Review: 'Catch my Breath' MJ O'Shea
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 14, 2014
What young man who enjoys singing and making music wouldn't jump at the chance to perform, even if it is a boy band? At first glance, it seems like a dream come true, but as Danny, Elliot, and three other young men from 'Catch My Breath' by M.J. O'Shea, find out, it's not all fun and games.Danny is a talented young man who loves to entertain. He comes from a privileged family, rich in material things, but poor in affection. His best friend is also his girlfriend. They've been together since they were twelve. When Danny discovers that his feelings for her are not what they should be and that he's attracted to Elliot romantically, he does the right thing and breaks up with her to pursue his feelings for Elliot. He has an idea that the producers won't like it so he and Elliot try to keep their relationship secret and proceed very slowly in developing it. It's not enough for their promoters. Because they want the boys to seem more interesting and available to young fans, they provide them with images that are nowhere near who they are in real life. When their bosses learn of their affair, they devise a plan which makes it seem like Danny has a girlfriend. Try as he may, Danny can't fight their plans to keep him and Elliott apart. He agrees to date another female singer who is aware that it is for publicity purposes only. He hates having to spend time with her which takes away his time with Elliot. Needless to say, it puts a huge strain on their relationship.Elliot is shy and inexperienced; he falls for Danny the first time he sees him. Their relationship, although having to be kept secret, is poignant and so pure and loving that it made me cry. Their consideration and feelings for each other made the story for me. The way they value each other's feelings and opinions is incredibly touching and their beautiful physical intimacy blew me away. Elliot isn't prepared for the negativity and greed, putting money above anything else, be it honesty, reputation, heartbreak, or any other human emotion. Elliot and Danny's vow to stay together, regardless, is swiftly obliterated by the avarice of the record company, with little or no regard for either young man's feelings. Elliot makes a valiant effort to fulfill his end of the bargain, to allow himself to be defamed and called a man whore, while Danny flits around town with a beautiful woman, holding hands, smiling, enjoying fabulous dinners and other outings, while he stays at home, alone, and miserable. Everyone has their breaking point though, and Elliot finally reaches his. He is tired of the lies, hypocrisy, and his Danny being with someone else; so tired when he comes home that they can't even make love. He tells Danny that he simply can't go on like they are. He wants to go back to being friends, but doesn't want to pursue their romantic relationship any longer. Naturally, Danny is heartbroken, but thinks he's bound by his contract and has to do what they tell him. Elliot hates being emotionally distant toward Danny and knows that he should move out of their apartment, but just doesn't have it in his heart to do so. He still loves Danny, but simply can't take the pain anymore. During this part of the book, I basically lost it. My heart was aching for them and tears were running down my face. I was so angry at their bosses that I couldn't see straight, angry not only for forcing the boys apart, but for inventing such vile reputations for their fans just to make them more popular.Even though many of the situations in the story are familiar, the care MJ put into developing the characters is phenomenal. None of them were two-dimensional; their personalities were authentic, believable, and admirable. The way all five boys loved and nurtured each other touched me deeply and, even through their rough times, held the story together. Their attitudes towards each other paved the way for their eventual success. I loved this simple, but heartfelt book and think anyone who likes wonderful characters, boy bands, honesty conquering deceit, and love finding a way, will enjoy it too. Thanks, MJ, for a sweet, enjoyable book.Originally viewed at Rainbow Book Reviews.