Fledged

A beautifully written and evocative novel that will resonate with anyone that grew up feeling like they are out of step in their world. Every one who has been a teen, in other words! It will bring you a journey from tears to giddy joy and back. Can hardly wait for the next one. Read in one sitting.

The story was completely improbable, particularly the time sequences, since it takes our heroes 18 years to come out. No one waits months between kisses, especially when both are yearning and they share many hotel rooms. And a Mormon boy band rising from church services to world tours? C'mon. And the usual formula was in place: boy finds boy, boy loses boy, boy regains boy - or does he? Nonetheless, a sweet coming-out story; it moistened my eyes from time to time, and I look forward to the sequel.

This is such a deeply emotional slow-burn--I loved it immensely. Jody's sensitive and quiet personality compliments Luke's enthusiasm and outgoingness so well, I could read about them forever. I felt so bad for them as they struggled to love and accept themselves for who they are. Very much looking forward to the release of book 2!

Fledged is a deeply evocative and emotional coming-of-age story that perfectly captures the tumult of adolescence, self-discovery, and the clash between personal identity and societal expectations. Jody, a lonely and sheltered boy, finds solace and excitement with his next-door neighbors, Luke and his brother, as they form a rock band and embark on a cross-country tour. This journey is not just about escaping his restrictive upbringing but also about discovering his true self amidst the powerful influences of friendship, fame, and faith. Set against the backdrop of the 1990s Christian purity movement, the novel deftly explores the internal conflict Jody faces as he begins to question the beliefs he was raised with. His developing feelings for Luke, complicated by the pressures of their rising band, create an emotionally charged narrative of suppressed desires and difficult choices. R.O. Riley writes with a keen understanding of the weight of expectations—family, faith, and personal identity—and how they shape and restrict us. The character dynamics are beautifully developed, particularly Jody’s slow, heart-wrenching realization of his own sexuality. The themes of love, freedom, and the desire to break free from societal and familial constraints make this story not only relatable but also profoundly impactful. With its mix of nostalgia, raw emotion, and the electric pulse of young rebellion, Fledged will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in…

This was a striking coming of age story about the complexities and at times emotional pain of coming to know yourself and to coming to terms with oneself sexually in at times difficult circumstances. My heart remains full for Jody, who had a difficult life. A good guy in tough circumstances. There were other characters that were interesting and as readers we were getting to know. This story felt like it was not quite finished so I will look forward to the next story to see how things unfold. I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.