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Make Me Whole
After a grueling battle in ancient Greece, lovers Dexios and Lykon committed their lives to each other in the name of Goddess Cythera. After the war, fearing the strength of his love for Dexios, Lykon abandoned his vow and returned home. Heartbroken, Dexios called on Cythera, who changed him into four unfinished statues. In that form he would wait for his fickle lover to return, break the curse, and make him whole.
Thousands of years have passed when Galen Kanellis finds the disassembled pieces in the storeroom of a Seattle museum and makes them the focus of his new exhibit. Needing information, he contacts his ex-lover Nick Charisteas. Nick has a lifelong dream of finding the Dexios Collection, and the last thing he expected was for it to wind up in the hands of the man who broke his heart. As both men search for answers about the statues, worries of abandonment and fear of loss test their renewed relationship, threatening to separate them again—this time permanently.
Thousands of years have passed when Galen Kanellis finds the disassembled pieces in the storeroom of a Seattle museum and makes them the focus of his new exhibit. Needing information, he contacts his ex-lover Nick Charisteas. Nick has a lifelong dream of finding the Dexios Collection, and the last thing he expected was for it to wind up in the hands of the man who broke his heart. As both men search for answers about the statues, worries of abandonment and fear of loss test their renewed relationship, threatening to separate them again—this time permanently.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2013
1 person is currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Marguerite Labbe
39 books128 followersMarguerite has been accused of being eccentric and a shade neurotic, both of which she freely admits to, but her muse has OCD tendencies, so who can blame her? Her husband and son do an excellent job keeping her toeing the line, though. Together with her co-author Fae Sutherland, Marguerite has found a shared passion for beautiful men with smart mouths.
When she's not working hard on writing new material and editing completed work, she spends her time reading novels of all genres, enjoying role-playing games with her equally nutty friends, and trying to plot practical jokes against her son and husband. Her son is learning the tricks too quickly and likes to retaliate. You'd think she'd learn.
When she's not working hard on writing new material and editing completed work, she spends her time reading novels of all genres, enjoying role-playing games with her equally nutty friends, and trying to plot practical jokes against her son and husband. Her son is learning the tricks too quickly and likes to retaliate. You'd think she'd learn.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 22, 2014
* I received this book for free through DBML in exchange for an honest review.
A very solid four stars, that would've been more if it weren't for a little niggle that threw pats of the ending off for me.
But now, in a small museum in Chicago, Galen, the gallery owner, is shocked when mysterious boxes arrive in the museum without any record or indication where they have come from. What he uncovers from their depths are beautiful statues, each resembling a man, only half of his whole. The statues are somehow incomplete, missing another.
Their arrival spawns old feelings for a past lover, and despite his hesitation, Galen reaches out to Nick in order to find out more about the statues. Together they find out that statues are simply the start of it, but what really lies in that museum are the culmination of decades of life and death, and a tragic curse that they are desperate to break.
But since I want to end on a good note, I'll just get my bad note done with now. There is a part in this where there is one of those issues of miscommunication. This isn't something that always bothers me, but in this, there were elements of it that made me want to headdesk (and yes, I'm using that as a verb). It seemed at that point that things were just getting dragged out too much for my taste, and it lost a bit of the sizzle that it had before. I wasn't as enchanted with it, and that makes me sad.
BUT, back to the good stuff, of which there is many for this.
There were little moments of greatness. One moment in particular made me just slightly teary eyed, as it was something that just tugged on my heartstrings. It was so simple, so very small, but monumental to me. To hear that it quite simply touched me.
There were also small bits of BDSM dusted in throughout this, the elements more exploration and growth in each other than nonsensical BDSM thrown in just because the author wanted to write it. I also could see how it might translate into It just made sense to me, and I like it when things make sense to me.
And finally, some of the descriptions had me all dreamy. It was a nice balance between reality and this mystical other-world that tangled these characters together. Even the details of the statues in their most incomplete stages were beautiful. I loved how it tiptoed the line between fantasy and the here-and-now in those little moments.
In sum, another great book from Ms. Labbe.
A very solid four stars, that would've been more if it weren't for a little niggle that threw pats of the ending off for me.
Galen was the perfect guy, and that’s where the trap lay. It was too late to backtrack and call it off. It was like coming to the realization that he was screwed halfway up the long first climb of a rollercoaster. He couldn’t demand to get off when he was already strapped in and on his way.An old legend tells of two lovers, Dexios and Lykon. Warriors drawn together by war and chaos, they made a promise to each other in the name of Cythera, the goddess of love. But when faith is broken, and the promise along with it, the goddess sets forth to make the men pay for using her name in a promise they did not keep. To be made whole, they must find a way back to each other, and this time, keep their promise.
But now, in a small museum in Chicago, Galen, the gallery owner, is shocked when mysterious boxes arrive in the museum without any record or indication where they have come from. What he uncovers from their depths are beautiful statues, each resembling a man, only half of his whole. The statues are somehow incomplete, missing another.
Their arrival spawns old feelings for a past lover, and despite his hesitation, Galen reaches out to Nick in order to find out more about the statues. Together they find out that statues are simply the start of it, but what really lies in that museum are the culmination of decades of life and death, and a tragic curse that they are desperate to break.
Galen was a madness that had sunk into his bones and blood, that elusive spark Nick had finally caught a hold of and wanted to keep by his side forever.I want to start off by saying that for the better part of this story, I absolutely adored it. I have a thing for mythology and history, and this delivered a lot of that. It had so many lovely little notes of mystery, especially through the first half of the book.
But since I want to end on a good note, I'll just get my bad note done with now. There is a part in this where there is one of those issues of miscommunication. This isn't something that always bothers me, but in this, there were elements of it that made me want to headdesk (and yes, I'm using that as a verb). It seemed at that point that things were just getting dragged out too much for my taste, and it lost a bit of the sizzle that it had before. I wasn't as enchanted with it, and that makes me sad.
BUT, back to the good stuff, of which there is many for this.
There were little moments of greatness. One moment in particular made me just slightly teary eyed, as it was something that just tugged on my heartstrings. It was so simple, so very small, but monumental to me. To hear that it quite simply touched me.
There were also small bits of BDSM dusted in throughout this, the elements more exploration and growth in each other than nonsensical BDSM thrown in just because the author wanted to write it. I also could see how it might translate into It just made sense to me, and I like it when things make sense to me.
And finally, some of the descriptions had me all dreamy. It was a nice balance between reality and this mystical other-world that tangled these characters together. Even the details of the statues in their most incomplete stages were beautiful. I loved how it tiptoed the line between fantasy and the here-and-now in those little moments.
In sum, another great book from Ms. Labbe.
October 12, 2013
A solid 4.75
My only niggle was the too drawn-out angsting between Galen and Nick. Felt a bit contrived, sometimes repetitive. But otherwise... a skillful amalgamation between a historical fantasy novel and an angsty contemporay tale, two equally strong couples, four nicely drawn main characters, and strong supportive cast. The plot was well-wrought and compelling, the sex scenes scorching HOT, and the solution was sweet and beautiful and yet devoid of any saccharine. Really, a very enjoyable read. Warmly recommended.
My only niggle was the too drawn-out angsting between Galen and Nick. Felt a bit contrived, sometimes repetitive. But otherwise... a skillful amalgamation between a historical fantasy novel and an angsty contemporay tale, two equally strong couples, four nicely drawn main characters, and strong supportive cast. The plot was well-wrought and compelling, the sex scenes scorching HOT, and the solution was sweet and beautiful and yet devoid of any saccharine. Really, a very enjoyable read. Warmly recommended.
February 25, 2014
♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥ W-O-N-D-E-R-F-U-L ♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥
Make Me Whole very cleverly combines two wonderful love stories who couldn't be any more different and yet have so much in common.
Fear.
Possibly one's worst enemy.
In the beginning of the book we meet Lykon & Dexios, two warriors of a time long forgotten, who are madly in love and near the end of war. It's the night of their vow, they promise each other by the name of Goddess Cythera that they'll not return to their former life's and plan to live together as lovers, some place far away from their families.
With the next chapter we meet modern day Galen, owner of a GLBT centered museum, working his usual shift when very unexpectedly he stumbles over boxes filled with ancient greek statues. To everyone's surprise the boxes seem to have magically appeared inside a locked storage room.
Galen is instantly in love with the four unfinished but beautiful statues of a man in longing poses, very obviously missing his partner. To Galen's excitement the statues seem to be just what he'd been missing for as center piece for his upcoming exhibit.
Just like any other day in the past six month Galen's thoughts travel back to Nick.
Knowing that Nick might really want to see those statues excites him even more. Nick used to be crazy about history and those things Galen didn't have much insight on. He really has to show him. Maybe Nick can even provide some answers, because nobody at the museum has any clue what they might be, where from and whether they are even authentic.
The only tiny problem: Galen walked out on Nick six months ago, after Nick confessed his love.
Galen can't just call him now, can he?
------
Nick hesitates getting back in touch with Galen after hearing about the magically appeared statues. Eventually though, his curiosity gets the better of him, and it can't hurt to do a little business with Galen, right? Even if he broke his heart and left him without giving them any chance.
It's all easier said then done, especially when feelings just won't magically go away.
With the Dexios collection now so close - which had been Nick's lifelong dream to find - it's impossible for him to turn his back on Galen.
Quickly both men learn that those statues bring a lot of mystery and conflicts arise.
There really is a curse, and only Galen and Nick can finally break it, but how?
How can two broken hearted men break a curse that kept two lovers apart throughout centuries?
The answer is quite simple:
With Love.
What is harder to answer is the how to love someone you are not sure you can trust?
When you have so little faith in trust, each other and maybe love itself?
-------
Throughout the book we also learn more about Lykon and Dexios. We learn why Lykon broke his vow, which angered Cythera and what exactly caused her to turn Dexios into statues.
What I loved the most:
It never got boring. I simply had to read and read and read...
There is so much more to Nick and Galen and their "relationship" with each other, their past love's and families. Nothing that will change your life, but maybe will entertain you just as much as it did me. I had honestly a lot of fun.
There were little things that kept on surprising me, mostly how much I love a guy like Galen, he's so sweet in just all the right ways and right amount, and then there were those Doctor Who references that caught me most definitely by surprise! LOVE LOVE LOVE.
The statues & the curse is interesting, and the way those two love stories are intertwined was very entertaining and pretty damn clever. It's got that paranormal touch, where spirits come to live and posses even a little.
I totally adore both, Nick & Galen, to bits. They are wonderful, charming and sweet guys. Together they make quite the pair - great chemistry, incredibly sexy & enjoyable bed times ;) - super sweet and caring but never over the top mushy. Just the perfect couple in my eyes.
They argue a lot, and are close to running more often than not. Which would be my only complaint here, the angsty-ness was quite drawn out and I can see how it might bother some people who are not completely smitten with Nick and Galen as I am. It didn't kill the mood for me, nope, and it seemed necessary for the story to find their end :)
Ah, and the writing is simply wonderful. Highly enjoyable :)
I've been a fan of Marguerite Labbe 's writing ever since All Bets Are Off (which will always remain one of my most beloved books/couples). I also love the kinky side she shows in her Exposure series with Fae Sutherland - for ex. Final Exposure - I am slowly making my way through the rest of her books. Bit by bit. Enjoying every page :)
A total page-turner /// 5 AMAZING clever stars. ♥
Brilliant & Unexpected - Engaging & Twisted.
Thank you, Marguerite Labbe.
"For an eternity, I am simply yours. Where you go, I will follow, until we are no more."
Make Me Whole very cleverly combines two wonderful love stories who couldn't be any more different and yet have so much in common.
Fear.
Possibly one's worst enemy.
In the beginning of the book we meet Lykon & Dexios, two warriors of a time long forgotten, who are madly in love and near the end of war. It's the night of their vow, they promise each other by the name of Goddess Cythera that they'll not return to their former life's and plan to live together as lovers, some place far away from their families.
“I swear it by Cythera, and the waves that gave birth to her shall hear my vow. I love you, Dexios. I will go where you go and I will stay by your side.”
With the next chapter we meet modern day Galen, owner of a GLBT centered museum, working his usual shift when very unexpectedly he stumbles over boxes filled with ancient greek statues. To everyone's surprise the boxes seem to have magically appeared inside a locked storage room.
Galen is instantly in love with the four unfinished but beautiful statues of a man in longing poses, very obviously missing his partner. To Galen's excitement the statues seem to be just what he'd been missing for as center piece for his upcoming exhibit.
Just like any other day in the past six month Galen's thoughts travel back to Nick.
Knowing that Nick might really want to see those statues excites him even more. Nick used to be crazy about history and those things Galen didn't have much insight on. He really has to show him. Maybe Nick can even provide some answers, because nobody at the museum has any clue what they might be, where from and whether they are even authentic.
The only tiny problem: Galen walked out on Nick six months ago, after Nick confessed his love.
Galen can't just call him now, can he?
------
Nick hesitates getting back in touch with Galen after hearing about the magically appeared statues. Eventually though, his curiosity gets the better of him, and it can't hurt to do a little business with Galen, right? Even if he broke his heart and left him without giving them any chance.
It's all easier said then done, especially when feelings just won't magically go away.
With the Dexios collection now so close - which had been Nick's lifelong dream to find - it's impossible for him to turn his back on Galen.
Quickly both men learn that those statues bring a lot of mystery and conflicts arise.
There really is a curse, and only Galen and Nick can finally break it, but how?
How can two broken hearted men break a curse that kept two lovers apart throughout centuries?
The answer is quite simple:
With Love.
What is harder to answer is the how to love someone you are not sure you can trust?
When you have so little faith in trust, each other and maybe love itself?
-------
Throughout the book we also learn more about Lykon and Dexios. We learn why Lykon broke his vow, which angered Cythera and what exactly caused her to turn Dexios into statues.
What I loved the most:
It never got boring. I simply had to read and read and read...
There is so much more to Nick and Galen and their "relationship" with each other, their past love's and families. Nothing that will change your life, but maybe will entertain you just as much as it did me. I had honestly a lot of fun.
There were little things that kept on surprising me, mostly how much I love a guy like Galen, he's so sweet in just all the right ways and right amount, and then there were those Doctor Who references that caught me most definitely by surprise! LOVE LOVE LOVE.
The statues & the curse is interesting, and the way those two love stories are intertwined was very entertaining and pretty damn clever. It's got that paranormal touch, where spirits come to live and posses even a little.
Somehow when the change had occurred, it had rippled back in time. Not only had it affected the memories of the people around them, it had also affected the cameras and who knew what else.
I totally adore both, Nick & Galen, to bits. They are wonderful, charming and sweet guys. Together they make quite the pair - great chemistry, incredibly sexy & enjoyable bed times ;) - super sweet and caring but never over the top mushy. Just the perfect couple in my eyes.
They argue a lot, and are close to running more often than not. Which would be my only complaint here, the angsty-ness was quite drawn out and I can see how it might bother some people who are not completely smitten with Nick and Galen as I am. It didn't kill the mood for me, nope, and it seemed necessary for the story to find their end :)
They had something special together despite the rocky start and the lingering issues they were struggling to overcome.
Ah, and the writing is simply wonderful. Highly enjoyable :)
I've been a fan of Marguerite Labbe 's writing ever since All Bets Are Off (which will always remain one of my most beloved books/couples). I also love the kinky side she shows in her Exposure series with Fae Sutherland - for ex. Final Exposure - I am slowly making my way through the rest of her books. Bit by bit. Enjoying every page :)
A total page-turner /// 5 AMAZING clever stars. ♥
Brilliant & Unexpected - Engaging & Twisted.
Thank you, Marguerite Labbe.
June 17, 2018
3.75 stars rounded up
An enjoyable (sort of) reincarnation story. Both men must learn to deal with their personal issues -- Galen being bit fickle with long-term relationship after feeling the grief of losing his ex-boyfriend due to car accident and Nick being suspicious of people after his mother left his family when he was ten years old.
At times I got frustrated at Nick for being so judgmental -- but then I guess that's why he needs to learn how to trust Galen.
I definitely liked the reincarnation/past lives/curse aspect of this story, which is why I rounded it up to my 4-stars.
An enjoyable (sort of) reincarnation story. Both men must learn to deal with their personal issues -- Galen being bit fickle with long-term relationship after feeling the grief of losing his ex-boyfriend due to car accident and Nick being suspicious of people after his mother left his family when he was ten years old.
At times I got frustrated at Nick for being so judgmental -- but then I guess that's why he needs to learn how to trust Galen.
I definitely liked the reincarnation/past lives/curse aspect of this story, which is why I rounded it up to my 4-stars.
August 26, 2013
4 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Galen Kanellis is the owner of a museum in Seattle. The museums theme is Gay love, sex and life. He is in the process of opening a new exhibit room with the theme of homoerotic interpretations on the ancient world. One morning he comes in to the museum to find four very old, large crates in the store-room. There is no indication of where these crates came from or who sent them. No one remembers them being delivered. Once they are uncrated, Galen discovers four life-size statues of the same man dressed like a warrior from ancient Greece in various poses of intimacy. Upon inspection Galen realizes these statues are incomplete, that the man is missing his other half in the poses. Galen is drawn to these in a way he does not completely understand and vows to keep the collection for his new exhibit. One of Galen’s first thoughts when he sees the statues is how much Nick Charisteas , his ex-lover, would love them. Even though Galen ended the relationship, he has counted the month and days since they parted and thinks of Nick often. Galen decides to call Nick and tell him about the statues and see if they might have a chance to start over.
Galen has a lot of baggage from a previous relationship that ended tragically. He is afraid of letting himself love again. This had led Galen to a series of hookups, including some threesomes that had included Nick. During those hookups both Galen and Nick discovered that they felt something more for one another and had progressed into a relationship, until Nick wanted more than Galen was willing or able to give. Nick has his own issues with abandonment and is estranged from his family. His need for commitment and his possessiveness were part of what drove Galen away. They have not spoken in six months.
Nick thinks this may be the Dexios collection he has been searching for and decides to risk seeing Galen again to have a chance to see the statues. His family has a long personal history with these statues, one his is not willing to share completely with Galen, even though he had mentioned them to Galen when they were seeing one another before. He vows to not let himself feel anything for Galen and risk having his heart broken or being abandoned again.
What Nick does tell Galen is the legend states that Dexios and his lover Lykon had made a vow to one another in the name of the Goddess Cythera, but Lykon broke his vow out of fear of his feelings for Dexios and asked Dexios to be patient with him and give him time to think. Dexios left, hurt and angry, and travelled to the island that he and Lykon were to live together. While grieving on the beach, Cythera approaches him and, in that double-edged sword way that gods and goddesses seem to work, she turned Dexios into four statues so that he may await his lover’s return. To be together, Lykon must fulfill four vows before they can be reunited and the statues made whole, but there is a caveat that makes this challenge seem almost unattainable.
Upon seeing one another again, Galen and Nick realize that they still have feelings for one another. Galen promises to start things over and show Nick there is more to them than just sex and that he is not going to run away this time. When Nick agrees to try again, something unusual happens to the statues.
“Make Me Whole” caught me by surprise. I read the description and I thought it would be interesting, a modern tale with a bit of mystery revolving around ancient Greek statues. What I was not expecting is how the lives of both men are so intertwined with the legend surrounding the statues. The story is written in both the present and the past with the characters from both time periods weaving their stories together. It is a contemporary romance with elements of a Greek tragedy. There were times I was frustrated with both characters because it seemed like they were not learning from their past mistakes and rehashing their issues was stifling the story, but the entire time I kept encouraging them to not give up. There is passion between Galen and Nick, but also heartbreaking issues of trust that keep tearing them apart. Those moments when they do open up to one another and the trust was able to take root, were beautiful. There are some passionate moments that I felt were realistic in showing that trust. I thought the story was well written and I was intrigued with the way the author combined modern romance and ancient legend. This is the second book I have read by this author and I enjoyed both of them very much.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Galen Kanellis is the owner of a museum in Seattle. The museums theme is Gay love, sex and life. He is in the process of opening a new exhibit room with the theme of homoerotic interpretations on the ancient world. One morning he comes in to the museum to find four very old, large crates in the store-room. There is no indication of where these crates came from or who sent them. No one remembers them being delivered. Once they are uncrated, Galen discovers four life-size statues of the same man dressed like a warrior from ancient Greece in various poses of intimacy. Upon inspection Galen realizes these statues are incomplete, that the man is missing his other half in the poses. Galen is drawn to these in a way he does not completely understand and vows to keep the collection for his new exhibit. One of Galen’s first thoughts when he sees the statues is how much Nick Charisteas , his ex-lover, would love them. Even though Galen ended the relationship, he has counted the month and days since they parted and thinks of Nick often. Galen decides to call Nick and tell him about the statues and see if they might have a chance to start over.
Galen has a lot of baggage from a previous relationship that ended tragically. He is afraid of letting himself love again. This had led Galen to a series of hookups, including some threesomes that had included Nick. During those hookups both Galen and Nick discovered that they felt something more for one another and had progressed into a relationship, until Nick wanted more than Galen was willing or able to give. Nick has his own issues with abandonment and is estranged from his family. His need for commitment and his possessiveness were part of what drove Galen away. They have not spoken in six months.
Nick thinks this may be the Dexios collection he has been searching for and decides to risk seeing Galen again to have a chance to see the statues. His family has a long personal history with these statues, one his is not willing to share completely with Galen, even though he had mentioned them to Galen when they were seeing one another before. He vows to not let himself feel anything for Galen and risk having his heart broken or being abandoned again.
What Nick does tell Galen is the legend states that Dexios and his lover Lykon had made a vow to one another in the name of the Goddess Cythera, but Lykon broke his vow out of fear of his feelings for Dexios and asked Dexios to be patient with him and give him time to think. Dexios left, hurt and angry, and travelled to the island that he and Lykon were to live together. While grieving on the beach, Cythera approaches him and, in that double-edged sword way that gods and goddesses seem to work, she turned Dexios into four statues so that he may await his lover’s return. To be together, Lykon must fulfill four vows before they can be reunited and the statues made whole, but there is a caveat that makes this challenge seem almost unattainable.
Upon seeing one another again, Galen and Nick realize that they still have feelings for one another. Galen promises to start things over and show Nick there is more to them than just sex and that he is not going to run away this time. When Nick agrees to try again, something unusual happens to the statues.
“Make Me Whole” caught me by surprise. I read the description and I thought it would be interesting, a modern tale with a bit of mystery revolving around ancient Greek statues. What I was not expecting is how the lives of both men are so intertwined with the legend surrounding the statues. The story is written in both the present and the past with the characters from both time periods weaving their stories together. It is a contemporary romance with elements of a Greek tragedy. There were times I was frustrated with both characters because it seemed like they were not learning from their past mistakes and rehashing their issues was stifling the story, but the entire time I kept encouraging them to not give up. There is passion between Galen and Nick, but also heartbreaking issues of trust that keep tearing them apart. Those moments when they do open up to one another and the trust was able to take root, were beautiful. There are some passionate moments that I felt were realistic in showing that trust. I thought the story was well written and I was intrigued with the way the author combined modern romance and ancient legend. This is the second book I have read by this author and I enjoyed both of them very much.
August 19, 2014
I received this book for free through the DBML-program in return for an honest review.
The story is this: a long, long time ago two lovers (Dexios and Lycon) got turned into statues by an angry god after they broke an oath swore in her name. Dexios is turned into a statue (or better said four statues) that will stay incomplete until the curse is broken. They are destined to get reborn over and over again, until they show they have learned from their mistakes.
Nick and Galen have been casual lovers until Nick wanted more, and Galen ran away. Nick has been looking for the statues (that are a family possession) for ages and thinks it is the way to heal what is wrong with his life. Galen owns the museum where the statues miraculously. Galen calls Nick because Nick has an art history background and that got the story rolling.
The first 30-40% of the book I really loved. The way the author wove two (love) storylines, one in ancient Greece, and one in the present time together was simply amazing, and made the story highly original. The paranormal element added to it made it different and that made it a blast to read.
Somewhere halfway in the story got repetitive. It was like all the issues Nick and Galen had were recycled over and over again. I found myself putting the book away to do something else, and checking how far along I was in the book.
This specially went for Nick. Galen showed real growth and was a very sympathetic character. But while Nick seemed to know exactly what his issues were, and where they came from, he kept blaming Galen, and didn’t take any steps of his own
I think the book would’ve been 4 stars at least, probably five, if it had been culled a little. Now I can’t give it more than 3,5.
The story is this: a long, long time ago two lovers (Dexios and Lycon) got turned into statues by an angry god after they broke an oath swore in her name. Dexios is turned into a statue (or better said four statues) that will stay incomplete until the curse is broken. They are destined to get reborn over and over again, until they show they have learned from their mistakes.
Nick and Galen have been casual lovers until Nick wanted more, and Galen ran away. Nick has been looking for the statues (that are a family possession) for ages and thinks it is the way to heal what is wrong with his life. Galen owns the museum where the statues miraculously. Galen calls Nick because Nick has an art history background and that got the story rolling.
The first 30-40% of the book I really loved. The way the author wove two (love) storylines, one in ancient Greece, and one in the present time together was simply amazing, and made the story highly original. The paranormal element added to it made it different and that made it a blast to read.
Somewhere halfway in the story got repetitive. It was like all the issues Nick and Galen had were recycled over and over again. I found myself putting the book away to do something else, and checking how far along I was in the book.
This specially went for Nick. Galen showed real growth and was a very sympathetic character. But while Nick seemed to know exactly what his issues were, and where they came from, he kept blaming Galen, and didn’t take any steps of his own
I think the book would’ve been 4 stars at least, probably five, if it had been culled a little. Now I can’t give it more than 3,5.
June 13, 2015
rating: 4/5
I was provided a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
A relationship broken, one ancient and one modern. Two souls, reborn, searching for each other through millennia of lives.
The villain isn't the Goddess responsible for their fates, it is something much more terrible and much harder to fight. Fear. Trust.
According to an ancient Greek myth (not a real one by the way), Dexios and Lykon are two lovers entrapped in a curse. Dexios, forever waiting trapped as a statue. Lykon desires to join him making the statue complete, but is unable to break the curse without help of their reincarnated selves.
In modern day, Nick, a reincarnation of Dexios, had his heart broken by Galen, a reincarnation of Lykon. Are they doomed to repeat the mistakes of their predecessors? Or will they be able to break through the fear and break the curse?
It is a wonderful story that weaves together the myth of two cursed lovers and modern day occurances. It is a story about fear, terror of moving forward and trusting someone else. And about conquering yourself, trusting yourself to be these for someone else.
It is beautifully written. But what I love the most is that it isn't about falling in love. That's the easy part. But what comes after, the fights and battles, the fear and trust is what's hard. I wouldn't even call it a romance but a relationship novel. One that delves into depths of their souls and leaves us feeling each and every one of their steps and missteps. Its moving and realistic, very intimate; I felt like I was a part of their relationship and not just looking in.
I was provided a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
A relationship broken, one ancient and one modern. Two souls, reborn, searching for each other through millennia of lives.
The villain isn't the Goddess responsible for their fates, it is something much more terrible and much harder to fight. Fear. Trust.
According to an ancient Greek myth (not a real one by the way), Dexios and Lykon are two lovers entrapped in a curse. Dexios, forever waiting trapped as a statue. Lykon desires to join him making the statue complete, but is unable to break the curse without help of their reincarnated selves.
In modern day, Nick, a reincarnation of Dexios, had his heart broken by Galen, a reincarnation of Lykon. Are they doomed to repeat the mistakes of their predecessors? Or will they be able to break through the fear and break the curse?
It is a wonderful story that weaves together the myth of two cursed lovers and modern day occurances. It is a story about fear, terror of moving forward and trusting someone else. And about conquering yourself, trusting yourself to be these for someone else.
It is beautifully written. But what I love the most is that it isn't about falling in love. That's the easy part. But what comes after, the fights and battles, the fear and trust is what's hard. I wouldn't even call it a romance but a relationship novel. One that delves into depths of their souls and leaves us feeling each and every one of their steps and missteps. Its moving and realistic, very intimate; I felt like I was a part of their relationship and not just looking in.
August 15, 2014
I received a copy of this book via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
Nick and Galen were on/off lovers, not exclusive, about 6 months prior. Nick wanted a commitment and Galen couldn't give him one, so he walked out. This isn't as heartless as it sounds. Galen had previously been in a serious relationship but his lover was killed in a car wreck with a drunk driver--while Galen was driving. Galen survived in body, but heart and spirit remain crushed even two years later--he still can't get behind the wheel without panic attacks. So, he wasn't ready to commit to another man, though he did feel that something promising had been building between them.
At the point where the story begins, Galen 's art museum is prepping for a new exhibit and (astonishingly) he finds four bronze statues in the back of his storeroom. These four statues have no known provenance but they are clearly old and seem form a continuous exhibit, a nude warrior in four separate poses that suggest a missing mate.
Stunned and overjoyed with his find, Galen immediately incorporates the statues into his new exhibit, but he also reached out to Nick--who is a an art fanatic and also an antiquities hunter. Nick knows all about the statues as it turns out--his family had OWNED them in the past but they were lost at sea decades ago. Nick had, in fact, been planning a dive to discover the wreckage.
As it turns out, the statues have a curious history. They are all of Nick's ancient ancestor Dexios, and depict him awaiting the return of his missing lover, Lykos. Throughout history, these statues have been cared for--at times they have been completed. It seems the real Dexios was cursed to wait eternally for Lykos to return, and the only way for these lovers to be reunited is through reincarnation and reconnection.
So, Nick's thought is HE is the Dexios and Galen must be Lykos. Galen is appropriately appalled--he's still not sure he can HAVE a relationship. Yet, the two (Galen and Nick) embark on a real relationship. They go on dates and begin to develop the kind of intimacy they had missed the first time round. It remained to be seen if this would reunite Dexios and Lykos, UNTIL THEY STARTED TAKING OVER THEIR BODIES!!!
I really enjoyed this book. Such great emotional angst. So many stakes--not just can Galen get over his grief? Or, can Nick overcome his fear of abandonment? No, we also have mythology and magic interfering in ways designed to truly test the love and faith of both Galen and Nick.
It was a slow burn, with tentative steps toward reconnection. Many times Nick, Galen, or both, had to slow the machinations of Lykos and Dexios. This was all to the good because they've waited hundreds of years to be together and failed several rounds of reincarnation. Smexytimes were well-written and steamy.
Nick and Galen were on/off lovers, not exclusive, about 6 months prior. Nick wanted a commitment and Galen couldn't give him one, so he walked out. This isn't as heartless as it sounds. Galen had previously been in a serious relationship but his lover was killed in a car wreck with a drunk driver--while Galen was driving. Galen survived in body, but heart and spirit remain crushed even two years later--he still can't get behind the wheel without panic attacks. So, he wasn't ready to commit to another man, though he did feel that something promising had been building between them.
At the point where the story begins, Galen 's art museum is prepping for a new exhibit and (astonishingly) he finds four bronze statues in the back of his storeroom. These four statues have no known provenance but they are clearly old and seem form a continuous exhibit, a nude warrior in four separate poses that suggest a missing mate.
Stunned and overjoyed with his find, Galen immediately incorporates the statues into his new exhibit, but he also reached out to Nick--who is a an art fanatic and also an antiquities hunter. Nick knows all about the statues as it turns out--his family had OWNED them in the past but they were lost at sea decades ago. Nick had, in fact, been planning a dive to discover the wreckage.
As it turns out, the statues have a curious history. They are all of Nick's ancient ancestor Dexios, and depict him awaiting the return of his missing lover, Lykos. Throughout history, these statues have been cared for--at times they have been completed. It seems the real Dexios was cursed to wait eternally for Lykos to return, and the only way for these lovers to be reunited is through reincarnation and reconnection.
So, Nick's thought is HE is the Dexios and Galen must be Lykos. Galen is appropriately appalled--he's still not sure he can HAVE a relationship. Yet, the two (Galen and Nick) embark on a real relationship. They go on dates and begin to develop the kind of intimacy they had missed the first time round. It remained to be seen if this would reunite Dexios and Lykos, UNTIL THEY STARTED TAKING OVER THEIR BODIES!!!
I really enjoyed this book. Such great emotional angst. So many stakes--not just can Galen get over his grief? Or, can Nick overcome his fear of abandonment? No, we also have mythology and magic interfering in ways designed to truly test the love and faith of both Galen and Nick.
It was a slow burn, with tentative steps toward reconnection. Many times Nick, Galen, or both, had to slow the machinations of Lykos and Dexios. This was all to the good because they've waited hundreds of years to be together and failed several rounds of reincarnation. Smexytimes were well-written and steamy.
September 13, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
-
Well, good or not, I definitely wasn't expecting the relationship dynamic to be what it was. A pair of star crossed lovers both cursed and blessed by the red string of fate. Like soulmates destined to never find true love with one another… ouch. That's probably one of the most depressing thoughts I've had all year.
Regardless, the idea is simple. It's hinted to be the same love story played out over and over again. Throughout history, different periods, different people, different circumstances, but the same heartbreaking tale. If the two lovers were lucky (or unlucky) enough to meet in that lifetime, they are forced to take part in Dexios and Lykon's tragic curse. To break the spell completely or risk everything resetting and starting all over again. The one that harbours a piece of Lykon's soul is burdened with the act of making Dexios whole again. A few have tried, but no one has succeeded.
Cut to the present. Half a year ago, Nick and Galen met and almost managed to make something of a life together. I wanted to hate Galen. I really did. What with how he pushed Nick away and how much he hurt the other man. But alas, I could not. With his own tragic past and all, he had his reasons and fears. Once bitten twice shy. Or utterly traumatized as the case may be. Galen seems to find the prospect of letting Nick into his heart impossibly difficult. And in his defense, Nick wasn't exactly… tactful. And Galen does try to make things better with Nick, to try and salvage what little may be left of their short time together.
That said, the truth was that I read the story for Dexios and Lykon. I mean, it's not really fair to compare the two pairs of lovers. It's not that I disliked Nick and Galen, it's just that they couldn't hope to measure up. How can they when they're up against an immortalized, idealized, definition of love. Well… love and longing. I know this is missing the point entirely, but against the sheer torrent of emotions that Dexios experienced and the consequences of Lykon's decision, everything else just seemed so mundane in comparison.
Oh well. Aside from the few moments where the story muddles the line of threesomes a little too much, I enjoyed the story. It's by far one of the most inventive romance-centric stories I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
But if I'm allowed to voice just one complaint, it's that I wish the epilogue was different. A focus on Dexios and Lykon would've been much better. After all, they are just as much the focus of the story and I wanted more of them.
-
Well, good or not, I definitely wasn't expecting the relationship dynamic to be what it was. A pair of star crossed lovers both cursed and blessed by the red string of fate. Like soulmates destined to never find true love with one another… ouch. That's probably one of the most depressing thoughts I've had all year.
Regardless, the idea is simple. It's hinted to be the same love story played out over and over again. Throughout history, different periods, different people, different circumstances, but the same heartbreaking tale. If the two lovers were lucky (or unlucky) enough to meet in that lifetime, they are forced to take part in Dexios and Lykon's tragic curse. To break the spell completely or risk everything resetting and starting all over again. The one that harbours a piece of Lykon's soul is burdened with the act of making Dexios whole again. A few have tried, but no one has succeeded.
Cut to the present. Half a year ago, Nick and Galen met and almost managed to make something of a life together. I wanted to hate Galen. I really did. What with how he pushed Nick away and how much he hurt the other man. But alas, I could not. With his own tragic past and all, he had his reasons and fears. Once bitten twice shy. Or utterly traumatized as the case may be. Galen seems to find the prospect of letting Nick into his heart impossibly difficult. And in his defense, Nick wasn't exactly… tactful. And Galen does try to make things better with Nick, to try and salvage what little may be left of their short time together.
That said, the truth was that I read the story for Dexios and Lykon. I mean, it's not really fair to compare the two pairs of lovers. It's not that I disliked Nick and Galen, it's just that they couldn't hope to measure up. How can they when they're up against an immortalized, idealized, definition of love. Well… love and longing. I know this is missing the point entirely, but against the sheer torrent of emotions that Dexios experienced and the consequences of Lykon's decision, everything else just seemed so mundane in comparison.
Oh well. Aside from the few moments where the story muddles the line of threesomes a little too much, I enjoyed the story. It's by far one of the most inventive romance-centric stories I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
But if I'm allowed to voice just one complaint, it's that I wish the epilogue was different. A focus on Dexios and Lykon would've been much better. After all, they are just as much the focus of the story and I wanted more of them.
August 14, 2014
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*
This book had a lot of elements that I love in a good story: mythology and fantasy, hurt/comfort, a blend of both contemporary and historical, struggles with inner demons, an interesting setting.
Dexios and Lykon are star crossed lovers, cursed by a goddess of love to be separated until a pair of their descendants accomplish steps to bringing them back together, overcoming tests along the way. Galen and Nick are two men in current Seattle who had a brief fling of mostly casual sex, who are now reconnecting. The story alternates between the two couples, exploring both relationships and how they affect each other.
Despite all of the elements that should have made me love this story, it ultimately fell a bit short. The motivations for both men to fear commitment were interesting and valid, but the way they were presented was entirely too much tell and not enough show. Most of the time, I just didn't feel their struggle while the story was telling me they were experiencing it. There were moments the feeling got through, but not often enough to move me as I would have wished.
A final test was integral to the plot, but the one they ended up with felt manufactured and not organic to the story. Lykon warned of a test, but even with the goddess dictating the terms, why would he be the direct cause of that test? It just didn't make sense to me.
I did really like the setting of the museum, with its safe space for the LGBT community of artists. Suzane was an interesting secondary character, and I would have enjoyed learning more about Knox. Galen and Dexios were probably my favorite characters, both exhibiting characteristics that drew me in.
The story had a premise I adore and could have been one that would blow me away, but instead it ended up as a pleasant and occasionally frustrating read.
This book had a lot of elements that I love in a good story: mythology and fantasy, hurt/comfort, a blend of both contemporary and historical, struggles with inner demons, an interesting setting.
Dexios and Lykon are star crossed lovers, cursed by a goddess of love to be separated until a pair of their descendants accomplish steps to bringing them back together, overcoming tests along the way. Galen and Nick are two men in current Seattle who had a brief fling of mostly casual sex, who are now reconnecting. The story alternates between the two couples, exploring both relationships and how they affect each other.
Despite all of the elements that should have made me love this story, it ultimately fell a bit short. The motivations for both men to fear commitment were interesting and valid, but the way they were presented was entirely too much tell and not enough show. Most of the time, I just didn't feel their struggle while the story was telling me they were experiencing it. There were moments the feeling got through, but not often enough to move me as I would have wished.
A final test was integral to the plot, but the one they ended up with felt manufactured and not organic to the story. Lykon warned of a test, but even with the goddess dictating the terms, why would he be the direct cause of that test? It just didn't make sense to me.
I did really like the setting of the museum, with its safe space for the LGBT community of artists. Suzane was an interesting secondary character, and I would have enjoyed learning more about Knox. Galen and Dexios were probably my favorite characters, both exhibiting characteristics that drew me in.
The story had a premise I adore and could have been one that would blow me away, but instead it ended up as a pleasant and occasionally frustrating read.
June 2, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
I have read my fare share of M/M romances (actually, also M/F romance) and lately was starting to feel a little wariness towards this genre. But as a student of Ancient Greek and lover of Greek mythology, I decided to give this book a chance, and what a fantastic idea it was!
The storyline is nice. I really like it when it is anchored in reality, but with just a little dash of paranormal, when the fantastic fits in between the slots of our everyday life, which is the case here.
The characters are appealing, complex and interesting. The chemistry between them is really good. Secondary characters also are well thought out and really bring something to the story.
If I only have one critic to make, it's that by the end, the story drags a little too much, and the Nick and Galen were making me crazy with their insecurities. Also, the last "test" for the protagonists seemed a little artificial to me. I know, it is supposed to be the influence of the godess, so it is an artifice, but it felt a little too "Deux ex Machina" to me. I prefered much more the previous pitfalls Galen and Nick encountered, when they were purely created (and solved) by themselves, and I'm sure it could have been the same here.
But all in all, it was a very enjoyable read and a book I recommend.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
I have read my fare share of M/M romances (actually, also M/F romance) and lately was starting to feel a little wariness towards this genre. But as a student of Ancient Greek and lover of Greek mythology, I decided to give this book a chance, and what a fantastic idea it was!
The storyline is nice. I really like it when it is anchored in reality, but with just a little dash of paranormal, when the fantastic fits in between the slots of our everyday life, which is the case here.
The characters are appealing, complex and interesting. The chemistry between them is really good. Secondary characters also are well thought out and really bring something to the story.
If I only have one critic to make, it's that by the end, the story drags a little too much, and the Nick and Galen were making me crazy with their insecurities. Also, the last "test" for the protagonists seemed a little artificial to me. I know, it is supposed to be the influence of the godess, so it is an artifice, but it felt a little too "Deux ex Machina" to me. I prefered much more the previous pitfalls Galen and Nick encountered, when they were purely created (and solved) by themselves, and I'm sure it could have been the same here.
But all in all, it was a very enjoyable read and a book I recommend.
August 20, 2017
Well I loved the beginning of it, found the middle a bit boring and then hated the ending. Basically I wanted to smack them both in the face. They just kept repeating the same mistakes over and over and it just seemed to make the story stop, there seemed to be no progression of their relationship because they both kept obsessing over the past.
I also wasn't a fan of the sex but that's a personal preference.
I did really like the premise and general idea of the story. It just got a bit bogged down in the end.
I also wasn't a fan of the sex but that's a personal preference.
I did really like the premise and general idea of the story. It just got a bit bogged down in the end.
September 14, 2024
Wow! Amazing! I have put off reading this book for @ 10 years. Why? Well, the cover didn't appeal to me and every time the book surfaced I decided to save it for another day. It finally came up in my Sweep the Shelves challenge and I could kick myself for holding off on reading this. It's beyond amazing. The story follows two parallel romances: the first of Dexios and Lykon who were ancient Greek warriors separated after their war ended. Lykon broke his vow to Dexios and decided to return home, breaking Dexios's heart. And then along came a goddess and turned Dexios to stone when he gave up hope of his lover returning. She promised they would be reunited some day but so far, each time they are reincarnated, the person they "occupy" does something foolish to break up with the other and they are adrift again, always waiting for another chance.
The second romance is between Nick, a banker and diving enthusiast who has been seeking clues to the mystery of Dexios and Lykon all his life. His great uncle left a journal outlining how he had been selected to help the lovers reunite but he and his partner did not pass the test the goddess put in their way. Now, unknown to Nick, he's about to embark on his own adventure as the counterpart to Dexios and museum owner Galen is about to be occupied by Lykon for yet another chance at eternal love. The problem? Nick and Galen were once lovers and Galen shunned him. Nick is not sure he's willing to give them another chance even with the thrill of potentially reuniting Dexios, who had been cast in stone, literally, as a statue that has been delivered to Galen's museum.
The saga, and yes, it's a long story, is fantastic. Definitely a page-turner. Between my heart breaking for Dexios and Lykon and my heart breaking and my anger flaring at Galen and/or Nick, depending on the moment, I could not put this story down. Both romances were hard fought and finding their way to their HEA was a battle i wasn't sure either couple was going to win. But the ending? Beautiful.
Highly recommended!
The second romance is between Nick, a banker and diving enthusiast who has been seeking clues to the mystery of Dexios and Lykon all his life. His great uncle left a journal outlining how he had been selected to help the lovers reunite but he and his partner did not pass the test the goddess put in their way. Now, unknown to Nick, he's about to embark on his own adventure as the counterpart to Dexios and museum owner Galen is about to be occupied by Lykon for yet another chance at eternal love. The problem? Nick and Galen were once lovers and Galen shunned him. Nick is not sure he's willing to give them another chance even with the thrill of potentially reuniting Dexios, who had been cast in stone, literally, as a statue that has been delivered to Galen's museum.
The saga, and yes, it's a long story, is fantastic. Definitely a page-turner. Between my heart breaking for Dexios and Lykon and my heart breaking and my anger flaring at Galen and/or Nick, depending on the moment, I could not put this story down. Both romances were hard fought and finding their way to their HEA was a battle i wasn't sure either couple was going to win. But the ending? Beautiful.
Highly recommended!
November 5, 2019
Between a 3 and a 4 star. Just a couple of parts that made me start to lose interest in the story. Loved the ending.
April 10, 2021
The logic of the magic curse was kind of inconsistent, and having the couple go through the same trust issues and drama four times to break the curse and find true love was a bit repetitive!!
September 4, 2017
4 stars
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In ancient Greece the lovers Dexios and Lykon pledge a vow in the name of the goddess Cythera to commit to each other, once the war is over. When the day arrives Lykon begs for time to think it through. Hurt and angry Dexios leaves Lykon behind.
The goddess is angered by their actions and curse the couple. Dexios who had no patience, is transformed into 4 statues, bound to wait for all eternity for his fickle lover to break the curse and make him whole.
Lykon is sentenced to watch over and care for the statues, with the knowledge that he will not be reunited with his love in this lifetime and that the future reincarnations of his soul will have to break the curse.
In modern day Seattle Galen Kanellis runs a museum, displaying art by gay artists and celebrating gay love and eroticism. Four huge crates appear in his stockroom, just as he is trying to tie together a new homoerotic display. The four statues of Dexios.
Nick Charisteas has spent his life chasing the family myth of Dexios and Lykon, somehow believeing that every wrong in his life would be made right if only he can find the statues, that pop up and disappear time and again through history.
Galen and Nick both have issues from their past influencing their decision making, as well as a shared past of hooking up and having casual sex, until Nick got too attached and Galen walked away. Now they come together again, to try and break the curse and make the collection of statues whole.
The book contains the two love stories of Dexios and Lykon and Galen and Nick. And even though it is 4 separate men and two different romances set apart by centuries, it is also the same story and the same people. Same but different.
In spite of the centuries passing, love is love and people are imperfect. And the reincarnations of Dexios and Lykons souls continue to make the same mistakes that the original lovers did and fail to break the curse, over and over again. History truly repeats itself! And you know what they say: You cannot continue doing the same thing and then expecting a different outcome!
Nick and Galen are no different. I wanted to slap both of them several times. And in the end, it actually became a bit too much for me. Nicks insecurities became too much and the miscommunication a little too lengthy in the end, and that is the main reason why this is not a 5 star read for me.
Both men had plenty of issues, don't get me wrong, there was truth behind the angst and pride and fear. It was just a little too longwinded...
But aside from that, I really enjoyed the story - I was hooked from the start and read it in one setting - I am writing this review at half past 1 in the morning on a weekday, where my alarm will be gong off in about 5 hours! That ought to tell you something!
I enjoyed the way the two stories overlapped and complemented each other. Every time a new snippet of Dexios and Lykons story was revealed, you just knew you would be getting the same pattern in the modern setting and it kind of made me want to scream at the characters...
And I enjoyed the magical / mystical happenings in the present day setting, even if I think that Galen and Nick handled it a little too well. I would have been freaking out, had it happened to me!
There were a few issues of both Galens and Nicks past that I would have liked to know more about, but it wasn't vital to the story, so it's probably just me being nosy...
All in all a very recommendable read, with a lovely magical / mythical mystery part which just added to it's charm. I would definitely pick up another book by this author.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In ancient Greece the lovers Dexios and Lykon pledge a vow in the name of the goddess Cythera to commit to each other, once the war is over. When the day arrives Lykon begs for time to think it through. Hurt and angry Dexios leaves Lykon behind.
The goddess is angered by their actions and curse the couple. Dexios who had no patience, is transformed into 4 statues, bound to wait for all eternity for his fickle lover to break the curse and make him whole.
Lykon is sentenced to watch over and care for the statues, with the knowledge that he will not be reunited with his love in this lifetime and that the future reincarnations of his soul will have to break the curse.
In modern day Seattle Galen Kanellis runs a museum, displaying art by gay artists and celebrating gay love and eroticism. Four huge crates appear in his stockroom, just as he is trying to tie together a new homoerotic display. The four statues of Dexios.
Nick Charisteas has spent his life chasing the family myth of Dexios and Lykon, somehow believeing that every wrong in his life would be made right if only he can find the statues, that pop up and disappear time and again through history.
Galen and Nick both have issues from their past influencing their decision making, as well as a shared past of hooking up and having casual sex, until Nick got too attached and Galen walked away. Now they come together again, to try and break the curse and make the collection of statues whole.
The book contains the two love stories of Dexios and Lykon and Galen and Nick. And even though it is 4 separate men and two different romances set apart by centuries, it is also the same story and the same people. Same but different.
In spite of the centuries passing, love is love and people are imperfect. And the reincarnations of Dexios and Lykons souls continue to make the same mistakes that the original lovers did and fail to break the curse, over and over again. History truly repeats itself! And you know what they say: You cannot continue doing the same thing and then expecting a different outcome!
Nick and Galen are no different. I wanted to slap both of them several times. And in the end, it actually became a bit too much for me. Nicks insecurities became too much and the miscommunication a little too lengthy in the end, and that is the main reason why this is not a 5 star read for me.
Both men had plenty of issues, don't get me wrong, there was truth behind the angst and pride and fear. It was just a little too longwinded...
But aside from that, I really enjoyed the story - I was hooked from the start and read it in one setting - I am writing this review at half past 1 in the morning on a weekday, where my alarm will be gong off in about 5 hours! That ought to tell you something!
I enjoyed the way the two stories overlapped and complemented each other. Every time a new snippet of Dexios and Lykons story was revealed, you just knew you would be getting the same pattern in the modern setting and it kind of made me want to scream at the characters...
And I enjoyed the magical / mystical happenings in the present day setting, even if I think that Galen and Nick handled it a little too well. I would have been freaking out, had it happened to me!
There were a few issues of both Galens and Nicks past that I would have liked to know more about, but it wasn't vital to the story, so it's probably just me being nosy...
All in all a very recommendable read, with a lovely magical / mythical mystery part which just added to it's charm. I would definitely pick up another book by this author.
August 30, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review
I used to love the old mythology stories about ancient warriors, and wondered about the relationships hinted at between them. Make Me Whole starts out with one of those relationships, and even though you can feel the emotion between Dexios and Lykon, you can also feel the heartbreak about to happen (even without reading the summary blurb). Flash forward several centuries to Galen's museum, where mysterious statues appear from nowhere. Galen has recently broken off a casual relationship with Nick (because Nick became too involved), but even though they haven't spoken in months he calls Nick to help him make sense of the statues' arrival. Nick has spent his life trying to find the statues, called the Dexios Collection, which have always been a part of his family history. So, together, they try to figure out their roles in bringing the star crossed lovers together.
I loved the pacing of the book - the guys had to learn to trust each other again, and on some levels even get to really know each other (loved the "first" date Galen took Nick on). Nick was pretty badly burned from the breakup of their previous relationship, and wasn't ready to put his heart on the line again. Galen had been in a serious relationship a couple of years before and lost him in a car wreck. There had been a lot of guilt hanging over him since, and he had to deal with that. It speaks to the superficiality of their previous relationship, at least on Galen's side, that Nick didn't know about Bryan and the wreck. And Nick had a few secrets of his own, as well as some abandonment issues to work through. I felt that they worked through their issues fairly realistically - no magic words and all was well, no jumping into bed right off, and just being honest with each other goes a long way.
I really liked the flashbacks to Dexios and Lycon, and the way they interacted with Galen and Nick in the present day. . Dexios and Lycon tried to prevent Nick and Galen from making the same mistakes they (and generations afterwards) had made in their relationship, but of course we have to learn by our mistakes.
That was really my only issue with the book, and it's a fairly small one. Once the relationship drama picks up towards the end, there is a lot of miscommunication. As usual, most of the issues could have been solved quickly if they had just talked! The narrative was a little confusing here - I had trouble determining how long their breakup had lasted, how many times they tried to speak to the other, how many times one ignored a message from the other. It appeared that Galen had gotten texts or voice mails from Nick and had read/listened to them, but wasn't reacting. It seemed a little childish by the end. But their reunion was well done, and the ending was really sweet.
All in all, an excellent book from an author new to me. I think I'll have to go find more of her work.
I used to love the old mythology stories about ancient warriors, and wondered about the relationships hinted at between them. Make Me Whole starts out with one of those relationships, and even though you can feel the emotion between Dexios and Lykon, you can also feel the heartbreak about to happen (even without reading the summary blurb). Flash forward several centuries to Galen's museum, where mysterious statues appear from nowhere. Galen has recently broken off a casual relationship with Nick (because Nick became too involved), but even though they haven't spoken in months he calls Nick to help him make sense of the statues' arrival. Nick has spent his life trying to find the statues, called the Dexios Collection, which have always been a part of his family history. So, together, they try to figure out their roles in bringing the star crossed lovers together.
I loved the pacing of the book - the guys had to learn to trust each other again, and on some levels even get to really know each other (loved the "first" date Galen took Nick on). Nick was pretty badly burned from the breakup of their previous relationship, and wasn't ready to put his heart on the line again. Galen had been in a serious relationship a couple of years before and lost him in a car wreck. There had been a lot of guilt hanging over him since, and he had to deal with that. It speaks to the superficiality of their previous relationship, at least on Galen's side, that Nick didn't know about Bryan and the wreck. And Nick had a few secrets of his own, as well as some abandonment issues to work through. I felt that they worked through their issues fairly realistically - no magic words and all was well, no jumping into bed right off, and just being honest with each other goes a long way.
I really liked the flashbacks to Dexios and Lycon, and the way they interacted with Galen and Nick in the present day. . Dexios and Lycon tried to prevent Nick and Galen from making the same mistakes they (and generations afterwards) had made in their relationship, but of course we have to learn by our mistakes.
That was really my only issue with the book, and it's a fairly small one. Once the relationship drama picks up towards the end, there is a lot of miscommunication. As usual, most of the issues could have been solved quickly if they had just talked! The narrative was a little confusing here - I had trouble determining how long their breakup had lasted, how many times they tried to speak to the other, how many times one ignored a message from the other. It appeared that Galen had gotten texts or voice mails from Nick and had read/listened to them, but wasn't reacting. It seemed a little childish by the end. But their reunion was well done, and the ending was really sweet.
All in all, an excellent book from an author new to me. I think I'll have to go find more of her work.
October 24, 2013
I am prefacing this review by saying this is a book I have been waiting for from Labbe! I have many interests, but if you’ve read my bio you know I studied Art History and History so this book was tailor made for me. After reading many tweets about her research, writing progress and inspiration I could hardly stand the anticipation. And this book completely delivers!
Make Me Whole can’t be accurately placed into one genre, the main story is in a contemporary setting but elements of historical, paranormal, and mythological themes are littered through the novel. There are instances of the past very much active in the future through paranormal means. The main characters are Galen and Nick, two men that are being thrust back together, due to some mysterious statues, after a bitter breakup. But Galen and Nick aren’t the only couple struggling toward a happy ending. Dexios and Lykon have been separated for millennia and their love is one of the driving forces in the novel.
Nick was left heartbroken and bitter after Galen refused to move forward in their relationship. But there is more to Galen’s fear of emotional attachment than he was willing to share. Galen now attempts to reconnect with Nick and try to breathe new life into their defunct relationship using the newly found statues as a common interest. While they work through their issues Nick and Galen realize these statues are much more than mere bronze, but are actually the consequence of an ancient curse. A curse they have been destined to break.
The big conflicts in this book revolve around trust and what the lack of it can do to a relationship. Galen and Nick in the present and Dexios and Lykon in the past have been affected, at times devastatingly, by their lack of trust. Breaking a curse is no easy task, especially when the objects of the curse interfere. I was moved by the slow progress of the main characters but the most touching moments came from the doomed ancient lovers. What agony that due to your own actions you are so close and yet so far from the one you love…
I don’t want to give too much away so I will just say that this one left me with a very warm feeling at the end and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Jules
Make Me Whole can’t be accurately placed into one genre, the main story is in a contemporary setting but elements of historical, paranormal, and mythological themes are littered through the novel. There are instances of the past very much active in the future through paranormal means. The main characters are Galen and Nick, two men that are being thrust back together, due to some mysterious statues, after a bitter breakup. But Galen and Nick aren’t the only couple struggling toward a happy ending. Dexios and Lykon have been separated for millennia and their love is one of the driving forces in the novel.
Nick was left heartbroken and bitter after Galen refused to move forward in their relationship. But there is more to Galen’s fear of emotional attachment than he was willing to share. Galen now attempts to reconnect with Nick and try to breathe new life into their defunct relationship using the newly found statues as a common interest. While they work through their issues Nick and Galen realize these statues are much more than mere bronze, but are actually the consequence of an ancient curse. A curse they have been destined to break.
The big conflicts in this book revolve around trust and what the lack of it can do to a relationship. Galen and Nick in the present and Dexios and Lykon in the past have been affected, at times devastatingly, by their lack of trust. Breaking a curse is no easy task, especially when the objects of the curse interfere. I was moved by the slow progress of the main characters but the most touching moments came from the doomed ancient lovers. What agony that due to your own actions you are so close and yet so far from the one you love…
I don’t want to give too much away so I will just say that this one left me with a very warm feeling at the end and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Jules
August 23, 2014
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Relationships are always hard to maneuver, but throw in previous reincarnations messing with our protagonists, Nick and Galen, and it’s even more difficult than if it was only a two-person relationship.
Nick and Galen’s ancestors Dexios and Lykon have been under a curse since the Greek Goddess Cythera, also known as Aphrodite, decided to interfere when Lykon broke a promise to Dexios, sealing Dexios in four statues, and the only way for the curse to be broken is through Nick and Galen’s actions in their relationship in an attempt to make the incomplete statues Dexios is trapped in whole. A lot of hurdles in their relationship are addressed before the Greek tragedy gets a happy ending.
I was really excited to read this book but the ping-ponging Nick and Galen made in their actions and emotions started to get to me, and I had to take a short break from the book before I could continue. It was a good book, don’t mistake me on that, but when they had finally passed an obstacle they went right back to it later in the story and taking up an issue thought over and done with.
In the beginning of the story we get the impression that Galen will be the one to hinder their relationship, as he is the reincarnation of Lykon, the indecisive lover that broke the promise made to Dexios. However, it turned out Nick had at least as many issues as Galen if not more, and both have a past that color their choices and actions.
3.5 stars rounded up for this one.
Relationships are always hard to maneuver, but throw in previous reincarnations messing with our protagonists, Nick and Galen, and it’s even more difficult than if it was only a two-person relationship.
Nick and Galen’s ancestors Dexios and Lykon have been under a curse since the Greek Goddess Cythera, also known as Aphrodite, decided to interfere when Lykon broke a promise to Dexios, sealing Dexios in four statues, and the only way for the curse to be broken is through Nick and Galen’s actions in their relationship in an attempt to make the incomplete statues Dexios is trapped in whole. A lot of hurdles in their relationship are addressed before the Greek tragedy gets a happy ending.
I was really excited to read this book but the ping-ponging Nick and Galen made in their actions and emotions started to get to me, and I had to take a short break from the book before I could continue. It was a good book, don’t mistake me on that, but when they had finally passed an obstacle they went right back to it later in the story and taking up an issue thought over and done with.
In the beginning of the story we get the impression that Galen will be the one to hinder their relationship, as he is the reincarnation of Lykon, the indecisive lover that broke the promise made to Dexios. However, it turned out Nick had at least as many issues as Galen if not more, and both have a past that color their choices and actions.
3.5 stars rounded up for this one.
August 20, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Loved this story! Not much into historical book/stories, but the setting for this tale of redemption caught my attention immediately. I loved the myth the story was based on and the fact that the Goddess of this story was like the myths of old and not sweetened up. She took out her wrath on the lovers and made them pay for their lack of faith in one another.
Fast forward to the present day, and we have another pair of lovers with faith and trust issues. Just like the past lovers, Dexios and Lykon, Galen and Nick have issues with one another stemming from some pretty traumatic issues. Galen and Nick must work through their past and their present to free Dexios and Lykon.
I liked that the past directly played into the modern lovers issues and relationships. I wanted more of Dexios and Lykon, but felt the resolution of both relationships was neatly tied up. I was rather surprised that it was Dexios and Lykon were the ones creating some of the issues between Galen and Nick. However, it played well with the limits on the curse that the Goddess had set. The epilogue was just too sweet.
Marguerite Labbe was a new author for me and I enjoyed her writing style immensely. I will definitely seek out more titles by her.
Loved this story! Not much into historical book/stories, but the setting for this tale of redemption caught my attention immediately. I loved the myth the story was based on and the fact that the Goddess of this story was like the myths of old and not sweetened up. She took out her wrath on the lovers and made them pay for their lack of faith in one another.
Fast forward to the present day, and we have another pair of lovers with faith and trust issues. Just like the past lovers, Dexios and Lykon, Galen and Nick have issues with one another stemming from some pretty traumatic issues. Galen and Nick must work through their past and their present to free Dexios and Lykon.
I liked that the past directly played into the modern lovers issues and relationships. I wanted more of Dexios and Lykon, but felt the resolution of both relationships was neatly tied up. I was rather surprised that it was Dexios and Lykon were the ones creating some of the issues between Galen and Nick. However, it played well with the limits on the curse that the Goddess had set. The epilogue was just too sweet.
Marguerite Labbe was a new author for me and I enjoyed her writing style immensely. I will definitely seek out more titles by her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2014
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Galen Kanellis is the owner/director of an art gallery in Seattle. One morning, he finds boxes that contain ancient sculptures of a Greek warrior. Not knowing how these got there or the significance of them, he decides to call an ex fling, Nick Charisteas, an art history buff.
The statues, which are incomplete, are part of the Dexios collection. They are of an ancient Greek warrior who is missing his lover, Lykon, another warrior. They had made a vow to the goddess Cythera (Aphrodite) to stay together after the current war they are fighting. When Lykon leaves Dexios after the war, the goddess punishes them for breaking their vow to her to stay together. They will be reborn until such time they commit to each other four times.
We learn that Galen and Nick are descendants of these Greek warriors and must deal with past hurt and the interference (or is it help) of their ancestors in order to free not only the spirits of the warriors, but also of themselves.
I liked how the author wove in the ancient mythology with the contemporary characters. She provided a new spin on what are classic themes of Greek mythology. It was a well written story and I recommend it.
Galen Kanellis is the owner/director of an art gallery in Seattle. One morning, he finds boxes that contain ancient sculptures of a Greek warrior. Not knowing how these got there or the significance of them, he decides to call an ex fling, Nick Charisteas, an art history buff.
The statues, which are incomplete, are part of the Dexios collection. They are of an ancient Greek warrior who is missing his lover, Lykon, another warrior. They had made a vow to the goddess Cythera (Aphrodite) to stay together after the current war they are fighting. When Lykon leaves Dexios after the war, the goddess punishes them for breaking their vow to her to stay together. They will be reborn until such time they commit to each other four times.
We learn that Galen and Nick are descendants of these Greek warriors and must deal with past hurt and the interference (or is it help) of their ancestors in order to free not only the spirits of the warriors, but also of themselves.
I liked how the author wove in the ancient mythology with the contemporary characters. She provided a new spin on what are classic themes of Greek mythology. It was a well written story and I recommend it.
September 17, 2013
"Make Me Whole" cleverly weaves the contemporary story of Nick and Galen with an ancient myth surrounding two lovers - Dexios and Lykon - and four ancient statues. I enjoyed how the history between Dexios and Lykon and the myth about the statues related to and influenced Nick and Galen's modern-day relationship. It was refreshing to read about two adults working through their personal and relationship issues one step at a time rather than the magic "silver bullet" fix that some romance stories utilize. The main characters were sometimes frustrating, but I think that is how real people are when dealing with past hurts and fear of the future. The BDSM element to the story surprised me, but I felt it expressed well Galen and Nick trying to build trust between them. Couple of things that I struggled with were how easily the main characters (including Suzane) accepted the supernatural aspects of the statues. (I personally would have freaked out! ) And, Lykon's role in the last conflict between Galen and Nick - that seemed too much like a plot device. Overall, I enjoyed the story and the characters. And, the ending is beautiful!
December 15, 2013
3.5~4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
What an intense book this one was. Emotional intense that is and with good reason too since the protagonists of this story were all Mediterranean men, or descendants as they were Greeks and hot-blooded to the point of being irritating as hell. And as much as you wouldn’t have thought it from the way this story started, it was one heck of an interesting and passionate ride, so much so that by the end of it I was left nearly dumbfounded with the spin of this mythological tale and how well the tragic morale the ancient Greeks were so fond of was spun and told...
Read the entire review here.
Thommie
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
What an intense book this one was. Emotional intense that is and with good reason too since the protagonists of this story were all Mediterranean men, or descendants as they were Greeks and hot-blooded to the point of being irritating as hell. And as much as you wouldn’t have thought it from the way this story started, it was one heck of an interesting and passionate ride, so much so that by the end of it I was left nearly dumbfounded with the spin of this mythological tale and how well the tragic morale the ancient Greeks were so fond of was spun and told...
Read the entire review here.
Thommie
April 6, 2014
Really amazing!! I started reading it without knowing the story because I dear friend said I had to read it no matter what and she was right! I was hooked from the start! 4 main characters! And the idea of the curse coming all this centuries is just freaking genius! And seeing this 4 mans coexist made me laugh, cry and be hot all over! I must tell I wanted to freaking hit Nick many times during this book, I'm not complaining it just mean I was really attached to this characters what its great! I love when I book got me like that! You will fall in love and struggle with those 4 and have a hell of a ride! Totally great book! Will come back to read again for sure!
September 22, 2013
This was originally going to be a short story in my daughter's Anthology Passionate Exhibitions and, after reading it, I am not surprised that Ms Labbe changed her story for that one and extended this to a full novel. It is a wonderful story that takes you from ancient unfinished Greek Statues to a modern gay romance with a twist. It has a depth of emotion to it that defies description and there is enough mystery to keep most people happy. I can't tell you more without spoilers but suffice to say it will be well worth your while to pick it up and read it.
August 17, 2016
3.5 Stars but I'm rounding up. I spent so much time reading this book wanting to either smack the back of Galen, Nick, Lykon and Dexios heads or try to pull their heads out of their asses It started to get a little tiresome. Of course Lykon and Dexios being statues for the most part it probably wouldn't have helped.
Other than being perhaps a bit overly long and the ending rather short I still recommend the book.
Other than being perhaps a bit overly long and the ending rather short I still recommend the book.
August 26, 2013
“Make Me Whole” caught me by surprise. I read the description and I thought it would be interesting, a modern tale with a bit of mystery revolving around ancient Greek statues. What I was not expecting is how the lives of both men are so intertwined with the legend surrounding the statues...
To read the full review please go to:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
To read the full review please go to:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
September 24, 2015
The mythology in the story was more a paranormal feel to it. The base of the story was supposed to be about Dexios and Lykon, but Galen and Nick's story is what brought the undertone of the whole story in a cohesive concept. The possessions by Lykon, and the apparitions of Dexios were more a paranormal vibe, and less mythological. But it's a great story of patience, love and fear.
April 25, 2014
Very well written, unusual characters and a well earned happy ending for all. This is a quiet book that you can put aside for a little while and look forward to picking back up. Basically, what that means is I stopped to cook dinner instead of ordering takeout.
August 10, 2016
I'm really excited about this one, I like when I find a more original MM romance especially one with a supernatural element. That does NOT contain a vampire or shifter. Hoping those novels are finally ending.
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