Retro Review ~ Slide by Garrett Leigh
Don’t look back. Don’t you ever look back…
Shy tattoo artist Ash has a troubled past. Years of neglect, drug abuse, and life on the streets have taken their toll, and sometimes it seems the deep, unspoken bond with his lover is the only balm for wounds he doesn’t quite understand.
Chicago paramedic Pete is warmth, love, and strength—things Ash never knew he could have, and never even knew he wanted until Pete showed him. But fate is a cruel, cruel mistress, and when nightmares collide with the present, their tentatively built world comes crashing down.
Traumatic events in Pete’s work life distance him from home, and he doesn’t realize until it’s too late that Ash has slipped away. Betrayal, secrets, and lies unfold, and when a devastating coincidence takes hold, Pete must fight with all he has to save the love of his life.
4.5 Stars
Wow, so I don't really know what to say about this story. I don't think I have the words to properly express what this book made me feel. It's emotional and powerful. I was never comfortable in Pete and Ash's relationship. My stomach was in knots the entire story. I was never able to just relax and enjoy their story, not that it wasn't an excellent story, it's just loaded with angst, on top of angst with a side of angst.
I'm not gonna say a lot, because there isn't a whole lot I can say without giving too many spoilers, but what I will say is: I absolutely loved Ash and Pete. My heart broke for both of them. You know Ash has had a horrible and traumatic childhood that has damaged him and keeps him from fully giving into his feelings for Pete and being completely comfortable with himself. Pete's childhood was far from perfect, but he had two parents who loved him and although his father passed away some time ago, he still has a wonderful relationship with his mother, Maggie, whom I absolutely adored!
Although the story is dark and not always easy to read, it's well-written and captivating. From the first page I was invested in Pete and Ash and had a hard time putting this book down. As dark and heavy as it is, I couldn't walk away from Pete and Ash. I'm looking forward to moving onto book two, and seeing what the future holds for these men. Very recommendable, but bring tissues!
*copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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