‘Trust Trade’ is not a story that pulls its punches. It is as real, gritty, and brutal as the world of so many who, like Jeb, go from the frying pan into the fire when they escape bigoted parents. Jeb has to face many more abusive, violent men and ends up deaf before he manages to turn his life around. But even though he meets Freddy and things are looking up, his past catches up with Jeb and he has to face down old adversaries yet again. My heart broke for him more than once, so watching him grow and stand up to the men out to harm him was tough, but rewarding in the end. If violence, abuse, and rape are triggers for you, this is not a book you would enjoy. If you want a realistic account of what it can be like for a young man to be at the mercy of people who only care about themselves and what he can do for them, then give it a try. It is well written and, ultimately, hopeful that things can get better.

Jeb is a mess. He ran away from home when he was fifteen to escape a brutal father and spends three years on the street as a prostitute before his pimp deafens him with a knife through his one functional eardrum. Jeb spends the next four years as a state rep's houseboy before he is "too old" and Nolan kicks him out. Except he wants him back to "service" his guests on weekends, and pays Jeb's college tuition in exchange. Jeb does his best to lead a normal life, but with Nolan interfering, then beginning to abuse his son, Max, Jeb can't get away. I felt for Jeb and was impressed by how much he wants to protect Max.

Freddy has led a pretty easy life until he meets Jeb. His parents are both deaf, but he is well-adjusted and has plans for his future. Sticking with Jeb is not easy for him, but he is a good guy and does not give up. Jeb and Freddy are cute together, but they do not have an easy time of it. Their relationship is an important part of the story, and I liked the slow emotional development. Freddy is hesitant due to Jeb's past as a prostitute, and Jeb has no idea how to have a relationship – in fact, he has a lot of negative, bad experiences that burden him. Freddy has his hands full dealing with his own feelings and supporting Jeb, that is for sure.

If you like gritty, realistic stories about former prostitutes and their struggles to make a different life for themselves, and if you’re looking for a suspenseful read that is as emotionally intense and heartbreaking as it is ultimately hopeful, then you might like this novel.


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