Dani Alexander

Shattered Glass

Jasmine

Wow, I consumed and devoured the pages of this book I couldn't get enough! Even though this was a more or less a standalone story and had a very well told and complete story I just want more time. Really the only complaint I would have about this entire book was after all the build up the ending felt rushed and I could've easier had another book just about Peter & Austin. I really should've looked because when I saw the other two books and the age of this one I assumed it was a series, only to find out it's been years and the second book is still not been written, and the whole thing is now giving me flashbacks to a particular favorite series of mine Dowside Ghosts, and me still years later contastantly checking to see if by some miracle Unholy Luck one day is finished. At least with this series there is closure but would I give everything to get to read Cai & Riley's story and hopefully still lots of Austin&Peter while were at it? Hell yes I would, but I'm not going to be keeping my hopes up on the happening sadly 

Let me tell you I love a good narrator and Austin met all my snarky inner monologue needs and then some! There were some emotional parts and a lot of tragic back stories, but because of Austin's inner snark, silly comments, and the constant banter there is a lot of fun to be had too. Not to mention complicated relationships with lots of baggage on both sides and us the reader just being front and center for the whole crazy show taking place. I love these characters they all have my heart!

Amanda Wells

This is the second LGBT themed book I've reviewed lately, and I don't usually admit to anyone quite how many of these books I read, but in the interests of honesty: I read a LOT of them. I don't admit to it, because I don't really want people to know how often I encounter enjoyable books with smut...

So having said that, I have to tell you that this definitely rates in the top 5 of the many I've read. Why? Well that's hard to be succinct about - but I'll try.

Firstly, it is different... the narrative doesn't follow all the usual methods. The frequent subtitles that are, by the way, hilarious - the irreverent tone of the narrator/protagonist - you feel a little as though the author had fun writing this book. That the author went 'fuck it I'm going to write it how I feel it should be written' and that makes it a joy to read. 

Secondly the characters, even the supporting characters, are really well rounded, without too much exposition. And the main character is deeply flawed, deeply loveable, and one of the best protagonists I've read in this genre, or actually in general. I love too, that his flaws are things that you as the reader notice before they are explicitly commented on by others. Just an example of how the author allows you to SEE things rather than be told things. 

Finally, the plot was complicated, and angsty and wonderfully executed - especially for a book that isn't in the crime genre. I was impressed... I didn't see where it was going until it had gone there. And that plot developed organically alongside of (and entwined with) the subplots of developing relationships and identity. 

I had so many laugh out loud moments, as well as genuine concern and stress in the appropriate moments, which meant I simply had to give 5 stars (it was amazing) over 4 (I really liked it). While I won't be recommending this book to my grandmother any time soon, if you are interested in reading a novel that isn't just about a relationship and all that drama, I would absolutely recommend it. If you want a well-written book that has LGBT themes, as well as non-relationship-driven drama, and believable plot - READ THIS BOOK!

Shattered Glass

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