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Afflicted #1
Afflicted
A high priced male escort and a blind gay man meet by chance. What ensues is a hot, steamy romance by two men looking for something more than a one night stand. But can they reach beyond their own insecurities to grasp what they really desire?
Hunter Stephens is gay, tall, dark haired, and he’s hot. Very hot. But he doesn’t rely on the visual cues when appraising a man because he’s also blind. He listens to the timbre of their voice, trembles at the touch of their skin, and luxuriates in the deep richness of the aroma of man. He’s hard of the hand because he’s a black belt and takes no shit, but soft of the heart because he’s lonely and has been for a while.
Until he meets Dillon.
Dillon Chambers is straight man candy. He’s a high priced male escort that works with an exclusive agency who handles only the wealthiest of clients. But it wasn’t always like that for him. At sixteen he was thrown out of the house for being gay and struggled to survive, turning tricks on the street and finding food and a place to sleep wherever he could. He met two people that changed his life, but he has never met anyone who could change his heart.
Until he bumped into Hunter.
And now they are both Afflicted.
Hunter Stephens is gay, tall, dark haired, and he’s hot. Very hot. But he doesn’t rely on the visual cues when appraising a man because he’s also blind. He listens to the timbre of their voice, trembles at the touch of their skin, and luxuriates in the deep richness of the aroma of man. He’s hard of the hand because he’s a black belt and takes no shit, but soft of the heart because he’s lonely and has been for a while.
Until he meets Dillon.
Dillon Chambers is straight man candy. He’s a high priced male escort that works with an exclusive agency who handles only the wealthiest of clients. But it wasn’t always like that for him. At sixteen he was thrown out of the house for being gay and struggled to survive, turning tricks on the street and finding food and a place to sleep wherever he could. He met two people that changed his life, but he has never met anyone who could change his heart.
Until he bumped into Hunter.
And now they are both Afflicted.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2012
49 people are currently reading
1481 people want to read
About the author
Brandon Shire
23 books402 followersGreat stories should not depend on gender or sexual preference of a character, but instead upon the strength of the characters and the honesty and urgency of the story.
Brandon Shire proves he understands the complexity of writing LGBT fiction from two very different viewpoints – serious and smexy. His serious fiction is written for those who enjoy a book which explores life’s darker elements in a more literary form, while the smexy fiction is for those who enjoy a graphically erotic romance.
Regardless of the differentiation above, Brandon writes for people who enjoy being challenged, and for those who strive to understand situations they don’t typically encounter. He pens raw, emotional stories about characters which readers will either love or love to hate.
Life and love are pretty damned special, but neither is always perfect. Life can be painful, and real love hard to find. Brandon’s fiction is an exploration of the (sometimes) arduous search for happiness we all desire.
10% of the proceeds from the sale of any of Brandon’s book are donated to LGBT Youth charities.
Learn more about Brandon Shire and the LGBT Youth charities he supports at BrandonShire.com
Brandon Shire proves he understands the complexity of writing LGBT fiction from two very different viewpoints – serious and smexy. His serious fiction is written for those who enjoy a book which explores life’s darker elements in a more literary form, while the smexy fiction is for those who enjoy a graphically erotic romance.
Regardless of the differentiation above, Brandon writes for people who enjoy being challenged, and for those who strive to understand situations they don’t typically encounter. He pens raw, emotional stories about characters which readers will either love or love to hate.
Life and love are pretty damned special, but neither is always perfect. Life can be painful, and real love hard to find. Brandon’s fiction is an exploration of the (sometimes) arduous search for happiness we all desire.
10% of the proceeds from the sale of any of Brandon’s book are donated to LGBT Youth charities.
Learn more about Brandon Shire and the LGBT Youth charities he supports at BrandonShire.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
November 27, 2012
UPDATE: Members of the Brandon Shire Fan Group will be doing a re-read & buddy read of Afflicted on November 26, 2012. You are welcome to join us! Afflicted II will be released on December 6, 2012!
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
Review completed September 8, 2012
Wow…what a fantastic book! Brandon sure knows how to write an enthralling and intense story. When you are reading Afflicted you can close your eyes and the words will be raining down on you, embracing you and you will be having a highly intimate and very animated visual.
5+++ shiny stars!
Afflicted was a whole new sensory experience for me. Every single touch, every kiss and every smell have a deeper meaning. It will wash over you so smoothly and you will crave for more. It's intense. It's sensual. It's edgy.
Dillon (Frank), a high-priced male escort, stumbled over Hunter on the street. They have great sex but it's not over yet. Dillon is coming back to Hunter's apartment over and over. This is not about a simple transaction, it's more personal. He can't get Hunter out of his head anymore. Hunter who is blind exudes confidence, lust and genuine affability. It's beyond Dillon why he can't stop thinking about him and he really does struggle to take the plunge into unknown waters. Because that's what it was: falling in love is uncharted territory for Dillon. For the first time in a very long time Dillon understood how deeply his father's rejection had affected his life. He is keeping people at a distance and he has issues getting emotionally involved with Hunter.
Hunter had found the deep melancholy Frank had spoken of in his description on their way back to his apartment. It was in Frank's hands. All of it, right there in the slender wrinkles of his hands. The desperate resilience; the annoyed flamboyance; his personable passivity and his phobic aggressiveness; all trapped in the clever wrinkles of his fingers, the hard, unsociable cast of his knuckles, the safe hopelessness of the pads.
Hunter's business was audio books--the small press, cult following kind of audio books. In the business he was known as 'The Ear' for his ability to match voice, character setting, and auditory scene. Hunter has a very acute sense of smell as well. From time to time he can be an over-sensitive yet insensitive d*ck, and sometimes he could react pretty aggressively too. Everyone had treated him gently his entire life, like he was a fragile butterfly. He didn't want that anymore--that attitude enraged him. Hunter wanted Dillon to f**k him like a man--he just wanted to be taken.
"Smell the loam," Lydia had said, grasping a handful under his nose. "That's the smell of death."
But Hunter found life in that aroma; he found regurgitation and the stubborn ache of an eternal spiral that left panic on those near its end. He smelled flowers bending in slow ruin, seeds hard and bold with new life, a river moving lazy through shallow greens. There was affection in that dirt; a touch of flesh meeting the crumbled hand of God. It was all the opposite of what his mother felt about everything.
Seeing, hearing and smelling these two guys together is a thing of pure beauty. The wonderful and at times incredibly lyrical prose meshes beautifully with the raw, lush, intense and edgy sex. I have to say that every sex scene was driven by lust. This was to be man sex. These scenes are exceptionally well-written and highly erotic. Further, I absolutely loved to see how their relationship evolved from pure need for sex to affection and even tenderness. No worries though, the hot sex is still there, 'cause one thing does not rule out the other.
When I was 76 % done I could read one of the most touching and best annotation what love is all about resp. what love should mean to each and every one of us. It was another spellbinding and philosophical moment of utter beauty.
What does love look like?
Yes, you can see what love looks like. There are outward visual signs of affection; that glow in someone's eyes, a specific look. But first and foremost you can feel love and by doing that you don't need your eyesight. Feel it, touch it and listen to your heart.
Oh my, what's not to love about this book? Afflicted is a beautifully crafted work of love. Need, passion, hot and erotic sex, subtle banter, thoughtful dialogue and a truly fabulous and riveting narrative left me breathless and craving for more! Read this book, I'm pretty sure you wouldn't regret it. I also recommend Afflicted to those readers who would like to give the M/M genre a try. Enjoy!
Last but not least I'd like to mention that I love the cover. This slightly blurred vision of a gorgeous man is beautiful, and I think it reflects the story nicely.
The very first time they were together, Dillon's hold was uncertain, a tentative embrace that held no absolutes, no dreams, but just now it was different; it was a grip that sat right on the edge of possession, a possession Hunter would willingly give, if asked.
I strongly advise you to read the author's note
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
************
Brandon is listening to music while writing. I quote:
In writing my latest novel, Afflicted, there was an erotic scene I was working on and a certain song I was listening to at the time I was writing it. This song set the tempo and the rhythm of the mood that I was striving for so closely that I added a link to it within the e-book, hopefully allowing readers another level of interaction with the characters. (I haven’t heard too much back on that yet, so we’ll see.)
BTW, Brandon is talking about the infamous shower scene and the song he is referring to is Ain’t No Sunshine, performed by Melody Gardot (Live in Paris). Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCRiPY...
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
Review completed September 8, 2012
Wow…what a fantastic book! Brandon sure knows how to write an enthralling and intense story. When you are reading Afflicted you can close your eyes and the words will be raining down on you, embracing you and you will be having a highly intimate and very animated visual.
5+++ shiny stars!
Afflicted was a whole new sensory experience for me. Every single touch, every kiss and every smell have a deeper meaning. It will wash over you so smoothly and you will crave for more. It's intense. It's sensual. It's edgy.
Dillon (Frank), a high-priced male escort, stumbled over Hunter on the street. They have great sex but it's not over yet. Dillon is coming back to Hunter's apartment over and over. This is not about a simple transaction, it's more personal. He can't get Hunter out of his head anymore. Hunter who is blind exudes confidence, lust and genuine affability. It's beyond Dillon why he can't stop thinking about him and he really does struggle to take the plunge into unknown waters. Because that's what it was: falling in love is uncharted territory for Dillon. For the first time in a very long time Dillon understood how deeply his father's rejection had affected his life. He is keeping people at a distance and he has issues getting emotionally involved with Hunter.
Hunter had found the deep melancholy Frank had spoken of in his description on their way back to his apartment. It was in Frank's hands. All of it, right there in the slender wrinkles of his hands. The desperate resilience; the annoyed flamboyance; his personable passivity and his phobic aggressiveness; all trapped in the clever wrinkles of his fingers, the hard, unsociable cast of his knuckles, the safe hopelessness of the pads.
Hunter's business was audio books--the small press, cult following kind of audio books. In the business he was known as 'The Ear' for his ability to match voice, character setting, and auditory scene. Hunter has a very acute sense of smell as well. From time to time he can be an over-sensitive yet insensitive d*ck, and sometimes he could react pretty aggressively too. Everyone had treated him gently his entire life, like he was a fragile butterfly. He didn't want that anymore--that attitude enraged him. Hunter wanted Dillon to f**k him like a man--he just wanted to be taken.
"Smell the loam," Lydia had said, grasping a handful under his nose. "That's the smell of death."
But Hunter found life in that aroma; he found regurgitation and the stubborn ache of an eternal spiral that left panic on those near its end. He smelled flowers bending in slow ruin, seeds hard and bold with new life, a river moving lazy through shallow greens. There was affection in that dirt; a touch of flesh meeting the crumbled hand of God. It was all the opposite of what his mother felt about everything.
Seeing, hearing and smelling these two guys together is a thing of pure beauty. The wonderful and at times incredibly lyrical prose meshes beautifully with the raw, lush, intense and edgy sex. I have to say that every sex scene was driven by lust. This was to be man sex. These scenes are exceptionally well-written and highly erotic. Further, I absolutely loved to see how their relationship evolved from pure need for sex to affection and even tenderness. No worries though, the hot sex is still there, 'cause one thing does not rule out the other.
When I was 76 % done I could read one of the most touching and best annotation what love is all about resp. what love should mean to each and every one of us. It was another spellbinding and philosophical moment of utter beauty.
What does love look like?
Yes, you can see what love looks like. There are outward visual signs of affection; that glow in someone's eyes, a specific look. But first and foremost you can feel love and by doing that you don't need your eyesight. Feel it, touch it and listen to your heart.
Oh my, what's not to love about this book? Afflicted is a beautifully crafted work of love. Need, passion, hot and erotic sex, subtle banter, thoughtful dialogue and a truly fabulous and riveting narrative left me breathless and craving for more! Read this book, I'm pretty sure you wouldn't regret it. I also recommend Afflicted to those readers who would like to give the M/M genre a try. Enjoy!
Last but not least I'd like to mention that I love the cover. This slightly blurred vision of a gorgeous man is beautiful, and I think it reflects the story nicely.
The very first time they were together, Dillon's hold was uncertain, a tentative embrace that held no absolutes, no dreams, but just now it was different; it was a grip that sat right on the edge of possession, a possession Hunter would willingly give, if asked.
I strongly advise you to read the author's note
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
************
Brandon is listening to music while writing. I quote:
In writing my latest novel, Afflicted, there was an erotic scene I was working on and a certain song I was listening to at the time I was writing it. This song set the tempo and the rhythm of the mood that I was striving for so closely that I added a link to it within the e-book, hopefully allowing readers another level of interaction with the characters. (I haven’t heard too much back on that yet, so we’ll see.)
BTW, Brandon is talking about the infamous shower scene and the song he is referring to is Ain’t No Sunshine, performed by Melody Gardot (Live in Paris). Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCRiPY...
August 31, 2015
*FREE right now at Amazon US 8/31/15*
4.5 amazing stars!
I hate you Brandon Shire because now I'm now going to stay up all night to read Afflicted II!!
I loved this book. The writing was so beautiful, just descriptive and flowery in the best ways. It was also so interesting reading about a gay, blind man. Talk about a unique topic. Oh and the chemistry! The chemistry was just electric and wonderful. The book was sweet and sexy and deliciously FANTASTIC! My minor issue is the rapid POV switches that left me a bit confused at times and having to re-read paragraphs.
::SIGH:: A great romance that I recommend to all my fellow m-m book lovers!
4.5 amazing stars!
I hate you Brandon Shire because now I'm now going to stay up all night to read Afflicted II!!
I loved this book. The writing was so beautiful, just descriptive and flowery in the best ways. It was also so interesting reading about a gay, blind man. Talk about a unique topic. Oh and the chemistry! The chemistry was just electric and wonderful. The book was sweet and sexy and deliciously FANTASTIC! My minor issue is the rapid POV switches that left me a bit confused at times and having to re-read paragraphs.
::SIGH:: A great romance that I recommend to all my fellow m-m book lovers!
December 13, 2012
Well, this book was a letdown. And I feel I have to clarify that the lyrical prose had nothing to do with it. If anything, it was one of the interesting aspects of the story. Also, if it makes any difference, I should also mention that the book isn't brimming with flowery similes, metaphors, analogies and collocations. There are several of them, yes, and some of them sound really strange and uncommon, but I'd say it's sprinkled, not packed with them and they're mostly found in the first 40% of the book. I guess what I want to say is, if you're avoiding this because of the language, maybe you should reconsider.
My biggest issue with Affliction was that it felt extremely unbalanced. The first half of the book was way too polished, while the second half was all over the place. The only thing I wondered about in the first half of the book was how did Dillon know Hunter was gay. How did he know Hunter would accept his proposition. Did he feel he would be safe (if he was wrong, I mean) because Hunter was blind?
Also, in the first half, the narrative felt paced, solid. The story felt like it had potential, despite having a somewhat cliché air about it. I liked the connotations of Hunter's name, I said in a comment somewhere that I felt Hunter wore his disability like an offensive weapon, not a defensive shield. His blindness carried a silent power with it. And I couldn't wait to see where the handicapped man/male escort storyline would go, who was really the afflicted one. Hunter or Dillon? Or both—maybe neither—of them?
To my disappointment, the story never took off. After Hunter and Dillon hooked up for the second time, it turned into a sappy, unoriginal romance, where Dillon quits his job as an escort because he feels he has found "the one," where Hunter dismisses the warnings of his "bestie," Margie, the stereotypical fag hag who delivers the standard line "hurt him and I'll cut your balls off" to Dillon, where any character/plot development that had started or was setup in the first half either went nowhere or stopped altogether (for instance, why include the Down syndrome boy subplot if you don't intend to do anything with it?), where the technical aspects of the writing became more and more frustrating (e.g., this book suffers from a serious case of the head-hopping), where what the author probably considered a smart plot twist fell flat and served only to feed the drama.
I won't comment on how Hunter and Dillon very intentionally avoided using protection when they had sex. Others have done it numerous times before me. I did notice it and wonder about it though.
The ending was very abrupt and it felt like the author wanted to get done with the story already. The misunderstanding was resolved, they had another round of passionate sex so the book should end, right?
Well, no. And if Mr Shire intended all along to split his story into two books he should warn the reader somehow. Maybe it would have worked a little better for me if I had known.
My biggest issue with Affliction was that it felt extremely unbalanced. The first half of the book was way too polished, while the second half was all over the place. The only thing I wondered about in the first half of the book was how did Dillon know Hunter was gay. How did he know Hunter would accept his proposition. Did he feel he would be safe (if he was wrong, I mean) because Hunter was blind?
Also, in the first half, the narrative felt paced, solid. The story felt like it had potential, despite having a somewhat cliché air about it. I liked the connotations of Hunter's name, I said in a comment somewhere that I felt Hunter wore his disability like an offensive weapon, not a defensive shield. His blindness carried a silent power with it. And I couldn't wait to see where the handicapped man/male escort storyline would go, who was really the afflicted one. Hunter or Dillon? Or both—maybe neither—of them?
To my disappointment, the story never took off. After Hunter and Dillon hooked up for the second time, it turned into a sappy, unoriginal romance, where Dillon quits his job as an escort because he feels he has found "the one," where Hunter dismisses the warnings of his "bestie," Margie, the stereotypical fag hag who delivers the standard line "hurt him and I'll cut your balls off" to Dillon, where any character/plot development that had started or was setup in the first half either went nowhere or stopped altogether (for instance, why include the Down syndrome boy subplot if you don't intend to do anything with it?), where the technical aspects of the writing became more and more frustrating (e.g., this book suffers from a serious case of the head-hopping), where what the author probably considered a smart plot twist fell flat and served only to feed the drama.
I won't comment on how Hunter and Dillon very intentionally avoided using protection when they had sex. Others have done it numerous times before me. I did notice it and wonder about it though.
The ending was very abrupt and it felt like the author wanted to get done with the story already. The misunderstanding was resolved, they had another round of passionate sex so the book should end, right?
Well, no. And if Mr Shire intended all along to split his story into two books he should warn the reader somehow. Maybe it would have worked a little better for me if I had known.
December 3, 2012
And this one begins with mine. I wished for something so special, I could surrender myself to every word.
Guess what?... like a gift my wish came true!
From the synopsis: A high priced male escort and a blind gay man meet by chance. What ensues is a hot, steamy romance by two men looking for something more than a one night stand. But can they reach beyond their own insecurities to grasp what they really desire?
You will find a story that might have been told before, not often perhaps, but most certainly not like this. For in the very first pages I discovered that this book is crafted by a true wordsmith, with a poetic lyrical talent that vividly transcends the normal experience of story telling.
Hunter is a gorgeous gay blind man, living very capably with his disability.
He is hot, muscled and ' a cock on him like a stallion' – Dillons words, not mine.
At the age of 23 and a 'societal virgin' he flees his mothers smothering over protective arms and finally immerses himself in independence. Blindness does not put Hunter in the dark, his handicap doesn't limit him, he wont allow it. 'He exudes a confidence and an innate understanding that there are many more people blinder than he' – how very true!
The way he deals with his blindness is a lesson for all of us sightlings.
This discovery is an astounding gift; how Hunter can learn a life time of traits, insecurities, strengths and weaknesses by the smell, taste and touch of a stranger, has to be the most awe inspiring thing I have ever read.
He describes Dillon from his ears to his feet in a way that uncovers the man's soul, not just his appearance.
”His arms were polite, not secure, but patient; an endemic quality of his trade, Hunter had guessed. The neck and chest were formal, diligently cut to be candy for the eye, a sweet Hunter could not taste”
Dillon, oh Dillon! *clutch my chest*
From the age of sixteen when he was forced onto the streets by a betrayal so ugly and traumatic. He leads a lonely disposable existence doing the only thing he knows... 'hustling his ass'.
Hunter gets Dillon so right when he says:
“You smell like prison.”
And that is exactly where Dillon is; a prisoner trapped in a never ending circle of shame and frozen emotions.
Like typical men, they have the great ability of non communication. They do however, manage to communicate their hopes and dreams through their bodies.
Every touch, taste and breath is a silent promise, no words just the lyrically tune of possession, courage, love and acceptance. The possible end to a lonely existence for both , if only one of them would ask it!
There is a moment so descriptively lyrical that I could hear the rhythm and beat of the
Every descriptive note from Hunter is an introspective view that shook my jaded mind to an experience of awakening; and how liberating it is to see beyond sight.
Discovering how very blind I am, even with my vision is embarrassing. To actually close my eyes and see everything through my other senses is liberating.
In darkness you can discover a light of truth that is so easily hidden by literal sight; and thus a misconception of what is, by what we physically see.
What a profound realisation! What a lesson in humility.
I learned from Hunter is that there is a vivid clarity to be found without sight.
Dillon tells a
Highly recommended! I adore this book.
Thank you Brandon Shire!
January 14, 2019
2.5 stars!
My first miss of the year! It’s sad but I just couldn’t get into it. I’m not familiar with this author writing so I’m not sure if maybe this is his style but it felt choppy.
The first chapter was confusing since the MC’s had already met and were on the way to their first hook up. As for the progress of their relationship, I felt like as I told about it was not shown at least at the beginning. That made it hard for me to feel their connection. I did like the MC’s they were both strong men who had hard pasts and overcame them. Another thing I didn’t like was the descriptions of smells I understand why the author used so much but I just wished it would have been something sexy not smelly. It definitely had the potential with the escort plot but sadly for ME it didn’t work out. ♥️
My first miss of the year! It’s sad but I just couldn’t get into it. I’m not familiar with this author writing so I’m not sure if maybe this is his style but it felt choppy.
The first chapter was confusing since the MC’s had already met and were on the way to their first hook up. As for the progress of their relationship, I felt like as I told about it was not shown at least at the beginning. That made it hard for me to feel their connection. I did like the MC’s they were both strong men who had hard pasts and overcame them. Another thing I didn’t like was the descriptions of smells I understand why the author used so much but I just wished it would have been something sexy not smelly. It definitely had the potential with the escort plot but sadly for ME it didn’t work out. ♥️
November 19, 2013
In a few words, this book was:
Amazing
Flawed but
Fantastic at the same time
Longed-for
Impressive
Captivating
Tender
Emotional
Different
I wasn't sure about this one during the first half but somehow the story captivated me...
***REVIEW TO COME***
November 6, 2016
I really don't know how to write a review for this.
I only have 2 words in my mind that would really describe this book:
RAW & REAL
First I have to say that the writing style here is superb
While reading the book, you get to experience the book, some points of it were so well described, I could actually smell, feel and see everything.
The whole world, the characters, their interaction, it's very raw. There is nothing lovey-dovey here. Their sex was raw, and kind of intense for me, Hunter descbribes how he likes the smell of sweat, street and man, and it can't get any raw than that.
The thing I loved the most was the world in the book. It isn't sugar-coated. It's very real, and I have to say I'm not used to reading stories like that. This was refreshing :)
Hunter and Dillon have a complex relationship, they both have troubled pasts (Dillon much more, I felt so bad for him
) so the ending left me with hope that they willl work everything out
considering everything, they deserve to have a big and beautiful HEA
I'm not really big on words, don't know how to write beautiful reviews, and this book deserves one, so if you're thinking of reading the book, read this one:
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
Baba you're the best :)
I only have 2 words in my mind that would really describe this book:
RAW & REAL
First I have to say that the writing style here is superb
While reading the book, you get to experience the book, some points of it were so well described, I could actually smell, feel and see everything. The whole world, the characters, their interaction, it's very raw. There is nothing lovey-dovey here. Their sex was raw, and kind of intense for me, Hunter descbribes how he likes the smell of sweat, street and man, and it can't get any raw than that.
The thing I loved the most was the world in the book. It isn't sugar-coated. It's very real, and I have to say I'm not used to reading stories like that. This was refreshing :)
Hunter and Dillon have a complex relationship, they both have troubled pasts (Dillon much more, I felt so bad for him
) so the ending left me with hope that they willl work everything out
considering everything, they deserve to have a big and beautiful HEA
I'm not really big on words, don't know how to write beautiful reviews, and this book deserves one, so if you're thinking of reading the book, read this one:
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
Baba you're the best :)
September 2, 2015
~~~
Afflicted by love’s madness all are blind. – Sextus Propertius
--I’m a lousy human. I didn’t want to read about a blind guy and a gay prostitute, but when Brandon Shire approached me and asked me to review his new book I was flattered. As a new blogger I thought, wow, someone discovered me. So, I looked into some of his other books (I glanced at his ratings on GR) and decided, “Okay, I can give this a shot.”. Since this was my first read and review of a Brandon Shire book I honestly went into it expecting very little. I didn't really care for the cover and also, no one had recommended him to me before, so what could I be missing, really?
THE WRITING
The question hung like flypaper swirling in the air, all the dead carcasses a tribute to that particular twist in life called consequences, which in this case remained unspoken.
I was blown away immediately. The writing style had a heavily descriptive tone and I was instantly walking alongside the characters, feeling the setting. There were moments where I really had to dig for understanding, because I was both; learning the author’s elocution, and because he made me reach to grasp a weighty concept.
I was just beginning to realize that this somewhat demanding writing style would require more concentration and effort than I usually give a “typical” romantic read, when the dialog began. I was delighted to find an easily readable, relatable tone that wasn’t pretentious. The characters were as comfortable to listen to as the descriptive narrative was beautiful. A very enjoyable combination.
THE CHARACTERS
Maybe he had been using the stink of independence to cover up his loneliness.
Hunter Stephens – Strong, sexy and fiercely masculine, Hunter is not what I expected in a blind main character. Independent despite his blindness, or more accurately, because of it. He is confident, coherent and extremely cognitive. Yet, he is wary. He doesn’t want empathy. He wants to be treated as a man. He wants to be “taken” as a man.
…and wondered what it would be like to wake up next to someone like him and not feel like an accessory, not feel…disposable.
Dillion – He is beautiful, surprising and secretive. Overcoming the worst in human nature, he remains hopeful and wanting. Despite his successes he finds himself in an endless loop. He wants to leave the circumference and grab at something in the middle.
THE STORY
Look at my gay blind friend, aren’t I so socially forward?
A man who has always been treated as delicate, fragile and vulnerable needs to know he’s just a man. Another man gives him his strength; unabashedly powerful sex is an intro to a deeper connection.
As I said earlier, I wasn't really into the premise, but I couldn't have been more wrong. This isn't at all about a weak, afflicted blind guy. It's about two strong men, two fighters trying to find out if they can let go. Two men taking a difficult step forward to learn whether or not they can be what each other needs.
I was simultaneously thrown into the subcultures of gay prostitution and blindness. Somehow, Shire found a way to beautify and romance me, despite myself. I was overwhelmed with butterflies. I cried. I laughed and I learned, about me.
THE SEX
…he wrapped himself around Hunter like a soft vice of hard passion.
Raw, descriptive, erotic as hell. The sex struck me as "a man's POV", which was fine with me. It was all the more gritty and in-your-face (often literally). Some of the terminology did make me a bit uncomfortable but it fits the story. Maybe I just need to get out more.
What would his feet be like trapped in boots all day? Hunter wondered. Not rank, no; a slight vinegar smell, like chips, only with a more sensual under-tongue taste.
~~~
Possibly the most surprising aspect of the book, for me, was how even at the very end, the last two pages, I was experiencing a racing heartbeat and tummy flips. That NEVER happens for me. I was ready to scream at the lack of conclusion but now realize the story continues. The story stops in a good place but, I, for one, can not wait to read more about Hunter and Dillion and more, much more, from Brandon Shire.
~~~
My thanks to Brandon Shire for providing me with a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review.
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
December 13, 2014
Buddy read with Sarah, Anna and Rachel!!! Starting tomorrow!!
af·flict
[uh-flikt]
verb
1.to distress with mental or bodily pain; trouble greatly or grievously
I know a lot of people loved this book and as sad as I'm to say this...it just didn't work for me. I felt as if the characters were very underdeveloped and not given their place in the book. The constant describing of all the senses and smells took over the actual character development. I realize some of this had to occur due to Hunter being blind so that we could understand, see and feel from his point of view. Because honestly I did enjoy the few parts in the book where Hunter and Dillon actually talked and carried on a conversation. However, those parts seemed few and far between.
Another aspect that annoyed me was that Hunter always described Dillon as someone with body odor...that really bothered me. No one wants to get it on with someone who, "smells like a prison." To further describe that comment he elaborates and says, "He smelled of feet and armpits and ball sweat...." The point was he wanted it RAW and WILD and that's fine but I draw the line at smelling like armpit!
Next....the no condoms bothered me. It may not have been an issue if the topic of AIDS hadn't come up in the book and a lot Dillon's friends had died from it. That's all I'm going to say about one.
Bottom line is the book and the characters were just a bit to over sensitive for me. I like books just a little more on the edgy side. However, for someone who likes this style of book I truly do think they would enjoy it. The writing is fabulous, so I wouldn't discourage anyone from reading the book. Quite honestly I think everyone but me enjoyed it!!! So please read it and form your own opinion!
af·flict
[uh-flikt]
verb
1.to distress with mental or bodily pain; trouble greatly or grievously
I know a lot of people loved this book and as sad as I'm to say this...it just didn't work for me. I felt as if the characters were very underdeveloped and not given their place in the book. The constant describing of all the senses and smells took over the actual character development. I realize some of this had to occur due to Hunter being blind so that we could understand, see and feel from his point of view. Because honestly I did enjoy the few parts in the book where Hunter and Dillon actually talked and carried on a conversation. However, those parts seemed few and far between.
Another aspect that annoyed me was that Hunter always described Dillon as someone with body odor...that really bothered me. No one wants to get it on with someone who, "smells like a prison." To further describe that comment he elaborates and says, "He smelled of feet and armpits and ball sweat...." The point was he wanted it RAW and WILD and that's fine but I draw the line at smelling like armpit!
Next....the no condoms bothered me. It may not have been an issue if the topic of AIDS hadn't come up in the book and a lot Dillon's friends had died from it. That's all I'm going to say about one.
Bottom line is the book and the characters were just a bit to over sensitive for me. I like books just a little more on the edgy side. However, for someone who likes this style of book I truly do think they would enjoy it. The writing is fabulous, so I wouldn't discourage anyone from reading the book. Quite honestly I think everyone but me enjoyed it!!! So please read it and form your own opinion!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2016
This was my second read and I honestly don't remember the first. I gave it 5 stars so I thought it was worth a second shot since I haven't read the sequel. It ended on a very chiffhanger-y note so I'm surprised I gave it 5 stars. But it's a fantastic story and is so full of passion that I can't bring myself to take a star away.
I'm super excited for the sequel and am starting it right away.
Highly recommended.
I'm super excited for the sequel and am starting it right away.
Highly recommended.
November 29, 2012
”REREAD WEEK” (Nov 26, 2012)
When I first read this book, it was still fairly new and there was just a handful of us swooning over it. Love that it’s built a following. It’s lovely. It’s an experience unlike I’ve had with other books…calling on other senses to get inside the heads and hearts of our MC’s. I’m reminded how Brandon Shire uses heightened descriptors with smell, touch, sound to tell the story. Shocking when I first read it, but really, really impressive (and sometimes funny…) during the reread.
After the reread, I definitely felt like the book is just an intro (and actually book 2 is released on Dec 6!). We got to know just enough about each of the characters, but their relationship is still so new (I think the whole book spans only 1-2 weeks of them knowing and falling for each other). Excited to read more!
New observation: I have no idea, really, what either of these MC’s looks like. Shire definitely makes it clear that they’re both gorgeous. But, I didn’t get any “typical” description of height, hair color, eye color, etc. I wonder if it was intentional since one of the MC’s is blind. But, it got me curious. And, it left me feeling a tiny bit disconnected to them since I couldn’t picture them clearly in my head.
Original Rating: 4.5 stars
Reread Rating: 4 stars
**********************
ORIGINAL REVIEW
4.5 stars...
Kudos to you, Brandon Shire. This book was lovely and the way it was written felt LYRICAL.
I really enjoyed the angle of Hunter as a blind lead. The way things were described down to the tiniest detail permeated from the pages. Things we take for granted as "sightlings", had to be written from such a different perspective (smell, touch, sound) that it I almost wished I could have read this book with my eyes closed!
At first, it took some getting used to how VERY descriptive passages were: "...the menagerie of odors that came with the entrance of each group...Vicks VapoRub, deodorized tampons, car grease, Kool Aid, grape chewing gum, sweat, leater, hair grease, more sweat, oranges, the curdle of sour breast milk, urine, Icy Hot, and a whole other host of industrialized miasma he couldn't even name..." (I mean, c'mon...yuck!).
BUT, it is amazing how once you get used to it, those very details are what placed you smack dab into the middle of Hunter's POV. Suddenly, lines like: "He smelled of feet and armpits and ball sweat and Hunter wanted to taste every single one of those flavors." came across as ROMANTIC! (I wouldn't believe me either...until I read it!)
Dillon's and Hunter's relationship was beautiful and I loved getting to know the trauma and hardships of their pasts and seeing how it manifested into the insecurities for their present and future with each other. Very touching...
I'm dying to read the sequel...
Highly recommended!
December 2, 2016
***3 Stars***
These reviews are the hardest to write. The book was enjoyable, but nothing really wowed me.
I think this is the first book I've read with a blind MC...and I gotta say, I really liked Hunter. He was abrasive and a bit of an asshole, he didn't want anyone's pity, which of course appealed to me.
The book starts a little awkwardly, right in the middle of a scene, so you miss Dillon and Hunter's introduction...and things quickly took off after that.
I think my biggest stumbling block with this book is the writing. Neither character had their own voice, and the writing would drift from prose-y (I'm making that a word) to blunt and in your face. From melodic feelings to filthy dirty sex. It felt uneven and kept me off balance while reading.
Within pages you could go from:
Inside, all he could think about was the sound and the smell and the blood of Dillon. The feel of his arms, the breadth of his chest, how he nibbled as he wrapped himself around Hunter was like a soft vice of hard passion. He was a mallet banging on things well beyond, and deep inside, that place where the darkness of Hunter's missing vision could not go.
Huh? Too much. My eyes began to glaze over half way through that.
But then the author would get down and dirty and filthy and just...
He could smell the cigarettes in Dillon's hair and suddenly he wanted to ride Dillon's cock while he smoked one. He wanted to drag Dillon back to the couch naked as hell, straddle him, and lick Dillon's chest while Dillon smoked one of those filthy cigarettes in his house and rammed that big circumcised cock up his ass.
And just like that I was back in the game! Because let me tell you, the sex here...niiiiiiiiiiiiiice (although I'm not so sure I'm on board with Hunter's smell fetish. Is that a thing?)
When I picked this book up, I didn't realize this was a duet, so I'm interested in seeing where the author is going to take Dillon and Hunter in the conclusion of their story. Things ended here in a really great place, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the next book isn't some manufactured drama.
September 11, 2012
A brilliant book by an amazing writer. I am completely blown away right now. Wow, just, wow!!!
September 30, 2014
5 Huge Stars - There are a lot of smells, sounds, feelings - an amazing novel.
Some books are so much more than a good book. They are magical books. The author has written a beautiful text, the words flowing, the environments are so well described and it's smells, sounds, feels and maybe it is some obscure characters - but it is sooo good. When you start reading the book, you have no idea what you will be invited to and after having finished reading, you are still in the book's warm feeling for long. For me, this was such a book. I got so much more than a romance that is about "guys who love guys" - I got a very good and well-written contemporary novel.
Hunter - a tall, dark, gay southern gentleman - is rather lonely and he is born blind. Hunter has a great need to live an independent life that is not hindered by his disability. With a disability, there are always others who want to help too much. As an adult, Hunter therefore partially broken with the overprotective mother and he now lives alone in the larger city. He also has a small, but successful, business with production of "narrow" audiobooks and his best friend and colleague is a kind of bitter and touchy woman named Margie. I just loved that lady.
One day (the first page), Hunter picks up a man in the street, an male escort who gives him an offer. The steamy attraction is direct and they have a hot encounter.
Dillon, the male escort, returning to Hunter with the money a few days later. This isn't "paid sex" for Dillon, but something else entirely. We may then follow the two men and their tiny little anxious step towards hot encounters, a growing friendship and great...
Both men have their own baggage with anxiety, obnoxious family relationships, some homophobia and particularly large inner loneliness and need of another man's soft hands, touch and confirmation.
It's all lovely and beautifully described - I feel WITH these two guys. Hunter is so strong, so funny and above all incredible in his way to enjoy every scent, every sound and every little part of Dillon's body. Dillon is damaged in the soul, have met so many men (for payment) and find it difficult to believe that anyone could love him. Both are young, beautiful, with big hearts but so afraid to believe in true happiness and togetherness.
This, quite short, novel is a lovely little gem. The author has done an excellent job and I will of course read the next book about these two wonderful guys. If you wish, a beautiful text, nicely described environments, well-described side characters, a lot of emotions, a little laughter and a romantic (very hot) story, I am sure you will love this one.
There is sweat, darkness, fear, tears, smells, sounds, longing, need, touch, sex - all so beautifully described. Another great M/M novel. I love it all. Great work Mr Shire.
I Like - ... and love!
~~~~~~~~~~~
The story varies between the two men's POV. We get a HEA but I obviously want to know more about Hunter and Dillon and their story forward. The following book is: Afflicted II and my review
Some books are so much more than a good book. They are magical books. The author has written a beautiful text, the words flowing, the environments are so well described and it's smells, sounds, feels and maybe it is some obscure characters - but it is sooo good. When you start reading the book, you have no idea what you will be invited to and after having finished reading, you are still in the book's warm feeling for long. For me, this was such a book. I got so much more than a romance that is about "guys who love guys" - I got a very good and well-written contemporary novel.
Hunter - a tall, dark, gay southern gentleman - is rather lonely and he is born blind. Hunter has a great need to live an independent life that is not hindered by his disability. With a disability, there are always others who want to help too much. As an adult, Hunter therefore partially broken with the overprotective mother and he now lives alone in the larger city. He also has a small, but successful, business with production of "narrow" audiobooks and his best friend and colleague is a kind of bitter and touchy woman named Margie. I just loved that lady.
“Why do we have to meet everyone in this shit hole?” Margie asked once again.
Hunter found his chair and sat. “Don’t bullshit me, Margie, the place is growing on you.” He smiled. “I can tell.”
“That doesn’t answer my question,” she said.
“It keeps people from getting their expectations up,” Hunter answered.
“There isn’t any place from here but up,” she complained.
“Exactly.”
One day (the first page), Hunter picks up a man in the street, an male escort who gives him an offer. The steamy attraction is direct and they have a hot encounter.
Dillon, the male escort, returning to Hunter with the money a few days later. This isn't "paid sex" for Dillon, but something else entirely. We may then follow the two men and their tiny little anxious step towards hot encounters, a growing friendship and great...
Both men have their own baggage with anxiety, obnoxious family relationships, some homophobia and particularly large inner loneliness and need of another man's soft hands, touch and confirmation.
It's all lovely and beautifully described - I feel WITH these two guys. Hunter is so strong, so funny and above all incredible in his way to enjoy every scent, every sound and every little part of Dillon's body. Dillon is damaged in the soul, have met so many men (for payment) and find it difficult to believe that anyone could love him. Both are young, beautiful, with big hearts but so afraid to believe in true happiness and togetherness.
‘He smelled manly, muscular, and fucking hot. Hunter wanted him right in the doorway.’
This, quite short, novel is a lovely little gem. The author has done an excellent job and I will of course read the next book about these two wonderful guys. If you wish, a beautiful text, nicely described environments, well-described side characters, a lot of emotions, a little laughter and a romantic (very hot) story, I am sure you will love this one.
‘Hunter turned and kissed Dillon deeply before he rinsed off. He had never wished for his sight before, but he would have given anything at that moment to be able to turn and witness the beauty of the man that had just made love to him. He'd literally felt the change in Dillon's grip as he made love.’
There is sweat, darkness, fear, tears, smells, sounds, longing, need, touch, sex - all so beautifully described. Another great M/M novel. I love it all. Great work Mr Shire.
I Like - ... and love!
~~~~~~~~~~~
The story varies between the two men's POV. We get a HEA but I obviously want to know more about Hunter and Dillon and their story forward. The following book is: Afflicted II and my review
January 21, 2013
A book written from the POVs of a blind man and a prostitute as they fall in love? Yes, I’m there! I wanted to enjoy this book more than I actually did though.
There were moments of pure reader bliss, some very hot sex scenes, genunine humor, and beautifully poetic details, especially near the beginning. In particluar I loved these:
- "What do you see?" "A deep green melancholy."
- He had a bruise on his hip that was large and fresh enough that Hunter could feel the still heat of it.
- The neck and chest were formal, diligently cut to be candy for the eye, a sweet Hunter could not taste.
- Through his own fault he had somehow unofficially become the vetter of lost key vocalists.
-Inside, all he could think about was the sound and the smell and the blood of Dillon; the feel of his arms, the breadth of his chest, how he nibbled as he wrapped himself around Hunter like a soft vice of hard passion. He was like a mallet banging on things well beyond and deep inside that place where the simple darkness of Hunter's missing vision could not go.
There were also passages where I cringed due to TMI, the story felt rushed, the connection between the MCs wasn’t developed enough, and certain characters and actions strained credibility. By TMI I mean I don't need to know Also, there was too much telling in some of the flashbacks, the Roland one in particular.
I’m interested enough to read the second book, partly to find out what happens to the characters and partly to try another book by this author. I’m not convinced I like or dislike the writing overall, mainly because this book felt underdeveloped to me.
There were moments of pure reader bliss, some very hot sex scenes, genunine humor, and beautifully poetic details, especially near the beginning. In particluar I loved these:
- "What do you see?" "A deep green melancholy."
- He had a bruise on his hip that was large and fresh enough that Hunter could feel the still heat of it.
- The neck and chest were formal, diligently cut to be candy for the eye, a sweet Hunter could not taste.
- Through his own fault he had somehow unofficially become the vetter of lost key vocalists.
-Inside, all he could think about was the sound and the smell and the blood of Dillon; the feel of his arms, the breadth of his chest, how he nibbled as he wrapped himself around Hunter like a soft vice of hard passion. He was like a mallet banging on things well beyond and deep inside that place where the simple darkness of Hunter's missing vision could not go.
There were also passages where I cringed due to TMI, the story felt rushed, the connection between the MCs wasn’t developed enough, and certain characters and actions strained credibility. By TMI I mean I don't need to know Also, there was too much telling in some of the flashbacks, the Roland one in particular.
I’m interested enough to read the second book, partly to find out what happens to the characters and partly to try another book by this author. I’m not convinced I like or dislike the writing overall, mainly because this book felt underdeveloped to me.
September 24, 2015
Fan-freaking-tasting book. Why did I wait so long????
March 9, 2013
3.5 stars
Who is the afflicted, the male prostitute or the blind john?
Mr. Shire can write some lovely characters and a has a lovely way of portraying them in their world...some of the time. Such luscious, sensual, musical phrasing throughout but too often diluted with too much explaining and rumination.
Hunter is a revelation: he is a blind man walking the city streets at night when he encounters a male prostitute and invites him home. He does not know the meaning of danger or maybe, he courts it. Hunter is one sensual dude, his inner vision dictates the darker, muskier treats and sensations he seeks out. His disability informs the writing it seems. Here is how a blind man might view life and experiences when fully dependent on smell, taste, and hearing. Yes, he did hire a prostitute for the story’s initial night of pleasure and next day, alone in his shower, wallows in a daydream fantasy of future trysts:
”...maybe they could get some claustrophobic little room somewhere where they could revel in the shabby garbage scent like feral cats rutting in an alley. Frank/Dillon wasn’t cats in an alley... he was a big cat on the African plain; hard, muscular, grunting...a lion in heat.”
I love Hunter. I love his hard-shell, rabid independence. Dillon, on the other hand... While his story sits a little too close to the ‘hooker with a heart of gold’ trope (which means I don’t want to like him) and he seems too good to be true, his sensitivity and pure romanticism with Hunter is a delight . He’s what Hunter deserves if they can just see through all the murk. And the sexual connection is over the top, so decadently wonderful.
Some of the writing was so delicious I wanted to eat it....here’s Hunter’s sightless initial interpretation of Dillon:
“His arms were polite, not secure, but patient; an endemic quality of his trade, Hunter had guessed. The neck and chest were formal, diligently cut to be candy for the eye, a sweet Hunter could not taste.”
“He had a bruise on his hip that was large and fresh enough that Hunter could feel the still heat of it. His nipples were sensitive and extroverted like his belly button, a gregarious, fun-loving bit of flesh whose purpose on Frank/Dillon seemed wholly deceitful. His legs seemed disbelieving of the entire charade and his feet were down-right pissed off, heckling at Hunter’s hands as they passed.”
“The ears were energetic and elliptical, resonating with some harsh judgment of youth that had warped them from their previously gullible stature.”
Lovely stuff but at about a third of the way in things get frustrating. I felt like the storytelling was letting me down. There’d be sections of sweet dialogue (all nuanced according to the character) and then swaths of ‘explaining’ which seemed to happen more frequently as the story progressed, or it just ‘added up’, piling up until I wanted to tear my hair out with wanting to get back to the loveliness. This is writing getting in its own way! The artistry is when a writer knows just how much to reveal and how much to let the reader discover on our own or guess at.
I loved how ‘Afflicted’ started, sank right into it. It was a bumpy ride, but what a delight to find a distinctive, new voice. It seems the potential here is great. I would definitely like to read more of this author’s work and hope that it continues to grow. An aside: the ending does not wrap things up, you have to visit book two.
November 30, 2012
So I'm finished with Afflicted
...........................
YOU'VE... GOT... TO BE FUCKING KIDDING ME!!!!
..................................................................................*Drops tablet, gets up from bed, walk down stairs, turn on the computer, logs into GR*........................................................................................................................................ *Picks jaw up off the floor* Brandon how could you do this to me? Did you really just end the book like that??
I don't know whether to be upset or ecstatic...So I'm going to go with... yeah... that>>>
I'm siting in bed reading and thinking,"Oh yeah Dillon's confessing, Hunter's being sweet and passionate, and rough. Ooo shit...that's what I'm talking about." Then I see two words, that's caused me to type my response instead of sleeping...THE END... Did this bitch just say THE END?
THE.MUTHA.FUCKING.END
The book just ended...just *POOF* nothing left...it's just gone. No more hookin', no more lovin', no more nothin', just...
If you could see the look in my face...
Soooo, is it Dec 6th yet?
*EDITED*
Now that I have gotten some sleep and have gotten over the initial shock of the abrupt ending, I have to say I enjoyed it. The book had me laughing, blushing, and wishing I was Dillon for on split second.
As many review have come before mine, I'm not going to do the whole summary thing. If you're looking for that check out one of my friend's review. I'm going to share what made the good, the bad, and the eh for moi. With that being said, read at your own risk... :P
The Good
~My favorite character in this part of the story is Margie. I know a lot of people might not like her, but I think she's exactly the type of friend Hunter needs. She's not afraid to bust his balls for spare of the moments mistake (Even if it does lead him to Dillon).
~I liked how it started off as a semi-normal relationship. They didn't see each other everyday and then fell in love; It took weeks for Dillon and Hunter to get out of bed and actually date. I think that it's important to see actual relationship progression in a story, instead of wham, bam, thank sir.
The Bad
~For me I think that they fell in love a little to quick. I know that you can't help how you feel, but it felt a little to rushed for me. They are both in a place in their lives, that with having someone there to love on seems like the perfect idea. They didn't fight. Dillon's "job" wasn't an issue until the end. They pretty much just said 'fuck the bullshit let's be together'. Maybe I'm to woman to see from a male POV, but I needed a little more jealousy (?), a little more fight for what you want type stuff. *Shrugs* Who knows?
The Eh
~The fucking ending... My views on this part: see above. I know that was done intentionally to build a fan base and to get ready for the next book, but damn! It's was like having sex and before the biggest orgasm of your life, the other person stops. For all of two minutes you kind want to pull an exorcist.
Things that I would like to see/have seen/can't wait to see
*Dillon with a client, not so much of bumping uglies, but to see him out with his client and thinking that this was the last one for him. That moment of realization that Hunter was the only one for him.
*Hunter to let him balls drop and stop pussy footing around. Dillon's your for the taking; take that shit!
*Margie finding someone of her own and Hunter giving him the third degree.
*The look on Thomas' face when he hears Dillon's voice. I would love to be the fly on the wall when that happens.
All in all I really enjoyed the book. I can't wait next week! Well done Mr. Shire, well done.
...........................YOU'VE... GOT... TO BE FUCKING KIDDING ME!!!!
..................................................................................*Drops tablet, gets up from bed, walk down stairs, turn on the computer, logs into GR*........................................................................................................................................ *Picks jaw up off the floor* Brandon how could you do this to me? Did you really just end the book like that??
I don't know whether to be upset or ecstatic...So I'm going to go with... yeah... that>>>
I'm siting in bed reading and thinking,"Oh yeah Dillon's confessing, Hunter's being sweet and passionate, and rough. Ooo shit...that's what I'm talking about." Then I see two words, that's caused me to type my response instead of sleeping...THE END... Did this bitch just say THE END?
THE.MUTHA.FUCKING.END
The book just ended...just *POOF* nothing left...it's just gone. No more hookin', no more lovin', no more nothin', just...
If you could see the look in my face...
Soooo, is it Dec 6th yet?
*EDITED*
Now that I have gotten some sleep and have gotten over the initial shock of the abrupt ending, I have to say I enjoyed it. The book had me laughing, blushing, and wishing I was Dillon for on split second.
As many review have come before mine, I'm not going to do the whole summary thing. If you're looking for that check out one of my friend's review. I'm going to share what made the good, the bad, and the eh for moi. With that being said, read at your own risk... :P
The Good
~My favorite character in this part of the story is Margie. I know a lot of people might not like her, but I think she's exactly the type of friend Hunter needs. She's not afraid to bust his balls for spare of the moments mistake (Even if it does lead him to Dillon).
~I liked how it started off as a semi-normal relationship. They didn't see each other everyday and then fell in love; It took weeks for Dillon and Hunter to get out of bed and actually date. I think that it's important to see actual relationship progression in a story, instead of wham, bam, thank sir.
The Bad
~For me I think that they fell in love a little to quick. I know that you can't help how you feel, but it felt a little to rushed for me. They are both in a place in their lives, that with having someone there to love on seems like the perfect idea. They didn't fight. Dillon's "job" wasn't an issue until the end. They pretty much just said 'fuck the bullshit let's be together'. Maybe I'm to woman to see from a male POV, but I needed a little more jealousy (?), a little more fight for what you want type stuff. *Shrugs* Who knows?
The Eh
~The fucking ending... My views on this part: see above. I know that was done intentionally to build a fan base and to get ready for the next book, but damn! It's was like having sex and before the biggest orgasm of your life, the other person stops. For all of two minutes you kind want to pull an exorcist.
Things that I would like to see/have seen/can't wait to see
*Dillon with a client, not so much of bumping uglies, but to see him out with his client and thinking that this was the last one for him. That moment of realization that Hunter was the only one for him.
*Hunter to let him balls drop and stop pussy footing around. Dillon's your for the taking; take that shit!
*Margie finding someone of her own and Hunter giving him the third degree.
*The look on Thomas' face when he hears Dillon's voice. I would love to be the fly on the wall when that happens.
All in all I really enjoyed the book. I can't wait next week! Well done Mr. Shire, well done.
September 12, 2012
OK, so I'm going to start off with the positives:
-There were hot men having sex.
-I have an affinity for characters with a disability.
Well, now that thats summed up, here are the things I could have done without or thought could have been better.
Overall, I thought the story had alot of potential but just fell a little (ok...alot) flat for me.
-There were hot men having sex.
-I have an affinity for characters with a disability.
Well, now that thats summed up, here are the things I could have done without or thought could have been better.
Overall, I thought the story had alot of potential but just fell a little (ok...alot) flat for me.
November 28, 2016
****************4.5***************
YOU FILL UP MY SENSES
That's the opening verse of one of my favorite songs and it played over and over in my head as I read about Hunter and Dillon.
I loved Hunter. I was fascinated with the descriptive way he felt everything through his senses. I felt as if I was feeling everything with him. At one particular part I found myself crying with him, even before I read that he was crying...if that makes any sense.
Although he was blind his whole life he lived his life his way through strength and determination, I loved that.
I loved Dillon, his backstory broke my heart. Ive read other books about rent boys, escorts etc. but this one got to me. The way they met and the way he knew how to interact with Hunter made the hopeless romantic part of my heart that believes in fate very happy.
Now the sex, Smoking HOT. This was hot raw gritty man sex and I loved every bit of it. This book has one of my favorite sex scenes in it, talk about sensory overload. As the sex changed from only physical to more emotional, I felt it along with them.
The other characters in the book were really great also, I loved Margie, Roland, and Garret n his son Toby, (oh how I loved Toby).
Im hoping to know them all better in book 2.
This would have absolutely been a more tha five star read for me except for .... im sure it was there for a reason, but still ;/
I love books that make me "feel" and this one absolutely did.
Thank you Brandon
YOU FILL UP MY SENSES
That's the opening verse of one of my favorite songs and it played over and over in my head as I read about Hunter and Dillon.
I loved Hunter. I was fascinated with the descriptive way he felt everything through his senses. I felt as if I was feeling everything with him. At one particular part I found myself crying with him, even before I read that he was crying...if that makes any sense.
Although he was blind his whole life he lived his life his way through strength and determination, I loved that.
I loved Dillon, his backstory broke my heart. Ive read other books about rent boys, escorts etc. but this one got to me. The way they met and the way he knew how to interact with Hunter made the hopeless romantic part of my heart that believes in fate very happy.
Now the sex, Smoking HOT. This was hot raw gritty man sex and I loved every bit of it. This book has one of my favorite sex scenes in it, talk about sensory overload. As the sex changed from only physical to more emotional, I felt it along with them.
The other characters in the book were really great also, I loved Margie, Roland, and Garret n his son Toby, (oh how I loved Toby).
Im hoping to know them all better in book 2.
This would have absolutely been a more tha five star read for me except for .... im sure it was there for a reason, but still ;/
I love books that make me "feel" and this one absolutely did.
Thank you Brandon
June 4, 2016
5 star. Unputdownable m/m romance read at one sitting. Beautifully written story, the best rendering of a blind character that I have come across. Straight on to book two..
Two gorgeous lonely men: 30 year old Hunter, blind from birth, is picked up by 26 year old escort Frank (real-name Dillon). They begin to develop an intense relationship based on mind-blowing sex (of course).
'There was no denying that Frank thrilled him; the sex with Frank thrilled him; the fact that Frank was a prostitute and beautiful thrilled him. Frank was like the last sarcastic tingle of a lethal dose of arsenic and Hunter wanted every dark and erotic swallow, despite the risk. Maybe in spite of it.'
Two gorgeous lonely men: 30 year old Hunter, blind from birth, is picked up by 26 year old escort Frank (real-name Dillon). They begin to develop an intense relationship based on mind-blowing sex (of course).
'There was no denying that Frank thrilled him; the sex with Frank thrilled him; the fact that Frank was a prostitute and beautiful thrilled him. Frank was like the last sarcastic tingle of a lethal dose of arsenic and Hunter wanted every dark and erotic swallow, despite the risk. Maybe in spite of it.'
November 28, 2012
November 26-28: My thoughts after a reread with the Goodreads Brandon Shire Fan Group
4.5 stars
This was a surprisingly good book to read. Why? Well, I just had the synopsis to go by and I was convinced that a relationship between a blind man and a male escort just was not viable. I know, shame on me! However, I very humbly admit that the author brought these two characters together seamlessly and their journey was a joy to read. You get to know the characters inside out and you just have to root for them to make it work.
Both characters had issues to deal with that interfered with finding love, but they were great characters to get to know. Hunter, so strong and determined, revealed a very vulnerable side filled with loneliness and a need to love and be loved. And Dillon, sweet, sweet Dillon, he had a rough past, a very interesting present and a loneliness so great that you could only feel for him. I very much enjoyed how these two got together.
I have to congratulate the author for such beautiful writing. Every emotion - lust, loneliness, anger, insecurity- was so magnificently written that I felt each and every one of them. Especially Hunter's. The author managed to describe these in a way that really let me relate to him. The sex scenes described from Hunter's point of view were splendid. At first, I had to really pay attention since it was so very different from what you read everyday with a sighted MC. Not only for theses scenes, but for every single detail. Page after page filled with feelings, smells, tastes and sounds. The dialog was superb, both entertaining and captivating. It all made for a great read.
So you might be wondering, "Why the .5 deduction?" Well, I feel that the ending came abruptly. I could not believe that it finished so unexpectedly. I remember looking at my location in my Kindle and thinking to myself that it was a mistake. In my opinion, they were in the middle of one of the most defining moments of their relationship and I thought they would start sharing more about each other which in turn would take their relationship to the next level. They did that up to a point, but not to my satisfaction. But that's just me, I tend to take my fictional characters too seriously, so it was a minor details in an otherwise marvelous book.
I am looking forward to next book since I am very interested in knowing how Hunter and Dillon continue together. Well played, Brandon Shire! You had me hooked from the start, now I have to wait and see where you take us next.
4.5 stars
This was a surprisingly good book to read. Why? Well, I just had the synopsis to go by and I was convinced that a relationship between a blind man and a male escort just was not viable. I know, shame on me! However, I very humbly admit that the author brought these two characters together seamlessly and their journey was a joy to read. You get to know the characters inside out and you just have to root for them to make it work.
Both characters had issues to deal with that interfered with finding love, but they were great characters to get to know. Hunter, so strong and determined, revealed a very vulnerable side filled with loneliness and a need to love and be loved. And Dillon, sweet, sweet Dillon, he had a rough past, a very interesting present and a loneliness so great that you could only feel for him. I very much enjoyed how these two got together.
I have to congratulate the author for such beautiful writing. Every emotion - lust, loneliness, anger, insecurity- was so magnificently written that I felt each and every one of them. Especially Hunter's. The author managed to describe these in a way that really let me relate to him. The sex scenes described from Hunter's point of view were splendid. At first, I had to really pay attention since it was so very different from what you read everyday with a sighted MC. Not only for theses scenes, but for every single detail. Page after page filled with feelings, smells, tastes and sounds. The dialog was superb, both entertaining and captivating. It all made for a great read.
So you might be wondering, "Why the .5 deduction?" Well, I feel that the ending came abruptly. I could not believe that it finished so unexpectedly. I remember looking at my location in my Kindle and thinking to myself that it was a mistake. In my opinion, they were in the middle of one of the most defining moments of their relationship and I thought they would start sharing more about each other which in turn would take their relationship to the next level. They did that up to a point, but not to my satisfaction. But that's just me, I tend to take my fictional characters too seriously, so it was a minor details in an otherwise marvelous book.
I am looking forward to next book since I am very interested in knowing how Hunter and Dillon continue together. Well played, Brandon Shire! You had me hooked from the start, now I have to wait and see where you take us next.
March 7, 2013
3,5 stars
This book drove me nuts : I read it at an irregular rhythm oscillating between 3 and 4 stars, with rare falls to 2 and a few rushes at 5. I finally came up with a mathematical average of 3,5 stars. It is the most honest I could do to rate it.
The first merit of this book is to build a sensually completely different world and I felt overwhelmed by familiar but enhanced sensations to a point I never lingered to think of.
It was sometimes unpleasant, sometimes erotic, often surprising. Another reality.
Hunter is my reader self’s best friend. He is reputed for his “ability to match voice, character setting, and auditory scene” (…)“he wanted to build smiles one minute and a blister of desolation in the next”.
I think that it is Brandon Shire’s strong point : I love how he gives a unique, audibly different voice to each of his characters and how the dialogues settle those voices in interactions that made me smile and laugh and could reveal a world of pain in a heartbeat.
I like the stories they tell. I like how they tell Hunter, who happens to be blind, Dillon to whom a lot of shit happened, their falling in lust and in love, their insecurities.
And then, there is my problem.:)
Brandon Shire can write, it’s a given. But the narrative often left me slightly disconnected with the flow of the story, frustrated and feeling like I had lost my best friend, the one who is interested in ”concise and penetrating”.
It lingered too long in descriptions or explanations of feelings and inner conflicts that I would have liked to discover and feel by myself or had already guessed or hit me later in one single efficient thoughtful paragraph. It also gave sometimes too much information and beautiful, evocative, self sufficient sentences were drowned.
Don’t misunderstand me. I liked this book (I obviously got involved), I’m interested in what the author has to tell. It’s just that a whisper of very few words, or a single powerful punch work better for me.
Now, go for it and see by yourself. Me, I’m waiting for the sequel.
This book drove me nuts : I read it at an irregular rhythm oscillating between 3 and 4 stars, with rare falls to 2 and a few rushes at 5. I finally came up with a mathematical average of 3,5 stars. It is the most honest I could do to rate it.
The first merit of this book is to build a sensually completely different world and I felt overwhelmed by familiar but enhanced sensations to a point I never lingered to think of.
It was sometimes unpleasant, sometimes erotic, often surprising. Another reality.
Hunter is my reader self’s best friend. He is reputed for his “ability to match voice, character setting, and auditory scene” (…)“he wanted to build smiles one minute and a blister of desolation in the next”.
I think that it is Brandon Shire’s strong point : I love how he gives a unique, audibly different voice to each of his characters and how the dialogues settle those voices in interactions that made me smile and laugh and could reveal a world of pain in a heartbeat.
I like the stories they tell. I like how they tell Hunter, who happens to be blind, Dillon to whom a lot of shit happened, their falling in lust and in love, their insecurities.
And then, there is my problem.:)
Brandon Shire can write, it’s a given. But the narrative often left me slightly disconnected with the flow of the story, frustrated and feeling like I had lost my best friend, the one who is interested in ”concise and penetrating”.
It lingered too long in descriptions or explanations of feelings and inner conflicts that I would have liked to discover and feel by myself or had already guessed or hit me later in one single efficient thoughtful paragraph. It also gave sometimes too much information and beautiful, evocative, self sufficient sentences were drowned.
Don’t misunderstand me. I liked this book (I obviously got involved), I’m interested in what the author has to tell. It’s just that a whisper of very few words, or a single powerful punch work better for me.
Now, go for it and see by yourself. Me, I’m waiting for the sequel.
September 8, 2012
3,25 stars
Unusual romance, unusual point of view - experiencing falling in lust and love through ears, nose and touch of a blind man - but I didn`t like the writing style. I found the usage of metaphors rather overwhelming.
"...tugging at the buttons on Hunter’s jeans like a cat pawing at a birdcage." Huh?
And this was just one of many.
And if I am the only reader who thinks writing in metaphors like that is NOT lyrical...then so be it.
Unusual romance, unusual point of view - experiencing falling in lust and love through ears, nose and touch of a blind man - but I didn`t like the writing style. I found the usage of metaphors rather overwhelming.
"...tugging at the buttons on Hunter’s jeans like a cat pawing at a birdcage." Huh?
And this was just one of many.
And if I am the only reader who thinks writing in metaphors like that is NOT lyrical...then so be it.
September 15, 2012
This one is hard for me to rate, it varied during the story, so it's maybe a 3.75*
I love rent boy stories, they are some of my favorites...so I really wanted to read this one, and a high paid escort and a blind man...I'm on it!
Hunter is a 30 yr old man who has managed to be successful in his profession and very independent, I wouldn't say despite his blindness but because of it. He also can be a bit defensive and insensitive, but I guess that's just part of his defense mechanism.
Dillion was thrown out by his formally very loving family at 16 and made his way on the streets for a decade.
Now is when I say the first chapter or two were hard for me to get through, the writing style is very descriptive and since it's Hunter's POV it's also a lot about smells and at least for me it wasn't easy to read and sometimes even slightly unpleasant.
But I know it was to get a feel for how Hunter experiences his world, and it got much better later on in the story.
These two men have a lot of baggage and emotional walls and I would have liked a little more of them together without the sex or at least before and after the sex, really getting to know eachother. They were both complex and I think great guys and I'm happy they found each other, they deserve some happiness.
I had a major niggles, but after their first time they don't use a condom ( or lube) .
I had a total WTF moment, he's an escort and Hunter is a random Trick he picked up, at least at first, and Hunter has to assume he is still meeting clients and yet they don't use condoms, or even give it a thought let alone mention it?!
Ripped me out of the story every time! these are smart men..but ...well I don't get it, since it wasn't explained or rationalized by the MC's.
It ends abruptly but on a hopeful HFN note, being me, I wished for a bit more resolution in this book ,I do want to know how their story continues and of course Mom and Travis are good for some more drama, I hope! lol
I love rent boy stories, they are some of my favorites...so I really wanted to read this one, and a high paid escort and a blind man...I'm on it!
Hunter is a 30 yr old man who has managed to be successful in his profession and very independent, I wouldn't say despite his blindness but because of it. He also can be a bit defensive and insensitive, but I guess that's just part of his defense mechanism.
Dillion was thrown out by his formally very loving family at 16 and made his way on the streets for a decade.
Now is when I say the first chapter or two were hard for me to get through, the writing style is very descriptive and since it's Hunter's POV it's also a lot about smells and at least for me it wasn't easy to read and sometimes even slightly unpleasant.
But I know it was to get a feel for how Hunter experiences his world, and it got much better later on in the story.
These two men have a lot of baggage and emotional walls and I would have liked a little more of them together without the sex or at least before and after the sex, really getting to know eachother. They were both complex and I think great guys and I'm happy they found each other, they deserve some happiness.
I had a major niggles, but after their first time they don't use a condom ( or lube) .
I had a total WTF moment, he's an escort and Hunter is a random Trick he picked up, at least at first, and Hunter has to assume he is still meeting clients and yet they don't use condoms, or even give it a thought let alone mention it?!
Ripped me out of the story every time! these are smart men..but ...well I don't get it, since it wasn't explained or rationalized by the MC's.
It ends abruptly but on a hopeful HFN note, being me, I wished for a bit more resolution in this book ,I do want to know how their story continues and of course Mom and Travis are good for some more drama, I hope! lol
October 1, 2012
This book has me lost for words. I can't believe how good it was. The writing was amazing, the way he described how a blind man 'see's' the world was very realistic. Frank/Dillon was a amazing character, and watching his struggle with his past nearly brought me to tears.
I don't know what to write to explain how much this book moved me, so all I can say is read this book. If you enjoy m/m romance, this book is a must read.
I don't know what to write to explain how much this book moved me, so all I can say is read this book. If you enjoy m/m romance, this book is a must read.
December 2, 2012
"Loving someone gives you courage; being loved back give you strength."
- Shu-shu
I have mixed feelings about this book.
I thought it was very well-written (more polished than many m/m romances), and I liked the story, even if the plot was somewhat formulaic, and the characters, all of whom I found very interesting. And the sex scenes were REALLY hot.
I have to admit that I liked Dillon more than Hunter, because as much as I appreciated Hunter's 'fuck you' attitude, I also found his belligerence annoying at times. Not that he doesn't have good reason to have a chip on his shoulder - I have no idea what it's like to be blind, and don't pretend to understand. I do, however, know what it's like to be judged for being overweight, so Hunter's "fatty" comments really pissed me off. I would NEVER disparage someone for being blind, but he can judge me for being overweight? Fuck you, too, buddy.
I must have a soft spot for gay prostitutes, though, because Dillon reminded me a little of Holden in Andrea Speed's Infected series. He is someone who is longing for love, a poetic soul thrust into a shitty situation, and he's clearly working through overcoming that. The scene when he talks about his father was one of the most heart-breaking in the book, in my opinion.
"Synchronicity has brought you here to this place in your life, which might be why your cousin and your love have come at the same time." - Shu-shu
As you can tell, I liked Shu-shu. Every story needs its Jiminy Cricket, and Shu-shu is it. He's not in the story much, but he still had a strong impact on me.
I was not really expecting that crazy plot twist about , so it will be interesting to see where that storyline goes in Afflicted II. I thought Shu-shu's 'synchronicity' comment was foreshadowing for what is to come with that storyline.
I did think this book was pretentious in places, especially with some of those ridiculous scent descriptions. I get that Hunter is more in tune to scent than 'sightlings,' but for fuck's sake - "You smell like prison." Really? -_- It was overly poetic language to sound all deep and shit, and it annoyed me. That's pure author masturbation.
And WTF is up with the book cover? A Ken doll in a loin cloth? (At least that's what it looks like to me.)
I also thought it was weird that they have all this great, intense sex, but we don't find out about Hunter's 'darker' predilections until almost the end of the book? That didn't make a lot of sense to me, but whatever. Maybe he needs to feel trust in someone before he lets that part of himself show, or something.
As we got towards the end of the book, the POV also started shifting between them mid-scene, whereas earlier in the book it was done by passage. I don't know if that was an intentional stylistic thing - that they are getting into each other's heads more, or if it just got sloppier, but I wasn't fond of that. I got lost a few times and had to re-read some paragraphs because of it.
But, despite these criticisms, it was a good book, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is into m/m stories. Despite a somewhat predictable plot (except for that twist I mentioned above), it is sexy and has a cast of very unique, unusual characters.
I have mixed feelings about this book.
I thought it was very well-written (more polished than many m/m romances), and I liked the story, even if the plot was somewhat formulaic, and the characters, all of whom I found very interesting. And the sex scenes were REALLY hot.
I have to admit that I liked Dillon more than Hunter, because as much as I appreciated Hunter's 'fuck you' attitude, I also found his belligerence annoying at times. Not that he doesn't have good reason to have a chip on his shoulder - I have no idea what it's like to be blind, and don't pretend to understand. I do, however, know what it's like to be judged for being overweight, so Hunter's "fatty" comments really pissed me off. I would NEVER disparage someone for being blind, but he can judge me for being overweight? Fuck you, too, buddy.
I must have a soft spot for gay prostitutes, though, because Dillon reminded me a little of Holden in Andrea Speed's Infected series. He is someone who is longing for love, a poetic soul thrust into a shitty situation, and he's clearly working through overcoming that. The scene when he talks about his father was one of the most heart-breaking in the book, in my opinion.
"Synchronicity has brought you here to this place in your life, which might be why your cousin and your love have come at the same time." - Shu-shu
As you can tell, I liked Shu-shu. Every story needs its Jiminy Cricket, and Shu-shu is it. He's not in the story much, but he still had a strong impact on me.
I was not really expecting that crazy plot twist about , so it will be interesting to see where that storyline goes in Afflicted II. I thought Shu-shu's 'synchronicity' comment was foreshadowing for what is to come with that storyline.
I did think this book was pretentious in places, especially with some of those ridiculous scent descriptions. I get that Hunter is more in tune to scent than 'sightlings,' but for fuck's sake - "You smell like prison." Really? -_- It was overly poetic language to sound all deep and shit, and it annoyed me. That's pure author masturbation.
And WTF is up with the book cover? A Ken doll in a loin cloth? (At least that's what it looks like to me.)
I also thought it was weird that they have all this great, intense sex, but we don't find out about Hunter's 'darker' predilections until almost the end of the book? That didn't make a lot of sense to me, but whatever. Maybe he needs to feel trust in someone before he lets that part of himself show, or something.
As we got towards the end of the book, the POV also started shifting between them mid-scene, whereas earlier in the book it was done by passage. I don't know if that was an intentional stylistic thing - that they are getting into each other's heads more, or if it just got sloppier, but I wasn't fond of that. I got lost a few times and had to re-read some paragraphs because of it.
But, despite these criticisms, it was a good book, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is into m/m stories. Despite a somewhat predictable plot (except for that twist I mentioned above), it is sexy and has a cast of very unique, unusual characters.
January 16, 2013
Afflicted: A chance meeting between a blind man (Hunter) and a male escort (Dillon) starts the beginning of a romance. Afflicted is the first book in its series and takes us through the early stages of a developing relationship between the two.
Ok, so this book was my first buddy read and I was really hoping to love it, I’d read so many good reviews and I was excited to start. Unfortunately though 'Afflicted' just left me feeling conflicted and to be honest I found this was a book of two halves and I just couldn’t get into it.
Okay, let me start with the bits I struggled with.
The first few chapters of this book left me feeling frustrated. We delve pretty much straight into this couples first sexual encounter yet the author skims over it and I'm left feeling cheated out of a decent sex scene.
The story then continues and yes the authors ability to paint a picture of Hunter’s “vision” with words, initially impressed me, but the writing in the first part of the book became so descriptive that at times it made me feel disconnected from the flow if the story. The author seemed to describe nearly every possible smell, sound, taste and touch, even to the point where I was reading about Hunters love of smelling Dillon's toe sweat, I mean, come on, whats so attractive about toe sweat?
Yet what i found strange was that at no point in the book does the author describe what Hunter and Dillon actually look like. As a reader I at least like to be able to visualise who I'm reading about.
Also I found some parts unbelievable, take for example the fact that Dillon is in the escort business, and yet there was not a condom in sight during the whole book. Even more unbelievable given that Dillon's close friend had watched his friends die in the AIDS epidemic. I would have thought this would make Dillon particularly sensitive to using protection and practising safer sex???
The second half of the book however pulled it back for me. In fact Chapter 5 is where the story really began.
I loved Dillon, and my heart broke when I read about his past and the struggles he had faced. I also loved the dynamic between Hunter and Dillon and when they did get together and the author gave us the details, the sexual chemistry was brilliant. In fact the sex scenes in the second part of the book were so beautifully written, very descriptive, raw and highly erotic.
So in conclusion I'd say given the many five star reviews out there for this book that I may be in a minority so I'd hate to put anyone off reading it. I suppose it just wasn't what I was expecting and therefore one of those books where I never really felt a connection with the characters.
November 14, 2016
Overall book rating: 4
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.8
Lets see.what we have here....
• High Priced Male Escort - Check
• Blind MC (Who kicks ass) - Check
• Snarky side-characters - Check
• Interesting professions on both MC’s sides – Double Check
This was like a lucky packet to me. It had a whole bunch of stuff I loved, all crammed between the covers. I naturally couldn’t’ wait to get my hands on it!
The story was really good. I wanted to have a temper tantrum about Dillon’s history and his stupid crazy stuck up family!!
You wanna burn something ass***??? Burn your connection to the world! Because we don’t want idiots like you in our circles!! For some reason I keep getting gravely upset by these narrow minded parents and their narrow minded families! WTF? How can you do this to your ONLY CHILD????
Okay, enough. I really liked how unique Hunter is in his limited abilities. I love how he deals with things and his will to make it on his own two feet. Sure he gets a little intense there sometimes but I can see his reasons. It must be really frustrating always having people treating you different (even if they mostly have good intentions)
My one, and only problem with this story? - IT”S TOO SHORT!!!!! And it progressed to fast between some of the scenes! I wanted more and I wanted detail.
And that my fellow readers, is that. The only reason it only gets 4 stars.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.8
Lets see.what we have here....
• High Priced Male Escort - Check
• Blind MC (Who kicks ass) - Check
• Snarky side-characters - Check
• Interesting professions on both MC’s sides – Double Check
This was like a lucky packet to me. It had a whole bunch of stuff I loved, all crammed between the covers. I naturally couldn’t’ wait to get my hands on it!
The story was really good. I wanted to have a temper tantrum about Dillon’s history and his stupid crazy stuck up family!!
You wanna burn something ass***??? Burn your connection to the world! Because we don’t want idiots like you in our circles!! For some reason I keep getting gravely upset by these narrow minded parents and their narrow minded families! WTF? How can you do this to your ONLY CHILD????
Okay, enough. I really liked how unique Hunter is in his limited abilities. I love how he deals with things and his will to make it on his own two feet. Sure he gets a little intense there sometimes but I can see his reasons. It must be really frustrating always having people treating you different (even if they mostly have good intentions)
My one, and only problem with this story? - IT”S TOO SHORT!!!!! And it progressed to fast between some of the scenes! I wanted more and I wanted detail.
And that my fellow readers, is that. The only reason it only gets 4 stars.
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