initially they met by chance allowing Brooks to maintain his quiet life until Darien manages to track him down. Darien knows what he wants, but there is more to Darien than he ever imagined. Brooks is determined to keep his distance even when his heart’s desire, Darien, is right in front of him. Now there is more complications than you could imagine forcing Darien and Brooks to decide to keep it safe or take a chance on a future neither could imagine.
This was a wonderful edition to the #lovehim series.
March 8, 2019
Wow...I'm so lost for words. I'm so glad that I chose to give this book a try (since it was recommended here on Goodreads by another author I'm following). And I am also glad that I did not have to go into work today ;) I started Brooks and Darien's story last night and I seriously wasn't able to put it down.
It is a long read and I honestly loved every second of it..
-The slow development of love and affection between the two main characters
- Darien's unconditional love for Brooks even though a very tough "secret" stands between the two of them
The author wrote their story so beautifully and it broke my heart more than once and I seriously could not stop shedding tears for the two of them.
Even the minor characters were brilliantly included into the story. I especially liked Chris, Darien's best straight friend. I even was a bit jealous, being gay myself, who wouldn't wish for a friend like him with his unconditional support, his open heart and mind?
I won't give away anything about the storyline. Even though we can suspect Brook's "secret" at a pretty early stage of the novel, the author manages to show especially his emotions of being torn between revealing it and thus possibly loosing another important person and keeping it hidden.
Well done S.M. James! Thank you for these last amazing, heartbreaking hours of reading. This was my first read and I can definitely say it won't be my last!
It is a long read and I honestly loved every second of it..
-The slow development of love and affection between the two main characters
- Darien's unconditional love for Brooks even though a very tough "secret" stands between the two of them
The author wrote their story so beautifully and it broke my heart more than once and I seriously could not stop shedding tears for the two of them.
Even the minor characters were brilliantly included into the story. I especially liked Chris, Darien's best straight friend. I even was a bit jealous, being gay myself, who wouldn't wish for a friend like him with his unconditional support, his open heart and mind?
I won't give away anything about the storyline. Even though we can suspect Brook's "secret" at a pretty early stage of the novel, the author manages to show especially his emotions of being torn between revealing it and thus possibly loosing another important person and keeping it hidden.
Well done S.M. James! Thank you for these last amazing, heartbreaking hours of reading. This was my first read and I can definitely say it won't be my last!
February 12, 2019
In Case You Missed is an accomplished romance by SM James. My attention was grabbed immediately, and I stayed up reading late into the night. It is as riveting and emotional as I've ever read.
When the pansexual Darien falls for Brooks, Brooks say no, as he doesn't want to date anyone. He has one huge secret that looms over his head and he's terrified to tell Darien.
Both men are in situations that are tragic. Eventually, they start inspiring one another, opening up all the possibilities to them. They start really living. But, it takes them a long time to get to that point.
I absolutely love and adore both Brooks and Darien. They are remarkable in their bravery and strength. They are absolutely amazing men, despite some doubts and vulnerabilities.
Their story is one of fear, need, and want. It's a tale of secrets, and living in the present, refusing to waste any time. It's raw, real, and completely heart wrenching, while also being beautiful, sweet and tender.
I will warn you now though, make sure you have tissues handy. But don't worry, you'll also find yourself laughing and swooning.
In Case You Missed It is an exceptional tale. I can't recommend this SM James story enough. It definitely is one I wish I could give more than 5 stars.
When the pansexual Darien falls for Brooks, Brooks say no, as he doesn't want to date anyone. He has one huge secret that looms over his head and he's terrified to tell Darien.
Both men are in situations that are tragic. Eventually, they start inspiring one another, opening up all the possibilities to them. They start really living. But, it takes them a long time to get to that point.
I absolutely love and adore both Brooks and Darien. They are remarkable in their bravery and strength. They are absolutely amazing men, despite some doubts and vulnerabilities.
Their story is one of fear, need, and want. It's a tale of secrets, and living in the present, refusing to waste any time. It's raw, real, and completely heart wrenching, while also being beautiful, sweet and tender.
I will warn you now though, make sure you have tissues handy. But don't worry, you'll also find yourself laughing and swooning.
In Case You Missed It is an exceptional tale. I can't recommend this SM James story enough. It definitely is one I wish I could give more than 5 stars.
February 23, 2019
Oh this story! This story is definitely a tearjerker. It will break your heart and then stitch it back up.
I read this book without reading the rest of the series so I love that these books can be read as a standalone. I definitely think I'm going to go back and read the rest of the series now though after enjoying this one. I loved the characters and the chemistry they had. I loved that this book is diverse and brings up a few different topics but doesn't exactly throw them in your face. Examples are that Darien is Pan and Brooks is gay and someone may come out as Bi but they didn't push to make a label for it. Also the characters are diverse in the cultures and backgrounds they come from.
Darien and Brooks are cute, sweet, sappy and just a really great couple. They have some really great friends also that help them out with everything. Brooks is sick and is worried about Darien leaving like everyone else has. This story has great character development between Brooks and Darien. I was really glad that this book touched a tough subject that I haven't read many stories about but helped me understand the illness a little better. I would totally recommend this book and I'm looking forward to going back to the rest of the series.
I read this book without reading the rest of the series so I love that these books can be read as a standalone. I definitely think I'm going to go back and read the rest of the series now though after enjoying this one. I loved the characters and the chemistry they had. I loved that this book is diverse and brings up a few different topics but doesn't exactly throw them in your face. Examples are that Darien is Pan and Brooks is gay and someone may come out as Bi but they didn't push to make a label for it. Also the characters are diverse in the cultures and backgrounds they come from.
Darien and Brooks are cute, sweet, sappy and just a really great couple. They have some really great friends also that help them out with everything. Brooks is sick and is worried about Darien leaving like everyone else has. This story has great character development between Brooks and Darien. I was really glad that this book touched a tough subject that I haven't read many stories about but helped me understand the illness a little better. I would totally recommend this book and I'm looking forward to going back to the rest of the series.
February 23, 2019
Beautiful is such a tepid, inadequate description of this story. Story… Tome of Enlightenment and Encouragement… Life Changing Narrative. Dramatic much?? :-)
I’ve read every book in the #LoveHim series and this is by far my favourite. I love that SM James writes books that raise awareness and support a changing mindset and acceptance of multiple social subjects. But what I love even more is that the social responsibility is wrapped up in a story with evocative plot lines and twists and likable and beloved characters, so that even the most resistant readers can appreciate the whole.
The emotion poured off every page that I read and I was completely enthralled; reading this twice in back-to-back, “kids, make yourselves something to eat” sessions. And at the end of it I had a lump in my throat, a growling stomach and eyes that felt like I’d been wiping them with sandpaper and it was worth every beautiful, scary, frustrating, sad, happy, slightly jealous moment.
A justified and deserving “#1 New Release” on Amazon – from the beautiful, creative covers to the very last word, SM James is always 1-click for me.
I’ve read every book in the #LoveHim series and this is by far my favourite. I love that SM James writes books that raise awareness and support a changing mindset and acceptance of multiple social subjects. But what I love even more is that the social responsibility is wrapped up in a story with evocative plot lines and twists and likable and beloved characters, so that even the most resistant readers can appreciate the whole.
The emotion poured off every page that I read and I was completely enthralled; reading this twice in back-to-back, “kids, make yourselves something to eat” sessions. And at the end of it I had a lump in my throat, a growling stomach and eyes that felt like I’d been wiping them with sandpaper and it was worth every beautiful, scary, frustrating, sad, happy, slightly jealous moment.
A justified and deserving “#1 New Release” on Amazon – from the beautiful, creative covers to the very last word, SM James is always 1-click for me.
February 12, 2019
"In Case You Missed It" is the third novel in the #lovehim series. While it can totally be read as standalone, it comes with a cute shortstory ("For The Win") as prequel which i personally really recommend reading first.
"In Case You Missed It" really took my feelings on a rollercoaster. At times i was so anxious !
But while this book definitely is darker than the 2 previous ones in the series and deals with a serious issue, one could still find the humor and warm feelings someone familiar with the authors books is already accustomed to.
Both characters are really sweet and compliment each other very well. While Brooks is a kinda withdrawn and hides in his protective shell, Darien is his opposite in may ways, open, happy, confident....he helps Brooks out of his shell and reveal his real self.
I really loved this read.
"In Case You Missed It" really took my feelings on a rollercoaster. At times i was so anxious !
But while this book definitely is darker than the 2 previous ones in the series and deals with a serious issue, one could still find the humor and warm feelings someone familiar with the authors books is already accustomed to.
Both characters are really sweet and compliment each other very well. While Brooks is a kinda withdrawn and hides in his protective shell, Darien is his opposite in may ways, open, happy, confident....he helps Brooks out of his shell and reveal his real self.
I really loved this read.
February 13, 2019
This book was really special. Darien and Brooks were perfectly matched, and they changed each other for the better. Their romance was full of ups and downs, and Brooks' health was only one of the obstacles they had to deal with. I was very emotional over both guys, and there were several times that I am not ashamed to admit that I cried over them. Luckily, some of those tears were due to happiness.
I adored Darien, Brooks, and Brooks' cousin and best friend Cameron. The supporting friends and family were all pretty wonderful. This has instantly become a new favorite for me, not just as a YA story or a romance, but as a fantastic read. I'll be visiting this one again (and again), and I will definitely recommend it to others. A piece of my heart belongs to Brooks and Darien, and I am so glad to know their story!
I adored Darien, Brooks, and Brooks' cousin and best friend Cameron. The supporting friends and family were all pretty wonderful. This has instantly become a new favorite for me, not just as a YA story or a romance, but as a fantastic read. I'll be visiting this one again (and again), and I will definitely recommend it to others. A piece of my heart belongs to Brooks and Darien, and I am so glad to know their story!
June 18, 2019
I’m reading this series back to back and I simply enjoyed all the books so far. This book.. THIS book tops everything. I’m sitting here crying because it was such a beautiful story. The MCs were just lovely. And I believe everyone should find their own Darien.
Before Brooks came out to Darien about his condition, I knew what he had because I follow a couple (Hetero) on YouTube called the Frey life. The symptoms that he had gave me the idea of CF. So if anyone wants a glimpse of CF check their channel.
I’m very happy how the author portrayed Brooks. She did an excellent job describing Brooks condition and Darien’s reactions. I’m a bit sadden that I finished the book but relived at the same time.
Seriously though stop whatever the fuck you’re doing and read this book. Preferably read the books in order though. I can’t stress how much I love this series!!
Before Brooks came out to Darien about his condition, I knew what he had because I follow a couple (Hetero) on YouTube called the Frey life. The symptoms that he had gave me the idea of CF. So if anyone wants a glimpse of CF check their channel.
I’m very happy how the author portrayed Brooks. She did an excellent job describing Brooks condition and Darien’s reactions. I’m a bit sadden that I finished the book but relived at the same time.
Seriously though stop whatever the fuck you’re doing and read this book. Preferably read the books in order though. I can’t stress how much I love this series!!
January 28, 2019
This story was brilliant. It hit all my emotions - sadness, fear, surprise and hope. It was a tear-jerker and reminded me of just how precious life is. It has been a while since I've read such a deep story with a profound effect. I truly enjoyed it and I am glad to have had the honour to read it. The author gave me an ARC to read and review.
Darien and Brooks meet - but do they properly understand their relationship? Can they understand until it comes down to the raw truth of human life? I will admit that I did not expect what happens to happen. It explored a very tender subject with sensitivity and skill.
I strongly recommend this book. Get yourself a copy, set aside a few days and read! Don't do anything else until you've finished it!
Darien and Brooks meet - but do they properly understand their relationship? Can they understand until it comes down to the raw truth of human life? I will admit that I did not expect what happens to happen. It explored a very tender subject with sensitivity and skill.
I strongly recommend this book. Get yourself a copy, set aside a few days and read! Don't do anything else until you've finished it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2019
This is such a heartwarming book. I honestly couldn't get enough of Darien and Brooks. Darien is the kind of guy everyone wants. He loves Brooks so much he wants to stick with him through anything.
The two already sort of know each other when Darien moves to town, but they grow closer - as friends. Brooks claims he doesn't date and has reasons for this. Darien will take whatever he can get just to be around him. As they grow closer and secrets are revealed, they have decisions to make. They can no longer be half in, it's either all or nothing. Darien wants all, but Brooks is scared that means the boy he loves will end up with nothing.
I cried so hard. It's a beautiful story and so well done.
The two already sort of know each other when Darien moves to town, but they grow closer - as friends. Brooks claims he doesn't date and has reasons for this. Darien will take whatever he can get just to be around him. As they grow closer and secrets are revealed, they have decisions to make. They can no longer be half in, it's either all or nothing. Darien wants all, but Brooks is scared that means the boy he loves will end up with nothing.
I cried so hard. It's a beautiful story and so well done.
February 1, 2019
I really liked this book! I read it in almost just one sitting. It was sweet and cute and heartbreaking and made me smile, but also made me teary-eyed on a few occasions.
The beginning might’ve been a bit dragged out but that could be a personal preference because I tend to like shorter books. Brooks and Darien were both good characters. There was a thing or two in the book that kind of bugged me, but I don’t know how to do the hide the spoiler thing, but know they weren’t major things. On overall enjoyable read.
The beginning might’ve been a bit dragged out but that could be a personal preference because I tend to like shorter books. Brooks and Darien were both good characters. There was a thing or two in the book that kind of bugged me, but I don’t know how to do the hide the spoiler thing, but know they weren’t major things. On overall enjoyable read.
February 11, 2019
When Darien finally tracks down his crush, Brooks, he’s determined to win the boy’s heart. Even though Brooks has made it clear that he “doesn’t date…”
…Because Brooks has a secret and, despite his feelings for Darien, he’s determined to keep Darien from getting too close.
Both boys learn to face their fears and trust one another as they deal with feelings, friendships and a situation that could push them apart.
In Case You Missed It is a beautiful story of young love that is at once heartwarming and heartbreaking.
…Because Brooks has a secret and, despite his feelings for Darien, he’s determined to keep Darien from getting too close.
Both boys learn to face their fears and trust one another as they deal with feelings, friendships and a situation that could push them apart.
In Case You Missed It is a beautiful story of young love that is at once heartwarming and heartbreaking.
July 20, 2019
If I had to choose one word to describe this book it would be Overwhelming.
Because it is.
The way the story involves you, the way the characters grow on you, the way they pull you into the pages, the way they make you see what they are seeing, feel what they are feeling, it makes you laugh, it makes you smile, it makes you cry, it makes your heart jump, skip a beat and stop all together, it makes you hold your breath, it makes you want to stop reading because it's almost too hard, because it's too beautiful, too sad, too real.
It's overwhelming... In one of the best ways a book can be.
Because it is.
The way the story involves you, the way the characters grow on you, the way they pull you into the pages, the way they make you see what they are seeing, feel what they are feeling, it makes you laugh, it makes you smile, it makes you cry, it makes your heart jump, skip a beat and stop all together, it makes you hold your breath, it makes you want to stop reading because it's almost too hard, because it's too beautiful, too sad, too real.
It's overwhelming... In one of the best ways a book can be.
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