Book Reviews

Book Blurb

Christmas is a time for giving - what do you do when no one gives a damn?

For Zachary Weston Christmas means sleeping on a churchyard bench in the freezing snow with nothing better in his future. Thrown out of his home for being gay, he is left without money or, it seems, anywhere to go.

Until a stranger shows him that some people do give a lot more than a damn.

Ben Hamilton is a rookie cop in his small home town. He finds a young throwaway, fresh from the city, sleeping on a bench in the churchyard on a snowy Christmas Eve. Can he be the one to give Zachary his own Christmas miracle?

* * * * *

First published December 2010

Book Review

The act of throwing away your child, because he or she doesn't conform to your expectations, is unforgivable; however, Zachary Weston in 'The Christmas Throwaway' by RJ Scott, finds himself alone and homeless on Christmas Eve because his father threw him out of his home. Thankfully, Zach encounters a police officer, Ben Hamilton, who becomes his guiding light. RJ Scott's smooth, descriptive style clearly capture Zach's sense of abandonment and desolation, as well as his physical discomfort. I felt his sense of panic, fear and desperation, especially when Ben first discovered him. I could also identify with his disbelief that a police officer, of all people, would want to help, instead of punish him. RJ Scott portrayed Zach's seventeen-year-old psyche perfectly as he journeyed through his initial apprehension and disbelief toward his realization and acceptance.

I liked Zachary's endurance and drive to overcome situations, even though they seem insoluble. Zachary is so needy and vulnerable, yet he keeps trying. I appreciated his ability to adapt and change as necessary and his gracious acceptance of Ben and his family's help. I admired him for taking on the responsibility of caring for his sister and of making the adult decisions necessary to ensure her safety.

I admired Ben for his empathy and strong moral character. He is an extraordinary man who is compassionate and loving. He has a great sense of right and wrong yet he knows when to bend or follow the rules for the highest good. I loved that Ben put Zach's needs ahead of his own, holding off on a physical relationship until Zach is emotionally ready, and his ability to express his passion when the time is right.

‘The Christmas Throwaway' is a charming, heartwarming love story about second chances, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of a loving, supportive family. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone in the mood for a sweet story which will not only leave you feeling good, but will also remind you to count your blessings.

 

DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book has been provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review.

 

Additional Information

Format	ebook
Length	Novella, 166 pages/33060
Heat Level
Publication Date	24-November-2012
Price	$4.99 ebook
Buy Link	https://www.lovelanebooks.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=18