roryta86reads's review
3.0
It's such a heartbreaking story. I mean, the things that were done to Seth, I just can't imagine, even though I know these things still happen nowadays, around the world!
babytloves2read's review
TW: child abuse, assault
Why the fuck do I love this series so much??
Why the fuck do I love this series so much??
galleytrot's review
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
READ: Jul 2023
FORMAT: Digital
BRIEF SUMMARY:
In book two of this contemporary romance, Malcolm and Seth are settling into their new roles as Daddy and Boy, but even though the worst is behind him it’s going to take a lot of work for Seth to overcome his lingering trauma. Malcolm understands that he is not a professional, and his help can only extend so far – Seth is in need of therapy that Malcolm can arrange for, but he needs to want it, too. Another facet of Seth’s healing journey is going to be the prosecution of those who conspired to hurt him and others like him, and Daddy’s role as protector is teetering between seeing justice served and sheltering Seth from reliving all of the worst memories and emotions of his abuse.
ENTERTAINMENT VALUE: 3 / 5⭐
Even though plenty happens in this story, it feels like not a whole lot happens in this story. It runs a bit like a laundry list of things to accomplish before the series can reach its eventual conclusion. We go through a handful of holidays and events that each go some way towards leading Seth on a path of self-acceptance.
Malcolm wants to pursue charges against Seth’s father and the rest of the men who put him through hell on earth, but preferably not at the expense of Seth’s carefully-earned progress. He’s working on Seth’s confidence and self-worth, but there are hurdles in place that Malcolm is not equipped to handle, and he knows when professional help is called for – even as Seth pushes back against what’s best for him. Seth truly wants to be better, to try new things, to feel capable, to stop being paralyzed by self-doubt. Unfortunately, the emotions and intrusive thoughts go from zero to sixty at the tiniest provocation, ad Daddy can’t be at his side a hundred percent of the time to talk him down.
TECHNICAL / PRODUCTION: 3 / 5⭐
The brunt of my criticisms from the previous book holds true here as well: Knight’s poor grammar and odd phrasing is pervasive, and her books could use another pass of editing. The difference this time around is that, where the previous book had too much to accomplish in too few pages, this one felt like the opposite was true. The pacing of either just doesn’t work for me, and ths book felt mostly like padding and filler.
Credit where it’s due though: I very much enjoyed each moment of the club scene, the dance scene, and the following hotel scene. It finally felt like the characters had a moment to breathe, to completely let go of everything holding them back, if only for a moment. They finally got the chance to show what they have to offer one another without the oppressive fear of backsliding or triggering bad memories. It’s a rare moment of frenetic catharsis in a story that’s just packed to the brim with constantly walking on eggshells.
FINAL THOUGHTS - OVERALL: 3 / 5⭐
I feel certain that this is a transitional book between the first and third of the series, and while it set up some likely-important events that should have a future payoff, it’s mostly just exactly what it is on its face. I’m still withholding judgment on whether these three short books couldn’t just be one longer book (Update: it could, and it should!), but that is the opinion I’m leaning toward.
This book has representation for gays. There is otherwise little in the way of diversity.
The following elaborates on my content warnings. These may be interpreted as spoilers, but I do not go into deep detail.
Spoiler
This book contains: references to past abuses, child abuse, both physical and emotional; homophobia, religious bigotry; PTSD, panic attacks; alcohol use; and, attempted abduction, drugging.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Alcohol, Child abuse, Cursing, Violence, Grief, Kidnapping, Emotional abuse, Homophobia, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, and Torture
colleen_m's review
3.0
"When you say you’re proud of me or that I’m a good boy, I…I’ve never felt such happiness as that, such satisfaction.” Seth regarded him intently. “Before you, I was a disappointment to everyone. Useless. A waste. With you, I’m special. Worthwhile. I need to be the best boy for you.”
The first book in this series was a 5 star read for me, full stop. This... felt unnecessary. Whereas the first book left you hopeful for the future where Seth would heal, most of this book focuses on Seth's setbacks. There wasn't really anything that furthered the story of these two, other than some closure maybe for Seth, but that didn't even happen until the very end. Overall, I wouldn't change that I read this, but I wanted more development rather than just rehashing Seth's issues in between some hot sex scenes.
The first book in this series was a 5 star read for me, full stop. This... felt unnecessary. Whereas the first book left you hopeful for the future where Seth would heal, most of this book focuses on Seth's setbacks. There wasn't really anything that furthered the story of these two, other than some closure maybe for Seth, but that didn't even happen until the very end. Overall, I wouldn't change that I read this, but I wanted more development rather than just rehashing Seth's issues in between some hot sex scenes.
michaeljpdx's review against another edition
4.0
You can read my complete review of “For the Love of a Boy” at my web site.
ankysbookbubble's review against another edition
5.0
Loved it
This was such a sweet story with so much gentle loving and care. Malcolm was an amazing Daddy and I loved the way he took care of Seth.
This was such a sweet story with so much gentle loving and care. Malcolm was an amazing Daddy and I loved the way he took care of Seth.
misssleepless's review
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Religious bigotry, Sexual content, and Violence
ld2's review
5.0
Strength in Love
Malcolm and Seth’s relationship continues to grow and bloom. It’s absolutely beautiful. The tenderness and love they have for each other warmed my heart. This book had angst, but the angst was wrapped in sweet fluff so it never hurt too much. The angst still ached, but those sweet, tender moments between Malcolm and Seth were a soothing balm to the ache.
It was nice to get to know Nate and Tina more, and I wish that I could have seen Seth’s interaction with Malcolm’s parents, especially his mom. The plot was focused mostly on the growing relationship between Malcolm and Seth as well as Seth’s healing process, but there were some action packed scenes near the end that were exciting. The sex scenes were plentiful and amazing. So kinky, so smutty, and very erotic.
Overall Rating: 5 Stars. The writing was beautiful and the characters were superb. I am completely invested in Malcolm and Seth’s journey and I can’t wait for book 3 to come out.
Malcolm and Seth’s relationship continues to grow and bloom. It’s absolutely beautiful. The tenderness and love they have for each other warmed my heart. This book had angst, but the angst was wrapped in sweet fluff so it never hurt too much. The angst still ached, but those sweet, tender moments between Malcolm and Seth were a soothing balm to the ache.
It was nice to get to know Nate and Tina more, and I wish that I could have seen Seth’s interaction with Malcolm’s parents, especially his mom. The plot was focused mostly on the growing relationship between Malcolm and Seth as well as Seth’s healing process, but there were some action packed scenes near the end that were exciting. The sex scenes were plentiful and amazing. So kinky, so smutty, and very erotic.
Overall Rating: 5 Stars. The writing was beautiful and the characters were superb. I am completely invested in Malcolm and Seth’s journey and I can’t wait for book 3 to come out.
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