Baba 's Reviews > Breathe

REVIEW EDITED/COMPLETED JULY 14, 2012

"Breathe," Lyncoln said in a low whisper to the hair above Jay's ear. "Just breathe ."



Breathe is a well-written story about forgiveness and redemption. It's thoughtful. It's sad. Yet very hopeful.

Dear Lyncoln,

I know you are a good guy, Lync. You have a kind and generous heart. What happened destroyed you as much as it did Jay, his family and Katie's family. It is reasonable that you feel ashamed, and it's good to recognize what wrong you did. However, it was an accident, and we all know you didn't do it on purpose. Your sister's husband was beating her and on that fateful night she called you for help. It's kinda understandable that you were upset. Since your sole purpose was to save her, I get it that your head was elsewhere. You didn't pay enough attention when you were driving. And Jay's wife, Katie, died.

Can't breathe.

You lost all your money you earned from your racing. You lost your home, your partner, your career. You paid for your mistake, Lync. And now someone is threatening you. Someone wants you to suffer. I was so saddened to read that the bad guy (view spoiler)[even stole your little niece's inhaler. Jessica is asthmatic and from time to time she has asthma attacks. The little sweetie couldn't breathe anymore. (hide spoiler)] That said, I knew you would protect your family, Lyncoln. You're a man who takes care of those you love.

Breathing slowly.

I think I know how you feel. Not waking up with someone you love, lying in bed, talking, making love, kissing, caressing. Sometimes you can't fight fate, my dearest. You met Jay and you didn't know who he was. Neither did Jay. As it is, you are afraid that you're not the right choice for him. But don't be. Yes, he deserves to be happy, but let him make his own choice, please. Even though you will always remind him of the pain and loss and heartache he had to endure, you are the man for Jay. It comes as no revelation at all that Jay feels confused because you are the first guy he had sex with. Admittedly, he fantasized about men before he was married, however, this is so new to him. Jay feels a strong attraction to you. It's astounding and yet impossible. Let me tell you, Lync, Katie would have wanted for Jay to be happy; to go on living. And you two make each other feel good. You are two human beings worth living and breathing. I know Katie would like you. Having said that, happiness takes work. Ultimately you have to decide to make your life what you want it to be. Well, and when you make up your mind, just go for it!

Quick breath.

I'm glad that you told Jay he should let himself miss Katie. Talk about her. He has a right to grieve; to be angry or lonely. If you keep remembering a loved one, it'll get easier to keep close to this person. She's gone but not forgotten. Now let me please tell you something very important. You need to forgive yourself; you need to let go of all your grief and sorrow. Start to breathe again. Live again. Believe me, Lync, you are so worth it.

"There are two kinds of forgiveness. The kind you can give to your loved ones who've wronged you, and the kind of forgiveness you can give to people you don't even know--strangers--who've hurt you. Most people can give the first. Few know how to give the second. It's easier to hate a stranger."
"You're not a stranger to me."
"I was when you forgave me."

Deep breath.

Tell your creator that I really liked your story. Very much so. The blurb sounded intriguing enough yet a little bit farfetched as well. Would this work in real life too? I don't know. But I know that your creator pulled it off and I like the outcome. The characters are well drawn and complex. You and Jay are very likable. Further, I was quite mesmerized by the family dynamic and interaction. Breathe is a well-written story that kept me turning the pages. I appreciated the plot and the slight suspense factor enhanced your story nicely. Your men lovin' was pretty hot too; well, it was not the steamiest I've ever read but it was worthy of my attention though. *grin* One of the best aspects of your story is the book title and the term breathe in general. The term breathe is in perfect correlation to many parts of the story. Moreover, it inevitably establishes the perfect connection between protagonists, plot, and certain deeds. Long story short: it's a perfect symbiosis.

What I didn't like
(view spoiler)[Honestly, what were you thinking when you went to the cemetery without backup?? It was a huge TSTL moment and left me somewhat disappointed. (hide spoiler)] I don't think I have to elaborate what happened afterwards. It was messy.

Your story is not one I enjoyed to read, Lync, because the topic is too serious and there's quite a bit of angst thrown into the plot. However, in the end I was satisfied and I felt happy for you. Breathe left me hopeful and I closed your book with a smile on my face.

Against all odds live your dream, enjoy your future and be happy. You need it. You deserve it.

Take care and and all the best,

Baba



Just breathe.

"I wanted you to know…to see…we can both live beyond our pasts. Together."