Review: Something Political I am NOT sick of =)
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 09 14, 2012
4.5 StarsHoly hell, when I asked to review this book by L.A. Witt I knew it was centered on a gubernatorial campaign. I knew it was a M/M story and I knew one of the men was currently married. But, I had no idea I would be blown away yet again by this author. Although I am personally SICK of political coverage, rhetoric, and mudslinging this was written by L.A. Witt and I had just recently read another book of hers for review and I wanted to see if that one was a fluke or she is really as talented as I think she is. I can tell you now, without a doubt, she is absolutely as talented as I think she is. (For those of you who don't know this already L.A Witt is also Lauren Gallagher whose recent release, Who's Your Daddy, is one of my favorite reads this year.) If you don't read the M/M genre, then I highly suggest your check out her Lauren Gallagher offerings because this is one author everyone should be reading.Anthony Hunter is a brilliant campaign manager so when a former candidate asks him to help run his nephew's campaign for governor of California he's intrigued but given who it is; Anthony knows it will be an uphill battle all the way. Anthony is controlled, respected, and honorable. He's also a chain smoker, vegetarian, and closeted gay man.Jesse Cameron is a former bad boy member of the Hollywood elite married to a former model turned actress. Jesse also happens to be a lawyer, an advocate for abuse victims, and as we find out one heck of a political candidate. He also happens to be somewhat scattered, a wonderful boss, brother, and friend, and a closeted gay man living a lie of being happily married.Anthony finds himself attracted to Jesse early on but because he doesn't know of his sexual orientation, he assumes it's because he hasn't been involved with anyone for awhile. The more he gets to know Jesse the more he likes him as a person, and he knows he's the best candidate for the job. He also feels that there's something Jesse isn't telling him but he lets it go. Jesse also has strong feelings for Anthony but he's promised his uncle he'll keep his sexuality under wraps until after the election and he won't tell anyone else his secret.I honestly felt like I was on the campaign trail right along with these characters. From the first chapter to the last this story moved at an unbridled pace just what I imagine a real campaign would be like. This book contains so many interlocking storylines and each one is vital to the plot. Both Jesse and Anthony are interesting and engaging characters and it's hard not to like them. They are not without flaws but it's easy to overlook them because of their good qualities. In addition to them, we are treated to a whole host of supporting characters who I found to be equally fascinating. Jesse's assistant, Ranya, is funny, articulate, and a great sounding board and friend to Jesse. I also love the interplay between her and Anthony, there is a great respect between them and it shows. Simone, Jesse's wife, was a tougher one to like but I respected her for the decisions she made and the fact that she really and truly loves Jesse despite everything. Roger, Jesse's uncle, I wanted to choke but then I suppose that's exactly how the author wanted us to feel about him. In my mind he is a typical politician and that's not a good thing, but his character was necessary and plays a huge part in the outcome of this book.When Anthony and Jesse finally give in to their growing feelings for one another and the affair that follows is touching, emotional, and yes, smoking hot. It was also somewhat surprising because we saw a real change in Jesse during these private times. It also became quite clear exactly how deeply connected these men are to each other.In addition to Jesse and Anthony's relationship this book also deals with domestic abuse of someone close to Jesse, Simone's eating disorder, and betrayal by someone Jesse trusted. There is such a depth of emotion to this book and it spans all the interlocking storylines, I found myself laughing one chapter and crying the next. It also makes you realize even more how everything candidates do is reported regardless of the truth and even more how anything can be spun to create a new "truth". With this book I realize even more how difficult it is to believe anything that is put out by all candidates. I will also go on the record and say that if Jesse Cameron were to run for president, I would vote for him because he has integrity to spare, something more candidates need.This is an outstanding romance but it's so much more. The characters are captivating, the dialog smart and engaging, and the plot is very realistic and believable. L.A. Witt is without a doubt a writer who I intend to keep my eye on. Where There's Smoke is an intelligent, well written book that should not be missed!Review copy provided for an honest review.