The Man I Almost Lost (Arete Resort)

I’ve recently become a devoted reader of Romeo Alexander, and I’m still not sure how he wasn’t on my top‑author list sooner. The Arete Resort novels, in particular, are absolutely gutting in the best way. Clay and Isaac’s story stands out as the most emotional so far. Romeo brings back the characters we fell in love with in the first installment, and he does it seamlessly. The way he explores Clay’s pattern of using physical intimacy to mask emotional pain—and then pairs him with Isaac, a former escort who gently guides him toward genuine vulnerability—is remarkable. Clay’s entire emotional arc unfolds beautifully because of Isaac’s patience and quiet strength. And watching Isaac discover who he is beyond his past, realizing how deeply he cares for others, adds another powerful layer to the story. I’m writing this with my eyes still aching from tears, and I’m genuinely grateful that the third book releases at the end of the month rather than a year from now. I have no doubt Cade’s story will be even more emotional.

This is a Great Story to Read!! This is the second book in the the Arete Resort Series. Clay is at the resort for the Recuperation Program, he is not quite ready to move on, he goes through the motions everyday. He has his good days and some bad days. Clay lost his wife and son to a house fire and still has some issues. Isaac is new to Arete Resort, on your first visit you are assigned a Guide, they are your Therapist/Friend and introduce you to the facility and everything it has to offer. The Resort has order with a lot of freedom, there are three different levels that are offered at the resort: Rest: like a vacation with access to all the facilities, Recovery: where the staff is more focused on your individual needs, and Recuperation: where you are not quite ready to face your problems and move forward. Isaac is there to rest and think things through and figure out what he wants for himself now. Clay and Isaac become friends, The more time Clay spends with Isaac the closer they get. Clay has a few breakdowns and makes a mess of his room, after the second one he agrees to go to a different facility for some better help. Will Clay be able to find the peace he needs to move forward with his life??? What will happen to the friendship between Clay and Isaac???? Has Isaac found what he is looking for????. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion: I am enjoying this series, lots of compelling characters and romance is happening at the Arete Resort. Cade and Walker’s story is hard fought and packs an emotional punch but I appreciate how the author kept this from becoming overly heavy, it’s ultimately hopeful and pretty lovely. Cade was a highlight for me in the previous book and I loved seeing him grow and heal. He was also pretty impressive fighting to protect Cade - great characters, compelling plot.

I found this a story that needs to be told, to maybe open the minds of others. This story moves forward at a steady pace, highlighting the developing relationship between our old friends Clay and Cade from the first book. The author took sensitive and difficult materials that truly happy in life, and opened our eyes to show up glimpse of what emotional illness can cause. Proud of this author and this book. You will meet old friends from book 1 and love Isaac from this story. His insight and abilities prove critical to giving help were needed. This story shows the importance of loyalty in relationship and not the over drama fluff of many seen today. Read and Enjoy a though provoking and enjoyable read!. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Another powerful and emotional story. We first met Clay in The Man I Lied To, where he came across as the resort’s carefree playboy. He uses s*x as a way to escape his thoughts. He checks himself into At first, we’re left wondering what exactly he’s running from and when it’s revealed, it’s absolutely heartbreaking. Isaac also arrives at Atere, trying to rebuild his life after walking away from being an escort. He wants something more, something real and in many ways, he becomes exactly what Clay needs, even if neither of them realizes it right away. My heart completely shattered for Clay when he finally broke down. This is not an easy read. It tackles heavy themes like depression and suicide, so please take the trigger warnings seriously. I cried my eyes out but it was worth every tear. I’m already counting down to book three and I’m still waiting for Reggie’s story. Hopefully, we finally get it! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.