I’m a big fan of GS Wiley’s writing and this particular offering is perhaps my favorite of her books. It’s not perfect but the writing is evocative and there is so much potential in this story, I really wish this had turned into a meaty, in depth novel. Instead Wiley keeps the story light and almost too easy in spots, but the texture and character given to the story and writing are engaging and inviting. This more of a literary novella with gay characters than a gay romance and it’s not erotica at all. Wiley doesn’t really write erotica – I remember I actually blushed when she wrote “cock” in one of her books, I so don’t associate that with Wiley – and those that are expecting any sex scenes or a strong romance may be disappointed.

The plot revolves around a nineteen year old who has had to take care of his family for the past few years since his mom abandoned them. Forced to grow up at a young age, Jay works two jobs and struggles to provide for his family – 16 y/o Jess, 9 y/o Zoe, 5 y/o Nico – as he deals with the police and old rivals in a low income housing unit. Jay gets unexpected help from a new to the patrol Police Constable, Brendan.

The story itself is rather light even though it tackles some big issues with great potential. There is the main character of Jay who is struggling with two jobs, three kids, and no time for a life himself. Complicating matters is the oldest girl, Jess, who is rebelling in a heavy goth phase and getting into bad company. Both Jay and Jess get involved in some difficult situations involving drugs and violence. On a positive note, none of these issues are depressing or bring down the light, easy flow and pace to the book. On the negative side is that none of these issues are fully fleshed out. Each is hinted out briefly and eventually pseudo-resolved but none are really given the time, attention, and depth they deserve. Their potential is barely skimmed with the easy handed manner in which they are treated. This story is filled with enough material for a much longer book and it’s disappointing that the choice was made to keep the story light and short.

The characterization is similarly skimmed with much more waiting to be explored. The story is told in third person, alternating from Jay and Brendan’s point of views. Jay is a complicated mess from his determination to do right for his family to his elemental fear of failing, his distrust of the police and his neighborhood. All of this combines to give a complex, intricate character that is shown in his day to day life but skims over the emotional road bumps. Even the scene where Jay is explaining to Brendan why his mother left is oddly detached with an almost clinical information dump. This pivotal scene lacks an emotional connection between the men that shimmers beneath the surface. The chemistry between the two is there, but never given full attention. Part of this is that the book also focuses on Brendan’s failed relationship and finally accepting his attraction to the younger Jay. Since the two have so few scenes together, the connection exists in their minds more so than their action and the story ends as soon as the two show a possible future.

So while there are clearly some issues with the story, what shines so brightly is the tight writing, great setting, and true texture in the story. There are small choices such as prose or dialogue that truly immerse the reader in the setting and the cracked sidewalks, depressing jobs, and threads of hope. The secondary characters from the neighbors to the other constables, even Brendan’s mother are interesting and almost given too much space at the expense of the main characters. The book draws you in with the small details, such as the scene with Jay scared for his life contemplating a knife but knowing what it would mean for his family if he got caught. The word choice gives an authentic feel and tone to the story where unfamiliar words or phrases don’t feel awkward and misplaced as so often happens in books.

Although I think this novella has the potential to become a truly stunning book, the story is still well written with great characters, an authentic setting, and the thread of hope and romance. The focus on the characters and how Brendan and Jay meet could set this duo up for a sequel and if so, I hope the issues and characters are fully explored and developed to their limits. I’d recommend this book to those who are looking for a solid story about gay characters, but don’t expect any sex or a lot of romance. I don’t mind but others may so be sure to read this when you’re in the mood for something easy.

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