I'm really mad at Shane.... ( )

Another fun romp through the mind of Gilli who continues to act as his own worst enemy. Jealousy can sure be harsh. ( )

This is a fabulous book about the nature of jealousy and insecurity, and the way the two are married, but as others say, you should read the other two books in the series first.

The Quaker, William Penn, is quoted: 'The jealous are troublesome to others, but a torment to themselves.'

The story sure illustrates that, but just as much, it explores the vicious cycle between feeling envious of not getting the love from Shane that Gilli craves, and fearing, for different reasons, he is unworthy of that love. At the same time, he pushes and pushes the boundary, wanting the reassurance that he is loved. The Daddy/boy theme is perfectly explored.

His actions can be seen to be immature and some readers may be impatient at his lack of growth, but I wouldn't be surprised if there isn't a small amount of the immaturity present in all of us. My question is that given this insecurity and lack of self-worth are the people who believe they know what is best for him going about fixing this problem the right way?

Is this internal monologue:'They don't love you, that document they've just signed is proof of it. It's an exclusive bond. They only love each other. You've got nothing of lasting value to offer them. One day someone younger and more attractive will come along and they'll discard you without any bother. They won't have to annul anything, it'll just be a case of a week's notice.'
Adequately addressed by this: "Let's get a few facts straight shall we, my eavesdropping child. Yes, you're a bane. Yes, you're high maintenance. In fact you're fucking exhausting because everything has to be about you, that's what this paddy is in aid of - you being the centre of attention at any cost."

In Gilli's mind, being a part of the discussion and being treated like an adult and included in the preparation for the wedding would have made him feel part of the picture. In their mind, they couldn't trust him not to over-think things and go barking up the wrong tree.

Instead of encouraging him to be better, they are threatening him with retribution if he isn't. The story wouldn't be the same without it, but long term it's not solving the problem. If a person has to push boundaries to be noticed and acknowledged, sooner or later, they will push through a weak spot none of them knew existed.

No doubt, to keep readers happy, the trio will continue on the same way. Our hero wouldn't be a Houseboy and they wouldn't be his bear daddies otherwise.
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3.5 ( )