Review: Lena @ Queer Magazine Online
As I began to read 'Convincing Landon' by Serena Yates, I was reminded of the Christmas movie classic, "It's a Wonderful Life". When Landon, like George in that movie, discovers how much his little brother needs him, he too, unselfishly puts aside his dream of attending college to take care of his younger brother. Unlike George though, Landon eventually is able to go to college and pursues his dream of being a social worker. After finally focusing on his own life, he's so fearful of doing anything that might jeopardize his job, that he makes a decision which causes him, and Kendall, the lover he rejects, far more pain than is necessary and almost destroys what turns out to be the best thing that ever happened to him.
I admired Landon for acting so responsibly with his youngest brother, but I wanted to kick him in the butt for rejecting Kendall for fear of what coming out might do to his career. I was very angry at him for hurting Kendall the way he did, but what bothered me most was that he let Kendall think there was something wrong with him rather than trying to explain why he decides to leave him behind. It was difficult for me to feel sorry for him when he realizes what a mistake he's made by letting Kendall go. Fortunately, he, at least in part, makes up for it later, when he sees a chance to rekindle their relationship and goes all out to apologize and win Kendall's heart.
Kendall is a passionate young man with a great capacity to love, especially to love Landon. When they first connect, he's the happiest man on Earth, but when Landon decides his job is more important than he is, he's devastated. I cried because I felt the intensity of his pain, anger and frustration and it was almost too much to bear. I admired Kendall for being able, for the most part at least, to put his disappointment behind him and go on with his life. Years later, when Landon initiates a reunion, Kendall impressed me again, by accepting the olive branch Landon offers him and giving him another chance to make things right.
It was great to have another opportunity to visit with many of my favorite guys from Riverside, as Serena adds two more wonderful men to the list and as she continues the series theme about the importance of the support of family, friends, and lovers to maintaining good health and happiness in life. Landon and Kendall's story starts out with an emotional bang and ran me through the gamut of emotions from fear, elation, heart break, resolve, passion, and finally to happiness. This is book seven of the series and can be read alone. However, considering the importance of knowing Riverside history, it will greatly enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the story if you read the six previous books in the series.
If you like angst, hot men, passionate sexual encounters, important life lessons and a happy ending, you'll love 'Convincing Landon'. Thanks, Serena, for once again reminding us to never give up on our dream for a happy ending.
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