Reviewed by Sadonna

TITLE:  In the Gray 

AUTHOR:  Christina Lee

PUBLISHER:   Self-published

LENGTH:    254 pages

RELEASE DATE:  October 19. 2023

BLURB:

Foster
I moved to a new city for a librarian job at the university, and though I’m enjoying the change, it does little to dispel the dull grayness of my world. When my dog, Oscar, forms an instant bond with a man living in a yellow tent, my surroundings begin to feel more vibrant and full of possibility. I’m first drawn to Lachlan’s soulful eyes, and then to his kind nature and resilient spirit. I want to know more about him, and Oscar seeking him out on our daily walks provides me with that opportunity.

Lachlan
One split-second decision leads to losing everything and living on the streets. Still, I’d choose my current conditions over being harmed by someone I loved. The only bright spot in my struggle to survive is the handsome stranger and his dog. Despite how compassionate Foster seems, I don’t want any handouts. I need to stay safe and stand on my own two feet after what I’ve been through. But when I find myself in a bind, I allow Foster to rescue me, if only for a night.

Our circumstances couldn’t be more different, and yet I’m drawn to Foster in ways I hadn’t expected. When our attraction skyrockets, Foster assures me that finding comfort in each other doesn’t hurt anyone. But when it becomes something deeper—meaningful conversations and mind-blowing intimacy—it occurs to me that I might’ve met the right man at the wrong time. Story of my life.

*CW: Discussions and depictions of domestic violence, mental health struggles, and experiencing homelessness.

REVIEW:

What a truly lovely book!  I will admit that I was pretty nervous going into this.  One of my first M/M reads was A Note in the Margin by Isabelle Rowan.  That book gutted me.  I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop in this one and I was pleasantly surprised at the direction it took.  Not that there weren’t certainly hard moments.  For some reason books on this subject really really make me sad.

For me, this is one of Christina Lee’s best books.  Lachlan and Foster were written with such care and understanding.  They each had their own issues.  Foster was so compassionate and caring with Lachlan as they got to know each other.  He was respectful and understanding.  Foster has his own issues to deal with and Lachlan isn’t judgmental or dismissive.  I liked how Oscar was the catalyst for their relationship.  Who’s the best boy?  😉

The relationship is tentative at first as both men have trust issues – particularly Lachlan after what he’s been though and as a result of his childhood.  But the two men build a friendship and a relationship over time based on respect and compassion and ultimately trust.  Lachlan has found himself in a position he never saw coming and that he had no choice in.  It’s clear that his situation is wearing on him, but he’s not given up.  Foster is trying to make a new life for himself as well.  Their communication through each step is based on honesty.  Together they provide support for one another in ways they hadn’t found in the past.  I could go on and on.  Honestly this is a beautiful story.  The epilogue is really special  This is a book that despite tackling very difficult subjects is uplifting and heartwarming.  Highly recommended.

RATING: 

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