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Shelter
Fresh from his fourth stint in rehab, Elias James doesn’t have much to live for. His relationship with his family has never been so strained and with no real life of his own, he has nothing to live for. His overachieving twin sister and his ruthless mother's political success as Mayor of Havenmoore has left him empty. Getting high started as an act of rebellion but the addiction soon controlled his every waking moment.
Aspiring writer, Caden Walker, thought he had the perfect life until he discovered his boyfriend in bed with his best friend. Leaving everything behind in New York, he returns to Havenmoore to re-evaluate his life from his parent’s guest bedroom. When his mom offers him a job working for the charity she runs, helping people struggling with addiction, he’s not in a position to turn it down.
Caden never expected to find what he did, but when he is assigned to work with Elias, a reluctant attraction quickly blossoms into something deeper. Can Elias find in Caden the one thing he’s always searched for or will his addiction drag him under once again? Is Caden ready to let go of his New York dream to take a chance on something unexpected? Both men are faced with difficult times of change, but can they make it through the storm to find the shelter?
Aspiring writer, Caden Walker, thought he had the perfect life until he discovered his boyfriend in bed with his best friend. Leaving everything behind in New York, he returns to Havenmoore to re-evaluate his life from his parent’s guest bedroom. When his mom offers him a job working for the charity she runs, helping people struggling with addiction, he’s not in a position to turn it down.
Caden never expected to find what he did, but when he is assigned to work with Elias, a reluctant attraction quickly blossoms into something deeper. Can Elias find in Caden the one thing he’s always searched for or will his addiction drag him under once again? Is Caden ready to let go of his New York dream to take a chance on something unexpected? Both men are faced with difficult times of change, but can they make it through the storm to find the shelter?
320 pages, ebook
First published October 11, 2015
About the author
Ashley John
23 books806 followersAshley John is a gay author of gay/mm romance novels. Living in the north of England with his fiance and two cats, Ashley John spends his days writing down the voices he hears in his head. His books are primarily romance dramas with sprinklings of erotica and he has a knack for making you feel like you're living right beside the characters he creates. Ashley John is also a keen artist and he puts his artistic side to designing all of his own covers.
Find ashley john at ashleyjohn.co.uk
KEEP UP WITH ASHLEY JOHN ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyjohnart
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/itsashleyjohn
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ashleyjohn
Find ashley john at ashleyjohn.co.uk
KEEP UP WITH ASHLEY JOHN ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyjohnart
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/itsashleyjohn
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ashleyjohn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
October 15, 2015
Gosh. Ashley can just really write characters that make me swoon. Oh, Elias. Wonderful book. <3 Srsly tho... the book hangover from ALL the feels.
Currently reading
October 12, 2015
November 5, 2015
3.5 Stars
Review originally posted at Sinfully...
Out of his fourth stint in rehab for cocaine addiction, this time court ordered and coming after he nearly died of an overdose, twenty six year old Elias has lost hope. His mother, the mayor, has forced him into rehab and an outreach program and has set him up in an apartment, all to keep him out of prison, and therefore out of the public eye and disassociated from her and her career. The two have had no real relationship since he was a young child and she deemed him nothing but trouble, casting him aside and lavishing all her attention on his twin sister.
Elias’ twin sister Ellie is at her end too, having rescued him every time he has called, she loves her brother but is putting her foot down and pulling back. Her tough love includes banning Elias from contact with her six year old son. This is the first action that starts to really weigh on Elias and sparks him to consider straightening out his life. The second is his outreach case worker Caden.
Caden is twenty nine, but acts much older. He is having a bit of a life crisis, leaving New York City after having been cheated on by his boyfriend with his best friend, and failing to jump start his writing career. He is now back home, living with mom and dad and licking his wounds. He’s agreed to work for his mother’s outreach charity helping people with addiction to get back on their feet. It’s a job he has done before, but left when things didn’t go well with a client. He is reluctant to try again, but when he meets Elias something pulls at him and he is determined to help. He is also almost immediately fighting an attraction that he knows will be problematic and could cause harm to everyone involved.
Elias is a character I was pulling for from the start, just waiting for him to find his strength and worth. On top of all the heartache from his family and his addiction, he has been in the closet and never in a relationship. He is drawn to Caden and wants to let the man help him, but is not really in any state to make good decisions as he struggles to stay clean. Their attraction quickly ignites though, and Elias finds Caden to be a shelter from his demons, but worries he may be trading one addiction for another. I really felt for him and his struggles. The fact that his sister and his mother expect him to fail right from the start makes it even harder. It took me a little while to appreciate Caden, but he did manage to win me over. I really did like the romance between them and the way they fought for each other. The fact that Caden couldn’t resist Elias, even knowing how wrong it was, humanized him for me.
The other relationship that played out very nicely is that of Elias and Ellie. Although they grew up in the same house, they had very different childhoods. Ellie is pretty blind to everything Elias went through as she grew up being groomed and applauded by her mother as the perfect child. Even in the face of evidence of her mother’s behavior toward Elias, it is still hard for her to really see what is going on. Her love for her brother was always there even as she struggled with pushing him away at times for both their good. Their mother on the other hand was nothing but evil for seemingly no other reason than the quest for power and status.
There were a few things that did manage to draw me away from the story however. Elias and Ellie are 26 so there is no way she could have been such an established doctor. She would still be, at most, in her residency yet she’s the town’s best doctor. It’s also a recurring plot point that Elias’ existence is a pretty big secret as far as the “tight-knit town where everybody knew everyone’s business” is concerned, however he spent most of his life there, going to school with his sister and being a trouble maker. I just could not believe that most of the people did not know he existed. I also thought that the mother’s actions at the end were too abrupt and out of nowhere after she was shown to be such a cruel, self-absorbed, uncaring character.
Ashley John did a good job with the personal relationships and I especially liked the way he wrote Elias. The hurt comfort angle really worked for me, but I would have liked to see more attention paid to the details that made up the background of the characters and the storyline.
Review originally posted at Sinfully...
Out of his fourth stint in rehab for cocaine addiction, this time court ordered and coming after he nearly died of an overdose, twenty six year old Elias has lost hope. His mother, the mayor, has forced him into rehab and an outreach program and has set him up in an apartment, all to keep him out of prison, and therefore out of the public eye and disassociated from her and her career. The two have had no real relationship since he was a young child and she deemed him nothing but trouble, casting him aside and lavishing all her attention on his twin sister.
Elias’ twin sister Ellie is at her end too, having rescued him every time he has called, she loves her brother but is putting her foot down and pulling back. Her tough love includes banning Elias from contact with her six year old son. This is the first action that starts to really weigh on Elias and sparks him to consider straightening out his life. The second is his outreach case worker Caden.
Caden is twenty nine, but acts much older. He is having a bit of a life crisis, leaving New York City after having been cheated on by his boyfriend with his best friend, and failing to jump start his writing career. He is now back home, living with mom and dad and licking his wounds. He’s agreed to work for his mother’s outreach charity helping people with addiction to get back on their feet. It’s a job he has done before, but left when things didn’t go well with a client. He is reluctant to try again, but when he meets Elias something pulls at him and he is determined to help. He is also almost immediately fighting an attraction that he knows will be problematic and could cause harm to everyone involved.
Elias is a character I was pulling for from the start, just waiting for him to find his strength and worth. On top of all the heartache from his family and his addiction, he has been in the closet and never in a relationship. He is drawn to Caden and wants to let the man help him, but is not really in any state to make good decisions as he struggles to stay clean. Their attraction quickly ignites though, and Elias finds Caden to be a shelter from his demons, but worries he may be trading one addiction for another. I really felt for him and his struggles. The fact that his sister and his mother expect him to fail right from the start makes it even harder. It took me a little while to appreciate Caden, but he did manage to win me over. I really did like the romance between them and the way they fought for each other. The fact that Caden couldn’t resist Elias, even knowing how wrong it was, humanized him for me.
The other relationship that played out very nicely is that of Elias and Ellie. Although they grew up in the same house, they had very different childhoods. Ellie is pretty blind to everything Elias went through as she grew up being groomed and applauded by her mother as the perfect child. Even in the face of evidence of her mother’s behavior toward Elias, it is still hard for her to really see what is going on. Her love for her brother was always there even as she struggled with pushing him away at times for both their good. Their mother on the other hand was nothing but evil for seemingly no other reason than the quest for power and status.
There were a few things that did manage to draw me away from the story however. Elias and Ellie are 26 so there is no way she could have been such an established doctor. She would still be, at most, in her residency yet she’s the town’s best doctor. It’s also a recurring plot point that Elias’ existence is a pretty big secret as far as the “tight-knit town where everybody knew everyone’s business” is concerned, however he spent most of his life there, going to school with his sister and being a trouble maker. I just could not believe that most of the people did not know he existed. I also thought that the mother’s actions at the end were too abrupt and out of nowhere after she was shown to be such a cruel, self-absorbed, uncaring character.
Ashley John did a good job with the personal relationships and I especially liked the way he wrote Elias. The hurt comfort angle really worked for me, but I would have liked to see more attention paid to the details that made up the background of the characters and the storyline.
December 9, 2017
*** 2,3 stars***
With a Mother like this.
No wonder you need this.
To keep you sane, and loved...
When all you need is only 'this'
Too much drama after drama after drama. The H/H can't even have a longer time having sweet moments together.
They're just running around from one drama to another.
Somebody has to kill the mother. She's just unforgivable.
I'm tired reading this drama.
This book was NOT for me.
With a Mother like this.
No wonder you need this.
To keep you sane, and loved...
When all you need is only 'this'
Too much drama after drama after drama. The H/H can't even have a longer time having sweet moments together.
They're just running around from one drama to another.
Somebody has to kill the mother. She's just unforgivable.
I'm tired reading this drama.
This book was NOT for me.
November 12, 2015
Well, I’ll start this review by saying that I’m really pleased that Ashley is a young up and coming UK Author BUT unless things are changed..and that’s radically changed in the near future, I for one will not be reading any more of his work, which is a real shame. I’m not saying any of the following to be mean or nasty, I’m just getting completely ticked off at the lack of editing/poor quality of editing in stories nowadays, and to make the Author aware that he needs to change things around..and quickly too.
I made some comments in my review for BOSS which should’ve been picked up on..but it would appear that Ashley still feels that he has NO need whatsoever for an editor and the Beta readers he uses for their ‘hawk eyes’ in the dedication are an ABSOLUTE JOKE - I can only assume they’re in it for the ARC and the mention in the dedication, it’s certainly not for the things they’ve picked up on in the story. We have typos, wrong verb tenses, incorrect usage of personal pronouns, loads of verbiage, words incorrectly used, words that do not exist..all things that a decent editor should pick up on and erase completely. If the author I beta read for allowed the errors that litter THIS story into her books, she would no longer be one of the best-selling authors in the genre..but she’s FAR too professional for that. She rigorously checks things, tweaks things and will not put the story into print until she’s completely satisfied and happy with what she’s accomplished.
I liked the characters of Elias and Caden, but was extremely dubious as to whether Elias’ twin Ellie could have possibly qualified as a doctor by the age of 26 AND with a young son in tow. Surely if you’re going to put a character into a story, you need to be absolutely positive whether what you will eventually write about that character is correct?? My own Googling confirmed and I quote..
’The requirements for becoming a doctor in the U.S. may vary by specialty. In general, doctors complete a 4-year undergraduate degree program, spend four years in medical school and then complete 3-7 years of residency training, before they are eligible for medical licensing’
..so there is NO WAY Ellie could have been a doctor by the age of 26, poetic license be damned!! You can’t just throw a character you’ve created into a story and not have checked up on the background you’ve given them..otherwise things like this will happen again..and again!! I was also very sceptical about the ‘no-one else in the town of Havenmoore (other than Caden’s mum) knew of the existence of Elias..Mr Invisible Man’ plotline, that he was the Mayor’s son and the twin brother of the doctor..just no, that could not happen in a small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business.
As I’ve already said, this will be my last Ashley John read until he employs an editor capable of cutting out all the mistakes that are being published at the moment..in effect we’re buying stories that are full of errors, and if you were in a supermarket, you could take the damn thing back!! Yes, you may call me a Grammar Nazi and whatever other phrases suit your purpose BUT there is FAR too much of this poor end product in the M/M genre, and Authors need to stop thinking about whether or not they can afford an editor to polish and tweak their work and start thinking about how many sales they are losing by not giving their readers a fully rounded and finished end product. I notice I’m not the only one to complain about this story unfortunately. 3 stars from me.
October 9, 2015
Shelter is the perfect savoring tasting slow cooker romance. All the ingredients are mixed in from the beginning and are slowly revealing their spice to make the ending that delicious, mouth-watering need of a second helping exquisite meal.
Caden's battle of broken dreams and having too much love makes him feel like a failure as a man.
Elias' battle of drug abuse and never being loved makes him feel worthless as a man, especially when the one person who should have shown him love growing up is the one who is set out to keep him out of life.
When these two come together by fate, Caden's abundance of love and Elias' determination, these two become each other's needs, savior and shelter.
As an early Beta reader, thank you Ashley for the chance to read about your wonderful boys. They melt my heart.
Caden's battle of broken dreams and having too much love makes him feel like a failure as a man.
Elias' battle of drug abuse and never being loved makes him feel worthless as a man, especially when the one person who should have shown him love growing up is the one who is set out to keep him out of life.
When these two come together by fate, Caden's abundance of love and Elias' determination, these two become each other's needs, savior and shelter.
As an early Beta reader, thank you Ashley for the chance to read about your wonderful boys. They melt my heart.
October 24, 2015
Elias and Caden were a wonderful surprise ! This book started out with Elias getting out of rehab, and Caden, who has come back home to start over. Deep thought-filled characters, interesting and fast paced story, with hot sexiness, too. Caden helps Elias by first being a friend, and their relationship emerges and gets more and more amazing. Elias is staying clean, his evil mother hates him, and Caden just likes him for who he is. Things get messy in their lives, but it's all because evil mom was more horrible than anyone imagined. Caden's ex shows up, Elias's drug dealer shows up to set him up - paid for by evil mom - and we are on the edge of our seats ! Wow!
Highly recommend this terrific tale of acceptance, forgiveness, real friendship, and true love.
ENJOY !!!
Highly recommend this terrific tale of acceptance, forgiveness, real friendship, and true love.
ENJOY !!!
October 14, 2015
This was good. Really good.
I stumbled upon this book and was immediately taken by the blurb. And also on the day it was out and published. So yeah, I had to buy it. I maybe, just maybe skipped my last college because I wanted to go home and read it (sorry teacher, but the story was totally worth it).
Now I could write a review, but let's be honest. I'm not that good at it. Some people can write such good reviews without spoilers, explain the story excellent and also add their feelings. I'm not one of them. Most of the time I find it hard to explain exactly why you need to read it and only can say you NEED to read it NOW.
So for an excellent review, don't read this ;)
Some of my thoughts,
- Elias. I want to grab him and give him a big hug.
- Caden
- Elias and Caden together. How they slowly discover each others interests, feelings and fears. How they help each other, how they trust each other and how they attract and challenge each other.
So just do me a pleasure and read it! Okay? Deal!
“You make me feel safe, you make me feel calm and you make me feel normal. It's like you're a shelter from all of the things that turn me bad.”
I stumbled upon this book and was immediately taken by the blurb. And also on the day it was out and published. So yeah, I had to buy it. I maybe, just maybe skipped my last college because I wanted to go home and read it (sorry teacher, but the story was totally worth it).
Now I could write a review, but let's be honest. I'm not that good at it. Some people can write such good reviews without spoilers, explain the story excellent and also add their feelings. I'm not one of them. Most of the time I find it hard to explain exactly why you need to read it and only can say you NEED to read it NOW.
So for an excellent review, don't read this ;)
Some of my thoughts,
- Elias. I want to grab him and give him a big hug.
- Caden
- Elias and Caden together. How they slowly discover each others interests, feelings and fears. How they help each other, how they trust each other and how they attract and challenge each other.
So just do me a pleasure and read it! Okay? Deal!
“You make me feel safe, you make me feel calm and you make me feel normal. It's like you're a shelter from all of the things that turn me bad.”
October 19, 2015
Heart wrenching
That was a beautiful heart wrenching story. Elias is a strong (he doesn't know that) man who was fighting against his ghosts and his addiction. When he met Caden his life gets a clearer goal. There are some really heartbreaking parts. No one should never ever has to go through stuff like Elias has. Cades was in a way his haven. Their love was real
The way this book is written is exceptional good. Not overdone but realistic and down to earth. The feelings were so real and convincing. It was If I was sitting and watching it beside me, so close it came.
Its a really #mustread
That was a beautiful heart wrenching story. Elias is a strong (he doesn't know that) man who was fighting against his ghosts and his addiction. When he met Caden his life gets a clearer goal. There are some really heartbreaking parts. No one should never ever has to go through stuff like Elias has. Cades was in a way his haven. Their love was real
The way this book is written is exceptional good. Not overdone but realistic and down to earth. The feelings were so real and convincing. It was If I was sitting and watching it beside me, so close it came.
Its a really #mustread
October 19, 2015
That was a beautiful heart wrenching story. Elias is a strong (he doesn't know that) man who was fighting against his ghosts and his addiction. When he met Caden his life gets a clearer goal. There are some really heartbreaking parts. No one should never ever has to go through stuff like Elias has. Caden was in a way his haven. Their love was real
The way this book was written is exceptional good. Not overdone but realistic and down to earth. The feelings were so real and convincing. It was If I was sitting and watching it beside me, so close it came.
Its a really #mustread
The way this book was written is exceptional good. Not overdone but realistic and down to earth. The feelings were so real and convincing. It was If I was sitting and watching it beside me, so close it came.
Its a really #mustread
October 13, 2015
Shelter was given to me as a Beta read so for that Ashley, thanks so much ~
As always, after reading any book written by Ashley John, I always feel a little lost, withdrawn maybe, or even a bit sad. The reason is always the same ~ his characters are so vibrant and colorful and their thoughts put to paper are so intimately and passionately spoken that I feel like I'm always having to say goodbye to some newly acquired friends.
Shelter is a story about Elias, his drug addiction and the toll it takes on the lives of those around him. Its heart wrenching and frustrating to read because after he's released, it's such a challenge to stay clean and sober without the support of his family. Why should they trust him? They've all been through this before. But this time, luckily for Elias, he walks out of rehab and into the arms of Caden. They fall hard and fast. Sometimes fate will put two people together who actually wind up leaning on each other. There's so many things that could trigger a relapse for Elias throughout this book. At the same time, finding out that there are people who actually love and need him puts a lot of positive pressure on Elias to be the best person he can be. I love Ellie, Elias' sister. She is real hard on her brother so I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about her in the beginning but she's my heroine! Between Caden and Ellie, Elias has a real shot at making it, right? Maybe, unfortunately for every good person around him, there's also those that want nothing more than to see him fail. This was such a tragically beautiful read ~ five shining stars for me.
As always, after reading any book written by Ashley John, I always feel a little lost, withdrawn maybe, or even a bit sad. The reason is always the same ~ his characters are so vibrant and colorful and their thoughts put to paper are so intimately and passionately spoken that I feel like I'm always having to say goodbye to some newly acquired friends.
Shelter is a story about Elias, his drug addiction and the toll it takes on the lives of those around him. Its heart wrenching and frustrating to read because after he's released, it's such a challenge to stay clean and sober without the support of his family. Why should they trust him? They've all been through this before. But this time, luckily for Elias, he walks out of rehab and into the arms of Caden. They fall hard and fast. Sometimes fate will put two people together who actually wind up leaning on each other. There's so many things that could trigger a relapse for Elias throughout this book. At the same time, finding out that there are people who actually love and need him puts a lot of positive pressure on Elias to be the best person he can be. I love Ellie, Elias' sister. She is real hard on her brother so I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about her in the beginning but she's my heroine! Between Caden and Ellie, Elias has a real shot at making it, right? Maybe, unfortunately for every good person around him, there's also those that want nothing more than to see him fail. This was such a tragically beautiful read ~ five shining stars for me.
March 1, 2017
4 MALICIOUSLY MOTHERLY STARS!
Elias is just out of yet another rehab stint with no intention on giving up his addiction.
Caden has just returned home after finding his boyfriend and his best friend (for want of a better word) barney-mugging! Caden's mother works for an outreach programme helping addicts just out of rehab stay clean and offers Caden a temporary job while he sorts himself out. Guess who Caden's first client is? Oh yes it's Elias.
This is the sweet story of two men overcoming their troubled pasts and finding the right path towards happiness. Oh and throw in an evil mother and a mistrusting, cold twin and you have the perfect recipe for an addictive read!
Elias is just out of yet another rehab stint with no intention on giving up his addiction.
Caden has just returned home after finding his boyfriend and his best friend (for want of a better word) barney-mugging! Caden's mother works for an outreach programme helping addicts just out of rehab stay clean and offers Caden a temporary job while he sorts himself out. Guess who Caden's first client is? Oh yes it's Elias.
This is the sweet story of two men overcoming their troubled pasts and finding the right path towards happiness. Oh and throw in an evil mother and a mistrusting, cold twin and you have the perfect recipe for an addictive read!
October 15, 2015
I am so in love with this book, the story line the characters...all just pure perfection. Shelter is one of those amazing reads that will stay with you long after you have finished!!! Elias and Caden are so beautiful together, and their struggles are emotional and raw, but it's in that that they find true love. I have to say this is by far Ashley John's greatest work!!! Shelter is def a masterpiece ❤️❤️ get it, love it and be prepared to feel a roller coaster of emotions you won't soon forget.
February 29, 2016
Oh my, if there was ever a story that takes someone from rock bottom, leads them to a new start with a whole load of bumps in the road on the way, to a future to hope for then it’s definitely Elias in Ashley John’s book Shelter. This is truly a heartfelt story about Elias’s struggle to beat the habit of drugs and make a future for himself. There’s nothing more I like in a character than someone who is prepared to fight and overcome all their difficulties. Who comes back from being
We first meet Elias coming out of rehab as he landed up there due to an overdose. the clinic has got him clean so far but now the hard work starts and that is staying clean. Is he weak? Is he a lost cause? Why did he even start using in the first place? Well, when we start to learn about his family background, how is was brought up and what he experienced at the hands of his mother, yes I could perfectly see why he got himself in such a state. His mother is mayor of the town he lives in. Publicly she all smiles and kissing babies. Privately, she a bitch! And when I say bitch, I mean B.I.T.C.H. Ooohhh, it’s not very often I really feel intense hate for a character but I so did with this one. Elias has a twin sister but as his sister was always the star child, academic achiever, gets some attention from her mother but Elias is totally shoved off to the sidelines and ignored to the extent the town isn’t even aware the mayor has a son, only a daughter.
What will it take for Elias to overcome his addiction? To give him hope of a future? To get him back on his feet? Well this hope arrives in the form of Caden. Caden has moved back home and with his parents after catching his ex-fiancé in flagrante with a mutual friend. Yes, he’s hurting and but obviously once trust has been broken in such a way then there is really no repairing it. Caden starts to work for his mum’s charity which is an outreach programme to provide support for drug addicts out of rehab and try to keep them on the straight and narrow. Caden is assigned to Elias and something starts that neither of them had bargained for.
I loved how this relationship developed. At first Elias is still hurting, cynical, only has drugs on his mind, still suffering somewhat from withdrawal, over the worst but still a long way to go.Caden is trying to put his past behind him, forget what happened in NY and move on as best he can. Although he’s approaching 30 starts to ask all the usual questions about what he has achieved in his life so far. So in many respects both characters are in need of some form of healing. However, when things become a little too close for comfort Caden breaks of his support as counsellor and swaps with his mum. I know there is always a professional distance to keep but then when you have taken that step isn’t it too late? Especially when you know that what you are doing is going to make the difference between keeping someone on the right path or not. Elias feels let down and his mistrust and lack of faith in human nature is once again proved right. However, this time he fights and confronts Caden. After Caden caves in no longer able to deny what is happening he finds himself involved in a whole lot of shit and scandal caused not by Elias but of Elias’s mum’s doing to protect her precious reputation. Did I say what a BITCH this woman is? I did? OK, then you see how much I hated this woman.
The fight is now for their love, against the evil machinations of Elias’s mother but at least the relationship with his twin sister starts to become better and they find a way to each other. In the end even his sister can see what an evil person their mother is, even if she did turn out to be a bit of a clone of their mother. There were times that I just couldn’t believe what was happening. A moment where Elias almost went back to using and me talking to myself saying, “Please, don’t do it! No. No. No!” It was a close call but I huge sigh of relief when it all worked out OK.
And it was this that kept me totally invested in the story. Elias’s struggle and fight on all fronts, the drugs, his family, keeping Caden. I was sooooo proud of him by the end I was overjoyed that he came through strong, turned his life around and became a better person for it. YES! As for the bitch? Well, she kinds of get her just rewards but it wasn’t nearly as hard as she deserved in my books. A great story from Ashley John which will give any reader something to get their teeth into and shows us that where there’s a will, and most importantly love, there is most definitely a way!
NARRATION
For once I really don’t have a lot to say – lol! Only because the narration is wonderfully done, the voice characterisations are great and makes for a super listening experience. The only very small, personal, micro-point is I felt certain scenes could have just had a little more emotion in them. Elias at the beginning is one angry young man. When Rigsy tries to attack Elias and attempts to get him back on drugs or when Elias confronts his mother, for some reason I was just missing a little more emotion or anger behind the voice. But after all is said and done it was a great narration and I enjoyed it very much.
We first meet Elias coming out of rehab as he landed up there due to an overdose. the clinic has got him clean so far but now the hard work starts and that is staying clean. Is he weak? Is he a lost cause? Why did he even start using in the first place? Well, when we start to learn about his family background, how is was brought up and what he experienced at the hands of his mother, yes I could perfectly see why he got himself in such a state. His mother is mayor of the town he lives in. Publicly she all smiles and kissing babies. Privately, she a bitch! And when I say bitch, I mean B.I.T.C.H. Ooohhh, it’s not very often I really feel intense hate for a character but I so did with this one. Elias has a twin sister but as his sister was always the star child, academic achiever, gets some attention from her mother but Elias is totally shoved off to the sidelines and ignored to the extent the town isn’t even aware the mayor has a son, only a daughter.
What will it take for Elias to overcome his addiction? To give him hope of a future? To get him back on his feet? Well this hope arrives in the form of Caden. Caden has moved back home and with his parents after catching his ex-fiancé in flagrante with a mutual friend. Yes, he’s hurting and but obviously once trust has been broken in such a way then there is really no repairing it. Caden starts to work for his mum’s charity which is an outreach programme to provide support for drug addicts out of rehab and try to keep them on the straight and narrow. Caden is assigned to Elias and something starts that neither of them had bargained for.
I loved how this relationship developed. At first Elias is still hurting, cynical, only has drugs on his mind, still suffering somewhat from withdrawal, over the worst but still a long way to go.Caden is trying to put his past behind him, forget what happened in NY and move on as best he can. Although he’s approaching 30 starts to ask all the usual questions about what he has achieved in his life so far. So in many respects both characters are in need of some form of healing. However, when things become a little too close for comfort Caden breaks of his support as counsellor and swaps with his mum. I know there is always a professional distance to keep but then when you have taken that step isn’t it too late? Especially when you know that what you are doing is going to make the difference between keeping someone on the right path or not. Elias feels let down and his mistrust and lack of faith in human nature is once again proved right. However, this time he fights and confronts Caden. After Caden caves in no longer able to deny what is happening he finds himself involved in a whole lot of shit and scandal caused not by Elias but of Elias’s mum’s doing to protect her precious reputation. Did I say what a BITCH this woman is? I did? OK, then you see how much I hated this woman.
The fight is now for their love, against the evil machinations of Elias’s mother but at least the relationship with his twin sister starts to become better and they find a way to each other. In the end even his sister can see what an evil person their mother is, even if she did turn out to be a bit of a clone of their mother. There were times that I just couldn’t believe what was happening. A moment where Elias almost went back to using and me talking to myself saying, “Please, don’t do it! No. No. No!” It was a close call but I huge sigh of relief when it all worked out OK.
And it was this that kept me totally invested in the story. Elias’s struggle and fight on all fronts, the drugs, his family, keeping Caden. I was sooooo proud of him by the end I was overjoyed that he came through strong, turned his life around and became a better person for it. YES! As for the bitch? Well, she kinds of get her just rewards but it wasn’t nearly as hard as she deserved in my books. A great story from Ashley John which will give any reader something to get their teeth into and shows us that where there’s a will, and most importantly love, there is most definitely a way!
NARRATION
For once I really don’t have a lot to say – lol! Only because the narration is wonderfully done, the voice characterisations are great and makes for a super listening experience. The only very small, personal, micro-point is I felt certain scenes could have just had a little more emotion in them. Elias at the beginning is one angry young man. When Rigsy tries to attack Elias and attempts to get him back on drugs or when Elias confronts his mother, for some reason I was just missing a little more emotion or anger behind the voice. But after all is said and done it was a great narration and I enjoyed it very much.
October 18, 2015
"You make me feel safe.You make me feel calm and you make me feel normal.It's like your're Shelter from all the things that make me bad..."
This is the fifth book by Ashley John that I have read and it will not be the last.Shelter is such a well written,emotional M/M read and yet it is so much more.The character's are believable and I was drawn into the story right from the start,and the Epilogue was perfect for their HEA.I don't want to go into too much of how their story unfolds-but I will say this,
Elias had no self-worth,thinking he has nothing to live for,his initial struggle to cope outwith his fourth rehab stint for cocaine addiction.I was angry at the ways and lengths his mother the Mayor of Havenmoore went to make sure no one knew of her son's existence-only his twin sister Ellie being more acceptable for Public knowledge. Caden,who tired to resist his attraction to Elias,the inevitable finally happening resulting in both male leads finding something that was missing in each other,was tastefully done yet not making it the main focus.For me this story is more about healing,repairing relationships between brother and sister,finding the strength to confront the one who has used their power to control situations and finding the unconditional love and respect deserved.It is an absolute must read and is worthy of more than 5*'s
This is the fifth book by Ashley John that I have read and it will not be the last.Shelter is such a well written,emotional M/M read and yet it is so much more.The character's are believable and I was drawn into the story right from the start,and the Epilogue was perfect for their HEA.I don't want to go into too much of how their story unfolds-but I will say this,
Elias had no self-worth,thinking he has nothing to live for,his initial struggle to cope outwith his fourth rehab stint for cocaine addiction.I was angry at the ways and lengths his mother the Mayor of Havenmoore went to make sure no one knew of her son's existence-only his twin sister Ellie being more acceptable for Public knowledge. Caden,who tired to resist his attraction to Elias,the inevitable finally happening resulting in both male leads finding something that was missing in each other,was tastefully done yet not making it the main focus.For me this story is more about healing,repairing relationships between brother and sister,finding the strength to confront the one who has used their power to control situations and finding the unconditional love and respect deserved.It is an absolute must read and is worthy of more than 5*'s
September 23, 2016
Heart wrenching
This was not my first book by Ashley John. He has constantly upped the bar, giving the readers great characters and amazing stories. Each new book honing his talent.
I loved the sweet flawed Elias, beautiful and broken by the one person who should have loved him unconditionally. After his 4th rehab stint he's released with no real hopes of staying clean. In comes Caden who now at almost thirty finds himself living at home again. His mother runs a charity support network helping recovering addicts adjust to life after rehab. Caden has his own issues, fresh off a breakup with his longtime fiancé after he finds him cheating. Caden is tasked with being Elias' support counselor. Just what Elias needs. :)
I loved how these men both brought something to the table neither were perfect, both having self doubts, yet the author gave us real emotions. Lots of angst. I had several sobbing, can't even see the pages to read moments. This book needs a "box of tissue needed" warning attached. You've been warned. Then there was the man on man sex, oh yeah. It just keeps getting better. This is a stand alone book.
Is it a perfect book in a perfect world? No. But it's an amazing mm read and I highly recommend it.
I can't wait to see what's coming next!
This was not my first book by Ashley John. He has constantly upped the bar, giving the readers great characters and amazing stories. Each new book honing his talent.
I loved the sweet flawed Elias, beautiful and broken by the one person who should have loved him unconditionally. After his 4th rehab stint he's released with no real hopes of staying clean. In comes Caden who now at almost thirty finds himself living at home again. His mother runs a charity support network helping recovering addicts adjust to life after rehab. Caden has his own issues, fresh off a breakup with his longtime fiancé after he finds him cheating. Caden is tasked with being Elias' support counselor. Just what Elias needs. :)
I loved how these men both brought something to the table neither were perfect, both having self doubts, yet the author gave us real emotions. Lots of angst. I had several sobbing, can't even see the pages to read moments. This book needs a "box of tissue needed" warning attached. You've been warned. Then there was the man on man sex, oh yeah. It just keeps getting better. This is a stand alone book.
Is it a perfect book in a perfect world? No. But it's an amazing mm read and I highly recommend it.
I can't wait to see what's coming next!
October 14, 2015
I was lucky to be a Beta reader for Ashley John and I can say with 100% honesty he has done it again. Another amazing story full of angst, love and forgiveness.
Elias is likeable as a troubled drug addict. He's been in rehab 4 times and this is his last chance before its prison.
Caden is back in his home town after breaking up with his fiancé Finn.
Both are lost looking for something or someone to keep them on a straight and narrow.
But the path of true love never runs smoothly. Ellie, Elias' twin sister has been there every time and been let down every time but maybe she can appeal to the caring brother she knows is in there.
A mother who thinks she knows best and maybe she does for everyone else in town but not her own children.
And another mother who thinks she knows what her son wants even of it means him forgiving an unforgiveable act.
All of this builds for an amazing setting and makes real life leap off the page.
Elias is likeable as a troubled drug addict. He's been in rehab 4 times and this is his last chance before its prison.
Caden is back in his home town after breaking up with his fiancé Finn.
Both are lost looking for something or someone to keep them on a straight and narrow.
But the path of true love never runs smoothly. Ellie, Elias' twin sister has been there every time and been let down every time but maybe she can appeal to the caring brother she knows is in there.
A mother who thinks she knows best and maybe she does for everyone else in town but not her own children.
And another mother who thinks she knows what her son wants even of it means him forgiving an unforgiveable act.
All of this builds for an amazing setting and makes real life leap off the page.
October 9, 2015
This is an amazing book!! Who doesn't love a man who loves with his whole heart and soul, that's Caden and evidently one man didn't. Caden moves back home to figure inside out. Elias has never had that kind of love, from anyone, drugs are his way to block out the hurt.
Once they meet, there's that spark, that little bit of hope for Elias. Will Caden be his shelter from the storm of drugs and his own mother?
This is a book about trust, about love, about hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. A fantastic story!!!
I was a Beta reader for Ashley, I love getting my hands on his stories!!! They draw you in, break you apart and then put you back together with a smile!!! Thank you for this beautiful story!!
Once they meet, there's that spark, that little bit of hope for Elias. Will Caden be his shelter from the storm of drugs and his own mother?
This is a book about trust, about love, about hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. A fantastic story!!!
I was a Beta reader for Ashley, I love getting my hands on his stories!!! They draw you in, break you apart and then put you back together with a smile!!! Thank you for this beautiful story!!
October 18, 2015
I haven't read a book by Ashley John before but I honestly loved Shelter. Although this story dealt with addiction and was heartbreaking at times the relationship between Elias and Caden gave you the warm and fuzzies which I love. Its definitely one of my favorites for this year, well done loved it!
November 23, 2015
4.5 review soon at BMBR.
January 29, 2016
2 Stars
Personally, I thought this book was borderline disaster and therefore I don’t have a lot of nice things to say.
The best things about this book? The cover is gorgeous and fits the plot and the blurb hooked me.
I took a break from reading for a few weeks, mainly because of some anxiously awaited new releases that landed. But, for me, the fact that I could so easily put it down with those new books sparkling and flirting with me is a bit telling, especially when I went for several other books on my TBR before returning.
I got to 47% before my break then I picked it up again nearly a month later…it took re-reading two paragraphs for me to remember everything I’d read thus far and get back into the story. Well, as much as I could get back into it.
Honestly, this probably should have been a DNF because from 48% to finish I was bored out of my skull. But I soldiered on with hope that things would turn around for me and I’d get some answers.
Unfortunately, It didn’t happen.
So here are a few of my problems if, dear Review Reader, you’re in the mood for ranty spoilers.
Review without spoilers posted on BackPorchReader.com.
Personally, I thought this book was borderline disaster and therefore I don’t have a lot of nice things to say.
The best things about this book? The cover is gorgeous and fits the plot and the blurb hooked me.
I took a break from reading for a few weeks, mainly because of some anxiously awaited new releases that landed. But, for me, the fact that I could so easily put it down with those new books sparkling and flirting with me is a bit telling, especially when I went for several other books on my TBR before returning.
I got to 47% before my break then I picked it up again nearly a month later…it took re-reading two paragraphs for me to remember everything I’d read thus far and get back into the story. Well, as much as I could get back into it.
Honestly, this probably should have been a DNF because from 48% to finish I was bored out of my skull. But I soldiered on with hope that things would turn around for me and I’d get some answers.
Unfortunately, It didn’t happen.
So here are a few of my problems if, dear Review Reader, you’re in the mood for ranty spoilers.
Review without spoilers posted on BackPorchReader.com.
June 30, 2018
Enjoyed this. I have a few niggles, the relationship develops really fast and is pretty inappropriate but it kind of works, though I wish it had been more developed and deeper. The resolution with Elias' mother is so out of left field and ridiculous...someone like her doesn't change on a drop like that. What she did is so unforgivable and disgusting and it's pretty much brushed aside as if it wasn't that big of a deal. I liked both the MCs and the twin sister, she's understandable and not a monster.
July 17, 2018
~ 3.5 stars ~
October 21, 2015
Another great read by Ashley John!
Reading any book by Ashley is always bittersweet. It always feels like saying goodbye to a friend that you feel like you have known all your life.
Ashley has a keen ability to write characters that come to life and set scenes that make you feel like you are side by side with them as they take these incredible journeys.
This book is no different. Elias, a man who has struggled with substance abuse pretty much since adolescence is trying to find out where he fits into the world after his latest stint in rehab. He doesn't see a point in trying to better himself because he feels there is no one to do it for. His family isn't exactly close, especially since he has done everything he can to alienate his family, including his twin sister, with promises of reform and sobriety.
In comes Caden, a man who has left a life in New York after being betrayed by his boyfriend and best friend. He comes back home to live with his parents until he can figure out what he wants to do with his life, and maybe even try finishing the book he started, but can't quite seem to finish. He comes from a close family and has never known what it is like not to be loved. Caden and Elias cross paths when Caden becomes Elias' counselor through court ordered drug counseling.
Elias feels he doesn't need any help but Caden won't give up on him. Because of Caden's persistence, Elias slowly comes around and the friendship they forge, and the relationship that blossoms, is one of the most beautiful stories I have ever read.
Throughout the book, the more I learned of Elias' story, the more heartbroken I became. The strength it took for Elias to endure what he did and still be standing is something to be admired. His strength is inspiring and he will not easily be forgotten by me.
Caden's faith in Elias and unwavering support was so beautiful and it just left me with warm fuzzies (I don't know how else to describe it).
I could go on and on about this book but I know my description will not do this book justice. This book is a must read. It was not only heart breaking but there were moments of such tenderness and love that took my breath away and just made my heart full. Thank you Ashley for another beautiful read. I will miss these characters dearly. I hated saying goodbye.
Reading any book by Ashley is always bittersweet. It always feels like saying goodbye to a friend that you feel like you have known all your life.
Ashley has a keen ability to write characters that come to life and set scenes that make you feel like you are side by side with them as they take these incredible journeys.
This book is no different. Elias, a man who has struggled with substance abuse pretty much since adolescence is trying to find out where he fits into the world after his latest stint in rehab. He doesn't see a point in trying to better himself because he feels there is no one to do it for. His family isn't exactly close, especially since he has done everything he can to alienate his family, including his twin sister, with promises of reform and sobriety.
In comes Caden, a man who has left a life in New York after being betrayed by his boyfriend and best friend. He comes back home to live with his parents until he can figure out what he wants to do with his life, and maybe even try finishing the book he started, but can't quite seem to finish. He comes from a close family and has never known what it is like not to be loved. Caden and Elias cross paths when Caden becomes Elias' counselor through court ordered drug counseling.
Elias feels he doesn't need any help but Caden won't give up on him. Because of Caden's persistence, Elias slowly comes around and the friendship they forge, and the relationship that blossoms, is one of the most beautiful stories I have ever read.
Throughout the book, the more I learned of Elias' story, the more heartbroken I became. The strength it took for Elias to endure what he did and still be standing is something to be admired. His strength is inspiring and he will not easily be forgotten by me.
Caden's faith in Elias and unwavering support was so beautiful and it just left me with warm fuzzies (I don't know how else to describe it).
I could go on and on about this book but I know my description will not do this book justice. This book is a must read. It was not only heart breaking but there were moments of such tenderness and love that took my breath away and just made my heart full. Thank you Ashley for another beautiful read. I will miss these characters dearly. I hated saying goodbye.
November 9, 2015
Four visits to the rehab clinic and the first and only thing on Elias' mind as he leaves the place is when and how to get his next fix.
Because that is all he has and all he's ever had. Nothing else to fill his life. Nothing and no one. It was painful to watch him fight the pull of the drug when he kept arriving at the same conclusion that there really was nothing in his life that could serve as a reason for him to even try to stay clean.
Meeting Caden changed things. Caden had returned to the small town for a fresh start after his perfect New York life fell apart around him.
Caden believed in Elias when no one else would and managed to offer him the support he needed to wanting to be sober.
Their romance developed slowly, both of them unsure and hesitant to jump in and take a chance at love. But, of course, they did and it was well worth it.
I have one complaint about the story; the ending was too perfect. Yes, that was me saying that. Never thought that possible - I'm a sucker for sweet and sappy. I also probably tend to hold grudges and I did not appreciate how the nastiest person in the book was included in the happy ending. Some things just cannot/should not be forgiven.
Because that is all he has and all he's ever had. Nothing else to fill his life. Nothing and no one. It was painful to watch him fight the pull of the drug when he kept arriving at the same conclusion that there really was nothing in his life that could serve as a reason for him to even try to stay clean.
Meeting Caden changed things. Caden had returned to the small town for a fresh start after his perfect New York life fell apart around him.
Caden believed in Elias when no one else would and managed to offer him the support he needed to wanting to be sober.
Their romance developed slowly, both of them unsure and hesitant to jump in and take a chance at love. But, of course, they did and it was well worth it.
I have one complaint about the story; the ending was too perfect. Yes, that was me saying that. Never thought that possible - I'm a sucker for sweet and sappy. I also probably tend to hold grudges and I did not appreciate how the nastiest person in the book was included in the happy ending. Some things just cannot/should not be forgiven.
October 17, 2015
This one had my emotions going through the wringer! WOW! Elias just tore me apart from the inside out. He’s an addict fresh out of his fourth stint in rehab. He feels hopeless, he feels like he’s going to fail because he has accepted he is weak and a failure. What he was not at all prepared for was Caden. A support worker he saw the Elias hiding beneath the scarred surface. The boy within the man.
I cried all the tears. My heart is so bruised. I wanted to hug these characters. Then beat Ellie and Elias’s mother to death with her own clickity clackity shoes!
Elias is stronger than he ever imagined and I love how Ashley shows that love is by far the strongest and most powerful drug. It truly can make you feel invincible. Elias’s journey through this is broken and beautiful. Caden has his own healing and as he tries to heal Elias they end up fixing each other.
This was an angsty and stunning book! Excellent read. Standing ovation for Ashley John!
I cried all the tears. My heart is so bruised. I wanted to hug these characters. Then beat Ellie and Elias’s mother to death with her own clickity clackity shoes!
Elias is stronger than he ever imagined and I love how Ashley shows that love is by far the strongest and most powerful drug. It truly can make you feel invincible. Elias’s journey through this is broken and beautiful. Caden has his own healing and as he tries to heal Elias they end up fixing each other.
This was an angsty and stunning book! Excellent read. Standing ovation for Ashley John!
October 27, 2015
There were some wonderful things a about this story. I felt it was at its strongest the first half. Making us understand and care for Elias James and believe me I rooted for that man to survive. I waffled a few times with Caden Walker. He came across at times too much of a 'Pollyanna' for me but I wanted them to be happy and left alone. The slight problems for me was in the second half of the story that came perilously close to melodrama. I was not satisfied with why the Mayor was so hard? Ashely John didn't use sex as a filler and that made Elias' moments learning about passion doubly sweet.
I like and wanted more of Caden's family and wish the whole story had moved slower. So why am I being so picky? It's because I really liked the book and for the most part Ashely John's writing and ideas.
I like and wanted more of Caden's family and wish the whole story had moved slower. So why am I being so picky? It's because I really liked the book and for the most part Ashely John's writing and ideas.
October 15, 2015
Elias is at his lowest point in life and just about has nothing to live for when a saviour appears and turns his life into something worth living for. Caden would argue that in fact Elias was the one who turned his life around and this beautiful story centres around their blooming love for each against all odds. Drug dealers, a mother from hell and too many secrets make for a bumpy ride but Elias is determined to make his sister, nephew and Caden proud of him. He ditches cocaine for a much more addictive drug - lots of loving both emotional and physical. But can he maintain it? Ashley John has created another wonderful story with a strong cast of characters and engaging storyline. I was thoroughly absorbed from the first word to the last. A great read full of angst, humour, and hot hot sex.
October 25, 2015
When you start thinking about reading a book it is often that you tend to conjure stories after reading the synopsis. That is what happened when I read about Shelter.
I kept thinking about how to people that seemed so different could find common ground and that is what Ashley John did with this story. He found a way to tie Elias and Caden together perfectly.
Through thick and thin they had to fight to be together but the love between them was something powerful.
Elias had to prove to himself He could move forward, repair his relationship with his family, especially his sister. Caden, needed to let go of the past and uncertainty of his previous life and what he really wanted.
Caden and Elias were good, since the beginning, the rest was done in time.
Great job!!!
I kept thinking about how to people that seemed so different could find common ground and that is what Ashley John did with this story. He found a way to tie Elias and Caden together perfectly.
Through thick and thin they had to fight to be together but the love between them was something powerful.
Elias had to prove to himself He could move forward, repair his relationship with his family, especially his sister. Caden, needed to let go of the past and uncertainty of his previous life and what he really wanted.
Caden and Elias were good, since the beginning, the rest was done in time.
Great job!!!
March 4, 2016
I loved the last book I read from this author, but this one didn't work for me at all. Some things really bothered me. One of those was how welfare was thrown in. That isn't how welfare works. Elias would never have been eligible in the first place, and people on welfare have to actively be in school or a work placement program. Instances of things being used incorrectly kept coming up and distracting me from the story. I was still liking the guys getting to know each other, but then the stuff with the mom just went so far. Everything was too overly dramatic for my tastes. This book was definitely not a win for me, but I will check out more from this author in the future.
***copy given in exchange for an honest review***
***copy given in exchange for an honest review***
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