It was great to finally get Mike’s story. After his brief appearances in the first two books of the ‘Box of Nails’ series, I have to admit I was both curious about him and very worried. Being shy is not a problem, but he is clearly scared of simply everyone and everything, and the fact that he cuts is not really a good sign. Paul and Jeff (from book two), do the best they can to be his friends and to take care of him, but it doesn’t seem to be enough. Mike needs much more than good friends, and I couldn’t wait to see who would ride to his rescue, so to speak.

Angus is a cop, and a friend of Barney’s (from book one). He first hears about Mike at a party, and he is intrigued. Once he meets Mike, he becomes very interested and decides to help him. Since he used to cut as well, when he was younger, he doesn’t just understand what Mike is going through from a theoretical point of view, he actually knows what it feels like to have that need to bleed out the pain, or the fear, or whatever else it is that bothers a cutter to the point where they need to inflict that sort of harm on themselves. His patience seems infinite, but he is determined, and very slowly manages to gain Mike’s trust. It may start out as him wanting to help, because he can, but very soon he realizes he is beginning to love Mike and wants to be a lot more for him than “just” his savior.

Mike is in a very bad spot. Raped and made fun of, taunted at a frat party three years ago, he feels guilt, shame, and downright nasty. Cutting is a way to let out the bad and the fear, but he is also very aware that it could become his way out of this world, permanently, if he ever needs it to be. He cannot believe anyone would be interested in him, that he could be good enough to be important for someone to love him. It takes him a long time to warm up to Angus, but it seems easy. At least a lot easier than he thought it would be. He cannot believe that Angus really loves him, but the evidence keeps mounting, and when Angus needs him, he is there for him.

If you like stories about wounded men who need time and lots of love to heal, if you want to see what it’s like to be afraid all the time only to find out there is a better way of living once the right man comes along to help give you the courage to face your fears, and if you’re looking for a very angsty yet sweet read with an ending like a modern-day fairy tale, then you will probably like this novella.


NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ( )

Blood play, insta-love, MC with an outrageously low self esteem. Not my speed at all. If that flips your lid, you will enjoy this. If not, stay away.

Cannot recommend. ( )