Review: Packs a punch!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 09 8, 2013
Jimmy hasn't much been home in over ten years, but now he's headed there to visit his ailing mother with his boyfriend, Chase, in tow. When Jimmy graduated high school he couldn't get out of Alabama fast enough. Surrounded by hatred and ignorance he always hid his sexuality, and to this day no one but his mother knows the truth about Jimmy and Chase.Jimmy's mom is very old fashioned, even giving them the "you can't sleep in the same bedroom!" ultimatum. Her and Chase take to each other immediately, but she is still hesitant to admit to herself that her son is gay. So she tries to push him toward his ex girlfriend. This coupled with fact that Jimmy refuses to acknowledge their ten year relationship around his friends pushes Chase away. Jimmy soon learns that his fear of coming out may cost him the person he loves the most.I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Eventually we all end up back home and if something drove you away, you end up having to come to terms with that as well, if you haven't already. Chase was already the mature male in their relationship, and Jimmy had issues he had to deal with on his own terms. Alexander made sure that Jimmy remained a likeable character, even when his head was up his ass. His insecurities and unassuredness made him the perfect guy for Chase who was confident and outspoken.The addition of just a couple of basic secondary characters really took this story up a notch for me. It was refreshing to see another side of the jilted ex girlfriend, Monica. Yes she was pist at first to learn of Jimmy's sexuality. But only because she'd always thought something was wrong with her, to explain away his lack of interest. When the dust settles she stands by Jimmy and makes sure he knows he has a friend. And momma, although old fashioned and slightly stubborn, eventually finds common ground with Chase. Jimmy. She sees the way they are with each other, stolen glances and tender moments and realizes Chase truly does love her son. She can argue the right or wrong of being gay till the cows come home, but she can't argue love.This little book packs a lot in its pages. Love, compassion, ignorance and understanding. And you know that Jimmy and Chase found a way around momma's separate beds rule! I definitely recommend this book, it has a nice HEA, bonus!