Some people just seem to need a guardian, and Devon is one of them. For starters, he has an issue that he has been hiding for years, and it means he struggles academically – far more than necessary since he is not stupid. His father is cold and demanding, or so it seems, and Devon does not respond well to being demeaned and constantly berated. Who would? Then there is the problem of his father’s third wife and her underhanded way of pushing Devon away. And that is just for starters. So when Devon’s father sends him away on a European tour for Christmas, Devon is anything but happy. As it turns out, this is just the beginning of a potential adventure that changes into a struggle for Devon’s survival.

Devon has a lot to deal with in this story. His way of defending himself against his father is withdrawal, putting on a mask of arrogance, and pretending there is nothing wrong with him. He is far too quick to blame himself when something goes wrong, but he’ll never admit that he’s struggling. Being sent away hurts him deeply, so when he meets Drew on his flight to Germany, he is relieved and hopeful. Unfortunately, Drew seems far less interested and it isn’t until they meet again, and Drew turns out to be the tour guide for the trip Devon has been booked on, that their real problems start. Misunderstandings abound, communication is almost nonexistent, and multiple mishaps and accidents out of Devon’s control make everything worse.

Drew’s initial attraction to Devon surprises him, but he has to remain professional, or so he thinks. His distance from Devon makes everything worse, but from the looks of it, Devon is a misbehaving spoiled brat. It takes quite a while for Drew to figure out what is going on. Once he does? He still has his hands full protecting Devon and ensuring he stays alive, but their relationship begins to change for the better.

If you like heroes who need to be rescued from themselves as well as external enemies out to kill them, if two men who meet by accident yet are meant to be together are your thing, and if you’re looking for a suspenseful read with some very tender moments, then you might like this novella.


NOTE: This book was provided by Dark Hollows Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ( )

Devon is hiding on so many levels and uses his attitude as a defense. Andrew is drawn to him on the plane and lets things get out of hand which really causes problems when the run into each other on the tour. Devon is rocked by his encounter with Andrew which leaves him hurt and confused. An "accident" gives them a chance to work things out. When it turns out it was no accident it brings them closer together. What I love what the encounter with Devon's dad at the end. ( )