Debra E's Never-Ending TBR

Once again Damon Suede has written a book full of characters that stand out and have real emotions. Trip is an insecure comic book artist writing stories he detests, shying away from relationships while lusting after his straight boss who flirts just enough to keep Trip on his hook. Silas, former college football player, full of southern charm is Trip’s opposite in many ways. Silas is an FX/makeup artist who gets around. He is a typical jock on the outside, but in reality is nothing but another comic book nerd. When the two men get together it is clear that there could be something great, personally and professionally, if only Trip could take a chance.

In between the geek references and smoking hot sex, Damon Suede makes these two men work. With the help of fantastic secondary characters they navigate the minefield of a relationship neither ever thought they could have. Jealousy, misunderstandings and insecurities all rear their ugly heads and then, just when you think these two have it together you are sucker punched in the gut and left reeling. I am firmly in the team Silas camp in this book. His unwavering loyalty and support of Trip is beautiful and made me fall in love with him. There were times where Trip was so unlikeable and naïve, I just wanted to smack him. 

The characters and situations felt real and there were times where I was right there in the room with them. The conversations with Trip and his friends were by turns heartfelt and touching and laugh out loud. There are a lot of comic book, gaming and movie references in this story. I have read some graphic novels and comics and have a basic understanding of that world, but am not a comic nerd by any means (although I have seen all versions of The Tick). While I did not understand some of the references in the book it did not take away from my enjoyment of the story.

I did have some problems with the writing at the beginning of the book, finding it hard to follow the conversation between the two men at first, but was very glad I pushed on. This book was quirky, sexy and fun, with a relationship I found myself rooting for. I definitely enjoyed the roller coaster ride. And I can't forget to mention how much I love the cover art. Horn Gate is now loaded on my reader and I’m looking forward to more of Trip and Silas in the future. 


ARC of the book was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.