Reviewed by Becca

TITLE: Survive and Conquer

AUTHOR: Andrew Grey

PUBLISHER: Dreamspinner Press

LENGTH: 193 pages

RELEASE DATE: July 9, 2019

BLURB:

Newton DeSantis was on the ground when the towers collapsed on 9/11. Though he still carries the scars on his body and his heart, he’s determined to ease some of the world’s suffering. Now a social worker and father to two children with special needs, he’s doing his best. But when one of his cases needs a good lawyer, Newton turns to Chase for help.

Family law attorney Chase Matthews is a rising star, and he’s in high demand. Still, Newton is very persuasive, and Chase takes his case pro bono. Everything about the other man appeals to Chase, but he’s determined to keep the relationship professional—even though, after meeting Newton’s kids, he wants to be a part of their lives.

Chase’s job doesn’t always allow him to pick his clients, though, and a case that could make him partner will put him on the opposite side of the courtroom from Newton—along with everything he believes in and the future they could build together.

REVIEW:

Holy crap, I don’t know where to start. I guess I need to start with triggers. This deals with a hell of a lot, but it’s worth it. There is sexual child abuse, although not described in detail, bigotry, homophobia, special needs children, 9/11 survivor and all the health and bueracracy that entails, family law cases, and social work dealing with children. There are flashbacks and nightmares and if any of this triggers you, please be careful.

I do have to say this is one hell of a book. I am truly at a loss right now for words, though. Things that happen in this book happened every day in life, and it’s upsetting that people can’t get help they need because someone else holds night purse strings or someone’s laziness or because the justice system can be crappy. It broke my heart reading this. And yes, there is an HEA. And it’s worth every word. But the road to true happiness often come with prices that can be hard to pay. The fight is what makes it all worthwhile.

Newton gave up hope of every finding someone to call his life partner. Between his health, his work, and his special needs kids, there just isn’t time. But a special case has caused him to come in contact with Chase, a man Newton greatly admires. But Chase doesn’t want to help and Newton isn’t taking no for an answer. Eventually, Newton gets his way and Chase finds an interest himself in someone. He’s been in dry dock a while himself, focusing solely on his career. But something about these two captivate each other. But both are scared. Their pasts leave them leery and Newton is careful because of his kids. But the kids love Chase and Chase is finally feeling like he has found a home in this little family. But a case Chase is working ends up being one Newton works on as well and it could cause a conflict of interest. It also brings up the past, which Chase hasn’t discussed yet. But Chase is scared if he tells Newton, he won’t look at him the same again and thinks maybe backing off will be better. But better for who?

The pasts of these guys. Geez. Watching the 9/11 alone. I remember everything from that day and I can only imagine the people that actually went through it. Then you have Chase’s past. My word, my heart. There were moments I had to put the book down. Not because it’s bad, but because of the intensity of the situations. Andrew pulls no punches with this story. And even though it’s not a severely graphic thing, you can’t ignore details that are there. The things implied. And it’s a harsh reality. But the title of the book says it all. They survive and Conquer. Even when life throws everything it can at them, the fight, they hope, they trust and they survive. And learn to love.

It’s an angsty book so be prepared for it. But if you don’t read this, you’re missing out on a hell of a book. The way it’s written is absolutely amazing and I’m glad I got the chance to read it.

RATING: 

BUY LINKS: 

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