At just nineteen, Stephen has already survived a year on the front line. Now he is returning to the trenches to lead a platoon, despite his wounds, both physical and emotional. Broken-hearted from the loss of his first love, Stephen begins to wonder what he's fighting for.
Then he meets Private Danny McCormick, a smart, talented young recruit whose strong opinions will surely get him into trouble. From their first meeting, there's something undeniable between them – something forbidden by both society and the army. Determined to protect Danny, Stephen must face down the prejudices and ignorance of his superiors as well as the onslaught of German shells and sniper fire.
As the year of 1916 ticks down to one big push on the Somme, can Stephen and Danny stay together – and will their love save them, or condemn them?
This book was a breath of fresh air for me. I don't normally read historical romance. Beautifully written, with a narrative that is constantly engaging, it tells a story that is satisfying yet somehow too short. The narrative never really slows, yet manages to hang on to those oh-so-brief moments alone between the two main characters. This book is perfect for those who enjoy steady or mid-paced romance fiction.
Stephen, as a character, is both otherworldly and yet authentic. He reads as someone who has gone through something horrific, something that most readers will not truly be able to appreciate. Danny is a breath of fresh air, a reason to hope and smile, an excellent and compelling contrast to Stephen.
If there is one gripe to be had with this book, though it may not be a problem for all, is that moments can be a tad unbelievable. If, for example, you are a world war historian, you might not be overly fond of some of the smaller details being overlooked or situations being dealt with in an unorthodox manner. This book is for those who prefer romance over fact.
All together, based on my enjoyment, I give this book 5/5
Writings Of A Queer Mind 