12-17-2025, 10:52 AM
Hey ebook people - I thought I might share my thoughts on this book, just finished it last night. Overall it was a worthwhile read, and I do like Oscar Peppers writing style, it's very accessible and totally honest. It's very relatable, at least it was for me. I like how he uses italics to convey his thoughts, as they are happening, and his memories. I got through this book really quickly - as it doesn't have chapters per se, just two parts and an epilogue.
I did feel a little disappointed at the direction that the story takes, quite suddenly, and before any real "boy-love story" has taken place. I dunno, I think I was expecting a secret romance between boy and man, but the story wasn't what I had expected. The main adult character Opey is well developed and sympathetic, although his attitude to the boys in his life is a little flippant I suppose. He's quite selfish, but still likeable when all is said and done.
The boy character, Ethan, is fairly well written but I think the book could have benefitted from a more clear definition of the nature of their relationship. I was never sure whether Ethan was Opeys' teen lover, or simply a friend. Maybe I missed something ? But I never got the impression they "did it". Ethan does have his moments of flirtation, and suggestive behaviour, but the author never goes beyond outlining these coquettish moments. We never really discover what happened at that sleep over. Or how they came to be in a motel together. Or what they did on their drives in the country. Maybe I'm supposed to read between the lines. I'm not sure.
I won't say too much regarding the storyline, other than to say, it's interesting but also quite sad. If you're looking for a "feel good" story, this may not be the one. But if you're interested in one mans journey to understand his own desires and ultimately understand what true love is, then it's certainly worth a read.