'Goodbye Paradise' by Sarina Bowen is a heartwarming story about two boys, Caleb and Josh, who escape a religious polygamist cult known as 'Paradise.' The book explores their journey as they navigate the outside world, meeting new friends like Washington and forming a found family. The plot delves into themes of coming of age, faith versus doubt, family, survival, and sacrificial love. The writing style, with a dual first-person point of view from Caleb and Josh, captures the innocence and wonder of the main characters, providing a refreshing perspective for readers.
The story starts with Josh and Caleb leaving the compound to embark on an adventure, facing challenges and self-discovery along the way. As they navigate the complexities of their past and the outside world, they find acceptance, love, and a sense of belonging with their newfound family. The book also touches on the harsh realities of life within the cult, the struggles of self-acceptance, and the growth of the characters as they come to terms with their identities and desires.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes related to living in a cult, emotional abuse, and violence.
Has Romance?
The romance between Josh and Caleb is a central focus of the story, providing a significant emotional core.
From The Publisher:
The heart wants what it wants...
My life is a carefully constructed lie. I'm in love with my best friend, but the way I feel could get us both killed. So as long as we stay here on the dusty ranch, I can never tell him how I feel. And if we leave, we'll have nothing but the shirts on our backs.
But when Josh is accused of a crime he didn't commit, fate forces my hand. I steal him away, where it's just the two of us against the world. I will do anything to keep him safe. I'll steal. I'll fight. I'll tell lies.
Yet I can't tell Josh how I feel.
I can't tell him that this is all my fault.
And kissing him in the back of a stranger's truck wasn't exactly part of the plan…
Contains: first times, impossible choices, awkward confessions and love up against the kitchen counter.
Ratings (13)
Incredible (5) | |
Loved It (6) | |
Liked It (1) | |
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (20):
Read It (12) | |
Want To Read (4) | |
Not Interested (4) |
What can you read after
Goodbye Paradise?
About the Author:
Nealy Wagner is the pseudonym of Sarina Bowen. Bowen's contemporary and LGBT romance novels have hit the USA Today bestsellers list over a dozen times.
Formerly a Wall Street derivatives trader, Sarina holds a BA in economics from Yale University. She lives in New Hampshire with her family, nine chickens, and far too much hockey gear.
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