A mini-review from Caz about a story of unexpected love…
Narrated by Nick J. Russo
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.
In the Gray is a heartfelt and emotional story about finding love in unexpected places and slowly regaining control of one’s own life. The book deals with some difficult issues – homelessness, domestic abuse, depression and mental illness – but with a fairly light touch; nothing is swept under the carpet, though, and the author’s descriptions of what it’s like to live on the streets – from the violence faced by the unhoused to the difficulties of maintaining good hygene or getting a job – are excellent. But it’s also a book of two parts, one of which – the first – is much more interesting than the other, and there’s a secondary plotline – houseless people being attacked – that is just dropped and not resolved.
I liked the characters (who are a bit older than many romance protagonists at thirty-nine and forty-one) – they’re both kind, decent people who have been dealt a tough hand in life. Lachlan became houseless when he left his abusive partner; Foster lives with depression and although he manages it well most of the time, sometimes, it overwhelms him and he has days he can’t even get out of bed. I appreciated that while Foster would love to just swoop in to ‘rescue’ Lachlan, he doesn’t do that and stops to think or to ask before he acts, and gives Lachlan the tools to rescue himself. And when Foster’s depression begins to darken his days again, Lachlan gives him the support and the understanding he needs to get through it. They’re wonderfully accepting and supportive of each other and the hurt/comfort aspect of the story is very well done.
Nick J. Russo is a narrator I always enjoy listening to. I know I can rely on him to deliver an engaging and well thought-out performance with strong vocal characterisations and clear character differentiation throughout. I liked his portrayals of Foster and Lachlan and he absolutely nails their growing emotional connection, clearly conveying their strengths and vulnerabilities as they learn to trust and open up to one another.
Mr. Russo’s terrific performance certainly enhanced my enjoyment of In the Gray, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys low-angst hurt/comfort romances.
Caz
Buy In the Gray by Christina Lee on Amazon
