John Goode | Author | LibraryThing

4.5 Stars

I will say this - Goode writes real life. He's not going to sugarcoat things, he's not going to make sure everything works out 100%. The hopeless lover of romance did not like this at all. But this series is not for escapism, it's more like a cold bucket of water or a slap in the face (and I mean that in the nicest way possible).

Basically Kyle and Brad are now "grownups". They've escaped Foster and are supposedly living the dream - being together while Kyle goes to college and Brad…. well Brad is going to wing it. And this is where real life takes over. Suffice it to say a "perfect storm" of epic proportions drives these two apart, and it isn't pretty.

Thus far, the main focus has always been pretty much Kyle. He has grown from an invisible person to an outspoken, brilliant activist in his own right, championing others. He's been the victim often in his life, which fuels his fatalistic attitude at times, making you (me) want to throttle some sense into him. Kyle is so smart he should and will have the world at his fingertips, but that does not necessarily make him worldly and wise in relationships. He's got a lot of growing up to do.

So I think finally, this was Brad's time to shine. He went from self absorbed jock to something amazing. Over and over he proves that coming out was the right choice, and he never, ever wavered on that once he did. Throw in his steadfast support and unconditional love for Kyle and I was done for. Hands down, he was the best thing about this book because he realizes what needs to be done in order for him and Kyle to be together. And that ending?? Seeing him across the street?? Swooning so hard here!!

I can only hope that Goode continues to write about these two - life won't easily fall into place because that's obviously not a given, but he's shown that things are worth fighting for, waiting for. I have the utmost belief in Kyle and Brad because I'm taking to heart what Brad said - "have faith in that."

Thanks to Belen and Meags for the much needed BR support!!
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A_Reader_Obsessed | 1 other review | Apr 21, 2024 |

The Boy Behind the Red Door by John Goode

Wow! There is a paragraph on pg. 1, PAGE 1 people, that begins with...
I remember being on the edge of seventeen, that dangerous time between childhood and young adult when the cement is still wet in your mind...
and I had to pause in my reading because, YES, I remember my 17 year old self and THIS, this paragraph is perfection!!!

Wonderfully crafted characters. I didn't always like Matt but he rang true.

½

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Bookbee1 | Feb 17, 2022 |

Tales from Foster High Bundle (Dreamspinner Press… by John Goode

The story is well thought out and the characters are likable. We follow Kyle and Brad on their journey through high school together once they find each other. Kyle is a nerd and Brad is a jock. How will it work out for them? The proofreading and editing are lacking. It is shame no one takes pride in their work anymore. Still worth reading.

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green8847 | 3 other reviews | Jun 14, 2021 |